Prevention through awareness: Special workshop on diabetes for women

Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce in collaboration with Healthy Life Clinic will conduct an awareness program on diabetes and healthy lifestyles in conjunction with the World Diabetes Day keeping to the theme ‘Women and Diabetes’. 

The program serves to educate entrepreneurs, professionals and women in leadership positions who can influence and take initiative in the fight against diabetes which is currently the eighth leading cause of global deaths and is expected to be the fifth by 2030 according to the World Health Organization. Recent statistics by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) indicate that one in 12 adults in Sri Lanka suffers from diabetes which totals to an alarming 1.16 million. 

Commenting on the initiative, Founder of Healthy Life Clinic, Consultant Physician and Diabetologist Dr. Kayathri Periasamy said: “We believe raising awareness among women is crucial because the fight against diabetes should start from home – if mothers can be inspired to make healthy lifestyle choices for themselves and their families, half of the problem is solved. 

“The seminar will feature an expert panel of endocrinologist, nutritionist and physicians who will share insights on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle despite being busy. Typically, diabetes can be prevented by implementing lifestyle modifications like maintaining a height appropriate weight, consuming a high fibre nutritious diet and engaging in physical activity; these are little changes that can make a big difference.” 

Also addressed in this seminar is the fact that women have different challenges in seeking health care which may create disparity in how they are treated. Diabetes during pregnancy is another increasing problem which is unique to women. If diabetes is not controlled during pregnancy, the baby is exposed to high blood sugar levels and this can result in both the baby and the mother developing Type 2 Diabetes in the near future.  

The program will be held on 11 November, Saturday, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. at Hotel Ramada. 

More information can be obtained by contacting the Women’s Chamber of Industry and Commerce on 0112671762 or Healthy Life Clinic on 0773511511.