Diabetic Society of Seychelles calls for regular screening for diabetes |15 November 2021

To commemorate World Diabetes Day, which was yesterday, Sunday November 14, the Diabetic Society of Seychelles organised its annual diabetic awareness walk last Saturday.

This initiative coincides with the Global Diabetic walk that happens during this week around the world.

Indian high commissioner, Gen. Dalbir Singh Suhag, the chief executive of the Health Care Agency Dr Danny Louange, the chairperson for Region E (comprising Seychelles and Mombasa) of the Lions Club Dr Sasikumar, the Lions district officer for diabetes, Karpagam Senthil Kumar and other diabetes patients and families participated in that activity.

The group met at the National Arts Council in the Stad Popiler car park for some warm-up exercises before the traditional walk started. They all held billboards with messages on diabetes.

Dr Murthy Pillay, chairperson of the Diabetic Society of Seychelles, noted that currently many people in Seychelles are living without knowing their status ‒ whether they are diabetic or not. “The Diabetic Society of Seychelles has been organising this walk for the last five years and it is our way to raise awareness that diabetes is a condition that you have to take seriously and also join other countries in commemorating that day. This year also we are offering free diagnosis at Dr Murthy’s Clinic and we have also introduced some warm-up exercises before the walk. People have to understand that diabetes is not only about taking medicine, but also to have a proper balanced life with exercises.”

A specialist in diabetes, Dr Murthy noted that he has seen an increase in the number of diabetes cases and he urges the government to do a study among the population to see how the situation is.

“As far as I can remember, the last study was done in 2013 and I think it is high time to assess the real situation of diabetes in Seychelles. Globally, we have crossed 400 million people with diabetes. WHO (World Health Organisation) expects that it will cross more than 500 million by 2030. Every day, we are receiving new cases diagnosed and that is why we are urging people to get screened,” said Dr Murthy.

As for Dr Louange, he commended and congratulated Dr Murthy and the Diabetic Society of Seychelles for being consistent in raising awareness about diabetes.

“Diabetes is among us and we all know one person living with diabetes. In Seychelles we have seen an increase in the trend of diabetes which is worrying and it does have an impact on the health care system. This day cautions us to be aware that diabetes is amongst us and we are at risk. It is important to realise this as diabetes can be prevented and controlled. Diabetes as a disease leads to other complications which affect our lifestyle. This is the reason why we are all here to pass a message to every person in the country: Diabetes is a concern! More than 10% of the population has diabetes and the burden is on the health care system. In 2022, the government will put a lot of emphasis on prevention as prevention is cure. Diabetes can be prevented and complications from diabetes can be controlled. It is important for all of us to share this message,” said Dr Louange.

Seychelles NATION also spoke to Louisa Dodo who has been living with diabetes for the last 12 years. She shared that she is participating in this walk to raise awareness among the population. “I have to be careful of what I eat and exercise regularly. I have to change my lifestyle and I encourage people to follow a proper lifestyle. For me, it is an hereditary thing as my parents had diabetes. I would also advise my fellow diabetic friends to talk to a doctor and take their medicine on time. With the pandemic, we have to really look after ourselves.”

The participants walked for 5km around town followed by a free screening at Dr Murthy’s Clinic.

The accompanying photos show some highlights of the activity on Saturday.

Vidya Gappy

Photos: Thomas Meriton/Contributed