On November 14, 2024, the Medical Professional Education Department (MPED) and the Endocrinology Department at Northwest General Hospital & Research Centre (NWGH&RC) in Peshawar marked World Diabetes Day under the theme Diabetes and Well-Being. The day’s events aimed to raise awareness about diabetes, address healthcare disparities, and promote a holistic approach to its management.
The observance began with a Walk for World Diabetes Day, bringing together hospital staff, healthcare professionals, and students to highlight the importance of diabetes awareness and the impact of lifestyle choices on disease prevention. This was followed by a symposium featuring expert speakers, including Prof. Dr. Arshad Hussain and Dr. Nizamud Din. They discussed the barriers to effective diabetes care, such as inadequate healthcare infrastructure and the high cost of essential medications like insulin, particularly in low-income regions. The speakers emphasized the critical role of preventive care, patient education, and community engagement in improving the quality of life for people living with diabetes.
The symposium also focused on structured lifestyle interventions—such as dietary changes, regular physical activity, and psychosocial support—as key strategies in reducing diabetes-related complications, enhancing emotional well-being, and improving treatment adherence. These initiatives reflect NWGH&RC’s commitment to patient-centered care and its ongoing efforts to bridge gaps in healthcare access.
Community-based models, including mobile clinics and telemedicine, were highlighted as effective solutions for reaching underserved populations and providing them with essential diabetes care. Speakers urged policymakers to prioritize funding for diabetes care, reduce the cost of medications, and expand insurance coverage to ensure equitable access to treatment. Additionally, they stressed the importance of public education to dispel myths, reduce stigma, and promote culturally sensitive outreach efforts.
World Diabetes Day at NWGH&RC served as a reminder that, while progress has been made in diabetes care, significant challenges remain. Through continued efforts to raise awareness, promote inclusivity, and ensure equity in healthcare, NWGH&RC is committed to fostering a healthier future and building resilience in communities affected by diabetes.