KARACHI: In an effort to underscore the importance of diabetes prevention and healthy living, the Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), in collaboration with Medical Ward-V of Dr Ruth K.M. Pfau, Civil Hospital Karachi, organized a diabetes awareness walk at the Civil Hospital Karachi.

According to Dow University of Health Sciences, the walk was led by Civil Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr Khalid Bukhari. It began at the Medical Superintendent's Office and proceeded towards the Babai-e-Urdu Road gate before concluding at the hospital's Administration Ground. Medical experts participating in the event emphasized the role of a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and healthy lifestyle choices in reducing the risk of diabetes.

Dr Khalid Bukhari stated that the primary aim of the awareness walk was to disseminate crucial health information to the public, especially those who might not be directly reachable. He highlighted the potential of social media to amplify health awareness messages, thereby aiding people in understanding necessary lifestyle changes for disease prevention.

Professor Muhammad Nawaz Lashari, head of the Cardiology Department at Dow University, addressed the health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle, lack of physical activity, and high-calorie diets. He noted that such factors could lead to obesity and other complications, including diabetes, hypertension, and elevated cholesterol, which increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Professor Lashari recommended at least 30 minutes of daily physical exercise and advised selecting any convenient time for those unable to exercise in the morning. He also cautioned against harmful habits, particularly among young people, such as smoking and the use of substances like paan, gutka, and mawa. He warned that e-cigarettes contain nicotine and pose significant health risks.