by Suman Gupta
Why wait to feel unwell if you can prevent it; in other words it is wise to check your blood sugars regularly before getting diabetes. That is the message this 14th November observed as the World Diabetes Day 2026 under the theme “Early Action on Diabetes”. Type 2 diabetes can develop and progress silently, with damage to the internal organs beginning way before symptoms appear.
“Indians tend to develop diabetes at a younger age and lower weight than our Western counterparts. Screening should begin around age 30 or earlier, especially for those with a family history, excess weight or diabetes during pregnancy. Feeling healthy and no symptoms does not rule out diabetes,” says Dr Manoj Chawla, Joint Secretary, RSSDI. This screening approach is supported by the Indian Council of Medical Research guidance.
For those who are already diagnosed, early action means taking care and controlling blood sugars well, right from the beginning. “Do not wait for sugar levels to increase further before you start acting upon them. As discussed with your diabetes doctor, start the treatment plan, take medicines regularly and attend follow-up appointments. Your targets should be personalised and achieved safely,” says Dr Rakesh Parikh, Secretary, RSSDI.
Care for diabetes must also look beyond blood sugar levels; excess abdominal fat, high blood pressure and unhealthy cholesterol often occur together—a cluster called metabolic syndrome.
“Always keep a check on blood pressure, cholesterol, weight and waist size from the outset itself. Kidney tests, eye examinations and foot checks are also important parts of diabetes care. Alongside lifestyle changes, proven medicines should be used as directed and discussed with your diabetes doctor, when indicated to protect the heart, kidneys and liver,” says Dr Anuj Maheshwari, President, RSSDI.
Family support and friends play an equally important role.
“Make healthy and balanced eating, regular activity, adequate sleep and tobacco avoidance a family commitment. Support your loved ones with diabetes without any blame games, and help them keep appointments and continue treatment,” says Dr Purvi Chawla, Trustee of Mumbai Diabetes Care Foundation (MDCF) and Hon. Secretary – IDF Women & Diabetes group.
This World Diabetes Day, take the first step: undergo screening, review the care plan and act early on every risk factor. Early and consistent care can help protect health today & tomorrow.
#ActEarlyOnDiabetes
