Focus on Addressing Diabetes and Its Complications Among the Elderly
SRINAGAR: Minister for Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, today highlighted the urgent need to strengthen both preventive and curative healthcare systems for the elderly, as diabetes continues to pose a significant health challenge in this age group.
The Minister made these remarks while delivering the keynote address at the inauguration of the 1st Annual MMFDIACON25 International Endocrinology Conference at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar. The event was organized by GMC Srinagar in collaboration with the Department of Endocrinology of the Super Speciality Hospital, MMF Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies on Ageing (CISA), and Moul Mouj Foundation.
The conference, themed “Elders Deserve Better: Diabetes and its Complications in the Elderly – An Interdisciplinary Approach,” brought together experts and professionals from diverse fields to discuss the latest developments and challenges in managing diabetes among the elderly.
In her address, Minister Itoo emphasized the government’s commitment to improving healthcare outcomes for older adults, stressing the importance of early diagnosis, collaborative treatment strategies, and a holistic model of care. She stated,
“Diabetes in the elderly is not just a medical issue but a social challenge. Our elders deserve compassion, timely diagnosis, and comprehensive care.”
She congratulated GMC Srinagar for organizing the conference on a topic of immense public health significance, noting the increasing prevalence of diabetes not only in the elderly but also among younger populations. She called for a multipronged approach to tackle the disease, encompassing lifestyle modifications, diet, and regular physical activity.
Highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, the Minister assured that the government is committed to expanding specialized healthcare facilities, strengthening preventive programs, and enhancing access to diagnostic and treatment services across urban and rural areas of Jammu & Kashmir.
Dr. Iffat Hassan Shah, Principal/Dean of GMC Srinagar and Patron of the conference, reaffirmed the institution’s role in prioritizing the healthcare needs of the elderly. Dr. M. Hayat, HoD Endocrinology, emphasized the complexity of diabetes-related complications in older patients, while Dr. Zubair Saleem, Senior Consultant Geriatrics and Academic Convenor, CISA, stressed CISA and MMF’s commitment to geriatric care and academic research. Consultant Endocrinologist Dr. Mir Shahnawaz highlighted the need to address complications that impact the quality of life and independence of elderly patients.
During the inaugural session, the Impact Report of Moul Mouj Foundation was also released. The conference included several scientific sessions featuring both national and international experts. Highlights included:
- Dr. John Ebnezar (Padma Shri, Dr. B.C. Roy awardee) – Frailty fractures in elderly diabetics (virtual)
- Dr. M. A. Mazaid, Egypt – Osteoporotic vertebral risks in elderly diabetics (virtual)
- Dr. Sergio Rowinski, Brazil – Adhesive capsulitis management in diabetics (virtual)
Other notable presentations included epidemiology of T2DM, diabetic sarcopenia, nephropathy, stroke, geriatric diabetes with mood disorders, diabetic foot challenges, high-risk T2DM management, and cardiovascular risk reduction, delivered by leading Indian experts.
The conference also featured free paper and poster sessions, with awards for the top three posters (₹5,000, ₹3,000, ₹2,000) and best free paper (₹1,000). A special segment honored senior citizens for their societal contributions, including members of CISA, GK Labs representatives, and distinguished doctors.
A highlight of the event was a short film on fatherhood, produced and directed by Dr. Tajamul H. Mir, showcasing the human dimension of care.
The event was attended by Mohammad Ashraf Hakak, Administrator of Associated Hospitals, medical superintendents, resident medical officers, medical officers, and students, providing a platform for knowledge sharing, discussion, and interdisciplinary collaboration in elderly diabetes care.
