Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 15: The Father Muller Charitable Institutions (FMCI) hosted the valedictory ceremony of the World Diabetes Day campaign on November 15. The week-long observance, organised by the Department of Community Medicine, culminated in a meaningful gathering that highlighted workplace well-being and the importance of preventive health.
Dr Sudeep K, professor of endocrinology at Father Muller Medical College Hospital, graced the occasion as the chief guest, while Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo presided over the function.
The campaign, a unique initiative by the community medicine department, encouraged FMCI faculty and staff to adopt non-sedentary habits at their workplace and to make conscious choices towards healthier living.
In his welcome address, Dr Sudhir Prabhu, head of the Department of Community Medicine, stressed the relevance of observing World Diabetes Day, noting that India continues to bear the burden of being known as the “Diabetes Capital of the World,” with numbers rising steadily. “Globally, seven in ten adults living with diabetes belong to the working-age population — that’s over 142 million individuals. For many, diabetes is a daily challenge, and in workplaces it often becomes a source of stress, stigma, and fear,” he remarked.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Sudeep K shed light on the urgent need to focus on diet and physical activity, especially as modern lifestyles contribute to “skinny-fat” or central obesity — a pattern of fat accumulation more common among Indians than Caucasians. This, he cautioned, increases the likelihood of developing diabetes nearly a decade earlier with each generation, along with related chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease. He urged the audience to embrace prudent lifestyle choices and focus on prevention rather than depending solely on tertiary care.
Fr Faustine Lucas Lobo, in his presidential address, reflected on how physical activity naturally reduced over the years due to growing administrative responsibilities in his 36-year priestly ministry. He emphasised the value of simple routines such as walking daily, which can significantly improve fitness and overall well-being. Appreciating the chief guest as an exemplary role model for health and discipline, he encouraged the gathering to follow his example.
Campaign highlights
FMCI conducted a series of engaging activities from November 5 -14, aimed at fostering awareness, promoting preventive strategies, and motivating the campus community towards healthier lifestyles.
The steps for awareness challenge received an overwhelming response, with more than 400 participants across 50 departments.
The campus was illuminated in blue on November 14 - and again today - signifying global solidarity for diabetes awareness.
Dr Madhu Malar, senior resident, community medicine, and the key coordinator of the campaign, announced the prize winners.
Prize winners
Bookmark designing competition
• Winner: Andria D’Souza, 2022
• 1st runner-up: Vamshith Shetty, intern
• 2nd runner-up: Jana Mry Chacko, 2024
Steps for awareness challenge
Individual category
1. Steps Champion 2025: Santhosh Veigas, director's office
2. Heart Points Champion 2025: Veena Mary Dsouza, microbiology
Department-wise awards
• Top performing department – Step count: Director’s office (4 participants)
• Top performing department – Heart points: Accounts department (11 participants)
• Unity in wellness award 2025: Department of pharmacology (highest proportion of participants – 10 members)
Special recognition awardees
For exceptional consistency throughout all 10 days of the challenge:
1. FMCON college office (6)
2. Simulation & skills centre (3)
3. Department of microbiology (7)
4. Jyothi Crasta, AHS
5. Dr Shruthi Ashok Pai, general medicine
6. Chaitra P, research centre
7. Dr Ancy George, homoeopathy
8. Dr Devina E Rodrigues, community health nursing
9. Joylan D’Souza, Billing
10. Prakash Vegas, physiology
Programme dignitaries and sessions
The event was graced by Dr Michael Santhumayor, administrator, Father Muller Medical College; Dr Antony Sylvan D’Souza, dean; and Dr Venkatesh BM, vice-dean.
Dr Sowmya Bhat, professor of Community Medicine, introduced the chief guest, while Dr Moira D’Souza, associate professor, delivered the vote of thanks.
Two health motivation talks added valuable insight to the programme:
• Afsheena Ayesha, clinical dietician, Manipal University, spoke on “Practical tips on how to prepare a healthy plate.”
• Christy Tomy, cardiopulmonary physiotherapist, Father Muller College of Physiotherapy, addressed “Ways to stay active at the workplace.”
Significance of World Diabetes Day
World Diabetes Day, observed globally on November 14, marks the birthday of Sir Frederick Banting, co-discoverer of insulin. The International Diabetes Federation has declared this year’s theme as “Diabetes and well-being in the workplace.” At FMCI, the campaign echoed this global message through its local theme, “Know more and do more for diabetes at work.”
As part of the observance, the front façade of the Father Muller Medical College Hospital will be lit in blue — a gentle reminder to all: “Be fit and be fine.”