Daijiworld Media Network - Jammu

Jammu, Apr 6: A cardiac awareness and health screening camp was organised at Gurudwara Singh Sabha, Nanak Nagar, under the leadership of Dr Sushil Sharma, Head of Cardiology at Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) Jammu, to highlight the rising risk of heart complications among diabetic patients.

The initiative focused on spreading awareness about the strong connection between diabetes and cardiometabolic diseases, stressing the importance of early detection and preventive care. The medical team conducted health screenings, offered expert consultations, and provided personalised guidance to encourage healthier lifestyles.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Sharma said the link between diabetes and cardiovascular disease is one of the most critical concerns in modern medicine. “These conditions are deeply interconnected through shared risk factors and biological mechanisms, significantly increasing the chances of heart attack, stroke and heart failure among diabetic patients,” he said.

He explained that elevated blood sugar levels contribute to vascular damage through endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and inflammation, accelerating atherosclerosis and narrowing of arteries. This, he noted, leads to a higher risk of coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease and peripheral arterial disease.

Dr Sharma further stated that individuals with diabetes face nearly double the risk of cardiovascular mortality, with heart disease being the leading cause of death in type 2 diabetes patients. He emphasised that management should go beyond blood sugar control and include regulation of blood pressure, lipid levels and lifestyle modifications.

Highlighting advancements in treatment, he added that certain anti-diabetic medications also offer cardiovascular protection.

The camp saw participation from doctors including Dr Venkatesh Yellupu, Dr Bhola Kumar and Dr Adarsh Sharma. Paramedics and volunteers such as Kamal Sharma, Rajkumar, Ranjeet Singh, Shubham Sharma and Gokul Jamwal also assisted in the programme.