Media Release

Udupi, Feb 2: The Paediatric Endocrinology Clinic of Kasturba Medical College and Hospital, Manipal, organised a day-long awareness and support programme for children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) and their families on January 31.

The programme focused on health education, awareness sessions, screening for diabetes-related complications, and interactive activities. More than 50 families of children with T1DM from Udupi and neighbouring districts participated in the event.

The programme began with an opening note by Dr Ramesh Bhat Y, head of the Department of Paediatrics, KMC, Manipal. An overview of the event was presented by Dr Koushik Urala H, paediatric endocrinologist and associate professor, Department of Paediatrics, KMC, Manipal.

Dr Diksha Shirodkar, paediatric endocrinologist from Yenapoya Medical College, Mangaluru, delivered an expert talk on the management of diabetes in school. An interactive session on adapting routine home diets to meet the nutritional needs of children with diabetes was conducted by the Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, led by Suvarna Hebbar, head of the department. Screening for diabetic retinopathy was conducted by the Department of Ophthalmology. The Department of Physiotherapy provided awareness on foot care and physical health, while the Department of Yoga highlighted the role of yoga in improving glucose control through demonstrations.

In the second half of the programme, children showcased their talents through various cultural performances, adding enthusiasm and joy to the event.

The valedictory and prize distribution ceremony was graced by Dr Vinod C Naik, associate dean, KMC, Manipal, and Dr Avinash Shetty, medical superintendent, Kasturba Hospital, Manipal.

The programme was conceptualised and coordinated by Dr Koushik Urala H, reinforcing the institution’s commitment to comprehensive and family-centred diabetes care.