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Unanimous agreement on cause of diabetes

by Bharatha Malawaraarachchi

For the first time in medical history, a unanimous agreement on the cause and prevention of diabetes was reached during an international conference held in Sri Lanka. This will be ratified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a document applicable globally.

Over 350 medical experts from over 30 countries have accepted four major factors that causes diabetes. They are genetics, foetal origins, lifestyle and stress. " These four causes were discussed in detail and accepted by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF)," Dr. Mahen Wijesuriya told the 'Daily News'.

The consensus was reached at the Diabetes in Asia - 2002 held in Colombo a week ago, with Prof. Sir George Alberti, President of the IDF as the Chief Guest.

Dr. Wijesuriya said a primary prevention strategy can now be developed on a scientific basis using the information agreed upon at this conference, with special emphasis to suit local circumstances in each country.

It was also agreed that there is a sharp increase in the prevalence of diabetes in childhood and adolescence, which was earlier confined to adults. "Now early onset is more prevalent," added Dr. Wijesuriya.

One of the four factors relates to a certain genetic condition that tend to make people more prone to diabetes. "Currently, the entire pattern of genetic inheritance has not been fully worked out, but there is strong evidence to show that it is a significant cause for this disease," added Dr. Wijesuriya.

Citing the agreements reached on the second factor, he explained that the low birth rate and poor nourishment of a baby increase the risk of developing this condition.

Referring to the third factor - lifestyle -, Dr. Wijesuriya said there is a global epidemic of obesity which is associated with diabetes and heart diseases. Physical inactivity and over nutrition are independent risk factors. Stress is also a key factor leading to diabetes.

Dr. Wijesuriya explained that a primary prevention program should include life style changes in food, exercise and stress control. 

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Copyright 2001 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
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