Chennai, April 16th 2025: – Kauvery Hospital Alwarpet, a unit of Kauvery Group of Hospitals a multispeciality healthcare chain in Tamil Nadu, has released key findings from a comprehensive study conducted across the Chennai population, shedding light on the urgent need for improved diabetes awareness and prevention strategies.
As part of its commitment to community health, the hospital launched the Diabetes on Wheels initiative in 2024, a cross-sectional screening study where a dedicated medical team conducted a free diabetes screening program across Chennai over 100 days. This program was carried out at various locations throughout the city, screening 3,971 individuals. The initiative revealed critical gaps in early detection and identified significant risk factors (obesity, eating patterns) contributing to the rising prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM).
Key findings from the study include:
● 21% of individuals with no prior history of Type 2 Diabetes were unaware of their abnormality in blood sugar levels (dysglycemia), indicating a substantial gap in early diagnosis and awareness.
● 55.1% of women with a history of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) (high blood sugar levels during pregnancy) developed Type 2 Diabetes, highlighting the importance of post-pregnancy diabetes screening and preventive interventions.
● The prevalence of obesity is significantly higher in individuals with a history of Type 2 Diabetes, (67.6%) and in individuals who were not aware of their dysglycemia (64.7%) reinforcing the strong link between obesity and diabetes.
● Carbohydrate intake was notably higher in individuals unaware of their dysglycemia88.5%, suggesting that dietary habits play a crucial role in undiagnosed blood sugar irregularities.
Dr. Baraneedharan K, Senior Consultant Diabetologist at Kauvery Hospital, highlighted the purpose and significance of the study, stating, “These findings emphasize the urgent need for proactive screening programs, lifestyle modifications, and public health initiatives to combat diabetes effectively. Furthermore, healthcare policies and government initiatives can play a crucial role in creating a more supportive environment for diabetes prevention and management, ensuring that resources reach the most vulnerable populations. I urge the public to begin prioritizing their health by spending 45 minutes everyday for physical exercise , follow mindful eating to prevent obesity and take care of mental well being . Regular screenings can also help detect non communicable diseases such as Diabetes, Hypertension, and heart diseases.”
“The prevalence of Diabetes has been increasing worldwide, and there are several factors that contribute to the same. As responsible healthcare providers, we not only focus on treating , but the prevention. Through regular screenings and awareness programs among the community, we aim to reduce the burden of Diabetes in the region. I appreciate Dr Baraneedharan and team for this initiative which will create a significant impact among the people,” said Dr Aravindan Selvaraj Co-Founder and Executive Director Kauvery Group of Hospitals.
