Rang De Neela Initiative Raises Awareness about Diabetes Prevention and Amputation Avoidance
India, often referred to as the diabetes capital of the world, continues to witness a significant rise in diabetes-related amputations, resulting in devastating consequences for individuals and their families. To address this pressing issue and to promote a healthier lifestyle, the Rang De Neela initiative has launched a #BluePledge campaign, aiming to raise awareness about diabetes prevention and amputation avoidance.
Rising Diabetes-Related Amputations in India
Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that poses numerous health challenges. Uncontrolled diabetes can lead to nerve damage, compromised blood vessels, increased susceptibility to infections, and neuropathy. According to data published by the National Institutes of Health, approximately 100,000 legs are amputated each year in India, and this distressing figure continues to escalate at an alarming rate.
The Importance of Health Awareness
Over fifty metabolic physicians from different regions of India will visit remote villages to educate weavers and artists on preventive measures for chronic conditions, thus promoting health advocacy at the grassroots level. Diabetes has emerged as a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in India; to mitigate the impact of this disorder, it is crucial for individuals to monitor their blood sugar levels, adhere to prescribed medications, and undergo regular health check-ups.
The Role of Rang De Neela
Dr. Rajiv Kovil, Head of Diabetology at Zandra Healthcare and Co-founder of the Rang De Neela initiative, emphasized the importance of early detection, proper management of diabetes, and addressing its complications, such as diabetic foot ulcers, peripheral artery disease, and neuropathy. Dr. Kovil stated, “Amputations can be avoided by opting for early detection, treatment, diabetes prevention, and dealing with diabetes-related foot complications.”
The Blue Pledge Campaign
The #BluePledge campaign stands as a beacon of hope, urging individuals to unite in the fight against diabetes and amputations. By combining the power of art, celebrity support, and medical expertise, this initiative aims to revolutionize health awareness and inspire individuals to lead healthier lives.
Celebrity Support and Social Media Impact
Renowned celebrities like Sonali Bendre and Rohit Bose Roy, along with industrialist Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, have joined hands with the Rang De Neela initiative. They have taken the #BluePledge and are encouraging people to take utmost care of themselves, manage their diabetes, and avoid complications such as foot amputation.
Inspiring a Healthier Nation
Sonali Bendre took to Instagram to address this issue, stating, “Diabetes is a lifestyle disease that is common in our country and is a silent killer. Over 150,000,000 Indians are at risk of having their limbs amputated due to diabetes.” The campaign’s primary objective is to disseminate this message nationwide, alleviate the burden of diabetes, and prevent amputations.
