Preventative diabetes care at Durdans Diabetes and Endocrinology Clinic

Wednesday, 15 November 2017 00:01 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

According to the latest statistics, the prevalence of diabetes in Sri Lanka had dramatically increased, especially among the urban population. Overweight and lack of exercise were the main causes of diabetes among children, while family history, food habits and obesity were the main causes among adults. The Durdans Diabetes and Endocrinology Clinic is dedicated to preventing complications that could increase risk of morbidity and mortality through correct diagnosis of diabetes in all its forms and by offering comprehensive treatment programs that can enhance the quality of life for patients with diabetes. Uncontrolled levels of blood sugar, high blood pressure and cholesterol can cause complications to skin, eyes, kidneys, feet and nerves which increase risk of morbidity and mortality. Therefore, it is paramount for patients with diabetes to have a support system of doctors, healthcare professionals and informed family members. These include a primary physician, endocrinologist, dietician, eye specialist, psychiatrist and podiatrist. Consultant Endocrinologist Dr.Uditha Bulugahapitiya says, “Specialist care is important for patients with diabetes as the focus would not only be on controlling the disease but on making assessments to prevent complications.”

Diabetes can cause peripheral neuropathy, a common complication that causes loss of sensation in the feet. This is caused by high blood sugar levels that lead to nerve damage. Patients have to be extra careful about their feet as they can develop sores and cuts that go unnoticed due to loss of sensation. Dr. Bulugahapitya states, “Patients should do regular diabetes screenings to prevent complications such as neuropathy and non-healing foot ulcers that could end in high likelihood of lower-limb amputation which increases risk of morbidity and mortality.”

Durdans Hospital, a leader in regional healthcare, promotes preventative and holistic management of diabetes. Therein, the Durdans Diabetes and Endocrinology Clinic is devoted to comprehensive diabetes care that includes an array of podiatry services such as regular foot assessment (neuropathy screening), special foot tests and custom fittings for shoes. A qualified pool of specialist consultants, nurses, support staff and an interdisciplinary team supports patients in overall diabetes care. The clinic offers one the convenience of every possible diabetes screening to be obtained from one location. The Durdans Diabetic and Endocrinology Clinic is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays.