Kochi: VPS Lakeshore Hospital organized the ‘Diabetes in Pregnancy Conference’ at Holiday Inn, Kochi, providing a comprehensive analysis of the rising challenges posed by gestational diabetes. The event brought together leading medical professionals from across the country to discuss key aspects of the condition, ranging from early diagnosis and clinical management to postpartum care and safeguarding maternal and neonatal health. The conference was inaugurated by S.K. Abdulla, Managing Director of VPS Lakeshore Hospital, who emphasized the institution’s commitment to academic excellence alongside clinical care. Highlighting the increasing prevalence of diabetes before, during, and after pregnancy, he noted that events like this offer vital insights for healthcare providers to tackle these public health concerns effectively.
Delivering the chief guest address, Dr. Fessy Louis, President of the Kerala Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (KFOG), revealed that approximately 25 percent of pregnant women in India are affected by gestational diabetes, with rates exceeding 15 percent even in rural areas. He stressed the severity of the issue, noting that gestational diabetes impacts two generations—both mother and child—and urged broader discussions on the roles of diet and modern lifestyle changes. The event featured addresses by Dr. Bhavatharani, President of the Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group India (DIPSI), welcome remarks by Organizing Chairperson Dr. Anita Nambiar, and a vote of thanks by Secretary Dr. Smita Joy. The scientific sessions covered key topics including glycemic control, treatment protocols, fetal monitoring, and post-delivery care through evidence-based insights, clinical case discussions, and an expert panel session on experience-based clinical decision-making.
