VPS Lakeshore Organises ‘Blue Steps’ Walkathon on World Diabetes Day

Kochi: VPS Lakeshore Hospital organised the ‘Blue Steps’ Walkathon in connection with World Diabetes Day to promote awareness about diabetes prevention and management. Actor Kailash, Maradu Municipality Chairperson Ajitha Nandakumar, Kumbalam Grama Panchayat President Raseena Salam, VPS Lakeshore Group CEO Abhishek Poduri and CEO Jayesh V. Nair jointly flagged off the walkathon. Actor Kailash highlighted the importance of awareness and preventive measures in diabetes management, stating that the initiative would make a significant contribution to strengthening diabetes awareness among the public.

Maradu Municipality Chairperson Ajitha Nandakumar emphasised the need for collective efforts to prevent lifestyle diseases, while Kumbalam Grama Panchayat President Raseena Salam expressed concern over the rising number of people affected by diabetes and stressed the importance of creating public awareness. Presiding over the function, VPS Lakeshore Group CEO Abhishek Poduri said that at a time when India was facing the challenge of becoming the diabetes capital of the world, initiatives such as this could play an important role in building a healthier society. Dr. Vivek Mathew, Head of the Department of Endocrinology, highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and regular health check-ups in preventing diabetes-related complications. Dr. S. Anitha Nambiar, Senior Consultant, Department of General Medicine, stated that approximately 510 million people worldwide were living with diabetes and emphasised that the condition could be effectively managed through proper dietary habits, regular exercise, adequate sleep and timely medication. VPS Lakeshore CEO Jayesh V. Nair delivered the welcome address, while Dr. Maria Varghese, Chief of Medical Services, proposed the vote of thanks.

The walkathon commenced from the hospital premises, passed through Panangad and Kumbalam, and concluded at VPS Lakeshore. Various activities, including a Zumba dance session, were organised as part of the programme. The event was conducted in association with the Kerala Chapter of the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI), with Walkaroo as the walking partner. Doctors, nurses, healthcare professionals and public representatives participated in the initiative. As part of the World Diabetes Day observance, free diabetes screening camps were also organised at the hospital and various metro stations. Awareness sessions led by Dr. S. Anitha Nambiar and Chief Dietitian Dr. Manju P. George were also conducted. VPS Lakeshore Hospital has further announced a special diabetes screening package, offering tests worth approximately Rs. 2,500 for just Rs. 99. The offer is available at the hospital until November 30. For more information, contact 99616 40000.