A new mobile app, “Diabetes Mela,” has been announced to raise public awareness about diabetes and help control the risks and complications of the disease in Bangladesh.
The announcement was made at a press conference organized by the Diabetes Mela awareness platform at the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) in Segunbagicha on Saturday afternoon, marking World Diabetes Day. The event was held under the theme “My diabetes, my responsibility,” with overall support from Beximco Pharma and Congressia.
At the press conference, organizers said 1 in every 10 people in Bangladesh currently has diabetes. However, 62.1% of people affected by the disease are unaware of their condition, while diabetes remains uncontrolled in 92% of diagnosed patients.
They said unhealthy eating habits, physical inactivity, obesity and a lack of awareness are contributing to the growing risk of diabetes.
The organizers said diabetes generally cannot be completely cured once a person develops the disease. However, it can be managed through healthy eating, regular walking and exercise, timely medical tests and taking medication as advised by doctors.
Without proper management, diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, blood vessel complications and severe damage to the eyes and nerves.
Diabetes Mela, which has been conducting awareness programs since 2019, said the new app would allow users to assess their likelihood of developing diabetes and determine whether they have the disease.
People at risk will receive information and guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle through the app. Patients will also be able to access various forms of assistance related to disease management and treatment.
The organizers have invited suggestions from members of the public and media professionals to make the app more user-friendly.
Anyone interested in suggesting features for the app can share their opinions by completing a designated feedback form, visiting the Diabetes Mela Facebook page or contacting the organizers through WhatsApp at 0170166465.
Those present at the press conference included Professor Md. Faruque Pathan, director (education) of BIRDEM Academy, professor of the Department of Endocrinology and coordinator of the Diabetes Mela Advisory Council; Dr Shahjada Selim, associate professor at Bangladesh Medical University, president-elect of the Bangladesh Endocrine Society and member of the Diabetes Mela Advisory Council; and Dr Md Fazle Rabbi Khan, chief coordinator of Diabetes Mela.