Letter.

 Letter Published in The National UAE on 28August 26. Collective responsibility

I write in reference to Nick Webster’s article Doctors in UAE call for early diabetes screening as youth cases surge (August 25): this piece is a serious wake-up call. Changing food habits, increased consumption of processed and sugary foods, sedentary lifestyles and lack of regular physical activity are among the major factors contributing to this growing menace. What was once largely considered an adult disease is now affecting younger generations, making early screening and timely intervention increasingly important. Prevention, however, cannot be left to doctors and healthcare systems alone. Regular awareness programmes and community meetings can educate people about healthy eating, exercise, early warning signs and the importance of periodic health checks. Schools and families, in particular, have an important role in nurturing healthier habits from an early age. The rising numbers should make us pause and reflect: are we giving our children a healthier future, or are our present lifestyles silently putting their health at risk? Early awareness, responsible food choices, regular exercise and timely screening can go a long way in controlling this growing public-health challenge. A healthy generation is not merely a medical responsibility – it is a collective responsibility of families, communities, schools and society at large. – K Ragavan, Bengaluru, India