ALOR SETAR: Kedah is among the states with the highest reported diabetes rates with 13.6% of its one million population having the disease.
State health deputy director (public health) Dr Shahidan Hashim said the situation was worrying as some patients were not aware of having diabetes.
“Diabetes can happen at any age if one does not look after one’s health. There are diabetic patients as young as 15-year-olds.
“Some had their legs amputated, having renal failure and serious eye problem,” he told reporters after the launch of the Kedah Diabetes Walkathon 2009 here Saturday.
Dr Shahidan advised the people to take up an exercise regime like walking or cycling to deter diabetes.
“Even for diabetic patients, they must continue to exercise and lead a healthy and active lifestyle,” he added.
About 400 people took part in the 4.5km walkathon and a health screening programme organised by the Kedah Health Department and the Kedah Chapter of the Malaysian Diabetes Association. -- Bernama
source from: the star online
