Jitendra Singh warns against misinformation on diabetes

Union Minister of Science and Technology Jitendra Singh on Tuesday cautioned the public against misinformation surrounding diabetes, one of the most widespread metabolic disorders in India.

Speaking at the Foundation Day ceremony of the Research Society for Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI) at Delhi-based India International Centre, the minister called for evidence-based health awareness, and gave a firm dictum: “Treat Diabetes before it Occurs- Prevention better than cure.”

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He emphasised that public health messaging must go beyond medical publications and into institutionalised outreach to common citizens. Singh countered the prevailing myths around diabetes and other metabolic disorders.

The Minister advocated for an institutionalised, national-level approach to diabetes care, moving beyond academic awareness to ensure that research outcomes translate into widespread public benefit, particularly for high-risk groups. He also addressed and debunked common myths, such as the belief that “one meal a day” is effective, urging instead a more scientific understanding of both the quality and quantity of meals in managing diabetes, rather than resorting to extreme dietary measures.

He also expressed concern that India continues to be labelled the “Diabetes Capital of the World”, with every third Indian affected by some form of metabolic dysfunction. To tackle the nation’s fight against the growing lifestyle disorders, the minister reiterated the target of reducing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by 10%, particularly those associated with fatty liver, visceral fat and obesity.

Singh appreciated the efforts of scholars from the diabetes society for their research contributions, particularly highlighting a recent study under the Indian Prevention of Diabetes Study (IPDS) that demonstrated the effectiveness of yoga in preventing diabetes. The study was conducted by Prof. S.V. Madhu, former President of the society.

Meanwhile, RSSDI, founded on July 29, 1972, in Delhi, marked its 53rd anniversary in the same city where its first meeting was held. Past Presidents and veteran Patrons from across the country gathered in Delhi to commemorate the occasion.