Many people with diabetes have depression that may manifest as poor adherence to diet, medication and SMBG. This can have an adverse impact on the overall management and quality of life of the patients. Most diabetes clinics do not have a psychologist present at all times to assess and counsel such patients. We must make efforts to address this gap and provide comprehensive care to the patients by adding psychological assessment and the management of such disorders in the management plan.

What is the need of the hour in diabetes management in India apart from the efforts currently being made?

There is an urgent need to focus on prevention of diabetes and introduction of early aggressive treatment. This can only be achieved by early detection. By meeting all the three goals, we can expect to achieve the desired results with reduction of complications in the long-term. There is a need to strengthen our awareness programs in order to achieve these goals that reach out to people even in the remotest areas in the country.