BUPS hosts campaign to boost diabetes awareness
On 20th November, Brac University Pharmacy Society (BUPS) celebrated “World Diabetes Day”, hosting an awareness campaign titled “Path to Prevention: Understanding Diabetes”. In attendance as keynote speakers were Mohammad Ziauddin (Senior General Manager, ACME), Dr. Rushda Sharmin Binte Rouf (Associate Professor, BIRDEM), and Dr. David Dowland (Registrar, BracU). The event focused on understanding, reflecting, and acting on diabetes.
Mr. Ziauddin reminded students that diabetes is no longer “an old people’s disease,” it’s affecting everyone irrespective of gender and age. Statistics say 590 million are affected by diabetes, and most of them are undiagnosed. Bangladesh ranks 8th worldwide, and if left unchecked, cases are projected to rise by 65% by 2060. He warns university students, “You are most vulnerable to diabetes due to certain lifestyle choices, such as living on junk food and losing sleep with the tension of upcoming midterms.” While outlining these concerns, he reassured students that they could still enjoy their favorite food, provided they balanced it with sufficient physical activity.
Dr. Rouf highlighted that it is now rare to find a family without a history of diabetes. She has seen type 2 diabetes in patients as young as 12. She explained that many individuals, despite having a normal body mass index, can still be at risk of diabetes. She believes prevention starts as early as the womb to maintain a proper sleeping schedule.
Dr. Dowland acknowledged how hard it is to stay fit in Dhaka. Quoting the maxim, “When there is a will, there is a way,” he described the campaign as a meaningful invitation to live a balanced life. He reaffirmed BracU’s commitment to supporting both the physical and psychological well-being of its students and staff. He is also optimistic about future collaborations between BUPS and the Brac University James P Grant School of Public Health to expand awareness campaigns.
The highlight of the campaign was the free health care test for students, faculty, staff, and even parents. This diagnosis is a step closer to being aware of diabetes and preventing it. Lastly, to show solidarity in the prevention of diabetes, students gathered around for a blue ring formation, a symbol of World Diabetes Day.
