'Diabetes on a rise among children'

PIC: Those who could not run had to walk. (Credit: Julius Luwemba)

HEALTH

WAKISO - Dr Moses Muwanga, the Entebbe Hospital superintendent, revealed that diabetic cases are on a rise among children due to lack of exercise.

"We receive a number of diabetic cases among children and the only therapy we give them is exercise. This means, parents are not doing enough to help their children do exercises, yet these children consume a lot of foods rich in starch," Muwanga said.

He added that as much as some causes of diabetes are genetic, others are as a result of poor feeding and lack of exercise.

Muwanga said over 800 diabetic patients under their umbrella Entebbe Diabetic Association (EDA), have so far been registered with Entebbe Hospital.

The medical expert made the remarks while flagging off hundreds of people in Entebbe municipality, who braved the heavy rains of Saturday morning to run towards fundraising for diabetic patients.

The runners went for 5km, while those who opted to walk were led by a brass band from the mayor's gardens, around Entebbe town.

The organisers raised over sh3m and equipment worth sh5m.
 
Before flagging off the runners and walkers, Sarah Nanyange, the EDA chairperson, said exercises are vital for diabetic patients.

She thanked companies, including HAWA pharmacy, which donated crutches worth sh1m, Munaku Kaama, which donated wheel chairs and Hope for Restoration, a non-governmental organisation.

Tom Byarugaba, who was the guest of honour representing the area MP, donated sh2m and pledged more sh500,000 towards the establishment of EDA's office. 

He also contributed a computer.

Byarugaba advised the diabetic on proper feeding, with half of the diet comprising fruits and vegetables.