BS RAWAT
NEW DELHI : Doctors in Indian Medical Association have demanded an immediate ban on unhealthy drinks with high sugar content in what they say is the latest move in its ongoing ‘War on diabetes.’

To mark the World Diabetes Day, the doctors claimed high consumption of sugary drinks is associated with obesity and greater risks of developing chronic diseases like diabetes, blindness, and heart diseases.

Dr Ramesh Datta, Hony Finance Secretary, IMA said, “IMA Food Safety Initiative has already been established and working to promote healthy food habits in the country. All the doctors will be educated about scientific methods of food to control diabetes and other lifestyle diseases.”

He stated, “During the month long campaign against diabetes from November 14, people will be made aware of the need and method for adopting healthy food.”

Dr D R Rai, Organising chairman IMA, claimed that IMA policy on good food was adopted by the recent central working committee meeting held at Port Blair. The policy recommends the food plate method which has vegetable and fruits in one half of the plate and proteins and whole grain in the other.

IMA has geared in all states and local branches to observe month long World Diabetes Day from November 14. During the campaign the doctors' top body will organize activities including diabetes screening camps, diabetes awareness programme, seminar and walk to fight diabetes, display of information posters, banners and placards at key places and posters making competition in participating schools and night illumination of important monuments, institutions and offices with blue lights.