The number of diabetic patients in the country is around 10 million at present while around 0.1 million people of different ages are developing the disease every year.
Moreover, half of them even are not aware of the fact that they are suffering from this polygenic disease.
Keeping this scenario in view, Congressia, a non-profit organisation working to raise awareness about diabetes, is going to hold a three-day diabetes fair, the first of its kind in Bangladesh, beginning on April 11.
The fair, to be held at the Krishibid Institution in the city, will bring together doctors, experts, nutritionists and patients, said the organisers at a press conference at the National Press Club on Monday.
Chief Executive of Congressia Dr Fazle Rabbi Khan, also the chief coordinator of the fair, gave a briefing on the fair at the press conference.
People can have their blood sugar and eyes tested at the fair, he said, adding that health care instruments will also be available at a discounted price at the expo.
Lack of awareness, undisciplined lifestyle due to unplanned urbanisation and employment, bad food habit and environmental impacts are mainly responsible for this disease, said the organisers.
Raising awareness among people through workshop, training and discussion and taking preventive measures can reduce the risk of developing the disease, they added.
Former cultural minister Asaduzzaman Noor will inaugurate the fair as the chief guest.
The expo will feature 14 sessions of discussions on 25 topics. Some 50 doctors and experts will join the sessions.
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