This November, in observance of National Diabetes Month and World Diabetes Day (14 November 2024), 18-year-old content creator Kiara Powar has launched an impactful campaign called #InsulinSeMatDaro.
The campaign aims to raise awareness about diabetes management, with a focus on the role of insulin in treatment, and tackle the social and economic challenges surrounding diabetes care in India. With support from renowned medical and wellness experts, including Padma Shri Dr. Shashank Joshi, President of The Indian Academy of Diabetes, and Luke Coutinho, an integrative lifestyle expert, Kiara’s initiative promises to bring timely information and resources to millions of people living with diabetes.
Through her campaign, Kiara Powar seeks to demystify insulin use and underscore its life-saving importance in diabetes management. For many people diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, insulin is not just a treatment; it’s a vital part of daily life. Kiara’s aim is to break the stigma around insulin use and address the common misconceptions that prevent people from using it as prescribed. The campaign also addresses the social stigma and psychological challenges often faced by diabetes patients.
In a series of insightful discussions, Kiara will share expert advice from Dr. Shashank Joshi and Luke Coutinho, who will shed light on the physical, emotional, and social implications of diabetes. Their expert advice will guide individuals and their families on how to cope with the mental and physical toll of the disease, while emphasizing the role of lifestyle changes in managing Type 2 diabetes effectively. Dr. Joshi, a leading figure in diabetes care, is a strong advocate of integrating lifestyle interventions with medication to enhance overall well-being.
Kiara’s campaign isn’t just about raising awareness—it’s about action. She is committed to addressing the disparities in access to diabetes care, particularly in lower socio-economic communities. In India, the cost of diabetes treatment can be overwhelming, with many people unable to access the necessary medication and lifestyle support. Kiara’s #InsulinSeMatDaro initiative will raise funds through a crowdfunding drive, aiming to provide subsidized insulin and diabetes care for those who cannot afford it. Her mission is to ensure that timely treatment is not a privilege, but a right for everyone.
“I’ve seen firsthand how difficult it is for families to manage diabetes, especially in areas where access to medication is limited. The high cost of treatment can cause people to delay or skip vital doses, which can worsen their health. My campaign is focused on bringing attention to these disparities and finding ways to make insulin and other diabetes medications available to those who need it most,” says Kiara Powar.
The campaign is particularly timely, given the increasing prevalence of diabetes in India. With millions of people living with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, insulin remains the cornerstone of treatment for those with Type 1 diabetes. However, there is still a great deal of misinformation surrounding insulin, leading to unnecessary fear and hesitation in patients.
In Type 2 diabetes, while insulin is not always required, a comprehensive, lifestyle-oriented approach that includes medication, exercise, and diet plays a critical role in managing the condition. According to Dr. Joshi, “A contemporary, facts-based, and lifestyle-focused approach to managing Type 2 diabetes is vital not just for improving health, but for enhancing mental and emotional well-being.”
Kiara’s campaign emphasizes this balanced approach, aiming to inspire people to take control of their health, whether they are newly diagnosed or have been living with the disease for years. Her content will highlight the importance of dietary changes, physical activity, and stress management as essential components of diabetes care.
Luke Coutinho, a renowned integrative lifestyle expert, joins Kiara’s campaign to offer guidance on the role of holistic health in managing diabetes. Luke advocates for a mind-body approach to health, emphasizing the importance of nutrition, exercise, and mental wellness in disease management. He believes that small but consistent changes to one’s daily habits can significantly impact long-term health outcomes.
“Diabetes is not just a medical condition; it’s a lifestyle condition. With the right support and approach, people living with diabetes can lead a normal, healthy life. Kiara’s campaign is an excellent opportunity to bring this message to the forefront, focusing on insulin’s role while also addressing the emotional, social, and lifestyle aspects of living with diabetes,” says Luke.
The #InsulinSeMatDaro campaign also creates a space for community-building, where individuals living with diabetes can share their stories, challenges, and triumphs. Kiara’s content will encourage interaction among followers, fostering a supportive environment where people can feel empowered to seek help and make the necessary lifestyle changes.
This campaign is not just about raising awareness but also about creating a sense of solidarity among those affected by diabetes and their caregivers. Kiara’s personal involvement, combined with expert insights from Dr. Joshi and Luke, will help form a well-rounded approach to managing the disease—balancing both medical advice and lifestyle adjustments.
As Kiara Powar’s #InsulinSeMatDaro campaign unfolds this November, it aims to create meaningful change in how people view and manage diabetes. By using her platform to raise awareness, correct misconceptions, and offer actionable solutions, Kiara is making a powerful contribution to the fight against diabetes. With support from experts like Dr. Shashank Joshi and Luke Coutinho, this initiative will not only educate but also provide hope and tangible support to those who need it most.
As World Diabetes Day approaches, Kiara’s campaign serves as a reminder of the importance of insulin in managing diabetes, the need for affordable treatment, and the profound impact of lifestyle changes on health outcomes. Through collaboration, education, and community support, #InsulinSeMatDaro is a call to action for a better, healthier future for all those affected by diabetes.