'Diabetic patients not more prone to COVID-19'

KARACHI: Diabetic patients are not more prone to contracting coronavirus as compared to the general population, but they are likely to experience serious complications if they are infected, said the health experts.

Delivering an online awareness lecture, 'Diabetes and Ramadan,' on Sunday, Prof Yaqoob Ahmedani, the head of the Ramadan and Hajj Study Group of Pakistan, advised people to consult their respective physicians before the start of the holy month, either in person or through telemedicine, and get their dosage of insulin and other medicines adjusted.

The programme was organised by the Baqai Institute of Diabetology and Endocrinology (BIDE) Karachi.

He also asked patients to learn about precautionary measures and safe fasting amid the pandemic.

Dietitian Rabia Imtiaz urged people in general and especially diabetic patients to opt for a balanced diet with complex carbohydrates, proteins, vegetables, and milk or milk-based products during Ramazan, as it boosts their immune system.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 13^th, 2020.