Dr. Srikanth's Diabetes Specialities Centre - Vijayawada: Trekking for Diabetes Prevention

The prevention of diabetes mellitus is possible, with the modification of lifestyle, one such aspect is that of physical activity and exercise. All levels of exercise, including leisure activities, recreational sports and competitive professional performance, can prevent Diabetes in high risk people.

For some people, a weekly aerobics class will suffice, but for others a more extreme activity is required, hence the increase in the number of people at risk for diabetes, participating in sports such as trekking, diving and marathon running.

Situated strategically on the old Machilipatnam-Golconda trade route, Kondapalli hill range, about 24 kilometers (15 mi) in length, extending between Nandigama and Vijayawada. From the Kondapalli village, the renowned Kondapalli fort precincts are approached through a 1 kilometer (0.62 mi) trekking through forests.

On World Diabetes Day 2009, a group of 25 persons who either have family history of diabetes, and/or overweight with sedentary life style, took on the challenge of reaching the Kondapalli fort by trekking in order to raise awareness in the common public. Senior Journalist Sri. Raghavachari flagged off the trekking expedition. Trekking brings people nearer to the nature and increases ones self confidence, said Sr. Journalist Sri. Raghavachari. Youth Hostels Association represented by Mr. Ramdas and Mr. Ratnaprasad explained the psychological and physical benefits of trekking. DSDSC is privileged to partner with Youth Hostels Association of India-Vijayawada Unit to conduct this activity.

The day consisted of walking through a dense forest area (which abounds in a type of lightwood known as 'ponuku' (Gyrocapus jacquini), which is used exclusively for the manufacture of the famous Kondpalli toys), which at times resembled a mud path due to the high rainfall. The trekkers had fruits, fluids, Snacks and mini lunch on the top of the hill. Individual and group photographs were taken, at all catchy locations.

The experience of Kondapalli hill trekking has been an invaluable experience. Not only had every one made a number of great friends but they also got motivated for primary prevention of Diabetes.