Around 16 to 20 percent of the population in Coimbatore is affected by diabetes because of changing lifestyles, and this number is increasing, Dr. V. Sekar, Chief Consultant Diabetologist and Managing Director, Coimbatore Diabetes Foundation Hospital (CDF), said here on Thursday.

Briefing reporters about the 18th Health Expo to be held here on Saturday by the Foundation, he said that among the increasing numbers, students were the maximum as they were in the habit of missing their breakfasts in the morning while rushing to school. “Their fast food habits are also major reasons,” he said.

Talking about diabetes in infants, Dr. Sekar said that infants being denied mother’s milk could lead to bacteria causing diabetes. “Mother’s milk should be the only source of nourishment for every infant for the first six months,” he said.

Dr. Sekar also added that Vanaspathy caused diabetes, and it was even dangerous than oil since the body did not have the ability to digest it like other oils. As a result it would be deposited in the body. “It is banned in many countries since it directly affects the heart,” he said.

He added that the expo was aimed at imparting awareness about diabetes among the public. “People, including small kids, are affected easily prone to develop diabetics and this is a concern among the public. Hence it is has become imperative to spread awareness,” he added.

As a part of the expo, an awareness rally is also to be conducted, involving college students and diabetic patients.

“New medicines that produces insulin, would also be exhibited in the 10-15 stalls during the expo,” the doctor added.