Diabetes and oral health awareness at Jinnah Naval Base
ORMARA, GWADAR: A comprehensive diabetes and oral health awareness session was held at Jinnah Naval Base, Ormara, Gwadar district, bringing together senior naval leadership, medical specialists, sailors, civilians and members of the local community.
The session was attended by base commander Commodore Shafiq, commanding officers of various units, naval officers and their families, CPOs, naval civilians and community members. Organizers said the outreach reflects Jinnah Naval Base’s ongoing commitment to preventive healthcare and community health education.
Medical perspective, prevention tips
Medical Specialist and Diabetologist of PNS DARMAAN JAH, Dr. Mohammad Nadeem Ahmed Khan, delivered an expert lecture on diabetes trends, risk factors and prevention. Dr. Khan emphasized practical, evidence-based measures: maintain a balanced diet, adopt regular physical activity and manage weight to reduce diabetes risk and limit complications. He also urged routine screening for at-risk personnel and early lifestyle interventions to prevent disease progression.
Oral health: a two-way relationship with diabetes
Consultant oral & maxillofacial surgeon Dr. Hera Nadeem presented a specialist session explaining the bidirectional link between oral health and diabetes. She stressed that poor oral hygiene can contribute to systemic inflammation that worsens blood glucose control, while uncontrolled diabetes increases susceptibility to a range of oral conditions. Dr. Hera underscored that maintaining oral health supports glycaemic control — and conversely that controlled blood sugar promotes better oral outcomes.
Dr. Hera also elaborated on various oral complications associated with diabetes, including:
- Oral fungal infections (such as candidiasis)
- Gum diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis
- Dental caries, often resulting from dry mouth and altered oral environment
- Dry mouth, delayed wound healing, taste disturbances, and other diabetes-related oral conditions
She further emphasized the importance of proper hydration, explaining that adequate water intake helps reduce dry mouth, lowers the risk of cavities, and improves overall oral health, especially in diabetic individuals.
She also guided participants on essential oral hygiene practices such as proper brushing, flossing, water flossing, and regular dental checkups.
Leadership response, community impact
At the conclusion of the session, Commodore Shafiq praised the specialist speakers and recognized the value of such awareness programs for naval personnel and the surrounding community. He reaffirmed the base’s focus on preventive medicine and education, noting that awareness sessions help protect service members’ operational readiness and family health.
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