Prof. M. Viswanathan Centenary Oration Highlights India’s Progress in Type 1 Diabetes Care
Chennai: M.V. Hospital for Diabetes and the Prof. M. Viswanathan Diabetes Research Centre hosted the first Prof. M. Viswanathan Centenary Award and Oration, honouring the legacy of Late Prof. M. Viswanathan, India’s pioneer in diabetology.
Dr. Banshi Saboo, Chairman of the International Diabetes Federation – South East Asia, delivered the keynote oration, spotlighting India’s growing type 1 diabetes burden—over 941,000 patients, including 301,000 children. He praised innovations like CGM, insulin pumps, and thinner needles that are transforming care and improving outcomes.
Chief Guest Dr. A. Somasundaram, Director of Public Health, Tamil Nadu, paid tribute to Prof. Viswanathan’s impact and outlined government efforts to expand diabetes care to underserved communities.
Dr. Vijay Viswanathan shared that over 500 children are receiving treatment across M.V. Hospital branches in Chennai and Bangalore. “We remain committed to comprehensive care and empowering young patients to lead healthy lives,” he said.
Dr. S.N. Narasingan and Dr. Jayashree Gopal felicitated the dignitaries. The event drew healthcare leaders, government officials, and members of the public.
Prof. Viswanathan founded India’s first diabetes clinic in 1948 and established M.V. Hospital in 1954, followed by the Research Centre in 1972—institutions that continue to shape diabetes care nationwide.
