The Well-known international cricketer Wasim Akram recently launched the 'Accu-Chek' Inspiration Series'04' - a diabetes awareness programme initiated by Roche Diagnostics (India) Pvt Ltd. The 'Accu-Chek Inspiration Series' are road shows across the country to create awareness of diabetes and its management through Self-monitoring.

The road show was rolled out in Mumbai with a school contact programme at IES school in Mumbai.

Speaking at the occasion Wasim Akram said, "Recent studies have indicated that children in developing countries are at a higher risk of becoming diabetics when they grow up. This is largely due to changing lifestyle, physical inactivity, urban food habits and a genetic predisposition. There is therefore an urgent need to create awareness about diabetes on these young impressionable minds through this Inspiration Series."

Sanjeev Johar, managing director, Roche Diagnostics (India) Pvt Ltd stated, "Our objective in launching this Inspiration Series'04 along with Wasim Akram is to create a mass awareness drive on diabetes. It is imperative that children are enlightened on the benefits of living a healthy lifestyle and this will go a long way in controlling diabetes in the future. Akram makes for an ideal role model to promote this cause and create awareness on diabetes and its management since he has emerged triumphant despite being afflicted with diabetes in the prime of his cricketing career."

Roche's Accu-Chek Active blood glucose monitor is available at a price of Rs 2,500 per unit. The Accu-Chek Active system has been developed to cater to the individual needs of people with diabetes and their healthcare professionals.

The Accu-Chek system consists of a blood glucose meter, test Strips, lancing device and lancets.