The Kathmandu Declaration: “Life Circle” approach to prevention and care of diabetes mellitus

ObjectivesTo formulate strategies and action plans for the prevention and care of diabetes mellitus as part of the implementation of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) United Nations Resolution (UNR) 61/225 through a unique concept of a “Life Circle” approach.MethodConsensus following review of evidence available and presented at a meeting convened to achieve the objective co-chaired by the IDF President and President elect and diabetologists from several countries in the IDF regions.ConclusionsThe Kathmandu Declaration presents the concept of a “Life Circle” approach to prevention and care of diabetes—a continuum beginning from preconception, pregnancy, infancy and childhood to adult life in an integrated manner. Emphasis is on the benefits on entering the circle at any point and formulates guidelines that could be incorporated in any national diabetes prevention and care programme, indicating the interactive role of all known aetiological factors.