Letters: November 14, 2009

Be aware
The points raised regarding genetics, diet and activity in a recent report published in Gulf News are well taken, as are those about the continued growth of diabetes ("More than 1m UAE residents suffer from diabetes says expert", Gulf News, November 7). However, one important fact has not been discussed — the number one cause of amputation worldwide is infection and issues with the diabetic foot (a problem faced by diabetic patients).

A lack of understanding when it comes to wounds, proper foot care, subsequent ulceration, infection and breakdown results in limb loss, morbidity and even death. My colleague from the University of California and I spend a significant amount of time trying to assist with amputation prevention and wound treatment, worldwide. People must be made increasingly aware of problems that can affect their life. Congratulations on a well-written article emphasising the problem of diabetes.

The issue of an unhealthy lifestyle has been ignored for too long ("Lack of education main issue facing battle against obesity in UAE schools", Gulf News, November 12). If we continue to live a life with minimal physical exercise, extra stress and a high cholestrol diet, there is no way we will be able to stay away from diseases like diabetes and obesity.
Dr Gerit Mulder San Diego,
US

Change required
It is becoming a regular trend for insecure politicians to create noise about nothing substantial ("Four legislators suspended as language row turns ugly", Gulf News, November 10). It is nothing but a drama designed and enacted by politicians who can afford to misuse a democratic system in order to remain in the limelight. The Samajwadi Party leader and MLA Abu Azmi was mistreated simply because he took his oath in Hindi.

The truth is that these things are only followed or pursued by certain politicians — those who have nothing concrete to contribute to society, their state and their country. If these politicians took the oath in Marathi, their native language, they may have pronounced it correctly, but evidently do not understand the true meaning of that oath.

As citizens of a secular nation, we respect all languages, customs and religions. In fact every politician in every state of India should take the oath in a language that is understood by the masses. Hindi is our national language. Therefore, it must be accepted and honoured as a national language by all those who are Indians at heart. Hindi is understood in many states including Maharashtra.
Mr Krishna,
Fujairah

True meaning
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) has no rights to take objection on taking the oath in Hindi. Additionally, there are certainly other decent ways to express our opinions, not to come down to the level of manhandling the delegates and bringing disgrace to the state and nation.
From Mr Amit K,
UAE

United we stand
I fail to understand how the right-wing continues to show their utter disregard for Indian laws, constitution, culture and history and continue behaving like hooligans. They have proven time and again that they are above the law in Maharashtra, and the authorities fail to stifle such violent behaviour. This particular incident was especially embarrassing for every proud Indian. How can they get away with it?
Ms Saroj Rohankar
UAE

Embarrassing moment
What is so difficult about the concept of safe driving, which is eluding the minds of so many drivers ("Dubai Bypass Road crash kills 1 person", Gulf News, November 12)? And for what price? I really feel there is a need for psychological tests to be conducted before an individual is granted the right to drive on the road. Cars can be destructive if in the wrong hands.
Ms Asha,
Ras Al Khaimah

A common sight
While I can drive impeccably for half an hour to impress my driving examiner, I could also go on to speed, drive in a rash manner and bully other motorists on the road. It is sad to see so many people losing their lives at the hands of imbecile drivers. Horrifying pictures of crushed cars and toppled trucks should be enough to instill fear in any average person's mind. Yet, we continue to see accidents almost every day and cars with dents or scratches have become a common sight.
Mr John McCrystal,
Abu Dhabi

Fair treatment
I think schools need to educate children against animal cruelty starting at an early age ("Speak Your Mind: Animal rights", Gulf News, November 13). Apart from the four corners of our home, the school is indeed the best place for a child to learn how to take good care of animals.

Teaching a child at an early age would be an advantage, because it would be inculcated in his or her young mind that animals have a right to live and be taken care of, similar to human beings. Teachers should make them realise that animals should not be treated only as a commodity or property.
Ms Dona Dine,
Abu Dhabi