To have a better perspective on why there is a growth of diabetes cases in Singapore, one should not overlook factors such as unhealthy diet and insufficient exercise ("The value of prevention in the war on diabetes"; April 23).

Sedentary lifestyles and diets high in carbohydrates (white rice and flour products) and refined sugar - found in cakes, pastries, ice cream, desserts, canned fruit juice and soft drinks - likely contributed to the high incidence of diabetes.

The Health Ministry should get more people in the community involved in self-monitoring, even for those who have not been diagnosed as diabetic.

It could also subsidise the purchase of glucose meters and glucose strips for those in lower-income groups.

Prevention is still better than cure.

Ada Chan Siew Foen (Ms)