The Diabetic Association of Bangladesh on Thursday observed Diabetes Awareness Day to mark its 52nd founding anniversary. Experts, at a question-answer session, said some cautious food habits, physical exercise, quitting smoking and reducing mental stress could reduce the risk to diabetics. The association president, AK Azad Khan, said people should be aware that diabetes sometimes leads to kidney failure and other complications that might cause death. Founded by National Professor Mohammad Ibrahim, the non-profit voluntary socio-medical organisation started its journey on this day in 1956 to provide diabetic patients with basic health care. The association observed the day at all its 13 national healthcare networks, 10 diabetic healthcare development centres and 56 affiliated bodies across the country. The DAB brought out a procession from Manik Mia Avenue early morning. It also provided free check-ups for detecting diabetes at different places including the Bangladesh National Museum, National Press Club, New Market, Mohammadpur Town Hall, Lalbagh and NHN and DHDC centres across the country.