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Dr. Mala Dharmalingam

Dr. Mala Dharmalingam

Lead Consultant - Clinical Endocrinologist & Diabetologist

MBBS, M.D. in General Medicine, D.M. in Endocrinology

35+ Years of experience

25,000+ Patients Cared

35+ Years of experience

25,000+ Patients Cared

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About Dr. Mala Dharmalingam

Dr. Mala Dharmalingam is a pioneering endocrinologist and diabetologist, widely regarded as one of the earliest and most influential specialists in Karnataka. With over 35 years of distinguished clinical, academic, and research experience, she currently serves as the Director and Head of Endocrinology at the Bangalore Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, shaping advanced endocrine care in the region.

A former Professor and Head of the Department of Endocrinology at M. S. Ramaiah Medical College for 25 years, Dr. Mala has played a pivotal role in training generations of specialists while establishing strong academic foundations in endocrinology. Her contributions to research are exceptional, with over 270 publications and active participation in numerous Phase 2 and Phase 3 global clinical trials, reflecting her commitment to evidence-based medicine and innovation.

Her clinical expertise spans comprehensive diabetes care, thyroid disorders, metabolic diseases, and complex endocrine tumors. She is also actively involved in cutting-edge initiatives, including the development of an indigenous artificial pancreas, demonstrating her forward-thinking approach to patient care.

Beyond clinical and academic excellence, Dr. Mala serves as an ethical council member of the Indian Council of Medical Research and National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research, contributing to national healthcare policy and research governance. A respected thought leader and keynote speaker at prestigious conferences, Dr. Mala Dharmalingam’s legacy is defined by her pioneering spirit, lifelong dedication, and transformative impact on endocrinology in India.


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Dr. Mala Dharmalingam is renowned for handling some of the most complex and challenging endocrine cases, offering comprehensive, evidence-based care across a wide spectrum of disorders. Her expertise includes advanced management of diabetes in all forms—adult, juvenile, and gestational—along with complications such as diabetic foot and peripheral neuropathy. She provides holistic care for obesity and nutritional disorders, reproductive endocrinology and infertility, and complex lipid abnormalities, helping patients achieve long-term metabolic balance. Her clinical excellence further extends to the management of thyroid disorders, osteoporosis and metabolic bone diseases, as well as intricate hormonal conditions involving the pituitary and adrenal glands. She is also highly experienced in addressing disorders of growth and puberty in children and adolescents, and plays a critical role in the multidisciplinary management of endocrine cancers. With her vast experience and precision-driven approach, Dr. Mala delivers highly individualized care even in the most complicated endocrine scenarios, making her a trusted name in Karnataka and beyond.


Dr. Mala Dharmalingam 's Areas of expertise

  • Diabetes Management (Adult, Juvenile & Gestational) – Comprehensive, personalized care for all types of diabetes, including advanced therapies and long-term complication prevention.
  • Diabetic Foot & Peripheral Neuropathy – Early detection and management of nerve damage and foot complications to prevent ulcers, infections, and amputations.
  • Obesity & Nutritional Disorders – Medical and lifestyle-based management of obesity, metabolic syndrome, and nutritional deficiencies for sustainable health outcomes.
  • Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility – Evaluation and treatment of hormonal imbalances affecting fertility, menstrual health, and reproductive function in both men and women.
  • Thyroid Disorders – Diagnosis and management of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid nodules, and autoimmune thyroid conditions.
  • Osteoporosis & Metabolic Bone Diseases – Treatment of reduced bone density and metabolic bone disorders to prevent fractures and improve bone health.
  • Complex Lipid Disorders – Management of abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels to reduce cardiovascular and metabolic risks.
  • Pituitary Gland Disorders – Care for hormonal imbalances caused by pituitary tumors and dysfunctions affecting growth, fertility, and metabolism.
  • Adrenal Gland Disorders – Diagnosis and treatment of adrenal insufficiency, hormone excess states, and adrenal tumors.
  • Growth & Puberty Disorders – Assessment and management of delayed or early puberty and growth abnormalities in children and adolescents.
  • Endocrine Cancers – Multidisciplinary management of cancers affecting endocrine glands such as thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary, ensuring precise and holistic care.
  1. In 2020,  Dr. Mala Dharmalingam was honored with the Paul Harris Fellow Award by the Rotary Club in recognition of her service and contributions to medicine. 

  2. Elected as a Fellow of the National Academy of Medical Sciences (NAMS) in 2019, acknowledging her excellence in the field of medicine. 

  3. The Economic Times named Dr. Mala Dharmalingam the Most Inspiring Doctor in 2018, highlighting her leadership and dedication in healthcare. 

  4. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam received the Dr. B.C. Roy Award from the Indian Medical Association in Bangalore in 2015 for her outstanding contributions to medical practice. 

  5. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam was honored with the Doctors' Day Award from the Family Physician of India, Bangalore, recognizing her commitment to patient care. 

  6. In 2012, Dr. Mala Dharmalingam received the Vocational Excellence Award from MGR University in Chennai for her excellence in endocrine research and practice. 

  7. The Geriatric Society of India presented her with the Distinguished Service Award in 2010 in recognition of her contributions to elderly care. 

  8. Her research work was acknowledged with awards from the International Congress of Endocrinology in 2004. 

  9. The Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI) honored Dr. Mala Dharmalingam with awards in 1996 and 2003 for her significant research contributions. 

  10. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam earned the IDF Award for paper presentations in both 1996 and 2003, recognizing her excellence in scientific communication and research. 

  11. In 2003,  Dr. Mala Dharmalingam received the Academic Excellence Award from MS Ramaiah Medical College for her academic achievements. 

     

     

 

 

  • MBBS from Madras Medical College 

  • M.D. in General Medicine from SCB Medical College, Cuttack (Utkal University) 

  • D.M. in Endocrinology from All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi 

Book Appointment

35, 5th Cross Rd, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003

Clinic Hours:
  • Monday - Saturday
  • 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM | 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Contact:


Conditions and Treatments

expertise
Management of Diabetes (Adult, Juvenile, Gestational)

Diabetes mellitus is a complex metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels, with subtypes including Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam specializes in personalized care for all age groups, employing advanced diagnostic techniques and modern treatment modalities such as insulin therapy, oral hypoglycemics, and lifestyle modifications. Her extensive experience ensures meticulous management of both juvenile and adult diabetes, with a focus on preventing complications and improving quality of life.

expertise
Obesity and Nutritional Problems

Obesity is a multifaceted disorder linked to metabolic syndromes, requiring a holistic approach for effective management. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam utilizes tailored dietary plans, counseling, and medical interventions to address nutritional deficiencies and weight issues. Her comprehensive care emphasizes lifestyle changes, medication, and, when necessary, surgical options, always ensuring patient-centered treatment.

expertise
Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility

Reproductive endocrinology involves diagnosing hormonal imbalances that impact fertility in both men and women. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam employs advanced hormonal profiling, ultrasound assessment, and targeted therapies to optimize reproductive health. Her expertise extends to managing conditions like PCOS, endometriosis, and hormonal deficiencies, guiding patients through fertility treatments with empathy.

expertise
Management of Diabetic Foot and Peripheral Neuropathy

Diabetic foot complications and peripheral neuropathy are serious conditions that threaten limb health and overall well-being. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam follows a multidisciplinary approach, combining meticulous foot care, ulcer prevention strategies, and nerve evaluation techniques. Her gentle yet thorough management aims to prevent amputations and improve nerve function, emphasizing early detection and individualized treatment.

expertise
Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid conditions such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and nodules are common but require accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam utilizes advanced imaging, hormone assays, and fine-needle aspiration techniques for precise assessment. Her expertise ensures effective medication management and surgical consultations, tailored to each patient's unique needs.

expertise
Complex Lipid Disorders

Abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels significantly increase cardiovascular risk. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam specializes in lipid profile analysis, vascular health assessments, and implementing personalized statin therapy and lifestyle modifications. Her expertise ensures a comprehensive approach to reducing heart disease risk, especially in patients with concomitant metabolic disorders.

expertise
Disorders of the Pituitary Gland

Pituitary tumors and hormonal imbalances can affect growth, reproduction, and overall health. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam employs advanced MRI imaging and hormonal testing to diagnose these conditions accurately. Her expertise in surgical and medical management ensures optimal outcomes, whether it’s controlling hormone excess or replacing hormone deficiencies.

expertise
Adrenal Gland Disorders

Adrenal disorders such as Addison's disease, Cushing's syndrome, or adrenal tumors require precise diagnosis and tailored treatment plans. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam uses detailed hormonal profiling, imaging studies, and minimally invasive procedures to manage these conditions effectively.

expertise
Disorders of Growth and Puberty

Growth delays and puberty abnormalities in children demand careful evaluation and intervention. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam conducts detailed assessments involving hormonal tests and growth tracking, guiding early and appropriate therapy. Her approach aims to promote normal development and address underlying endocrine issues with empathy and precision. Her experience in pediatric endocrinology helps families navigate these sensitive conditions confidently.

expertise
Cancers of Endocrine Glands

Cancers of endocrine glands, such as thyroid, adrenal, and pituitary tumors, demand a precise and comprehensive treatment strategy. Dr. Mala Dharmalingam employs advanced diagnostic techniques including imaging, biopsy, and hormonal assays to accurately diagnose these malignancies. Her expertise lies in coordinating multidisciplinary care, integrating surgery, radiotherapy, and targeted therapies tailored to each patient’s specific needs.

Dr. Mala Dharmalingam 's Expert Tips & Health Insights

Latest

Articles by Dr. Mala Dharmalingam

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By: Dr. Mala Dharmalingam
19 August 2025

Detecting and Treating Endocrine Cancers Early: A Journey of Hope and Precision

Detect endocrine cancers early with advanced diagnosis and precision treatment in Malleshwaram, Bengaluru. Learn symptoms, risk factors, and expert endocrine cancer care for better outcomes.
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https://d2vvc091k8tmib.cloudfront.net/s3fs-public/2025-12/PGDMLE%201111.jpg
By: Dr. Mala Dharmalingam
19 August 2025

The Future of Diabetes Care: How Artificial Pancreas Technology Is Changing Lives

Explore how artificial pancreas technology is transforming diabetes care with smarter glucose monitoring, automated insulin delivery, and improved quality of life for diabetes patients in Bengaluru.
Read More
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https://d2vvc091k8tmib.cloudfront.net/s3fs-public/2025-12/PGDMLE%201111.jpg
By: Dr. Mala Dharmalingam
19 August 2025

The Journey of Managing Complex Endocrine Disorders: Turning Challenges into Hope

Discover expert care for complex endocrine disorders with advanced diagnosis, personalized treatment, and compassionate support to improve hormonal health and quality of life in Bengaluru.
Read More

Podcasts by Dr. Mala Dharmalingam

Dr. Mala Dharmalingam 's Reviews

Dr. Mala Dharmalingam 's Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

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Reach Dr. Mala Dharmalingam

Bangalore Endocrinology & Diabetes Research Center

35, 5th Cross Rd, Malleshwaram, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560003