Minister of Public Health H E Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari and senior HMC officials at the launch of the World Diabetes Day Exhibition and Public Screening pavilion at Hamad General Hospital, yesterday.
H E Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari, Minister of Public Health, yesterday visited a diabetes screening stand at Hamad General Hospital (HG) to create awareness about the high prevalence of diabetes in Qatar and the importance of early detection.
The screening at HGH is part of a month-long schedule of activities aimed at raising awareness of diabetes and the importance of preventative measures such as healthy eating habits and exercise.
In recognition of World Diabetes Day, observed globally on November 14, the Ministry of Public Health, Hamad Medical Corporation and the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) will also hold a series of information sessions and other community-based activities aimed at educating the public about the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of type 2 diabetes.
“World Diabetes Day is a time when our collective attention is turned to the growing problem of diabetes. Diabetes is a serious condition which has many consequences if left untreated, including complications such as blindness, kidney failure, heart attack, stroke and lower limb amputations. It is important that we educate ourselves as individuals and take control of our own health,” said Dr Al Kuwari.
“We must continue to prioritise prevention, early diagnosis and effective treatment. Diabetes screenings are important but they are only part of the puzzle. Successful self-management depends on empowering patients. We must provide our patients with the information and education they need to make appropriate decisions about their own health. This includes helping the public understand their role in preventing type 2 diabetes and other lifestyle diseases. It also means ensuring newly diagnosed diabetics find pathways to proper care,” she added.
Professor Abdul Badi Abou-Samra, Chairman of Internal Medicine at HMC, stressed the importance of education, stating that it is the cornerstone of both diabetes management and prevention. He added that a large number of type 2 diabetes cases are preventable.
“Simple lifestyle measures have been shown to be effective in preventing or delaying the onset of type 2 diabetes. Maintaining a normal body weight, engaging in regular physical activity and eating a healthy diet can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The first steps in prevention are getting tested and understanding one’s risk of type 2 diabetes,” he said.
