Diabetes epidemic in UAE

Diabetes is rife in the UAE, and the disease is posing a major healthcare challenge. The country currently houses the second highest percentage population of diabetics throughout the world. Of every five people in the UAE, one has diabetes .
The disease is a major killer in the country, accounting for over 30 per cent of deaths when considered alongside complications . Furthermore, the cost is prohibitive, with diabetes annual spend costing hundreds of millions of pounds per annum.
Dr. Alawadi reportedly commented: “The World Health Organisation projects that diabetes deaths will increase by more than 50% in the next 10 years, without urgent action. EDC 2009 will help us join forces with the international medical community to build a broad awareness on the diabetes menace and adopt the latest treatment protocols.”