• Health activation arranged by Dubai Health Authority and Emirates Diabetes Society raise awareness on ways to manage diabetes
• Landmark Group contributes funds raised from walk and through its 590 outlets towards Al Jalila Foundation for diabetes research, awareness and education
With the prevalence of diabetes in over 14.7 per cent of expatriates and over 19 per cent in Emiratis in Dubai alone according to the Dubai Diabetes Survey, the ‘Beat Diabetes Walk’ has become a significant highlight in the health and wellness calendar of the country.
The 3 kilometre walk was held at Dubai Creek Park with the support of Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Emirates Diabetes Society (EDS), Dubai Sports Council, Hamdan bin Mohammed Community Sports Initiative, Al Jalila Foundation, Dubai Municipality, Children’s City, Roads & Transport Authority and Dubai Police.
Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman and CEO of the Landmark Group, said: “Over the last 9 years Beat Diabetes has received overwhelming support from our community. Starting from our partners to our youngest walker, the enthusiasm and commitment to better health are very rewarding to see. As an organisation we are committed to encouraging this healthy lifestyle change in the community and the ‘Beat Diabetes Walk’ is an effort toward achieving that goal.”
According to the International Diabetes Federations statistics revealed that around 415 million people in the world suffer from diabetes. Speaking on the prevalence of diabetes Dr. Abdulrazzaq Ali Al Madani, President of the Emirates Diabetes Society and the Chairman of the Gulf Group for Study of Diabetes, said: “While Type II diabetes, which is widespread, has a genetic predisposition, we cannot control this factor. What we can control are factors such as obesity, sedentary lifestyles, smoking, amongst others, to delay its onset and inculcate a culture of good health.
“I am thrilled to see the overwhelming response to this year’s Beat Diabetes Walk and applaud the Landmark Group in making this event a success.”
Meanwhile, the total rate of those at the Pre-Diabetes Stage (high risk of developing diabetes) among expatriates is 18.6 per cent and for UAE nationals at 16 per cent making prevention efforts for this demographic even more critical.
Dr Fatheya Al Awadi, Chair of DHA Diabetes Committee and Head of Endocrinology Department at Dubai Hospital, said: “Effectively managing blood sugar control, management of HbA1c levels, achieving weight loss and strengthening resolve to manage the disorder is essential for those at the Pre-Diabetes stage. The ‘Beat Diabetes Walk’ certainly highlights these factors and our country needs such initiatives to tackle diabetes eventually leading to a much healthier population.”
Participants also benefitted from the free glucose testing services provided at the venue by DHA, the event’s health partners, who also presented practical tips on how to prevent and manage diabetes.
After the walk, the ‘Beat Diabetes’ participants enjoyed a host of community-focused fitness and sports activities such as Zumba, yoga, bubble football and archery. A Fun Zone featured Jumble, Landmarks newest game room concept, as well as a bouncy castle, gladiator ring and rodeo bull. ■
