'Diabetes is reversible': How UAE residents can prevent disease by testing, tracking

[Editor's note: An earlier version of this report erroneously stated that 67 per cent of UAE residents aged between 36 and 60 are pre-diabetic. This has now been corrected to state that two-thirds or 67 per cent of those identified as pre-diabetic in the screening belong to 36-60 age group.]

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), in collaboration with private healthcare providers, conducted more than 150,000 screenings over the past year. The study revealed that 67 per cent of those identified as pre-diabetic belong to 36-60 age group. This finding was announced during the conclusion of their nationwide diabetes screening campaign.

The campaign results also revealed that 24 per cent of pre-diabetic individuals belong to the age group of 18 to 35, while 9 per cent over 60 are also in the pre-diabetic stage. Surprisingly, 64 per cent of those diagnosed as pre-diabetic were not overweight, indicating that even those who appear physically fit might be at risk.

“We launched this initiative to safeguard the health of UAE residents. It's not just about screening and leaving people, but about continuous follow-ups and lifestyle advice,” said Dr Buthaina Bin Belaila, head of the Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health Department.

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“Our goal is to have all health entities adopt this programme in their facilities for individuals aged 18 and above. Diabetes is reversible, and we aim to prevent it by encouraging early screenings, even for those under 30,” added Dr Belaila.

How it was done

The data on pre-diabetes prevalence in the UAE was unveiled during a special event organised by MoHAP at Zabeel Park. The statistics were revealed through a drone show set against the iconic backdrop of the Dubai Frame in a unique and captivating display.

The extensive screening campaign, which initially aimed to test 5,000 people over 100 days in October 2023, surpassed all expectations by screening 12,877 individuals. The success of this initiative led to a larger goal of screening 100,000 residents within a year. This target was also exceeded, as over 150,000 people were screened this year.

The ministry used HbA1c tests, which measure average blood glucose levels over three months, to determine whether individuals were pre-diabetic. Those found to be at risk were given advice on modifying their lifestyle and were retested after three months. Further follow-up tests were conducted at six-month intervals to track progress.

Data collected after three months showed that 31.7 per cent of pre-diabetic individuals reverted to normal blood sugar levels, while 64.6 per cent remained pre-diabetic, and 3.7 per cent progressed to diabetes. After six months, the number of individuals who reversed their pre-diabetic condition rose to 37.5 per cent, while 59 per cent remained pre-diabetic, and 3.5 per cent had developed diabetes.

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