About 50 per cent of diabetes cases remain undiagnosed in the UAE, with youths getting affected 20 years earlier than the global average, warned medical experts.

The UAE is among the world’s top 10 countries most affected by diabetes, medical experts have warned that a change of mind set is required as diabetes is now very much a disease of the young, and not just ‘senior citizens.’

Doctors raised the alarm after patients were diagnosed with diabetes at an ever-decreasing age. It is no longer unusual in the UAE to find children with the type of diabetes which is otherwise more commonly seen in adults.

Underlining the dangerous lack of health awareness, the majority of the population remains unaware of their blood pressure, blood sugar levels or body mass index (BMI).

Al Zahra Private Hospital Dubai embarked on an intensive life-saving awareness drive to mark World Diabetes Day held recently at the Al Zahra Auditorium.

Free blood sugar levels and risk screenings were provided for three consecutive days for the public, as well as, general check-up including blood pressure and BMI assessment. Visitors received important tips on how to minimise their risk of diabetes in addition to extensive diet and lifestyle advice.

Dr Vikram Hundia, an endocrinologist, said: “Lifestyles in the UAE now follow a similar pattern to other advanced countries, with lack of regular exercise, worsened by diets rich in sugar and trans-fats. The fact that many youths also smoke certainly doesn’t help matters.”

“We are helping to change the mindsets so that youths don’t wait to get seriously ill before visiting a hospital. Raising awareness, regular screenings and health check-ups for population at higher risk of diabetes may help with earlier detection and prevention of this condition.”

The awareness event featured the “together we meet the challenge” health talk by Dr Hundia followed by a question and answer session in which the public had their most pressing concerns addressed. Free educational materials were shared to give visitors a source of tips and advice. - TradeArabia News Service