Abu Dhabi Diabetes Conference highlights soaring incidence of the disease

treat diabetes Among young people is the subject of a four-day gathering of experts United Arab Emirates.

The International Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Diabetes (Ispad) events draw physicians from around the world to discuss advances in child and adolescent care.

The Ispad conference is the first in its 40 years to be held in the Middle East. It reflects the UAE’s status as a treatment center, as well as the prevalence of diabetes in the region.

“Diabetes is a big problem,” meeting chair Dr Asma Deeb told National Saturday.

The incidence is getting higher and type 2 is becoming more prevalent due to obesity,” said Dr Deeb, who is also chair of the Paediatric Department at Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, Abu Dhabi.

According to statistics from the Cleveland Clinic in Abu Dhabi, it is estimated that as many as one in five people in the UAE suffer from diabetes, and that number is expected to double by 2040.

Diabetes causes high blood sugar levels in a person and can lead to kidney failure, heart attack, blindness, stroke and amputation.

Type 2 It is the most common form of diabetes in the UAE, with obesity and smoking linked to the disease. Doctors also blamed a sedentary lifestyle and high consumption of junk food.

They said lifestyle changes, such as a better diet and more exercise, could prevent diabetes and should be widely encouraged. Regular health checks are also encouraged.

“This is the only society that deals exclusively with pediatric diabetes,” said Dr. Deeb. “We hope the conference here will promote treatment and education, but the incidence here is quite high, the highest in the world.”

During the four-day event, which begins Thursday, delegates will hear from experts examining childhood obesity, the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on people with diabetes and the prevalence of depression in children and teens with diabetes.

The event will discuss treatments in the wider medical field, including stem cell therapy, antiviral drugs and certain cancer treatments. Big data and artificial intelligence are on the agenda, especially wearables that use algorithms to deliver therapy.

“We’ve also added an area on patient advocacy, where representatives can express concerns about patient care and highlight gaps,” Dr. Deeb said.

“The purpose of the conference is to foster collaboration, share expertise and highlight progress.”

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Updated: October 15, 2022 at 11:23 am