Staff Report
Dubai: Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and Emirates Diabetes Society (EDS) have collaborated with Dubai-based retail and hospitality conglomerate Landmark Group, for the ninth Beat Diabetes Walk to be held on Friday, November 24, 2017 at Dubai Creek Park.
The Beat Diabetes Walk, has been an annual feature of the Dubai fitness calendar, with thousands of Dubai residents coming forward to show their support towards the cause.
Speaking on the association with Landmark Group, Dr. Fatheya Al Awadi Consultant Endocrinologist and Head of Endocrine Department, Dubai Hospital and Chairperson, Diabetes Combat and Control Committee, Dubai Health Authority, said: “A better quality of life starts with a positive mindset. We advocate this attitude, especially when it comes to diabetes where awareness is the key to managing this lifestyle condition. The Landmark Group’s Beat Diabetes walk is an important event that serves as a catalyst to bring together people from across diverse communities and encourages a habit of active living with a sense of responsibility.”
According to International Diabetes Federation, 415 million people have diabetes in the world. In the MENA region, more than 35.4 million people live with this condition and by 2040 this is expected to rise to 72.1 million. Until two years ago, there were over 1 million cases of diabetes in the UAE alone.
Announcing their participation, Dr. Abdulrazzaq Ali Al Madani, President of the Emirates Diabetes Society and the Chairman of the Gulf Group for Study of Diabetes, said: “Diabetes is one of the most pressing issues in the world today. Due to various factors, its prevalence in the Middle East is higher than many other countries. Our collaboration with the Beat Diabetes walk has been centred on supporting diabetes care and creating awareness. Our team will be organising free check-ups on the day of the Walk and we encourage participants to register themselves.”
Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman and CEO of the Landmark Group, said: “We are proud to partner with Dubai Health Authority, Emirates Diabetes Society and Al Jalila Foundation to support the wellbeing of UAE’s community with our 9th Beat Diabetes Walk.”
Further added, “This is a movement that raises awareness, encouraging our community to live a healthy and active life.”
