ICLDC inform on life-changing treatment of diabetes

Speaking at a number of forums held in the capital during the week of World Diabetes Day (November 14 2006), Dr Maha said that the disease is being recognised as one of the world's fastest growing debilitating illnesses: "In the UAE, it is estimated that more 20 per cent of our population are living with diabetes. With our population pegged to reach 12 million by 2010, this figure could hit 65 per cent at the current growth rate of the disease."

Dr Maha stressed that while the figures are daunting, the landscape is not 'all doom and gloom': "Type 2 diabetes can be prevented and detected very early on, so we have every hope of being able to manage, and thus prevent, such huge increases in the numbers of diabetes sufferers," she said.

She also stressed that even when diabetes is diagnosed, the latest treatment methods of the disease and its complications can ensure that it is managed. Thus while demanding a change in the patient's lifestyle, it does not necessarily mean diabetes patients need to be considered as 'sick' or 'ailing'.

"Research and Development of diabetes has been focused and concentrated in recent years, the result being huge medical advancement in diabetes treatment."

To mark World Diabetes Day, the newly-established ICDLC (August 2006), gathered more than 300 medical practitioners, media and patients to a number of targeted forums.
"The objectives of the forums are multi-fold, but specifically to instil a greater understanding of the disease and to share the news on new developments in treatment," she said.

Dr Maha explained that ICDLC in Abu Dhabi is a state-of-the-art specialised out-patients clinic geared to help detect, prevent and treat diabetes: "The centre is a one-stop-facility that specialises in diabetes treatment, research, training and public health. We are located in Abu Dhabi (next to the Zayed Military Hospital), and give the highest level of specialised patient care, from first diagnosis to the continued management of all complications associated with diabetes."

Imperial College London holds a renowned history and expertise in the study of diabetes, and is recognized as one of the leading medical academic institutions in the world. One of ICLDC's primary objectives is to provide education for health professionals, as well as the general public.