Doha: World Diabetes Day calls attention to the importance of providing safe working environments for individuals with diabetes, as emphasized by Dr. Abdullah Al Hamaq, Executive Director of Qatar Diabetes Association (QDA). Dr. Al Hamaq advises individuals with Type 1 diabetes to adhere to their insulin regimen, undergo continuous monitoring, and receive psychological support. For those with Type 2 diabetes, he recommends lifestyle modifications, oral medications or injections, and regular follow-ups.

According to Qatar News Agency, Dr. Al Hamaq highlights the need for a balanced approach to living with diabetes, which includes nutrition, physical activity, treatment, psychological and social support, regular medical checkups, and self-education about the disease and its complications. He elaborated on the potential complications affecting organ functions, including increased risk of coronary heart disease, chronic kidney disease, retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy, and slow wound healing.

Dr. Al Hamaq also discussed global scientific and medical efforts aimed at finding a cure for diabetes. He stated there is no approved definitive cure for Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes yet, but research in stem cells and pancreatic islet transplantation is promising, though still experimental.

The international focus on early diagnosis, improved primary care systems, community awareness campaigns, and equitable access to medications is crucial. Efforts aim to support research, enhance public health, and raise awareness about diabetes prevention and management. Specialists emphasize the unexpected global prevalence of diabetes as a call to action for accelerated efforts at national and international levels.