The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has surpassed Diabetes early detection goal, carrying out more than 150,000 screenings nationwide, above the target of 100,000 set under the Government Accelerators program.
This milestone, achieved as part of the National Prediabetes and Diabetes Screening Campaign launched in October 2023, demonstrates the Ministry’s commitment to early detection of type 2 diabetes, enhancing prevention efforts, and advancing the national goal of reducing diabetes prevalence in the UAE.
Coinciding with World Diabetes Day on November 14, this accomplishment marks the completion of the campaign's second phase, a year-long program supported by all UAE health authorities and in collaboration with Merck Gulf.
Innovative Events
The new milestone was announced during an event held in Dubai with key Ministry officials attending, including H.E. Dr. Amin Al Amiri, Assistant Undersecretary for the Health Regulation Sector, MoHAP, Fatma Almussallami Deputy Director Government Accelerator Centre-Prime Minister's Office, Dr Mariam Ahmed Al Wahedi Director of Community Health – Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC), Dr Shamsa Lootah Director of Public Health Department – Emirates Health Services (EHS), Dr. Buthaina Bin Belaila, Head of the Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health Department at the Ministry, and Dr Ayesha al Olama Consultant and Head of Acute and Chronic Diseases Unit at Dubai Health (DH), alongside campaign partners.
To commemorate the occasion, the Dubai Frame was illuminated in blue, accompanied by a creative visual presentation, while Skydive Dubai organized a celebratory skydive event.
Extensive Campaign Reach
The national campaign covered various health centers across government sectors and various public and private workplaces. It featured digital questionnaires to assess risk factors for type 2 diabetes, along with HbA1c testing for high-risk individuals.
Medical consultations were also provided, aimed at managing and treating prediabetes by linking tests to treatment pathways, with follow-ups at three and six months. Remote counselling support was also provided via the hotline 800-DIABEAT.
Strategic Partnership
H.E. Dr. Hussein Al Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health Sector, (MoHAP), emphasized: "This milestone of conducting over 150,000 early detection screenings is a clear testament to the successful strategic partnership between the public and private sectors, as well as the unwavering support of the UAE's leadership. It also reflects the commitment of partner teams, both at supervisory and operational levels, who have worked tirelessly throughout the year.
Dr. Al Rand emphasized, "The UAE is leading the way in health innovation, continuously advancing our National Action Plan for Non-Communicable Diseases to align with the ambitious 'We the UAE 2031' vision. Preventing diabetes is a top priority for the Ministry, and we are committed to integrating cutting-edge technology and global best practices to enhance our preventive initiatives."
He concluded by reiterating the Ministry's mission: "We will continue to conduct impactful research and scientific studies to reduce the prevalence of diabetes and improve the quality of life for our community. Through our strong partnerships, we are determined to build a healthier future for everyone."
Positive results
Meanwhile, Dr. Buthaina Bin Belaila stated: “The results achieved by the National Prediabetes and Diabetes Screening Campaign showcase the effectiveness of MoHAP's strategy to increase nationwide awareness about diabetes prevention and the importance of regular health checkups.".
“We have seen a significant turnout from various segments of society, and this demonstrates the effectiveness of joint efforts among all strategic partners to reach target groups and achieve national health indicators, thereby enhancing the country's competitiveness," Bin Belaila added.
Supporting MoHAP’s Efforts
For his part, Ahmed Abo Al Fadl, General Manager of Merck Gulf, said: "We are honored to contribute to this initiative for early diabetes detection, which highlights our shared commitment to advancing public health. This partnership is part of our corporate social responsibility and reflects our belief in the power of public-private collaboration to achieve national health objectives and create a healthier future for all."