Diabetes Epidemic in MENA

High prevalence of Diabetes Epidemic in MENA

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Overview of diabetes epidemic in MENA

MENA stands as the second-highest region globally for diabetes rate spikes, with a projected 96.2% rise by 2035. To address this, an effective control program is crucial, particularly for managing the rising prevalence of T2DM in children under 18 years old. Collaborative international efforts are needed to combat the further spread of this disease in MENA.

Actually the diabetes is a global epidemic, with an estimated 1.3 billion individuals worldwide projected to have the condition by 2050. The prevalence of diabetes is increasing due to factors like the rising incidence of Type 2 diabetes, linked to obesity and changing demographics.

Poor awareness, delayed diagnosis, and limited access to insulin remain significant challenges. High diabetes-related healthcare costs, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, hinder effective management.

While innovations like smart insulin pens and automated insulin delivery systems are advancing diabetes care, there is an urgent need for concerted global efforts to address this public health crisis.

Recent report by the Daily Mail highlighted the alarming prevalence of diabetes (diabetes epidemic in MENA )in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. According to data from Our World In Data, Kuwait and Egypt ranked among the top 10 countries globally with the highest rates of diabetes in 2021.

Kuwait claimed the third spot, with 24.9 percent of its population affected, while Egypt secured the tenth position at 20.9 percent. Surprisingly, Mauritania stood out as the only Arab state in the bottom 10, with a low rate of just 2.1 percent.

Several factors contribute to the high prevalence of diabetes in the MENA region. Research suggests that a combination of malnutrition, physically demanding agrarian lifestyles, and genetic predispositions to insulin resistance among ethnic groups play a role.

Pakistan emerged as the country with the highest rate, with 30.8 percent of its population suffering from diabetes, and alarming growth rates have been observed in recent years.

Interestingly, Western countries like the United States and the United Kingdom ranked lower than expected on the list, with the US at 59th place and the UK at 136th.

However, it is worth noting that obesity, high sugar and salt intake, sedentary lifestyles, and the consumption of ultraprocessed foods contribute to the global surge in diabetes cases.

The chronic condition of diabetes arises from insufficient insulin production in the body, leading to dangerous levels of blood sugar. Type 2 diabetes, which typically develops in adulthood, accounts for about 90 percent of diabetes cases worldwide.

The increased consumption of ultraprocessed foods has been linked to the prevalence of the condition, often accompanied by obesity.

Studies have shown that certain national diets, like Japan’s traditional diet emphasizing raw or lightly processed foods and smaller portions, have positive health benefits, including a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and other conditions such as heart disease.

In contrast, research conducted in the US revealed that approximately 73 percent of the country’s food intake consists of ultraprocessed foods with high levels of salt and sugar.

With diabetes contributing to over 400,000 deaths globally in 2021, addressing the underlying factors, promoting healthier diets, and encouraging active lifestyles are crucial steps in combating this growing health concern.

Bottom Line

To manage diabetes epidemic in MENA a balanced approach is essential. Start with a healthy diet: focus on portion control, reduce sugar and processed foods, and incorporate fiber-rich fruits and vegetables.

Regular exercise, like brisk walking or swimming, aids weight loss and improves blood sugar control. Medications, if prescribed by a healthcare professional, should be taken consistently. Monitor blood glucose levels and weight regularly.

Seek guidance from a healthcare provider to tailor your plan. Combining proper diet, exercise, and medication can effectively control diabetes and promote weight loss, enhancing overall health and well-being.