Клиническая и экспериментальная кардиология
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Diabetes and its associated cardiovascular complications in the Arabian Gulf: Challenges and Opportunities

Samer Ellahham

Diabetes is rising worldwide but it is reaching an epidemic level in the Middle East countries. The age-adjusted prevalence is reported to be 10.8% as compared to the global prevalence of 8.8%, resulting in higher healthcare expenditure, mortality and cardiovascular complications. The major contributing factors for diabetes and its related complications in the GCC countries include rapid urbanization, rising obesity, sedentary lifestyle, poor dietary intake and some cultural habits. Sub-optimal glycemic control at baseline is another contributing factor that is reported to increase by age. Global recommendations for the prevention of diabetes and associated cardiovascular complications are needed to help curtail the problem of diabetes effectively. Several initiatives have been undertaken resulting in the establishment of diabetes centers and policies, but these efforts need to be on a larger scale. Physical education and self-management awareness should be delivered to combat diabetes, especially in the younger generation and females. Large-scale clinical trials are also warranted keeping in mind the risk factors for diabetes in the region.