KUWAIT CITY, Jan 25: Minister of Health Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi stated that diabetes is one of the most prevalent and significant chronic diseases in Kuwait and globally. It is a leading cause of numerous serious health complications and the second leading cause of diabetic foot amputations, following road accidents.

In his opening speech at the First International Conference on Advanced Diabetes Care, organized by the Dasman Diabetes Institute—part of the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS)—on Friday, Dr. Al-Awadhi emphasized that diabetes contributes to heart disease, strokes, heart attacks, vision loss, and kidney failure. He highlighted the importance of holding the conference to discuss all aspects of diabetes, including its prevention, treatment, and management of complications. The Minister expressed hope that the conference’s outcomes would enhance the quality of health services in Kuwait and strengthen scientific collaborations between Kuwait and international centers, some of which are participating in this event.

Dr. Al-Awadhi mentioned that the conference, which spans three days, serves as a scientific platform, bringing together distinguished international and local researchers and experts. They will discuss the latest scientific and research advancements related to diabetes, focusing on prevention, innovative treatments, and management of the disease's complications.

The Minister further acknowledged that the Dasman Diabetes Institute is a pioneer in diabetes research and treatment in the Middle East. He also noted that this conference presents a unique opportunity for knowledge exchange and increased cooperation among healthcare professionals and all those involved in combating diabetes.

Dr. Al-Awadhi praised the ongoing achievements of the Dasman Diabetes Institute, which continues to deliver a comprehensive approach to tackling diabetes through advanced research, integrated prevention strategies, and the training and development of healthcare providers. The institute employs innovative methods to address this chronic disease effectively.

In a statement to reporters after the opening session, Dr. Al-Awadhi stated that diabetes is one of the world’s greatest challenges. He explained that patients may require dialysis, kidney transplants, or suffer from diabetic foot complications. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to providing the latest medical devices and modern treatments to ensure the best possible care for patients.

The Minister also stressed that Kuwait, with its medical staff, institutions, hospitals, and advanced equipment, including oxygen rooms with a capacity for up to 12 patients, is fully dedicated to serving the health interests of both Kuwaiti citizens and residents. This includes comprehensive awareness campaigns, particularly focused on the dangers of obesity.

Dr. Faisal Al-Rifai, Acting Director General of the Dasman Diabetes Institute, noted that the conference, which has attracted over 400 doctors, researchers, and specialists from Kuwait, the Gulf region, and beyond, emphasizes diabetes as one of the most important and widespread chronic diseases globally.

Dr. Al-Rifai highlighted that the institute was committed to organizing this comprehensive conference, which explores various aspects of diabetes, including advanced research on its causes and prevention, the latest treatment recommendations, and strategies for dealing with complications. He described the conference as an exceptional opportunity for healthcare professionals, researchers, and experts to exchange knowledge and enhance cooperation, ultimately benefiting public health.

The conference will cover various diabetes-related topics, including complications affecting the heart, arteries, vision, kidneys, feet, and other organs. Dr. Al-Rifai further mentioned to reporters that one in five people in Kuwait suffers from diabetes, and five GCC countries rank among the top 10 countries with the highest prevalence of the disease. He warned of the serious complications associated with diabetes.