KUWAIT: As part of World Diabetes Day on November 14, the Kuwait Diabetes Association organized a series of awareness events to highlight the health risks associated with diabetes and promote early screening and prevention. Dr Walid Al-Dahhi, endocrinologist, diabetes consultant, and president of the association, said the organization has been active in community outreach since its establishment in 1996, providing programs targeting both the public and healthcare professionals.
“This year’s events witnessed strong youth participation and collaboration with several companies and entities,” Dr Al-Dahhi noted. On-site diabetes screenings and educational sessions offered attendees practical tips on managing and preventing the disease. He highlighted that Kuwait has the highest rate of diabetes in the Gulf region, with approximately 800,000 patients. “Diabetes is one of the most widespread diseases of our time and can lead to serious complications such as retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy, cardiovascular problems, and other health issues,” he said.
Dr Al-Dahhi stressed that diabetes is not merely high blood sugar, but a major risk factor for multiple serious conditions. He urged regular checkups and adherence to health guidelines, including maintaining glycated hemoglobin below 7 percent, controlling blood pressure to below 130/80, and undergoing annual foot and eye examinations. “These measures are crucial to prevent complications and live safely with the disease,” he explained.
Warning against complacency, he added, “Diabetes may develop without noticeable symptoms, but its effects emerge over the long term.” He encouraged citizens and expatriates to take advantage of medical services and screenings offered at Ministry of Health hospitals and health centers. The association continues to run specialized awareness campaigns, as well as training programs, lectures, and workshops for medical professionals. Dr Al-Dahhi revealed that during the upcoming Ramadan, the association will intensify its outreach with daily events targeting both patients and those observing fasting.
Dasman Diabetes Institute concludes a three-day workshop on “The Prevention and Management of Diabetic Foot Complications” held from November 16–18, 2025.
Three-day workshop
In another development, Dasman Diabetes Institute (DDI), established by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences (KFAS), concluded a three-day workshop on “The Prevention and Management of Diabetic Foot Complications” held from November 16–18, 2025, at its premises. The workshop, organized several times annually, is conducted in collaboration with the Central Administration for Primary Health Care at the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO).
The intensive program brought together 15 physicians from primary and secondary care, providing hands-on training in evidence-based evaluation and treatment of diabetic foot. Participants practiced techniques including risk assessment, screening and classification, ulcer prevention, debridement principles, infection recognition, off-loading strategies, referral pathways, and patient self-care education.
DDI emphasized that preventing foot ulcers and avoiding amputations requires timely screening, standardized protocols, and a multidisciplinary approach. By equipping frontline clinicians with practical skills, the Institute aims to reduce complications, prevent amputations, and improve the quality of life for people living with diabetes.
Highlighting a persistent regional challenge, DDI noted that despite the high prevalence of diabetes in the Middle East and North Africa, many healthcare systems underutilize foot screening and patient education. Through workshops, clinical guidelines, and public awareness initiatives, the Institute continues to address this gap and promote best practices across Kuwait’s healthcare network.
