Collaboration to advocate healthy living, drive diabetes awareness and raise funds for diabetes research and treatment with Al Jalila Foundation

Dubai, UAE; November 9, 2017: Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and Emirates Diabetes Society (EDS) have partnered with Dubai-based retail and hospitality conglomerate Landmark Group, for the ninth Beat Diabetes Walk to be held on Friday, November 24, 2017 at Dubai Creek Park.

The Beat Diabetes Walk, has been an annual feature of the Dubai fitness calendar, with thousands of Dubai residents coming forward to show their support towards the cause.

Speaking on the association with Landmark Group, Dr. Fatheya Al Awadi Consultant Endocrinologist & Head of Endocrine Department, Dubai Hospital and Chairperson, Diabetes Combat and Control Committee, Dubai Health Authority, said: “A better quality of life starts with a positive mindset. We advocate this attitude, especially when it comes to diabetes where awareness is the key to managing this lifestyle condition. The Landmark Group’s Beat Diabetes walk is an important event that serves as a catalyst to bring together people from across diverse communities and encourages a habit of active living with a sense of responsibility.”

According to International Diabetes Federation, 415 million people have diabetes in the world. In the MENA region, more than 35.4 million people live with this condition and by 2040 this is expected to rise to 72.1 million. Until two years ago, there were over 1 million cases of diabetes in the UAE alone.

Announcing their participation, Dr. Abdulrazzaq Ali Al Madani, President of the Emirates Diabetes Society and the Chairman of the Gulf Group for Study of Diabetes, said: “Diabetes is one of the most pressing issues in the world today. Due to various factors, its prevalence in the Middle East is higher than many other countries. Our collaboration with the Beat Diabetes walk has been centred on supporting diabetes care and creating awareness. Our team will be organising free check-ups on the day of the Walk and we encourage participants to register themselves.

Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman and CEO of the Landmark Group, said: “We are proud to partner with Dubai Health Authority, Emirates Diabetes Society and Al Jalila Foundation to support the wellbeing of UAE’s community with our 9th Beat Diabetes Walk.  

“This is a movement that raises awareness, encouraging our community to live a healthy and active life.   

The Beat Diabetes Walk will span approximately three kilometres. Following the walk, participants can opt to check their sugar levels at the free blood glucose testing kiosks, and participate in a host of complimentary activities. Stands serving healthy snacks will also be set up at the venue.

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical education and research, has also come forward to support this year’s Beat Diabetes Walk.

Registrations for the ninth annual Beat Diabetes Walk in the UAE can be completed online at www.beatdiabetes.me until November 18, 2017. All registered participants will receive a walkathon kit comprising a Beat Diabetes T-shirt and cap via courier through Aramex, the official logistics partner for the walk.

To stay updated on the Beat Diabetes Walk and related activities, please follow Beat Diabetes on social media handles:

• Facebook www.facebook.com/beatdiabetes
• Instagram – beat.diabetes and
• Twitter – @beatdiabetes