VIDEO: Thousands of UAE residents walk to raise Diabetes awareness
- 15 Nov 2019
The 11th edition of the ‘Beat Diabetes Walk’ saw over 20,000 UAE residents come together to promote diabetes awareness and pledge for an active and healthier lifestyle. Held in association with the Dubai Fitness Challenge 30x30 this year, the event also doubled up as the closing ceremony of the thirty-day fitness challenge.
The 3km walkathon was held at Zabeel Park with the support of longstanding partners Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Health Authority (DHA), Emirates Diabetes Society (EDS), Dubai Municipality, Roads & Transport Authority and Dubai Police.
In a recent survey commissioned by Landmark Group, family/social support emerged as vital in successfully managing Diabetes - in addition to a thorough understanding of the initial signs and symptoms of the condition to prevent it. 82% of the total respondents agreed they can prevent diabetes by leading an active lifestyle and eating healthy.
Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman and CEO of the Landmark Group, said: “It is great to see the community come together year on year to be a part of the Beat Diabetes Walk. We owe much of our success and growth of this initiative to the people of UAE, the leadership and our longstanding partners - Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Health Authority, Emirates Diabetes Society, Dubai Municipality Roads & Transport Authority and Dubai Police.
This year is even more special for us as we announce the launch of the Beat Diabetes Awards, to recognize the health-driven initiatives taken by schools in the UAE. Through the younger generation, we will continue our efforts to build a healthier nation.
We are also taking our Beat Diabetes Walk to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. On 23rd Nov we will be hosting a 3-km community walk around the Jeddah Corniche.”
Free blood glucose tests were conducted by Dubai Health Authority open for all participants at the Walk. Dr Fatheya Al Awadi, Chair of DHA Diabetes Committee and Head of Endocrinology Department at Dubai Hospital said: “The increased incidence of diabetes is also attributed to a sedentary lifestyle. Walking is one of the best forms of exercise that will promote the wellness of the people. This initiative by Landmark Group in collaboration with DHA and EDS is significant in engaging the community meaningfully and making an investment in the biggest wealth of all – one’s health. It has also helped communicate the message of diabetes awareness to a large cross-section of the community.”