MoHAP launched first-of-its-kind National Prediabetes and Diabetes Screening campaign and will utilise screening centres across the UAE

The initiative, which utilizes screening centers across the UAE, is aligned with the National Indicator of lowering diabetes prevalence in the country. MoHAP collaborates with strategic partners to give quick post-screening access to medical consultations, lifestyle coaching, and treatment choices to employees in the public and private sectors. The idea was announced during a press conference following the signing of a partnership agreement with Merck Gulf, a major scientific and technology business.

The event was attended by Dr. Hussain Abdul Rahman Al Rand, Assistant Under-Secretary for the Public Health Sector, Dr. Omniyat Al Hajri, Executive Director of the Community Health Sector at Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre, and Dr. Yousef Al Tair, Director of Ibrahim Bin Hamed Obaidallah Hospital in Ras Al Khaimah and Chairman of the Diabetes Committee at Emirates Health Services. Dr. Hend Al Awadhi, Head of the Public Health Department's Health Promotion and Education Section, Dr. Kulaithem AL Mazrouei, Medical Director at the Primary Health Care Sector, Dubai Academic Health Corporation, and Ahmed Abo El Fadl, General Manager of Merck Gulf were also present, along with other senior officials from both sides.

The MoHAP and Merck Gulf programme, which will run for a year and is backed by the UAE health authorities, BinSina Pharmacies, Al Manzil Healthcare, and AlTadawi medical company, will involve the populace by targeting public and private sector businesses. Employees will be provided free screening, which will include digital risk assessment quizzes followed by HbA1c testing for individuals at risk of prediabetes and diabetes.

This streamlined approach, combined with meticulous data tracking and follow-up consultations at three and six months, aims to empower individuals with both awareness and support via a dedicated Hotline (800-DIABEAT), which provides follow-up and answers questions from those diagnosed with pre-diabetes or diabetes during the campaign to reverse prediabetes and improve diabetes control in those being screened.