16,500 at Diabetes Walk in Dubai

Over 16,500 participants, including 3,500 children, joined the 15th annual Beat Diabetes Walk at Za’abeel Park in Dubai, aiming to raise awareness about diabetes and address the increasing concern of pediatric diabetes in the UAE.

This yearly event is a key effort under Landmark Group’s Beat Diabetes program and was conducted in alignment with the UAE’s Year of Community and the ‘Forward Society’ pillar of the “We the UAE 2031 Vision.” It focuses on encouraging early detection, prevention, and effective management of diabetes through healthy lifestyle choices.

Medical experts have highlighted the growing cases of Type 1 diabetes in children, with reports noting that 24,000 children were diagnosed in the UAE in 2024 alone, the organizers emphasized.

The initiative brought together support from diverse sectors, such as private organizations, government bodies, schools, and community groups, showcasing unified efforts to promote diabetes awareness, early detection, and the importance of a healthy lifestyle for people of all ages.

1,000 Superkidz Stories

A standout feature this year was the partnership between Landmark Group and GEMS Education, which hosted the Superkidz Writing Competition. This contest encouraged young students to explore healthy living themes through storytelling. The competition received over 1,000 entries from Grade 4 and Grade 5 students across GEMS schools.

The event included the traditional 2-km walk, which was followed by fitness activities, sports events, and educational sessions. Additionally, free health services were offered, such as blood glucose testing through the Al Jalila Foundation’s ‘Wellness on Wheels’ program, influenza vaccinations, and nutritional consultations provided by Emirates Health Services.

The event was officially opened by Renuka Jagtiani, Chairwoman of Landmark Group, alongside Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary-General of the Dubai Sports Council, and Dr. Amer Al Zarooni, CEO of Al Jalila Foundation.

Encouraging Active Lifestyles

Saeed Hareb praised the success of the Beat Diabetes Walk during the Year of Community. “The Beat Diabetes Walk continues to bring the UAE community together and inspire action in the fight against diabetes,” he said. “An active lifestyle plays a vital role in overall health and wellness, and we proudly support this initiative, motivating all residents to adopt fitness and proactive health management to improve their quality of life.”

Dr. Al Zarooni also underscored the importance of community-focused health campaigns. “At Dubai Health, we believe empowering individuals to take control of their health is the foundation of better well-being. The Beat Diabetes initiative aligns with our emphasis on prevention, early detection, and patient-centered care. Collaborations such as this reinforce our shared commitment to raising health awareness and driving meaningful action that positively impacts families across the UAE.”

Since its launch in 2009, the Beat Diabetes campaign has been instrumental in spreading awareness, funding diabetes treatments, and promoting healthier living. Proceeds from the event are donated to the Al Jalila Foundation to support diabetes treatment and research, furthering the collective fight against the disease.

Nisha Jagtiani, Group Director at Landmark Group, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the community’s enthusiasm. “We are thrilled by the incredible support shown at today’s event, particularly from families, children, and people of determination. Landmark Group remains committed to advancing the Beat Diabetes initiative, spreading the importance of regular testing and adopting a healthy lifestyle.

"The passion and participation we witnessed today demonstrate how deeply the Beat Diabetes initiative resonates with the community, inspiring us to continue raising awareness and nurturing a healthier future for all,” she said.

Source: gulfnews

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