Qatar- WISH focuses on diabetes

(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH), a global initiative of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), is highlighting risks diabetes poses to the region's health and lifestyle.

As a disease particularly prevalent in the Gulf, the incidence of diabetes is as high as 12-18 percent in the Middle East, with Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman among the top 10 most affected countries, according to International Diabetes Federation.

WISH is focusing on this health priority ahead of presenting exclusive insights at the second summit in February 2015.

Professor Stephen Colagiuri, WISH's Diabetes Forum Chair, will work with a team of experts from around the world to produce evidence-based research that can help guide policymakers and others responsible for the prevention and management of diabetes.

Results, findings and recommendations from the forum will be presented for discussion at the summit.

Professor Lord Darzi of Denham, Executive Chair, WISH, and Director, Institute of Global Health Innovation, Imperial College of London, said, "World Diabetes Day offers the chance to highlight to the countries in the Middle East that it is a looming global health crisis.

"The policy report we will publish on diabetes in February will provide recommendations for policymakers to more effectively prevent diabetes in their countries, and ensure effective treatment for those with the illness.

"It is our hope that healthcare leaders from the region will adopt some recommendations for the benefit of their populations," he added