(MENAFN- The Peninsula) More than 7,000 residents yesterday took part in the fifth annual walkathon to create awareness about diabetes.
The event was organised by the Landmark Group, the region's largest retail and hospitality conglomerate, and Qatar Diabetes Association at Aspire Park.
It was held under the patronage of Dr Abdulla Al Hamaq, Executive Director, Qatar Diabetes Association, Qatar Foundation, and Santosh Pai, COO, Landmark Group Qatar.
Farhan Alsuwaidi, PR Manager, Landmark group, led participants in the two-km event, sporting blue 'Beat Diabetes' T-shirts.
"Every year, this platform helps remind people of the magnitude of the threat posed by diabetes and the simplicity with which the condition can be managed," said Pai.
"Through the 'Beat Diabetes' initiative, Landmark Group encourages people to stay proactive about their health and the well-being of their loved ones.
"We want people to make a conscious effort to lead healthier lifestyles and regularly monitor their blood glucose levels," he added.
"The incidence of diabetes is on the rise all over the world and countries are struggling to keep pace.
"The most recent estimates by International Diabetes Federation indicate that 8.3 percent of adults or 382 million people have diabetes, and the number is set to cross 592 million in less than 25 years," said Dr Al Hamaq.
"QDA annually celebrates World Diabetes Day which falls on November 14, with the rest of the world by organising a walkathon to attract the attention of all members of the community to the seriousness of the disease," he said.
A large number of families, along with groups representing organisations cheered loudly in support of the walkathon and posed for group photos, while children lined up to have their faces painted.
Fitness First led a pre-walkathon mass warm-up session, followed by Pai and Dr Al Hamaq releasing blue and white balloons - colours symbolising diabetes awareness - to start the walkathon.
At the end of the event, participants were treated to a complimentary healthy breakfast and fresh fruit.
To reinforce the core message of early detection, free blood glucose testing booths were set up at the venue.
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