FROM LEFT: Dr. Hassaan Anwer Rathore, Dr. Muna Al Ismail, Myriam ElJaam, and Dr. Yaw Boahene Owusu
Doha: The faculty of College of Pharmacy at Qatar University have urged for early detection of diabetes to prevent several complications.
On the occasion of World Diabetes Day, Dr. Hassaan Anwer Rathore, Associate Professor, College of Pharmacy, said: “More than 17% population of Qatar is known to have diabetes and it is estimated that up to 10% of total deaths in Qatar happen due to this disease. If the body weight suddenly starts increasing or a steep loss in weight is observed with increased frequency of urination without any recent life style changes then get yourself checked for this disease.”
“Early detection will slow down and prevent a patient from several complications like retinopathy (damaged retina of eye), myocardial infarction (heart attack), acute kidney injury (damage of kidneys), atherosclerosis (hardening of blood vessels) and hypertension (increased blood pressure). Consult your pharmacist to know how to prevent the disease and manage the medication if you are already diagnosed with diabetes mellitus,” Dr. Rathore added.
Dr. Muna Al Ismail, Clinical Lecturer, College of Pharmacy, said, “Diabetes care is predicated on multidisciplinary approach that requires the involvement of healthcare providers, patient education, and self-management. Patients living with diabetes should be well educated about their treatment plan including the effectiveness and side effects of their medications.
“Empowering patients with education allows them to take responsibility for their own health, which translates to improved adherence to the treatment plan and better health outcomes. Adherence to prescribed anti-diabetic medications is one of the main contributing factors for optimal glycemic control and for preventing diabetes-related complications such as heart attack, stroke, kidney damage, blindness, and limbs amputation.”
Dr. Muna added: “Therefore, it is highly recommended that patients consult their healthcare providers if they have any concerns regarding their treatment plan and medications. On the occasion of 2021 World Diabetes Day, my message to all patients living with diabetes and individuals at risk of diabetes is that the government of Qatar provides unrestricted access to the care of patients with diabetes and those at risk. This is an exceptional opportunity for all and I advise us to not underutilise it.
“Ensure access to care from any primary healthcare to tertiary healthcare facilities. The control of diabetes through medication adherence, monitoring blood glucose, lifestyle modifications including dietary control, and self-care, are fundamental to preventing the complications and increasing longevity.”
Myriam ElJaam, Teaching Assistant, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Practice, said, “The International Diabetes Federation highlights that one in eleven adults have diabetes. Diabetes is a condition whereby the pancreas is either unable to produce a sufficient amount of insulin (type 1 diabetes) or the body cells are not responsive to the available insulin (type 2 diabetes). Diabetes, especially type 2 which is the most common, can be prevented by making mindful decisions about the body. This includes following a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and engaging in regular physical exercise. Consistent hyperglycemia can lead to life-threatening diseases including cardiovascular diseases, nerve damage, and progressive loss of eyesight.”
Dr. Yaw Boahene Owusu , Assistant Professor, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Practice, said, “In newly diagnosed individuals with type 2 diabetes, it is important to raise awareness about the prevention and delay of the onset of diabetes complications because diabetes is one of the major causes of disability worldwide. The uncontrolled blood glucose in people with diabetes over time causes damage to large and small blood vessels, as well as nerves leading to problems with the heart, eyes, kidneys, legs, and gums.
“The good news is that the complications of diabetes can be prevented or delayed by keeping blood glucose level, cholesterol and blood pressure at the acceptable range, eating healthy diet, regular physical activity, avoiding smoking cigarettes or shisha, and maintaining healthy weight.”
