More than 20,000 people are expected to turn up to an annual 5km walk on Yas Island on November 16.
Now in its 12th year, the walk takes place at Yas Marina Circuit and welcomes families and friends of all ages.
Walk 2018 aims to highlight the benefits of leading a healthier lifestyle and is supported by the Abu Dhabi Department of Health Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Sports Council.
“Walk 2018 harnesses the power of the Abu Dhabi community to proactively address the increasing incidence of diabetes in the UAE, taking positive steps together to embrace well-being through active lifestyle choices,” said Lawrence Patrick, chief executive of the Imperial College London Diabetes Centre.
“Attracting a wider and more engaged audience every year, Walk 2018 is the most visible and engaging element of ICLDC’s efforts to build awareness on prevention and management of diabetes, including the need for regular physical activity, balanced diet choices and healthy weight management.”
The International Diabetes Federation says more than one million people in the UAE live with diabetes.
Rates of the disease are also increasing faster in the UAE than in the other Gulf states, with authorities estimating the number of sufferers will double to 2.2 million by 2040.
“Our collaboration with ICLDC on Walk 2018 underscores our commitment towards achieving our vision of a healthier Abu Dhabi,” said Mohamed Al Hameli, undersecretary of the Department of Health .
“Together we can take steps toward a future with fewer of the social and economic challenges caused by chronic diseases including diabetes."
Dr Farhana bin Lootah, of Imperial College London Diabetes Centre Abu Dhabi, said 50 per cent of patients with type 2 diabetes did not display symptoms, making screening crucial.
Dr bin Lootah said walking was easy, cheap and carried substantial health benefits including increased brain function.
“You don’t need any gear, just a pair of sneakers," she said. "And if you walk as if you are late for work, that is a brisk walk.
“Walking is very important. It prevents diabetes and if there is diabetes, it prevents complications. Walking also increases your brain function, reduces dementia, increases your memory, and so on.”
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At a glance
Global events: Much of the UK’s economic woes were blamed on “increased global uncertainty”, which can be interpreted as the economic impact of the Ukraine war and the uncertainty over Donald Trump’s tariffs.
Growth forecasts: Cut for 2025 from 2 per cent to 1 per cent. The OBR watchdog also estimated inflation will average 3.2 per cent this year
Welfare: Universal credit health element cut by 50 per cent and frozen for new claimants, building on cuts to the disability and incapacity bill set out earlier this month
Spending cuts: Overall day-to day-spending across government cut by £6.1bn in 2029-30
Tax evasion: Steps to crack down on tax evasion to raise “£6.5bn per year” for the public purse
Defence: New high-tech weaponry, upgrading HM Naval Base in Portsmouth
Housing: Housebuilding to reach its highest in 40 years, with planning reforms helping generate an extra £3.4bn for public finances
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