News

Events

Entertainment

Restaurants

Shopping

Business

Real Estate

Education

Education

Internet Services

Home / Features / Dubai Set for Diabetes Walkathon

Special Features

Dubai Set for Diabetes Walkathon

Free tests for diabetes will be held at Oasis Centre on November 13-14. The free tests are part of the Landmark Group’s ‘Beat Diabetes’ initiative to spread awareness and education on diabetes prevention and management. The test centres will be open from 10am to 10pm. Johnson & Johnson will be providing the blood glucose meters and the testing strips. Results from the free tests will be instantaneous and people with signs of susceptibility to diabetes will be advised on how to seek further medical attention. Renuka Jagtiani, director, Landmark Group, said: “The free diabetes test centres at Oasis Centre is part of our ‘Beat Diabetes’ initiative. The fact that one in two people with Type 2 diabetes do not know they have it is reason enough to take the test. Although  diabetes has no permanent cure, early detection and proper management can make a life-saving difference. So we urge all residents to take the test at Oasis Centre, to work towards a fitter and healthier society.” Landmark Group will also organise a 3.1km walkathon on November 13 to mark World Diabetes Day observed worldwide on November 14. The walk will commence from Oasis Centre at 8am. Registration for the walk is free of charge and can be done at Oasis Centre or any branch of Home Centre and Centrepoint stores. Commenting on the initiative, Dr Ahmed Al Sharif, secretary-general of Dubai Sports Council, said: “The benefits of private sector participation in the social and economic wellbeing of a nation cannot be overemphasised.” He added, “We at Dubai Sports Council are delighted about the ‘Beat Diabetes’ initiative and lend our full support to Landmark Group in helping to create a fit and healthier society.” “It is clearly an affirmation of the company’s commitment to the social good of our community and will go a long way in complementing the laudable efforts of government authorities in Dubai.” Micky Jagtiani, chairman, Landmark Group, said: “UAE is known to have the second highest incidence of diabetes in the world, with almost 20 per cent of the population suffering from the condition. More disturbing is the fact that 50 per cent of those suffering from Type 2 diabetes may not even know they have it. Hence, we have decided to adopt the diabetes cause as part of our CSR (corporate social responsibility) agenda.” Participants are expected to arrive at Oasis Centre at 7am to collect T-shirts and caps before the walk starts. Oasis Centre will also be illuminated in blue to align with the global diabetes monument challenge. Notable monuments around the world to be lit up in blue include the CN Tower in Toronto, Canada, London Eye in the UK, and Sears Tower in Chicago Why walk? Regular exercise can lower the risk of developing diabetes by 58 per cent. 30-minutes brisk walking a day helps prevent diabetes. A fun-filled, family day that allows everyone to help put the spotlight on diabetes Holiday tips Author Donna Kay offers some tips to help keep blood sugar levels in healthy ranges, not just during the holidays, but throughout the year: Exercise first thing in the morning. You get it done for the day, and it won’t be hanging over your head for hours as something you need to do. Keep a small cooler in your car packed with ice and healthy snacks. As you’re running between work, shopping and ferrying the kids, grab these goodies instead of getting fast food. If you slip up, forgive yourself. Focusing on guilt and negative feelings takes away from your ability to concentrate on your goals.

We accept Guest Posts