Lifestyle

A Nation Taking Charge

by: BTM - Wed, 12 Nov 2025

Each November, World Diabetes Day reminds us that awareness is more than a campaign. It is a commitment to change. The disease continues to challenge Bahrain’s health system, but a new sense of purpose is driving efforts in prevention, early detection and innovation in care.

Over the years, Bahrain has steadily expanded its diabetes services. Specialised clinics now operate across the Kingdom, complemented by screening initiatives and national education drives. According to the Ministry of Health, around 15 per cent of adults in Bahrain live with diabetes, while thousands more are pre-diabetic. These figures have motivated action at every level of healthcare.

A New Phase in Care
Dr. Wiam Hussein, Senior Endocrinologist and Chairperson of the Bahrain Diabetes and Endocrine Review, emphasised that Bahrain’s progress would depend on “improved preventive measures, early detection and the adoption of advanced international treatment methods.” His comments came as the Kingdom was beginning to review new approaches to diabetic care, including continuous glucose monitoring and the use of artificial intelligence in diagnosis and management.

Knowledge in Action
Education remains a key pillar of Bahrain’s national response. Earlier this month, Dr. Mariam Al Hajeri, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health and Vice-President of the Bahrain Diabetes Society, highlighted the importance of public understanding. In a conversation with Gulf Daily News, she stressed the need for further efforts to educate the public about risk factors, modes of prevention and the often dire nature of diabetes-induced complications.

Her remarks echoed countless earlier calls for stronger community outreach to help families recognise early warning signs and seek care before complications arise.

The University of Bahrain continues to bridge the gap between awareness and action. Its World Diabetes Day event in 2022 offered free blood-sugar checks, BMI assessments and practical guidance on daily habits. Dr. Lina Mohammed Khenji, Dean of the College of Health and Sports Sciences, explained to student journalists at the time that the programme aimed to “raise community awareness” about prevention, causes and healthy lifestyle choices.

Lifestyle and Prevention
“There is absolutely no excuse for not intervening immediately and no need to wait for further evidence,” reads a line on Dr. Wiam Hussein’s official website. His words capture the growing sense of accountability now defining Bahrain’s public health approach.

Because diabetes often develops without obvious symptoms, routine screening has become a vital message of national campaigns. Across Bahrain, community initiatives are helping families embrace more active lifestyles and regular health checks. Regular physical activity helps the body use insulin more efficiently, stabilises blood-sugar levels and supports weight control, which are all critical factors in preventing type two diabetes. Even modest changes, such as walking daily or reducing sedentary time, can significantly improve long-term health outcomes.

Looking Ahead
Bahrain’s efforts reflect a nation in transition, one where awareness campaigns, government leadership and medical innovation are aligning towards a common goal. With every health fair, school initiative and clinical advance, the conversation around diabetes grows louder and more inclusive.

This World Diabetes Day, the message is one of shared responsibility. Bahrain is not just confronting diabetes but learning to outpace it. Step by step, screening by screening, the Kingdom is taking strides toward a healthier future.