A major medical congress in Abu Dhabi, held under the auspices of the General Health Authority (GHA), has brought together specialists from across the Emirates to hear about the latest research into the nutritional management of Diabetes Mellitus.
Clinical dieticians, diabetologists and endocrinologists from Abu Dhabi and Al Ain were told about the key role that nutrition management can play for people living with diabetes. Physicians in attendance received credits as part of the Continuing Medical Education (CME) program.
Dr. Imad El-Din Ginawi – an endocrinologist and expert on diabetes – gave a lecture on research findings, which have demonstrated the need for diabetics to achieve tight control of their blood glucose levels through a combination of controlled diet, suitable exercise plans, and frequent self-monitoring.
“Keeping blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible has been proven to delay or even prevent the onset of diabetes complications, such as eye, kidney, heart and nerve damage,” says Dr. Ginawi. “Frequent self-monitoring of blood glucose level is the key to living a healthier life and reducing the impact on diabetes on the people of the UAE.”
Abnormal glucose levels lead to narrowing of the body’s blood vessels, causing damage to eyes and kidneys, heart disease, stroke or amputation of a limb. In severe cases, they can lead to stupor, coma and – in the absence of effective treatment – death.
Modern blood glucose monitors, however, enable patients to check their own blood glucose levels before each meal and before bed, in order to keep them at medically-recommended target levels – typically 70 to 120 mg/dl before meals and less than 180 mg/dl two hours after meals. They also help diabetics to keep their haemoglobin at a safe level.
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by chronic hyperglycaemia and disturbed metabolism. It results from defects in the secretion or action of insulin, which normally maintains the body’s correct glucose levels. Symptoms of diabetes mellitus include excessive thirst, excessive urination, blurring of vision and weight loss.
© 2004 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)
