A recruiting fair for a diabetes trial will be held at Qatar Diabetes Association (QDA) from August 4 to 6.

The community health programme is being implemented by Qatar University (QU) and QDA for anyone who has type 2 diabetes, pre-diabetes or a BMI (body mass index) of 30 or above, according to a statement issued yesterday.

People who are eligible need to sign up with at least one or more friend or family member who also meets all the criteria.

Over a seven-week period, participants will receive free health education courses, cooking classes and physical activity classes.

QU is conducting a study that will help researchers evaluate the effects of this community health programme on improving clinical outcomes for weight and diabetes management among people with pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes.

“We have evidence supporting our belief that people are more likely to lose weight, get healthy and reverse serious illnesses when they work together,” said Emily Gaikowski, a researcher from QU working with QDA on the diabetes trial, in the statement.

The study will be implemented by Microclinic International, a non-profit based in San Francisco, US.

By enrolling in this trial, people have a chance to not only get healthy with friends and family for free, but also be part of a solution for one of the main killers in Qatar.

Qatar has one of the highest rates of type 2 diabetes and obesity in the world, with type 2 diabetes being one of the top three causes of death in the country, the statement observes. Qatar’s sugar problem is expected to get worse over the years, with some estimates predicting as many as 60% of people becoming obese in the near future, it adds.

Those interested can contact QDA at 44547313 or visit it in the stipulated period to complete a brief questionnaire and enrolment.

There is no charge for study-related tests or for participating in the programme.

 

 

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