A groundbreaking medication capable of preventing type 2 diabetes by up to 85% is offering new hope to those at risk, a breakthrough highlighted by Al-Ahli Hospital doctors. Endocrinology Department head Dr Mohamed Elrishi told Gulf Times that this advancement marks a significant step forward in the fight against diabetes.
Citing the revolutionary potential of the new medication, he said that while metformin could prevent or delay diabetes by 31%, the new medication, when given to individuals with pre-diabetes, showed an 85% success rate in preventing or delaying type 2 diabetes. This, he added, also promotes weight loss, which is an important aspect of managing and preventing the diseases. “One of the biggest breakthroughs is the prevention of diabetes,” he stressed.
Dr Haitham Mohamed Abdulla, Consultant Endocrinologist at Al-Ahli Hospital, underlined the hospital’s commitment to utilising the latest treatments and technologies to improve patients’ quality of life. “At Al-Ahli Hospital, we provide updated management and treatment approaches, including the most recent medications and technologies that empower people with diabetes to lead lives as close to normal as possible,” he said.
Echoing a similar view with Dr Elrishi, he pointed to the significant progress in diabetes care, noting that a major advancement is the development of new medications that can effectively manage the disease. In addition, he said it can also prevent complications, and enable individuals with diabetes, in partnership with healthcare professionals, to gain control of their condition and live a normal life.
Despite these advancements, Dr Abdulla acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly in Qatar and the Middle East.
He said lifestyle challenges are the most significant hurdle, stressing that diabetes is a chronic disease, and individuals need to adopt specific lifestyle changes to manage it effectively. However, he said that modifying daily behaviours can be extremely challenging for many. “As professionals, our job of course is to make this as easier as possible for patients. Another challenge is how to comply with the new approaches of treatment. Sadly, diabetes also has another problem that comes with it like increase in blood pressure, cholesterol, weight and complications sometimes might kick in unfortunately,” Dr Abdulla said.
He said that younger patients face difficulties in understanding the complexity of the disease and its long-term complications. He noted that managing diabetes often involves multiple medications, which can be burdensome for patients.
Dr Abdulla cited the importance of support systems, including healthcare professionals, family, and friends, to help individuals comply with treatment regimens.

Dr Haitham Mohamed Abdulla. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam

Dr Mohamed Elrishi. PICTURE: Shaji Kayamkulam