It joins an elite group of 25 other centres of excellence across the world.
To be designated a centre of excellence, WCM-Q had to meet stringent eligibility criteria set by the International Diabetes Federation, including having state-of-the-art infrastructure for providing education, a track record of high-quality diabetes research, and status as a clinical institution with a multidisciplinary team of health professionals actively involved in diabetes care, prevention and advocacy.
The International Diabetes Federation is the global voice of the diabetes community. It is a non-profit umbrella organisation of 251 national diabetes associations in 158 countries and territories, working together to improve and empower the lives of the estimated 590mn people living with diabetes and prevent diabetes in those at risk.
Leading WCM-Q diabetes researcher, Dr Rayaz Malik, professor of medicine and assistant dean for clinical research partnerships, said: “We are very pleased to be designated an International Diabetes Federation centre of excellence in recognition of our contribution to global diabetes research and education.
"This strengthens our capacity to undertake research in diabetes and its complications and enables WCM-Q to deliver education to health care professionals that will improve the diagnosis and management of people with diabetes and those at risk of developing diabetes.”
Dr Malik explained that in their recent systematic review published in the Lancet Diabetes Endocrinology, 20-29% weight loss was shown to be associated with partial remission of diabetes in approximately 70% of people with type 2 diabetes. Furthermore, regular screening to identify early complications affecting the nerves, eyes and kidneys can prevent or limit blindness, dialysis and amputation.
Dr Javaid Sheikh, dean of WCM-Q, said: “Designation as a Centre of Excellence by the International Diabetes Federation is a great honour for WCM-Q. Diabetes is perhaps the most pressing health concern for our region and WCM-Q is pursuing a multifaceted approach to tackling the condition through world-class research, clinical excellence, educational initiatives, and patient advocacy.”
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