The National Diabetes Centre at Hamad General Hospital (HGH) recently held a workshop for patients to introduce a new interactive tool that promotes communication amongst diabetic patients, explores the risks associated with the disease and helps set an action plan to address diabetes complications.
The educational session, dubbed ‘For a Diabetes Free Future’, showcased a new Diabetes Conversation Map. Approved by the International Diabetes Association, Diabetes Conversation Maps have been used worldwide to help millions of people living with diabetes better understand and manage their condition.
Amany Abu Ajeena, a diabetes educator at HGH, provided patients with a brief description of the map, stating that it provides information about managing diabetes as well as the long-term complications of the disease.
“Diabetes Conversation Maps are tools that enable a small group of diabetic patients to interactively learn about their disease. With sessions ranging from 30 minutes to two hours, patients are encouraged to exchange thoughts and experiences while building a knowledge base that enables them to independently take care of their needs, make decisions and learn to live with their chronic ailment,” said Abu Ajeena.
“Through these maps patients are taught when to check glucose levels, how to control and handle fluctuations in glucose levels and how to maintain a balanced and healthy diet,” she added.
Fatima Mahmoud, a diabetes educator at Eli Lilly and Company, stressed the importance of diabetes education as a preventative measure.  
“Management of diabetes starts with educating the community, particularly diabetic patients, on following a healthy diet and leading a healthy lifestyle. Through the Diabetes Conversation Map, small groups of patients and their family members can develop the knowledge to properly manage diabetes under the supervision of a healthcare professional,” she said.
The Diabetes Conversation Maps were designed by Healthy Interaction and approved by the International Diabetes Association. In total, there are eight maps: Natural Course of Diabetes, Living with Diabetes, Healthy Eating, Starting Treatment with Insulin, Living with a Family Member with Type 1 Diabetes, Aspects Affecting the Control of Diabetes, Podiatric Care and Managing Diabetes during Ramadan.