Diabetes in the MENA Region: Challenges and Solutions

A recent article on the Diabetes Voice, the quarterly magazine of the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), offers a detailed examination of the diabetes epidemic specifically affecting the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This comprehensive overview highlights the pressing issue of diabetes in the MENA region and the various challenges it poses.

Rising Prevalence of Diabetes

Diabetes is increasingly prevalent in the MENA region, driven by factors such as rapid economic growth, urbanisation, and lifestyle changes. With a staggering 12.2% diabetes prevalence, the MENA region faces projections of an alarming 86% increase by 2045.

Disparities in Healthcare Access

Access to healthcare, particularly specialised diabetes care, is limited, especially in rural areas of the MENA region. Fewer than 1 in 10 individuals with type 2 diabetes in low- and middle-income countries, including MENA, receive comprehensive guideline-based treatment.

Undiagnosed Diabetes

A significant portion of people with diabetes in the MENA region remain undiagnosed. In 2019, it was estimated that 44.7% of those affected were unaware of their condition. This lack of diagnosis varies by country, from 17.4% in Jordan to over 35% in parts of Egypt. Undiagnosed diabetes is notably prevalent among older populations, emphasising the need for enhanced screening programs.

Barriers to Treatment

After diagnosis, accessing quality, affordable care remains a challenge due to high costs of insulin, medications, and supplies. Economic constraints in many MENA countries worsen these issues. This results in critically low health expenditures on diabetes. Consequently, patients face significant barriers to proper care.

Cultural and Socioeconomic Factors

Cultural perspectives, such as traditional diets and lifestyle habits, can significantly hinder effective diabetes management. Furthermore, cultural stigmas and a general lack of awareness about diabetes can deter people from seeking timely care and adhering to treatment plans.

Specific Risk Factors for Women

Women in the MENA region face unique diabetes risk factors, including obesity and low physical activity levels. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to hyperglycemia and developing gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), especially in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and North African regions. Currently, 1 in 7 live births is affected by GDM, increasing the risk of both mothers and babies developing diabetes later in life.

Impact of Crises

The region is frequently affected by both natural and human-made crises, including conflicts, political instability, and sanctions. These disruptions significantly impair healthcare systems and create barriers to diabetes treatment and care for refugees and internally displaced individuals. Often, resources are diverted to immediate emergency care, leaving chronic conditions like diabetes inadequately funded and poorly managed.

Recommendations for Improvement

To combat these challenges, governments in the MENA region must improve access to education for healthcare providers and the public, raise awareness, and implement comprehensive national strategies. This effort should emphasise better resource allocation and the deployment of cost-effective solutions to address the growing health crisis of diabetes.

In conclusion, the article highlights the urgent need for improved healthcare infrastructure, increased public awareness, and comprehensive policy initiatives to effectively manage and prevent diabetes in the MENA region. Addressing the diabetes epidemic is not only essential for public health but also vital for enhancing the quality of life for individuals across the region.