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Journal of Public Health

09-04-2025 | Type 2 Diabetes | Review Article

Burden of diabetes mellitus on health and economy of the Arab world: current situation and perspectives

Authors: Waleed H. Almalki, Mohammad Sameer Khan

Published in: Journal of Public Health

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Abstract

Aim

This review examines the prevalence, health complications, and economic impact of diabetes mellitus in the Arab region, emphasizing the challenges and ongoing efforts in prevention and management.

Subject and methods

The study is based on data from the International Diabetes Federation and other relevant sources to assess the burden of diabetes in the Arab world. It explores the direct healthcare costs, health complications, and public health strategies implemented to combat the disease.

Results

Diabetes mellitus affects approximately 43.2 million adults in the Arab region, making it one of the highest-incidence areas globally. The disease is a major contributor to mortality and leads to severe complications such as nephropathy, neuropathy, blindness, and lower-limb amputations. Furthermore, the literature study highlighted alarming figures for diabetes in the Arab world, with the number of cases expected to rise by 96.2% by 2035. Moreover, the lack of awareness on diabetes mellitus has serious consequences on the increasing rise of this disease, where available data indicates an unusually high prevalence of T2DM in Arabian children less than 18 years old. These complications not only reduce the quality of life but also impose a significant financial burden on healthcare systems, patients, and families. The cost of diabetes care is notably high in Arab countries, making affordability a key concern. However, initiatives such as public education campaigns and improved healthcare access are being implemented to mitigate the impact of diabetes.

Conclusion

Diabetes poses a substantial health and economic challenge in the Arab world. Despite efforts to enhance prevention and management, further initiatives are required to improve public awareness, affordability of care, and investment in research. Addressing these challenges is crucial to reducing the burden of diabetes and improving the well-being of affected individuals in the region.
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Metadata
Title
Burden of diabetes mellitus on health and economy of the Arab world: current situation and perspectives
Authors
Waleed H. Almalki
Mohammad Sameer Khan
Publication date
09-04-2025
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
Journal of Public Health
Print ISSN: 2198-1833
Electronic ISSN: 1613-2238
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10389-025-02448-7