THE Gulf Daily News Annual Ramadan Community Campaign has launched today in support of Bahrain Diabetes Society.
The aim is to raise awareness about the types of the condition, highlighting type 1 diabetes research, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes prevention and diabetes management ... to give print and online subscribers, plus social media followers the information they need to safeguard and improve their health.
We are also calling on our family of readers to support the campaign by helping to provide advanced continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) sensors to children living with diabetes, which cost an average of BD100 each. In the past the only way to measure blood sugar was by regularly pricking the skin, causing soreness, discomfort and distress.
In a significant move to combat the rising prevalence of diabetes in Bahrain, the GDN’s Ramadan initiative aims to enhance the quality of life for these young individuals, enabling better health outcomes and reducing the risk of complications, such as cardiovascular issues and kidney disease.
The Bahrain Diabetes Society was established in 1989 with a mission to help raise awareness and prevent diabetes and its complications among the Bahraini community.
The ongoing aim is also to enhance care and prevention campaigns in Bahrain by collaborating with stakeholders, as well as governmental and non-governmental organisations.
Bahrain Diabetes Society vice-president Dr Mariam Al Hajri stressed the importance of this month’s GDN Media Ramadan Community Campaign. “This partnership underscores our commitment to social and humanitarian responsibility,” she added.
“Supporting all segments of our community, especially children with chronic conditions, is paramount.
“Through co-operation and solidarity among Bahrain’s humanitarian organisations, we can make a tangible difference in their lives.”
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood glucose.
The exact cause of most types of diabetes is unknown. In all cases, sugar builds up in the bloodstream. This is because the pancreas doesn’t produce enough insulin. Both type 1 and type 2 diabetes may be caused by a combination of genetic or environmental factors.
The campaign has been strategically chosen for the holy month of Ramadan, a period known for its emphasis on charity and community support.
“The initiative will focus on providing smart insulin systems, including insulin pumps and CGM devices, to children in need,” she added.
Insulin pumps are advanced, computerised devices that deliver insulin in two ways: a steady, continuous dose (basal) and surge doses (bolus) at mealtimes.
These methods closely mimics the body’s natural insulin release, offering a more flexible and precise management of blood glucose levels compared to traditional injections.
When integrated with CGM systems, these pumps can adjust insulin delivery based on real-time glucose readings, providing a comprehensive solution for diabetes management.
“Ramadan is a time of reflection, compassion and giving,” added Dr Al Hajri. “By initiating this campaign during this holy month, we aim to harness the spirit of generosity to support children with diabetes.
“Providing them with smart insulin systems will not only help in managing their condition more effectively but also allow them to participate in the cultural practices with greater safety and confidence.”
The initiative also seeks to raise awareness about the importance of early intervention and continuous monitoring in diabetes care.
According to the Health Ministry, approximately 15 per cent of Bahrain’s population – or one in seven people – suffers from diabetes, a figure that highlights the urgency of comprehensive management strategies.
By equipping children with advanced monitoring tools, the campaign aims to instill proactive health habits from a young age, potentially curbing the long-term impact of the disease.
“This collaboration between Gulf Daily News and the Bahrain Diabetes Society exemplifies the power of media and healthcare organisations uniting for a common cause,” said GDN Media Managing Editor Stanley Szecowka.
“By leveraging our platforms and resources, we aim to foster a more informed and supportive community for individuals living with diabetes.
“Together, through collective effort and compassion, we can pave the way for a healthier future for Bahrain’s children.”
- To support the campaign contact GDN’s chief reporter Mohammed Al A’ali on 39659635 or the society on 17171717 or visit @bah_diab_society (direct chat).
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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