UAE's Diabetes Healthcare Costs

UAE's Diabetes Healthcare Costs Could Reach $3.4 Billion by 2031

A new study warns that the annual cost of managing type 2 diabetes in the UAE could soar to $3.4 billion (Dh12.49 billion) by 2031, driven by rising diabetes rates linked to sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary habits. Researchers from Khalifa University forecast that 1.6 million people in the UAE could be affected by diabetes, with many more facing serious health complications such as heart disease, strokes, and kidney problems.

In 2021, the total healthcare cost of diabetes in the UAE was estimated at $2.09 billion (Dh7.68 billion), indicating that costs are set to rise significantly over the next decade. Type 2 diabetes, largely influenced by obesity and lifestyle factors, accounts for the majority of cases, with the country's diabetes rate currently standing at 18.7%. This figure is projected to increase to 21.4% by 2030.

The study, published in Mathematical Methods in the Applied Sciences, emphasizes the importance of preventive measures. Dr. Abdishakur Abdulle from New York University Abu Dhabi highlights the need to tackle obesity as a primary driver of diabetes. Efforts like Abu Dhabi's Department of Health's Ifhas program are already working to identify individuals at risk of developing diabetes and encouraging early lifestyle interventions.

Public health experts continue to advocate for healthy eating, regular exercise, and policies like taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages, which have been shown to reduce diabetes rates in other countries. Although the outlook is concerning, experts remain hopeful that the UAE can curb the rising tide of diabetes with ongoing prevention efforts.