Diabetes mellitus in Bahrain: an overview

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Bahrain is experiencing significant socio-economic and lifestyle transitions.
• This has led to a shift from infectious to chronic diseases, with diabetes mellitus becoming a major health issue.
• Previous estimates indicated 3.4% of total deaths were diabetes-related in 1988.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the increasing prevalence of diabetes mellitus in Bahrain.
• To identify contributing factors to the changing patterns of diabetes.
• To assess the current status of diabetes management and control programs.

Main Methods:

• Community-based study involving mothers aged 18-48 years.
• Analysis of diabetes prevalence across different age groups, including the elderly.
• Review of lifestyle factors such as obesity, physical activity, and dietary habits.

Main Results:

• A community study revealed an 8.5% diabetes prevalence among mothers (18-48 years).
• Prevalence was significantly higher in the elderly Bahraini population at 12.9%.
• Obesity, reduced physical activity, altered food habits, and social changes are key contributors.

Conclusions:

• Diabetes mellitus poses a significant public health challenge in Bahrain.
• Existing diabetes management and control programs are limited and ineffective.
• Urgent prioritization of diabetes treatment within national health policy is recommended, including physician training, public education, and nutritional assessments.