Staff across all departments at Imperial College London Diabetes Centre Abu Dhabi have gone all out to support a new community initiative.

Dubbed Start Walking., the grass roots activity is powered by ActiveLife from Daman and is part of Imperial College London Diabetes Centre’s long-running public health awareness campaign, ‘Diabetes-Knowledge- Action’, under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak.

Special floor stickers marked out the route as team members representing doctors, nurses and administration took a 15 minute brisk walk around the state-of-the-art treatment centre weaving their way around each floor and using stair climbs for some extra oomph.

Imperial College London Diabetes Centre’s Dr Farhana bin Lootah joined the walk and said she was delighted that so many have jumped at the chance.

“We are really pleased that so many of our staff have participated in this event to showcase what a fun-time can be had taking walking exercise with team mates.

“Indeed, a regular walking practice helps burn calories and reduce excess body fat in a safe and comfortable way.

“Given that obesity – a factor that can lead to diabetes - is on the rise in the UAE, it would seem that this simple activity provides a smart solution. I really hope many more organisations and community groups also join in,” she said.

Launched in June 2013, the Start Walking. Initiative is participating in a number of cross-community events in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

Start Walking. also made an appearance at the recent Healthcare Education Forums held at Imperial College London Diabetes Centre in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain this week. More than 50 patients joined in interactive sessions that focused on diabetes, healthy fasting and exercise.

For more information log on to: www.diabetesuae.ae

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