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The 3rd edition of the RAK Diabetes Challenge, organized by RAK Hospital in association with the Ministry of Health and Prevention - Ras Al Khaimah (MOHAP-RAK), has successfully completed its registration phase, with an overwhelming response of over 5,000 participants. This impressive turnout highlights the growing commitment to combating diabetes and improving public health across the UAE and the wider region.
The challenge has attracted participants from various walks of life, with a majority—89%—residing in Ras Al Khaimah and the remaining 11% from other Emirates. The participant base is predominantly made up of Asian (Indian, Pakistani, Filipino) expatriates, who represent 43% of the total, followed by individuals from Arab countries at 33%, Emiratis at 10%, and participants from other countries making up the final 14%. The gender distribution is skewed towards males, who constitute 79% of the participants, while females account for 21%.
In terms of health statistics, the highest recorded HbA1C among participants is 13.99%, with a striking 97% of all participants having an HbA1C level above 5.7%. The Body Mass Index (BMI) distribution indicates that 41% of participants are classified as overweight (BMI between 25-30), 40% are categorized as obese (BMI over 30), and 19% have a normal weight (BMI under 25).
The challenge is designed to guide participants through a three-month journey of lifestyle transformation, focusing on reducing HbA1C levels, improving BMI, and adopting healthier living practices.
Dr. Raza Siddiqui, Executive Director of RAK Hospital,stated, "This initiative is not just about reducing numbers; it’s about changing lives and creating a healthier future for our community. Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for developing diabetes, a reality we've consistently observed across our past and current editions, where the majority of participants with high HbA1c levels are either overweight or obese.
The RAK Diabetes Challenge is here to do more than just raise awareness; it is a platform designed to guide, educate, and empower individuals to transform their lives through informed lifestyle changes. Our goal is to help people understand that diabetes can often be reversed or managed effectively without an overreliance on medication. By tackling chronic diseases like diabetes—which are often gateways to other serious health complications—we are not just improving individual lives; we are laying the foundation for a healthier, more resilient nation."
With registrations now complete, participants will begin the challenge, receiving support through weekly health tips, webinars, and access to expert guidance. The challenge will culminate in rewarding those who achieve the most significant health improvements, with prizes totaling AED 20,000, along with additional rewards for virtual participants and top performers.
The RAK Diabetes Challenge is a flagship initiative by RAK Hospital and MOHAP-RAK, aimed at reducing the prevalence of diabetes through education, lifestyle changes, and community engagement. Now in its 3rd edition, the challenge has been empowering thousands to take control of their health and combat the risks associated with diabetes.
For more information about the RAK Diabetes Challenge 2024, please visit www.rakdiabeteschallenge.com.
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