Manama, Aug17(BNA)Bahrain has one of the highest rates of diabetes prevalence in the world. According to alarming figures released by the Health Ministry, 15,4 percent of Bahrainis aged over 20 suffer from diabetes.

The same survey has revealed that a further 20% of Bahrainis are likely to develop diabetes. Minister of State for Defence Affairs Lieutenant-General Dr. Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al-Khalifa stressed the importance of disseminating among diabetic children and their parents and promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Dr. Mohammed, also Bahrain Diabetes Society Chairman, stressed the crucial role of the association in helping diabetic children to live with the disease, improve their own condition and integrate effective self-management into their daily lives. Bahrain Diabetes Society Chairman, which was established in 1989, is celebrating this year its Silver Jubilee. The minister announced that a state-of-the-art headquarters for the association would be constructed in region of A’ali.

In a statement today, Dr. Mohammed stressed the importance of events lined up round the year, targeting the category of diabetic children. He cited in particular Al-Shorook Camp (Sunrise), which was organised for diabetic children last spring holidays. Bahrain Diabetes Society has also hosted a ceremony in honour of outstanding diabetic students. A summer entertainment programme benefiting diabetic children has also been launched in cooperation with the InterContinental Regency Bahrain.

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BNA 1710 GMT 2014/08/17