Public Awareness and Perceptions about Diabetes in the State of Qatar

Abstract

IntroductionDiabetes is a well-known global public health challenge affecting millions globally. The aims of this study are to examine the community diabetes knowledge, perceptions, and awareness among the public in Qatar regarding (1) disease symptoms, risk factors, complications, prevention, and associated behaviors, and (2) local diabetes campaigns and available services or resources.MethodsThis study involved a total of 501 respondents selected through purposive sampling from major public malls and public places in Doha, Qatar between February and May 2015. Data were gathered by face-to-face interview utilizing a semi-structured questionnaire. Results were analyzed using count, percentage, median, chi-square test, z-test on proportion and logistic regression. The analysis was carried out at 5% level of significance using SPSS version 22 (IBM Corporation, Chicago, IL, USA).ResultsAbout 92% of participants knew at least one type of diabetes. Over 43.9% were physically active for 1–3 days per week. Highest proportion of the population perceived blindness (86%) as the top complication; frequent urination (58%) and excessive thirst (41%) as primary symptoms; hereditary factors (74%) and obesity (74%) as the top risk factors; and exercise (77%) and diet (72%) as among the preventive measures. Demographic overview of diabetes and lifestyle factors showed that the odds of obtaining screening tests were higher among females (OR=1.7, P=0.003), age 35–45 (OR=2.2, P=0.003), age ≥55 (OR=4.1, P<0.001) and married (OR=3.0, CI=2.0–4.6, P<0.001) compared with their respective counterpart groups.ConclusionsThe general population in Qatar require more awareness and education about diabetes prevention and associated risk factors. This could be achieved by implementation of more public health campaigns to encourage healthier lifestyles.

Insulin sensitivity variations in apparently healthy Arab male subjects: correlation with insulin and C peptide

“…22 T2D and gestational diabetes are highly prevalent in Qatar, with an estimated 17% of all adults having T2D and 23% of all pregnant women developing gestational diabetes. [23][24][25][26][27][28] The high prevalence of metabolic disorders in Qatar suggests increased population risk for diabetes due to genetic and/or environmental factors. We raised the hypothesis that a significant number of apparently healthy people in Qatar may have decreased insulin sensitivity.…”

Shape of Life: A Qualitative Study on the Challenges Posed by Diabetic Students

“…Affecting over 400 million people worldwide, the illness diabetes is a recognized global health challenge and the Arab world is not spared by this. For example, in the Eastern Mediterranean region countries, the ubiquity of this illness ranges from 3.5% to as high as 30% (Al-Thani et al, 2018). In a local context, Qatar has one of the highest prevalence estimates of diabetes (17%) in the world (Taheri et al, 2020).…”

Knowledge and Perception of Diabetes and Available Services among Diabetic Patients in the State of Qatar

“…Sample selection was based on gender, age, and nationality representation as described elsewhere. 11 The age groups were corresponded to the approximate 2015 Qatar census proportion. 11…”

“…Using a purposive sampling approach, the trained research personnel carried out the surveys during working hours of these health facilities until the study reached the target sample 11 The age groups were corresponded to the approximate 2015 Qatar census proportion. 11 Survey questions were used to obtain patient data on the general demographic characteristics, knowledge about diabetes-related complications, risk factors and management, and degree of diabetes service level support received from health facilities, health providers, and other local diabetes support groups. Knowledge and perception of diabetes and diabetes-related factors were measured using a 5-point Likert scale question style (nothing, very little, some, enough, and a lot).…”