Introduction
The prevalence of diabetes among adolescents is a growing concern, particularly in regions such as the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). A recent study titled "Prevalence of and risk factors for diabetes mellitus in the school-attending adolescent population of the United Arab Emirates: a large cross-sectional study" provides valuable insights into this issue. This blog aims to highlight the key findings of the study and discuss how practitioners, especially those involved in online therapy services like TinyEYE, can use these insights to improve their practice.
Key Findings from the Study
The study conducted a large cross-sectional survey across 151 public and private schools in the UAE, involving 6365 adolescents aged 12-22 years. The key findings were:
- The overall prevalence of self-reported diabetes was 0.9%, with a higher prevalence in males (1.5%) compared to females (0.5%).
- Adolescents with parents who were not currently married had more than twice the odds of self-reporting diabetes.
- Those who reported smoking or using illegal drugs had more than three times the odds of having diabetes.
Implications for Practitioners
These findings underscore the importance of addressing both biological and social determinants of health in managing diabetes among adolescents. Practitioners can take the following steps to enhance their practice:
- Holistic Approach: Consider both medical and psychosocial factors when assessing and planning interventions for adolescents with diabetes.
- Parental Involvement: Encourage strong parental support and involvement, particularly for adolescents from non-married parental backgrounds.
- Behavioral Interventions: Develop programs that address lifestyle factors such as smoking and drug use, which are linked to higher diabetes prevalence.
- Gender-Specific Strategies: Implement gender-sensitive approaches, as the prevalence and risk factors differ between males and females.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, it also highlights areas where further research is needed. Practitioners are encouraged to contribute to research efforts by collecting data and sharing observations that could inform future studies. Areas of interest include:
- The impact of specific interventions on diabetes management among adolescents.
- Longitudinal studies to establish causal relationships between risk factors and diabetes prevalence.
- Exploration of cultural and socioeconomic factors influencing diabetes management in the UAE.
Conclusion
Understanding the prevalence and risk factors of diabetes among adolescents in the UAE is crucial for developing effective interventions. Practitioners can leverage these insights to improve outcomes for children and adolescents, ensuring a comprehensive approach to managing diabetes. For those interested in delving deeper into the research, the original study can be accessed through the following link: Prevalence of and risk factors for diabetes mellitus in the school-attending adolescent population of the United Arab Emirates: a large cross-sectional study.
