As many as 6,430 new diabetes cases were registered in the sultanate in 2019, according to the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

Of these, 6,115 were Omanis and 315 expatriates. 

The highest number of cases was reported in North Batinah (22 per cent) and the lowest in Musandam (0.8 per cent). Following the NCSI statement, an expert urged citizens and residents alike to be cautious and follow healthy lifestyles. 

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Dr Suleiman Zahir al Shuraiqi, senior specialist at the National Diabetes and Endocrine Centre, said, “Most of the reported cases of diabetes these days are among teens and adults. You can develop type 2 diabetes at any age, even during childhood. However, this type of diabetes occurs most often in middle-aged and older people. 

Type 2 is the most common type of diabetes.” 

Talking about the causes of type 2 diabetes, he said, “Unfortunately, some people eat an unbalanced diet that contains a lot of carbohydrates and fats, which leads to obesity. Many studies have shown a link between the frequent consumption of sugar or refined carbohydrates and the risk of diabetes.

“Additionally, some people do not exercise or indulge in any kind of sport. Anxiety and stress in life also causes diabetes. It is also genetically inherited from parents.”

Dr Shuraiqi said that the condition can lead to a range of serious problems including heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and blindness. “A person can avert diabetes by exercising (walking for half an hour a day), eating fruits and vegetables, avoiding anxiety, stress and drinking lots of water. Everyone should have regular medical examinations done to discover any kind of disease early,” said Dr Shuraiqi.

He informed that the Ministry of Health carries out several awareness campaigns for the prevention of diabetes. 

“While we have medicines to reduce body sugar, I hope everyone follows healthy lifestyles and undergoes regular health checks to avoid the disease.”