Bayer HealthCare begins new diabetes awareness initiative in Saudi Arabia

Bayer HealthCare's latest local project to improve care of people with diabetes in the Middle East and north Africa region will see the the launch of a new Diabetic School Awareness Program aimed at teenagers in Saudi Arabia.

The company believes a country-specific approach can help raise awareness of the condition by sharing knowledge and experience in excellence-oriented networks.

"Improving the conditions for people living with diabetes will undoubtedly be one of the most challenging health issues of the 21st century," said Gerd-Walter Rohm, initiator of the Excellence across Borders initiative at Bayer HealthCare. 

He explained it was important to focus on the awareness levels among the younger population and if best practice could be shared, it may help drive progress on diabetes management.

Saudi Arabia has the second highest comparative prevalence of diabetes in the region, as rapid urbanisation has impacted on lifestyle and nutrition over the past 30 years.