The impact of diabetes mellitus on health and economy of Gulf Cooperation Council countries

Abstract

SUMMARY Diabetes mellitus is a global health problem, where WHO recognized it as a chronic, debilitating and costly disease associated with severe complications, which poses severe risks for families, Member States and the entire world. This medical problem has put three Gulf Cooperation Council countries so far among the top ten countries facing high prevalence at a global level, to the extent that they could not meet the demand on health services or expenditure. Healthcare services in those countries need to be looked at, where primary care system should be empowered and health insurance is directed to have a better share in diabetes management. Despite this disease challenge, none of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries so far have managed to start primary or secondary prevention programs. Studies on economic impact of diabetes are badly needed, which will be the basis for future plan to stand against this disease and its economical burden.