American Hospital Dubai Hosts First Bikers Parade for Type 1 Diabetes Awareness

Event Overview

American Hospital Dubai served as the ‘Hospital Partner’ for the inaugural bikers parade through the streets of Dubai, aiming to raise awareness about Type 1 Diabetes in children. This action-packed event was organized in collaboration with the Dubai and Abu Dhabi Chapters of H.O.G. - the official riding club of Harley-Davidson, along with ETICA, a Dubai-based entity working on CSR initiatives.

Details of the Parade

Accompanied by Dubai Police, the "Type 1 Diabetes Parade UAE - 2015" took place recently over the weekend. Key details of the event include:

• Assembly Point: Grand Parking in Motor City
• Time of Assembly: 9:00 a.m.
• Departure Time: 10:00 a.m.
• Route: Al Khail Road, exiting via Dubai Mall, and concluding at American Hospital Dubai

Celebrating Children with Type 1 Diabetes

Set in a fun-filled atmosphere, children with Type 1 Diabetes were celebrated as real heroes. They had the opportunity to meet the riders, participate in photo sessions, and engage in various fun activities with their families. The event concluded with the planting of a "Tree of Hope" in front of the hospital, symbolizing the growing hope for a cure.

Understanding Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is one of the most common pediatric endocrine diseases. According to Dr. Hanaa Zidan, Pediatric Endocrinologist at American Hospital Dubai:

“Around 30% of all new onset cases of type 1 Diabetes in children present with Diabetic Ketoacidosis. Early recognition of symptoms of Type 1 Diabetes can help prevent morbidity and mortality associated with this condition. Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks the Beta cells in the pancreas, the primary cells responsible for insulin production, leading to elevated blood glucose levels.”

Statistics on Type 1 Diabetes

According to the IDF Diabetes Atlas report in 2012, the incidence of Type 1 diabetes among children is increasing at an estimated average of 3% per year globally. In the MENA region alone, nearly 65,000 children are affected by this condition, which is significantly higher than the global average.

American Hospital Dubai's Commitment to Pediatric Care

American Hospital Dubai features a comprehensive Paediatric Endocrinology department that addresses cases related to pediatric metabolism, endocrinology, and diabetes. The hospital welcomes referrals for the evaluation and treatment of children from infants to young adults with any conditions within the broad areas of endocrinology and metabolism.