DOHA: Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) has been officially recognized as an International Diabetes Federation Center of Excellence, marking a first for any medical institution in Qatar. This prestigious designation places WCM-Q among a select group of 25 centers worldwide known for their exceptional contributions to diabetes care, research, and education.
According to Qatar News Agency, the designation required WCM-Q to fulfill rigorous criteria set by the International Diabetes Federation. These criteria included possessing advanced infrastructure for education, a strong history of diabetes research, and a multidisciplinary team involved in diabetes care, prevention, and advocacy.
The International Diabetes Federation represents the global diabetes community as a non-profit organization. It consists of 251 national diabetes associations from 158 countries, collectively working to improve the lives of the approximately 590 million people affected by diabetes and to prevent the disease in at-risk populations.
Dr. Rayaz Malik, a leading diabetes researcher at WCM-Q, expressed his satisfaction with the recognition, stating that it enhances the institution's capacity for diabetes research and education. He emphasized the importance of this designation in improving the diagnosis and management of diabetes and preventing the disease through partnerships with organizations like the International Diabetes Federation.
In a recent publication in the Lancet Diabetes Endocrinology, Dr. Malik highlighted findings that a 20-29 percent weight loss could lead to partial remission of diabetes in about 70 percent of individuals with type 2 diabetes. He also stressed the significance of regular screening for early complications to prevent serious conditions such as blindness, dialysis, and amputation.
Dr. Javaid Sheikh, dean of WCM-Q, described the Center of Excellence designation as a significant honor, noting that diabetes is a critical health issue in the region. He highlighted WCM-Q's comprehensive approach to addressing diabetes through research, clinical practice, education, and patient advocacy.