Ministry of Health has revealed although 62.5% of Maldivians are prone to diabetes, there are 54.3% people who are not aware they have diabetes.
A survey called Island Studies, compiled by the health ministry with the assistance from Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), shows most Maldivians bring changes to their lifestyles once they are diagnosed with a major disease.
Speaking about the survey at an event held in Thulusdhoo in Kaafu Atoll, as part of the National Diabetes Prevention Programme, Dr. Ali Sinan said Maldivians must make immediate changes to the lifestyle.
The survey, conducted with information gathered from 50,000 people, revealed women are more prone to be diagnosed with diabetes. In this regard, the study shows 8.1% of Maldivians are diabetic patients.
The survey was completed as part of the 100-day pledge policy of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to aware Maldivians to the disease and to provide better medical treatment for the patients.