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The Al Rashid Group (ARG), a division of Dubai-based Landmark Retail, is organising a 'Beat Diabetes Walkathon' on Friday morning at the Arad Bay park, near Bahrain International Airport, aimed at spreading awareness about the condition and its causes.
Organisers of the event are hoping to attract more than 2,000 people for the 3km walkathon.
ARG chairperson Shaikha Hind bint Salman Al Khalifa, pictured right, said: "Al Rashid Group is a family business and our concern is the Bahraini families.
"This initiative was taken with the intention to create awareness of diabetes through a campaign which involves highlighting the fact that the number of diabetic patients are growing at an alarming rate.
"It makes us feel responsible and we feel it is part of our corporate social responsibilities to take this initiative alongside the Bahrain Diabetic Society as well as government and health officials who are supporting the event."
Free blood glucose screening will be offered at the event as well as expert information on healthy lifestyles to help avoid some types of the condition.
Shaikha Hind added: "People will be able to find out that insulin is not the only thing that takes care of diabetes, but also their lifestyle and food habits. Everyone needs to conduct regular medical check-ups and adopt a healthier regime."
The group launched the 'Beat Diabetes' initiative in 2009 citing the wide prevalence of this condition across the region. Business and community leaders are expected to take part in the walkathon. During the event, entertainment will be provided by DJ Ali Dawood, who is a diabetic.
Participants who register at the event will be provided with a T-shirt, wrist band as well as refreshments. Registration begins at 7am and the walk starts at 10am.The initiative marks the launch of support for the forthcoming World Diabetes Day on November 14, which marks the birthday of Frederick Banting who, along with Charles Best, first conceived the idea which led to the discovery of insulin in 1922.
