IDF and DHA to host World Diabetes Congress in Dubai

Leading diabetes experts and members of the diabetes community will convene in Dubai from 4-8 December 2011 for the biennial World Diabetes Congress, organised by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF).

Expected to draw up to 15,000 participants, IDF's World Diabetes Congress is one of the largest and most important healthcare congresses in the world. The 2011 Congress will be held in association with the Dubai Health Authority (DHA).

With the second highest rate of diabetes prevalence globally, the United Arab Emirates is the logical and strategic choice for IDF's flagship event. IDF estimates that over 20% of the country's population could be living with the condition within a generation. Major social and economic developments in the region over the last few decades have come at a huge cost to public health. One in five adults in the Middle East now lives with diabetes. The growing concern to meet the demands of the epidemic across the region has provided the right context for IDF to bring the World Diabetes Congress to Dubai.

Shortly following the United Nations High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases in September, the 2011 Congress is being held at an important global juncture for diabetes and non-communicable diseases. IDF hopes that the Congress will continue the momentum from this landmark meeting, reflecting on its successes and taking concrete actions on the outcomes and implementation requirements for governments, industry, civil society and multi-lateral organisations.

As one of the leading dates in the diabetes calendar, the World Diabetes Congress provides the opportunity to discuss a broad range of diabetes issues, from latest scientific advances to cutting-edge information on education, diabetes care, advocacy and awareness. Participants include physicians, scientists, nurses, educators and other healthcare professionals, as well as government representatives, policy makers, people with diabetes, representatives from IDF member associations and members of the press.

A variety of session types, from abstract-driven presentations to symposia, "meet the expert" and plenaries, will meet the needs of the various participants that make the World Diabetes Congress such a unique event. Other related activities, including satellite meetings, exhibitions and affiliated events, will contribute to an exceptional opportunity for professional development and networking. In light of a landmark year for diabetes, the Congress will feature a stream dedicated to global health challenges. These sessions will involve key opinion leaders and decision makers across all concerned sectors, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and The World Bank.