Awareness of the state of health of young Saudi men and women who are planning to get married and those who are already married has long been a serious concern of the Kingdom's health sector. Health authorities and non-government organizations engaged in health protection programs have been encouraging young men and women planning to marry to have tests for diseases, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and sickle cell anemia, an inherited blood disorder characterized by defective hemoglobin. Health awareness for those planning to marry has now shifted to diabetes, which is a disease that affects 14 percent of the Saudi population, according to the latest survey of the Ministry of Health conducted in February. Spearheading the drive to encourage young Saudis planning to marry to be tested for diabetes is the Saudi Diabetes and Endocrine Association (SDEA). “The long-term plan is to reduce the risk of diabetes and its complications in order to ensure healthy communities, which is why the association has launched a program for those getting married to have themselves tested for diabetes,” said Dr. Basem Futa, SDEA director of information. Newly married couples should increase their awareness of the dangers of diabetes and should adopt healthy eating habits and lifestyles, Futa said. The guidelines for healthy living include nutritional tips for healthy shopping, cooking and dining out, in addition to food safety and avoidance of food waste. Healthy food guidelines focus on selecting healthier options in selecting restaurants and ready prepared meals. The campaign to encourage couples to be tested for diabetes has been launched in local communities, the Saudi media, and business sectors, according to Futa. “Those planning to marry are urged to have medical checkups prior to marriage, and to regularly have blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipids tests. Regular exercise for families and the avoidance of smoking are a must for all,” Futa added.
