The Ministry of Health will distribute 800,000 blood glucose meters free-of-charge to diabetics within the next three years to help them regularly monitor their blood sugar rates.
Officials at the ministry revealed the distribution plan during a press conference held at Prince Salman Hospital, marking the distribution of 7,000 glucometers in Badiah district.
The ministry’s move comes as part of a nationwide campaign to raise awareness on the effects of type 2 diabetes and its complications.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Eman Sheshah, an endocrinologist, said the ministry distributed the glucometers to all the primary health care centers throughout the Kingdom. “We have some 10,000 patients in the hospital’s diabetic clinic and today we distributed the machines to 7,000 diabetic patients,” she said.
She added that needles and surgical spirit pads would also be disbursed to patients once in three months.
Sheshah stressed the severity of diabetics in the Kingdom, underlining that some two million Saudis are afflicted with the disease and another two million are on the threshold of developing diabetes.
“The machines will help diabetic patients monitor their glucose level within the comfort of their homes and reduce their visits to hospitals,” she said, adding that it would reduce crowding at primary health care centers.
Diabetes is the world’s fastest growing chronic condition, affecting all age groups.
There are 20 diabetic centers across the Kingdom, with one in every region.
There is an alarming increase in the incidence of diabetes among children aged 8 to 10 due to poor dietary habits and sedentary lifestyle, indicated Mohammed Al-Harbi, head of the ministry’s diabetic centers and units during the launch of the nationwide campaign.
“We urge people to consider the risks and take action. Find out your family history, assess your diet, exercise regularly and speak to your doctor if you think you could be at risk of developing this type of diabetes,” he said.
“The Kingdom has seen an explosion in the number of diabetes cases, with a 24-percent prevalence of diabetes, highlighting the global epidemic of the illness,” he cautioned.
Young children are particularly prone to developing diabetes due lack of exercise, as most kids spend long hours in front of the television and behind computer screens, the official said.
“Lack of exercise and eating fatty food is making our children obese, a major risk factor for the development of diabetes. It is the responsibility of parents to ensure that their children develop healthy habits,” he noted.
“Schools should also place more emphasis on physical education, which is equally as important as other subjects,” he said.
Free glucometers for diabetics
Free glucometers for diabetics
Where We Are Going Today: Granny’s Cuisine
- Highlights included a fresh beetroot and rocca salad, well-seasoned foul, and a comforting hab soup that was balanced in spice
Visiting Historic Al-Balad during Ramadan is a cherished ritual for many families in Jeddah.
During the holy month, the area transforms into a vibrant hub of celebration. Strings of lights illuminate the heritage homes, while food stalls serving international cuisines line the courtyards. Families gather outdoors to share iftar in a setting that blends history with festivity.
Yet, the charm comes with a challenge. Securing a table requires arriving early, especially for those hoping to sample a variety of dishes from different stalls while enjoying the lively ambiance.
To avoid the rush, I reserved a table at Granny’s Cuisine, centrally located in Baya’h Square Yard. The restaurant offers a simple open buffet for SR50 ($13) per person, a reasonable price given the setting.
On arrival, I was relieved to find my table ready, while others were still searching for seating.
Before the call to prayer, traditional Saudi coffee, dates and water were served. The buffet, though modest, offered satisfying homemade flavors.
Highlights included a fresh beetroot and rocca salad, well-seasoned foul, and a comforting hab soup that was balanced in spice. Classic Ramadan favorites such as sambusa and mutabbaq were also available, along with a red-sauce pasta that was acceptable.
The grape leaves stood out, delicately prepared with tamarind, giving them a pleasant tangy note that fans of the dish will appreciate.
Juices were not included in the buffet price; a mango juice cost an additional SR10, a minor inconvenience. Dessert options featured basbousa and kunafa, while a self-serve coffee corner offered instant coffee and machine-brewed options.
The buffet was set indoors, where historic photographs of Al-Balad and Jeddah added a vintage touch to the decor. Indoor seating is also available for those seeking comfort away from the crowds.
Overall, the experience was enjoyable and well-organized. Granny’s Cuisine is a suitable choice for diners who wish to experience the spirit of Ramadan in Al-Balad without immersing themselves fully in the hustle and bustle of the busy courtyards.
