Medical experts have raised concerns over a little-known but increasingly common condition that links heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
Speaking during a webinar as part of RAK Hospital’s ongoing RAK Diabetes Challenge 2025, doctors highlighted Cardio-Metabolic Syndrome (CMS) as a growing public health risk in the UAE.
What is Cardio-Metabolic Syndrome?
Cardio-Metabolic Syndrome is a group of interrelated health problems, including obesity, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and cholesterol imbalance. Together, these factors significantly raise the risk of heart attacks and diabetes, often without early warning signs.
“It’s a cluster of problems—obesity, insulin resistance, high blood pressure, and cholesterol imbalance—that together create the perfect storm for heart disease and diabetes,” said Dr. Hala Youssef Hamdy, Specialist Endocrinologist at RAK Hospital. “And what makes it dangerous is that many people don’t even know they’re at risk until a serious complication strikes.”
UAE obesity trends
In the UAE, rising obesity rates and sedentary lifestyles are contributing to a higher incidence of CMS. Dr. Hala pointed out that visceral fat—fat stored around internal organs—is particularly harmful, as it disrupts hormones that regulate appetite and blood sugar levels.
“When hormones like adiponectin and leptin are disrupted, the body can no longer regulate appetite, fat storage, or blood sugar properly,” she said. “This sets off a vicious cycle that keeps worsening over time.”
Managing the risk
While CMS is a serious condition, it can often be prevented or controlled through early intervention. Dr. Hala advised a focus on balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight. For high-risk patients, she noted that medication and even bariatric surgery may be necessary.
“Early detection is key,” Dr. Hala added. “By identifying people at risk, we can step in before CMS leads to irreversible damage. Prevention is always better and far easier than treating a heart attack or advanced diabetes.”
RAK Diabetes Challenge 2025, launched by RAK Hospital, includes weekly webinars aimed at raising awareness about critical health issues such as CMS, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. The initiative seeks to encourage preventive care and healthier lifestyle choices across the community.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
