A Gradient Analysis of Economic Development and Chronic Diseases. Case of Diabetes and Life expectancy in United Arab Emirates

Abstract

This paper assessed the relationship between economic development and chronic diseases in United Arab Emirates (UAE), where a change in lifestyle has resulted in increases in non-communicable diseases for example diabetes. Diabetes is threatening to reverse previous gains in health status in the oil rich Middle East country. Though there is adequate literature on the status of diabetes in UAE, there is limited discussion on the intervention methods that can be used to control diabetes especially in the Gulf region. Faith and community-based participatory approaches show promise in engaging population and promote healthy lifestyles, while integration of technology in the healthcare sector has great potential to improve health outcomes in UAE and other emerging technology savvy economies.