Amman, Jan. 22 (Petra) --Jordanian Society for the Care of Diabetes (JSCD) on Thursday announced launch of a national health project targeting the intersection of heart disease, kidney disease, and diabetes.

The initiative aims to enhance prevention, early detection of complications, and establish an integrated care model for non-communicable diseases.

The society said the project responds to contemporary health challenges, given the strong link between cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic disorders, which can significantly affect patients’ quality of life and place an increasing burden on the health system.

Talking at a press conference to announce the initiative, Nadima Shegem, JSCD Chairman, said early intervention and integration across different levels of healthcare are "key to reducing complications and achieving sustainable health impact." Shegem welcomed the grant provided by global pharmaceutical company, Boehringer Ingelheim, noting the importance of strategic partnerships in advancing public health in Jordan.

Abdul karim Khawaldeh, Jordanian Society of Endocrinologists, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases at the Jordan Medical Association, described the project as a "distinguished" initiative for Jordan, highlighting the Kingdom’s "pioneering" role in diabetes care compared to other regional countries.

Khawaldeh noted about 20% of Jordanians have diabetes, with 25% at risk of prediabetes.

In turn, Dr. Fares Haddad, the society's vice president, stated 26 percent of diabetic patients have confirmed heart disease, 66% are at risk of multiple complications, 30% require dialysis, and 17% suffer from diabetic retinopathy.

Nagham Abu Shaqra, family medicine specialist and project director, outlined the initiative’s two main axes: enhancing prevention and early detection of cardiac and renal complications in people with diabetes, and building the capacity of healthcare providers and community health workers.

The project also includes nationwide screening campaigns and public awareness initiatives to reach a wide segment of beneficiaries.

Suha Khalifa, family medicine specialist, said training programs will target doctors, nurses, diabetes educators, and community health workers across the central, northern, and southern governorates, focusing on early diagnosis skills and effective patient communication to ensure comprehensive, evidence-based care.

Dr. Maurice Barham, consultant endocrinologist and Scientific Committee Chairman, highlighted that free medical campaigns and screenings will target high-risk groups, providing early detection, medical and nutritional guidance, and raising awareness of the importance of prevention and regular follow-up, in coordination with specialized medical associations.

The society affirmed its commitment to implementing the project according to the highest scientific and professional standards, thanking Boehringer Ingelheim for its exclusive support and media outlets for their coverage and participation.

//Petra// NQ