Non-communicable (Chronic) Diseases & Lifestyle Issues
Cardiovascular Disease (CVD)
- Leading cause of death, accounting for around 28% of all fatalities in the UAE.
- Risk factors are widespread: obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, poor diet, stress, and physical inactivity.
Diabetes (particularly Type 2)
- Highly prevalent: over 12% of adults (20–79 years old) had diabetes as of 2021.
- Strongly associated with obesity and a sedentary lifestyle.
Obesity
- Among the highest in the world: ~34–37% of adults have a BMI ≥ 30.
- Particularly high among adult women—67% overweight according to some reports.
- Obesity fuels risks for diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, cancer, and more.
Cancers
- Around 4,500 new cases annually in the UAE.
- Men: common types include lung, liver, colorectal, leukemia, pancreatic, prostate.
- Women: the most frequent forms are breast, colorectal, leukemia, thyroid, ovarian, and cervical.
- Breast cancer is notably prominent among female patients.
Genetic and Blood Disorders
- The UAE has a high prevalence of genetic disorders, including over 400 identified types, due to prevalent consanguineous marriages.
- Hemoglobinopathies, especially β-thalassemia, are among the most common; carrier frequency is about 8.5%, one of the highest in the Gulf.
- Other prevalent conditions include sickle-cell anemia, G6PD deficiency, hemophilia, anemia, etc.
- Due to this burden, premarital screening is mandatory to reduce the incidence.
Respiratory and Environmental Illnesses
- Respiratory disorders (e.g., asthma, chronic bronchitis) are common due to urbanization, air pollution, sandstorms, and occupational exposures.
- After heavy rains, spikes in waterborne and respiratory infections—such as flu-like illnesses, viral fevers, acute bronchitis, pneumonia, skin infections—are frequently observed.
Emerging Health Threats
Tuberculosis (TB)
- Considered low burden, with around 0.76 cases per 100,000 population in 2022.
- Approximately 925 total TB cases (2021) were reported.
Mpox (Monkeypox)
- The UAE reported its first case of Clade 1b mpox in February 2025.
Other Health Concerns
Heat-related Illnesses
- Due to extreme heat, conditions like heatstroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion are risks—especially for those working outdoors.
Vitamin D Deficiency
- Despite ample sunshine, deficiency is widespread due to limited sun exposure, with many residents staying indoors to avoid the heat.
Mental Health
- Stress, anxiety, and depression are rising concerns in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment; mental health stigma hinders progress.
Conclusion
In the UAE, health challenges are shaped mostly by lifestyle and environmental factors. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and cancer are the most common, while issues such as vitamin D deficiency, genetic disorders, and mental health concerns also play a big role. Though infectious diseases are less common, new health threats can still emerge. Focusing on healthier lifestyles, early check-ups, and better awareness can help build a stronger, healthier future for everyone in the UAE.