SAUDI ARABIA, 15th MAY 2023 – P&G Health, the health care division of Procter & Gamble (NYSE:PG) makers of Neurobion, announced its ‘Put Life Back in Your Hands’ campaign for the second consecutive year commemorating Neuropathy Awareness Week 2023 across 18 countries in Asia Pacific, Middle East, and Africa. Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a chronic clinical condition, wherein the peripheral nervous system is damaged. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include numbness, tingling, prickling, and burning sensations in the hands and feet. Sufferers of PN report impacts on their quality of life including reduced physical abilities and poor sleep.
Saudi Arabia ranks the second highest in the Middle East and is seventh in the world for the rate of diabetes9. With diabetes mellitus being the leading cause1 of PN, the increasing prevalence of PN is closely linked to the rise in the number of diabetic patients. The total number of diabetes patients in Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa is forecast to reach 603 million by 20452, with an estimated 50% of diabetic patients are developing Peripheral Neuropathy during their life. Besides diabetes mellitus, aging, alcoholism, and B vitamins deficiencies are other high-risk factors leading to peripheral nerve damage.
Tarek Abdelaziz, General Manager at P&G Health, Middle East said, “Neuropathy can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and lead to serious complications if left untreated. For the second consecutive year, P&G Health – a global leader in Nerve Health – is donning the purple ribbon for ‘Neuropathy Awareness Week’ to raise awareness about the condition. Through an activation at public places such as hospitals, and malls in Saudi Arabia, our goal is to help individuals recognize symptoms of peripheral neuropathy and seek timely appropriate treatment. We believe that by working together, we can make a significant impact on the lives of those affected by this condition.”
Dr. Jalal Nafach, a Consultant Physician & Endocrinologist at Emirates Hospital and Dubai Diabetes Centre, commented: “Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy is seen in over 65% of the patients with Diabetes in Saudi Arabia10. Peripheral Neuropathy is a common complication of diabetes where early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further nerve damage and improve quality of life. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands and feet, which can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. Initiatives such as P&G Health’s ‘Neuropathy Awareness Week’ campaign are in huge need to help raise awareness about PN, encourage individuals to take proactive steps towards managing the condition, and provide support and resources for those living with neuropathy.””
As part of Neuropathy Awareness Week, we are reaching out to consumers directly at hospitals and pharmacies to drive awareness of peripheral neuropathy and the importance of healthy nerves. We are also with engaging with Health Practitioners via an exclusive webinar featuring health experts from the UAE and Saudi Arabia aimed at providing a platform to promote education and awareness on Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy and the importance of early diagnosis. The webinar aims to provide insights into the latest advancements in neuropathy treatment and management, as well as practical tips on how to prevent and manage the condition. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the speakers,” Abdelaziz added.