{
  "id": 20049054,
  "title": "Early screening key to detecting diabetes and reducing complications, Weqaya says",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/14/early-screening-key-to-detecting-diabetes-and-reducing-complications",
  "topic": "health",
  "section": "Health & Medicine",
  "published": "2026-11-14T20:47:20.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Ajel English",
    "slug": "ajel-english",
    "url": "https://english.ajel.sa/lifestyle/xl1mtka4r"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Saudi Public Health Authority, also known as Weqaya, has called for increased early screening of diabetes in the Kingdom. Diabetes often manifests without any obvious symptoms, making regular health checks essential for early detection and preventing complications. In a recent post on its official X account, Weqaya advised that all individuals aged 35 and above should undergo diabetes screening every three years, regardless of their current health status.\n\nWeqaya further specified that individuals who are overweight and possess one or more risk factors—such as a family history of diabetes, a sedentary lifestyle, high blood pressure, or a history of gestational diabetes—should begin screening from the age of 18. Additionally, those diagnosed with prediabetes are urged to undergo annual screenings to monitor their health and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.\n\nTo facilitate these screenings, Weqaya urged the public to use the Sehhaty app or call the toll-free number 937 to schedule their appointments. The authority emphasized that early detection of diabetes is crucial in protecting overall health and preventing the adverse effects that the disease can have on the body.",
  "summary": "Saudi Public Health Authority urges early diabetes screening, noting the disease often develops without symptoms and regular checks are vital for timely detection.",
  "key_points": [
    "Saudi Public Health Authority, Weqaya, advocates for early diabetes screening.",
    "Individuals aged 35+ and overweight with risk factors should screen every 3 years.",
    "Sehhaty app and toll-free number 937 available for appointment scheduling."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}