Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar (WCM-Q) has achieved a major milestone by becoming the first medical institution in Qatar to be officially designated as an International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Center of Excellence. This prestigious recognition places WCM-Q among an elite global network of only 26 centers of excellence dedicated to diabetes care, research, and education.
To receive this designation, WCM-Q met the rigorous eligibility criteria set by the IDF, including state-of-the-art infrastructure for education, a consistent record of high-impact diabetes research, and a strong clinical presence with a multidisciplinary team committed to diabetes care, prevention, and advocacy.
The International Diabetes Federation, a leading global authority on diabetes, represents 251 national diabetes associations across 158 countries and territories. Its mission is to improve the lives of over 590 million people living with diabetes and prevent the disease in those at risk.
Dr. Rayaz Malik, professor of medicine and assistant dean for clinical research partnerships at WCM-Q, commented:“We are very pleased to be designated an International Diabetes Federation center of excellence in recognition of our contribution to global diabetes research and education. This strengthens our capacity to undertake research in diabetes and its complications and enables WCM-Q to deliver education to health care professionals that will improve the diagnosis and management of people with diabetes and those at risk of developing diabetes. By working closely with organizations like the International Diabetes Federation we can help prevent the development of diabetes and improve the lives of those with diabetes.”
Dr. Malik also referenced findings from a recent systematic review published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, which showed that a 20–29% weight loss was associated with partial remission of type 2 diabetes in approximately 70% of patients. He emphasized that regular screening for early complications involving nerves, eyes, and kidneys is key to reducing the risk of blindness, dialysis, and amputation.
Dr. Javaid Sheikh, dean of WCM-Q, added:
“Designation as a Centre of Excellence by the International Diabetes Federation is a great honor for WCM-Q. Diabetes is perhaps the most pressing health concern for our region and WCM-Q is pursuing a multifaceted approach to tackling the condition through world-class research, clinical excellence, educational initiatives, and patient advocacy.”
