The Saudi Journal of Medical Insights

Background: The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is grappling with a severe and escalating diabetes epidemic,
characterized by one of the world's highest prevalence rates, imposing a substantial burden on its healthcare system and
economy. Effective management requires a coordinated, multi-disciplinary approach across the care continuum.
Objectives: This review article aims to synthesize the distinct yet complementary roles of Family Medicine, Emergency
Medicine, and Internal Medicine in managing diabetes within the Saudi context. It further analyzes the influential
socioeconomic and cultural factors that impact patient outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive review of the literature was
conducted over the past 10 years to include studies related to diabetes epidemiology, management protocols, and health
services research in Saudi Arabia and exclude irrelevant studies and studies published out of 10 years range. Data from
national surveys, peer-reviewed journals, and clinical guidelines were synthesized to present a holistic overview.
Results: The epidemiology of diabetes in KSA is alarming, with a prevalence of 18.3% among adults and an equally high
rate of pre-diabetes (18.0%). Family Medicine serves as the cornerstone for prevention, early detection, and long-term
management but faces challenges in adherence to process-of-care measures. Emergency Medicine is critical for managing
acute complications like Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) and Hyperglycemic Hyperosmolar State (HHS), where protocoldriven care is vital. Internal Medicine provides specialized, holistic care for complex cases, emphasizing cardiorenal
protection with advanced pharmacotherapy. Underpinning these clinical efforts are powerful socioeconomic determinants,
including cultural dietary habits, low health literacy, economic barriers, and specific gender dynamics, which significantly
shape self-management and adherence. Conclusion: Curbing the diabetes epidemic in Saudi Arabia necessitates an
integrated, multi-pronged strategy that strengthens collaboration between family physicians, emergency physicians, and
internists. Success is contingent upon augmenting this clinical integration with robust public health policies that directly
address the underlying socioeconomic and cultural barriers to effective diabetes care.