Zakho Hosts Diabetes Awareness Marathon to Mark World Diabetes Day
Organized by Zakho Medical College and sponsored by Kurdistan24 as media partner, the 4.2-kilometer event aims to raise public awareness of diabetes, reflecting the city's growing role as a destination for tourism, cultural activities and sporting events
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) — A 4.2-kilometer marathon was held in Zakho, Duhok province, on Thursday to mark an early World Diabetes Day, bringing together participants in an initiative aimed at raising public awareness of diabetes and promoting healthier lifestyles.
The event was organized by Zakho Medical College, with Kurdistan24 serving as its media sponsor.
The marathon began at Zakho's Delal Corniche, covering a distance of 4.2 kilometers. It marked the second time Zakho Medical College has organized the awareness initiative.
The event is part of a broader program comprising three activities: a marathon, a conference and a festival, all dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes and highlighting the importance of prevention and public education.
Through the initiative, organizers aim to encourage greater community awareness of diabetes, its health implications and the importance of adopting healthier habits.
Zakho: A growing destination for tourism and cultural events
Located in the Kurdistan Region's Duhok province, near the border with Türkiye, Zakho is one of the region's prominent tourist destinations, attracting visitors throughout the year with its historical landmarks, natural landscapes and cultural heritage.
The city is particularly known for the historic Delal Bridge, which spans the Khabur River and has become one of Zakho's most recognizable landmarks.
Its surrounding landscapes, riverside attractions and traditional markets also contribute to its appeal among domestic and international visitors.
Beyond tourism, Zakho has increasingly established itself as a venue for festivals, cultural celebrations and community activities throughout the year.
These events showcase the city's cultural identity, traditions and local heritage while providing opportunities for residents and visitors to participate in public gatherings.
Sporting activities, including marathons and other public fitness events, have also become part of these community initiatives, bringing together different segments of society and promoting healthy lifestyles.
The diabetes awareness marathon reflects this broader role, using a public sporting event to combine health education, community participation and the promotion of Zakho as a destination for cultural and social activities.
World Diabetes Day is observed annually on Nov. 14 to raise awareness of diabetes, improve understanding of the disease and promote better access to prevention, diagnosis and care.