AHS Public Health Initiative in Al Ain Receives 453 Cases during First Week of Ramadan

• Conducts Blood Pressure, Weight, Height and Glucose Screening; Offers Health Tips
• Refers 53 Cases to Specialists for Follow-up

Abu Dhabi-UAE: 08 July, 2014 – Ambulatory Healthcare Services (AHS), a SEHA health system facility, received 453 patients during the first week of Ramadan as part of its ongoing public health initiative rolled out in conjunction with Al Jimi Mall in Al Ain. The complimentary community outreach aims to help people in Al Ain cope with health disorders during the holy month.

During the first week of Ramadan, the initiative received 42 cases of high blood pressure including 11 new cases, 17 cases of diabetes including 7 new cases and 325 cases of high Body Mass Index (BMI). Among them, 53 were referred to AHS Clinics for further follow up.

An experienced medical team comprising a physician, dietician and two nurses are participating in the initiative, which offers complimentary screening for blood pressure, weight, height and glucose levels. Upon request, the AHS team can also review the medical history of individuals and refer them to specialists for further consultation as required. The dedicated AHS kiosk additionally delivers health awareness programs through expert led talks and handouts.

Dr. Mouza Al Kuwaiti, Health Education Committee Chair and Oud Al Touba Clinic Manager at AHS, said: “The Ramadan public health initiative complements AHS’s efforts through its healthcare network to increase awareness about the risks of high blood pressure, BMI and diabetics among Al Ain residents.

“The initiative offers useful health tips on appropriate dietary habits during Ramadan, particularly to avoid the risks of dehydration and other health disorders caused by extreme weather and longer fasting hours this year. We are also offering the service of a dietician to draw up customized diet plans and offer suggestions on improving the nutritional value of daily meals and reducing overweight and obesity.”