International Modern hospital and RTA organize a health awareness campaign

Dubai, UAE, 09 July 2014: In a bid to spread awareness about health issues faced while on the job and the importance of dealing with work-related stress, Road and Transport Authority recently organized a health awareness campaign for bus drivers and staff at the Dubai’s RTA-Bus Depot, in collaboration with International Modern Hospital (IMH) - a private general hospital offering a variety of services with multiple specialties in Dubai.

As part of the campaign, basic health checks including cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure and BMI screening was conducted. IMH distributed several vouchers for free consultation services, examinations and follow-up at the hospital to the RTA employees.

Speaking about their initiative, the Director Drivers Affairs at RTA, Mr. Mohammad Masoud Al Janahi said, “This campaign comes as part of the authority's keenness to bring to light the various health issues and stress aspects of this field, and our endeavor to ensure a healthier life for all our employees.”

The occupation of being a driver is ranked as one of the most stressful jobs world-wide. Stress, which has been described by doctors all over the world as a silent killer, can not only increase your cholesterol and blood pressure, but prolonged stress, according to various studies, can develop into larger problems such as heart disease, obesity, asthma and diabetes to name a few.

Specialist psychiatrist at IMH, Dr. Shaju George, who was also present during the event to give a special talk on stress at work and how to deal with it effectively, said “While driving is regarded as a daily activity by many, it can still be much more stressful than we realize. Stress affects the mind, body, and behavior in many ways, and everyone experiences stress differently. This can not only can be overwhelming for some, but can also lead to serious mental and physical health problems, and take a toll on relationships.” Setting a relaxation time, getting ample sleep, eating healthy, sharing problems with friends, and exercising regularly are some measures that help alleviate stress, he further added.

Dr.  Shaju George is an expert in delivering different types of behavioral therapies like CBT, and conducts various mass media awareness programs. He advised that it is imperative to protect oneself by recognizing the signs and symptoms of stress and taking steps to reduce its harmful effects.