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Qatar Tribune
27-05-2025
- Health
- Qatar Tribune
HMC highlights tobacco control expertise in Dubai
Tribune News Network Doha On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day, Dr Ahmad Mohammad Al Mulla, senior consultant in Public Health and Disease Control and director of the Tobacco Control Center at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC)—a World Health Organization Collaborating Centre for Tobacco Dependence Treatment—participated in a workshop organised by Emirates Health Services. The event was held at the Primary Healthcare Department in Dubai on May 26. At the event, HMC showcased the expertise of the Tobacco Control Center and emphasised that Qatar is among one of the first in the region to introduce tobacco cessation services. Dr Al Mulla presented an overview of the efforts undertaken by HMC and the Tobacco Control Center, highlighting key achievements in combating tobacco use in Qatar. He also provided a summary of the tobacco control laws issued by the State and their implementation, while sharing statistics on the prevalence of tobacco use in Qatar and across countries in the Eastern Mediterranean Region. Dr Al Mulla further outlined the economic burden of the tobacco epidemic on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and emphasised the pivotal role of the Tobacco Control Center in reducing tobacco use through ongoing educational and awareness activities within the community. Dr Al Mulla outlined the free treatment services provided by HMC's Tobacco Control Center's cessation clinics, including the use of medications, nicotine replacement therapies, and laser treatment. He discussed psychological counselling and behavioural modification methods offered to tobacco users, in addition to the types of medical devices used to measure carbon monoxide levels and assess lung function. Dr Al Mulla praised the role of HMC in supporting the Tobacco Control Center by providing free treatments to patients, emphasizing the critical importance of preventive services in reducing the spread of tobacco-related diseases. He also thanked the organisers of the workshop for the opportunity to present the effective role played by HMC in tobacco control and the importance of continued collaboration between HMC, represented by the Tobacco Control Center and Emirates Health Services.
Sharjah 24
26-05-2025
- Health
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Islamic Affairs holds 'Hajj... Step by Step'
Two primary focuses The seminar included two major components: religious and health-related. A sizeable number of people attended. The department also distributed awareness kits, which included brochures and leaflets detailing Hajj rituals. The University Hospital clinic also provided medical check-ups, particularly for individuals with diabetes and hypertension, as well as health advice to pilgrims to safeguard their safety throughout Hajj. Religious focus The religious part, delivered by the Department of Islamic Affairs, included a thorough explanation of the Hajj ceremonies. Participants learnt about Hajj's teachings, virtues, requirements, and pillars. The Department of Islamic Affairs provided a detailed review of the pilgrimage protocols, along with preparation guidance, common mistakes to avoid, and responses to personal questions. Health focus The health component was overseen by medical professionals from Emirates Health Services, who provided preventive advice to avoid any health difficulties during the Hajj. They concentrated on managing chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, preventing infectious diseases, dealing with high temperatures, maintaining good nutrition, and emphasising the significance of immunisations and medical preparedness. Awareness programmes The government verified that this session is part of a larger public awareness effort for this year's Hajj season. It consists of rigorous seminars and educational sessions, printed materials, and religious lessons in Sharjah mosques on the virtues of the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah. Outreach initiatives at the airport and homes To assist people who were unable to attend the seminars, the department sent preachers to Sharjah International Airport's departure hall to answer questions and give guidance packages. It also arranges house visits for older pilgrims ravelling through Sharjah campaigns, where representatives answer questions and provide accurate explanations of Hajj rituals.
Zawya
26-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Kuwait Hospital in Sharjah performs 425 endoscopy procedures in Q1 2025
Dubai, UAE – In line with its ongoing commitment to advancing healthcare infrastructure and specialized services, Emirates Health Services (EHS) announced that the Digestive Endoscopy Unit at Kuwait Hospital in Sharjah achieved significant milestones during the first quarter of 2025. The unit performed 425 advanced endoscopy procedures, treated 387 patients, and hosted two internationally renowned gastroenterology specialists as part of its Visiting Physicians Program. Dr. Noor Al Muhairi, Head of the Visiting Doctors Program at EHS, highlighted the program's role in fostering medical expertise: 'Attracting global medical talent is central to our strategy for advancing specialized care. Through this initiative, we integrate cutting-edge knowledge into our practices, enabling our teams to learn directly from leading experts. This elevates service quality and reinforces the UAE's position as a regional hub for advanced healthcare.' Afra Salem, Director of Kuwait Hospital in Sharjah, attributed the unit's success to sustained institutional support for infrastructure development. 'The recent upgrades to our endoscopy unit, including AI-powered technologies, have enhanced our ability to manage complex cases with precision. These advancements position us at the forefront of diagnostic and therapeutic innovation,' she stated. The hospital's endoscopy unit recently underwent comprehensive modernization, most notably the introduction of the first AI-driven digestive tumor resection endoscopy system across EHS facilities. Additional upgrades include advanced AI-equipped devices for gastroscopy and colonoscopy, enabling expanded diagnostic and treatment capabilities while adhering to global healthcare standards. As part of the Visiting Physicians Program, the hospital welcomed Dr. Sunil Mathai, a gastroenterology consultant at India's Medical Trust Hospital, and Dr. Peter Tagalidis, a specialist from Australia's Royal Melbourne Hospital. During their tenure, the experts performed 78 advanced procedures, including bile duct and colonoscopies, endoscopic ultrasound imaging, gastric varices coil implantation, sleeve gastrectomies, and partial stomach resections using state-of-the-art therapeutic endoscopy technologies. This achievement underscores Kuwait Hospital's dedication to integrating global best practices and cutting-edge innovation to deliver world-class patient care.
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
UAE not facing nursing shortage, says top health official
Despite a persistent global shortage of nurses, the UAE is not experiencing the same crisis, according to a senior official from Emirates Health Services. This assurance was reaffirmed on the sidelines of the launch of the State of the World's Nursing Report 2025, coinciding with International Nurses Day on May 12. "The UAE does not face a shortage of nurses, as demonstrated by the strength of our healthcare system and the proactive services we provide. The country ranked first in the most recent WHO report on universal health coverage, which further highlights the robustness of our healthcare infrastructure," said Dr Sumaya Al Blooshi, head of the National Committee for Nursing and Midwifery in the UAE and Director of the Nursing Department at Emirates Health Services (EHS). Speaking to Khaleej Times, on the sidelines of the event, Dr Sumaya added, "While there is currently no shortage, we continue to invest in developing our national health workforce. These indicators confirm that the country is on the right track, particularly in its strategic investment in nursing and overall healthcare excellence.' One graduate for every 10 workers The latest World Health Organisation (WHO) report, released Monday, indicates a slight global improvement in nursing numbers. The estimated shortage dropped from 15.4 million in 2020 to 14.7 million in 2023. However, the projected shortfall by 2030 has been revised upward to 11.1 million, highlighting slower-than-expected progress and persistent regional disparities. In 2020, approximately 2.2 million medical and nursing graduates entered the global workforce, equating to one new graduate for every 19 existing health workers. But to meet growing health demands — particularly in countries with expanding populations and ageing health workforces — the report suggests that output must increase to one graduate for every 10 workers. Dr Hanan Balkhy, regional director World Health Organisation Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean (WHO/EMRO) said, 'Alarmingly, we are projected to account for nearly one quarter of the global nursing shortfall by 2030. We face tough realities, deteriorating working condition, gaps in education and training, weak regulation, deep inequities and the immigration of nurses to make matters worse.' Despite these global challenges, the UAE is taking proactive steps to use insights from the report to enhance workforce planning and ensure alignment with international benchmarks. 'The report serves as a call to action aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 3, which is Health…emphasising the need for greater investment in nursing and midwifery. In the UAE, we have taken proactive steps in response to the initial report by developing our Nursing and Midwifery Strategy for 2022–2026. This strategy involved making our workforce sustainable, fit for future, and able to serve our community in much better way,' Al Blooshi added. "Education is the cornerstone" She also outlined the foundational pillars of the national strategy, emphasising education and workforce planning. The first pillar focuses on delivering innovative education and continuous professional development. It includes defining clear career pathways, establishing competency frameworks and regulatory standards, and reinforcing governance within the profession. 'Education is the cornerstone — with clear career pathways and regulatory frameworks, we can ensure nurses grow with confidence and competence,' she said. The second pillar addresses workforce planning, calling for a balance between supply and demand, increased nursing student enrollment, and alignment between workforce growth and healthcare system needs. 'While we're encouraged by the steady rise in student numbers each year, further investment and effort are essential to meet future demands. She emphasised while there are a good number of nursing colleges, and universities, in the country but there is still a growing need for more. 'The real challenge lies not only in attracting individuals to the nursing profession but also in retaining them after graduation. We're still in the early stages of addressing these issues — working to draw more people into the field and, just as importantly, investing in their long-term future within the profession. 'We are proud to report that our Emirati workforce within Emirates Health Services (EHS) has reached approximately 14%. Additionally, we are working towards implementing a unique Transition to Practice program within EHS. This initiative aims to foster the growth and development of nurses, providing them with enhanced training opportunities,' Al Blooshi added.
Gulf Insider
15-05-2025
- Health
- Gulf Insider
Hajj 2025: UAE Pilgrims' Vaccine Rules
If you live in the UAE and are going to perform Hajj this year, it's important to start preparing early to ensure a safe and spiritually fulfilling experience. From completing mandatory vaccinations to following practical health tips for managing the heat and large crowds, proper preparation can help protect both you and fellow pilgrims. The UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) and Emirates Health Services advise pilgrims to stay up to date with key immunisations, pack essential items, and follow preventive measures throughout the journey. Here's a brief breakdown on the required vaccinations, what to bring, and how to stay healthy during Hajj. If you are planning to perform Hajj, it's crucial to complete certain vaccinations well in advance of your departure. These vaccines help protect against infectious diseases and ensure a safe and healthy pilgrimage. All Hajj vaccinations must be administered at least 10 days prior to travel. This allows the body to develop the necessary immunity against targeted diseases. Mandatory vaccines for all pilgrims: Vaccinations should be taken at least 10 days before travel to ensure their effectiveness in providing immunity and maximum protection. Be sure to record the vaccinations in your International Vaccination Card, which is available through authorised health centres. In the UAE, both public health centres and private hospitals or clinics provide the required vaccinations for Hajj, Umrah, and other destinations with mandatory immunisation policies. Travellers are advised to schedule a pre-travel consultation at least one month before departure to allow adequate time for vaccines and preventive measures to take effect. To ensure a safe and smooth pilgrimage, follow these key preparation tips: Get all necessary vaccinations at least 15 days before travel . . Pack essential personal care items such as towels, toothbrush, toothpaste, and toiletries. Visit a doctor at least one month before travelling to review your health status and assess any potential risks. to review your health status and assess any potential risks. Carry required medications based on your doctor's advice. If you have a chronic condition, bring enough medication to last an extra three days beyond your scheduled return date. General precautions Wash hands frequently. Avoid sharing personal items like towels and utensils. Maintain good personal hygiene to reduce infection risks. Seek medical help if you feel unwell or show symptoms of illness. Heatstroke prevention Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing. Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and avoid peak sun exposure. Rest regularly in shaded or air-conditioned areas. Additional precautions Eat only well-cooked meals and avoid raw or undercooked food. Drink bottled or sterilised water. Maintain a balanced diet with fresh fruits to keep energy levels up. Wear comfortable, well-fitted shoes. Wash and dry your feet daily to prevent infections. Check feet regularly for blisters or injuries and rest as needed. Avoid close contact with sick individuals. Cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing. Use clean and sterilised tools for shaving or haircuts. Many pilgrims experience heat exhaustion or heatstroke due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures while standing or walking for long periods. Symptoms include: Headache Dizziness or vertigo. Red and dry skin. Muscle fatigue. Nausea or vomiting. Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) Difficulty swallowing or breathing. Loss of consciousness. How to avoid fatigue and heat exhaustion: Avoid direct sun exposure. Use a light-coloured umbrella. Drink plenty of fluids to replace lost water. Rest in cool and shaded areas. Get adequate sleep. Do not rush when performing rituals – pace yourself to prevent exhaustion. Always keep your first aid kit ready, especially before the Day of Sacrifice, in case of emergencies. Your kit should include: Cold and fever medications. Antiseptics, antipyretics, and pain relievers. Headache and muscle spasm medications. Ointments for insect bites, abrasions, and sunburn. Allergy medications. Masks. Medical adhesive tape. Thermometer, blood pressure monitor, and glucometer. Also read: New Saudi App Lets Pilgrims Show Hajj Permits Digitally
