Dubai, UAE, September 29, 2016:  His Excellency Humaid Al Qatami, Chairman of the Board and Director-General of the Dubai Health Authority (DHA), inaugurated today the DHA’s World Heart Day campaign 2016, at the DHA headquarters. 

The campaign aims to educate people about the importance of lifestyle modifications to avoid developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). The campaign is in line with the World Heart Federation’s global campaign to mark World Heart Day 2016.

 Al Qatami, said: “Preventive healthcare is an important aspect of the Dubai Health Strategy 2016-2021 and such campaigns help educate the community on how to lead a healthy lifestyle and prevent the onset of disease.”

As part of this campaign, DHA cardiologists and specialists conducted free tests for blood sugar, blood pressure, BMI, full lipid profile and HBAIC(3 month average blood sugar test.) After the results of the test were obtained, DHA physicians provided free consultation for visitors. The campaign, will take place across different venues in Dubai including hospitals and labour camps to reach out to the community. 

Dr Fahad Baslaib, Head of the Cardiology Department at Rashid Hospital said:  “A majority of the cases of CVDs can be prevented by following a healthy lifestyle and avoiding tobacco. The UAE has a high prevalence of diabetes, obesity and hypertension –all factors that can trigger heart attacks. Given these facts, it becomes vital for people to take control of their healthy because poor lifestyle choices is one of the main reasons for CVDs.”

The DHA will carry out free comprehensive screenings to mark World Heart Day 2016.  On October 3, the screening campaign will take place at Rashid Hospital. On October 6 it will take place at MBR University, on October 28 and November 4 it will take place at Dulsco Worker’s Accommodation and on November 14 at Mirdiff City Centre.