Dubai: Ramadan is the best time to quit smoking is the message that will be reinforced during the live forum hosted by the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) on Thursday.
The live Twitter Q&A forum (@DHA_Dubai) will take place from 9.30pm to 11pm, and will field queries on how to quit smoking.
A multidisciplinary panel of experts will urge residents to kick the smoking habit and avoid shisha cafes. They will also answer questions on oral hygiene and health risks for fasting residents with asthma and hypertension.
Speaking to Gulf News on smoking cessation, Dr Sami Mana Ahmad, community medicine specialist registrar from the DHA’s cessation clinic and panellist, said that fasting residents abstain from tobacco during the fasting period which is almost 15 hours this Ramadan, providing a conducive environment to quit.
“This is a sign that they can fight the urge to smoke, giving them the motivation needed to give up the habit altogether,” he said.
Dr Ahmad said that the live forum will address nicotine withdrawal symptoms which include irritability, restlessness and anxiety.
He said, “People can deal with nicotine withdrawals through counselling and medication. During Ramadan, a person trying to quit can make a few changes to cope. This includes avoiding other smokers, especially during mealtimes, using a nicotine patch [doesn’t invalidate the fast], and engaging in other enjoyable activities.” He added that the DHA Smoking Cessation Clinic at Al Twar provides cessation programmes every Thursday.
On oral hygiene, Dr Khulood Bin Haider, dentist with the DHA and panellist, said a common complaint during fasting is bad breath due to dryness in the mouth.
“Many people wrongly assume that brushing or flossing invalidates the fast. During the fasting hours, it is important to brush and floss. To ensure good oral hygiene, brush before sleeping and, if possible, after suhour. Rinsing the mouth is also permitted,” said Dr Khulood.
If bad odour persists, check for dental caries or gum infections.
The panel will look into health complications arising from asthma and hypertension. Asthma sufferers are urged to use an asthma action plan with advice on how to manage the condition, which causes wheezing, breathlessness, and chest tightness. Those with high blood pressure or hypertension, a leading risk factor for heart disease and stroke, are advised to alter the time and dosage of their medication to cope with fasting.
