Dubai: Hundreds of blue-collar workers received free medical checks, gifts, and iftar meals during the Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD) health camp in Al Muhaisnah area on Friday.
The camp is held in Ramadan and on May Day (Labour Day, May 1) annually, attracting scores of low-income workers who are checked by doctors from leading hospitals.
Friday’s camp, organised by PAD Medical Wing, was held at the staff housing complex of Transgaurd in Al Muhaisnah, also known as Sonapur. It was held in association with the Community Health Authority, whose CEO Dr Omar Al Muthanna was the chief guest at the event. Dubai Police also participated in the event to raise awareness about workers’ well-being.
PAD Medical Wing president Dr Nighat Aftab said around eight to 10 specialists from five hospitals and medical facilities, including American Hospital Dubai and City Hospital, checked workers’ blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure levels.
Specialists across various specialities also guided workers on various conditions and ailments regarding the back, joints, skin, teeth, eyes, physiotherapy and hygiene.
Back and joint complaints are routinely raised during the camps because of the physically demanding nature of the workers’ jobs, said PAD Medical Wing general secretary Amirah Shah. Doctors teach the patients simple exercises they can perform easily at work to alleviate the problem.
Skin conditions are also commonly diagnosed as the chances of infections is higher in shared rooms of the workers.
Doctors also screen many cases of high blood sugar and blood pressure. “The workers are away from their homes and families, which can be stressful. Stress plays a role in these conditions, even though the workers who have them are usually not even aware of the symptoms, and even though they are mostly young,” a physician said.
Many of the workers are referred to monthly health camps at PAD for free follow-ups. Sometimes, some of the participating doctors also accept cases for free consultation at their own clinics.
On Friday, workers also heard health lectures and received brochures on various topics. They won prizes during health quizzes, games and raffles, including two free Umrah tickets. Later, iftar meals were distributed to the workers.
