Blue-collar workers benefit from medical check-ups

Dubai: Pakistani residents in Dubai marked Zayed Humanitarian Day this year by teaching more than 250 labourers the symptoms and management of often neglected conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and oral hygiene at a health awareness camp in Jebel Ali on Friday.

The Medical Wing of the Pakistan Association Dubai (PAD), in collaboration with Mediclinic City Hospital, The American Hospital, Northwest Clinic, NMC Hospital, Al Abrah Clinic and RAK College of Dentistry, held free medical check-ups for the blue-collar workers as part of the health camp. The initiative is also supported by the Community Development Authority.

Around 40 doctors and paramedics and more than 50 volunteers checked the workers’ blood pressure, blood sugar, blood cholesterol, and body mass index (BMI) for free. Free medical consultation was offered by specialists from all disciplines, including dermatologists, orthopaedics, gastroenterologists, family physicians, and cardiologists.

Lectures on hypertension, diabetes, dental and oral hygiene and hand washing were held to teach workers the dangers of common health issues.

Dr Raza Aftab delivered a lecture on diabetes and hypertension, with special emphasis on diabetes and Ramadan. Dr Jodat Askari delivered a lecture on oral hygiene.

Dr Faisal Ikram, General Secretary, said the event marked Zayed Humanitarian Day and reflected the spirit of Ramadan.

Haroon Malek, Commercial Welfare Attaché at the Pakistan Consulate, lauded the association for organising the camp, stressing that it is “our prime responsibility to take care of the well-being of blue-collar workers”.

The association also organised an iftar for the workers and volunteers at the end of the camp.