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The Ministry of Health and Prevention, represented by the Department of Health Education and Promotion, launched the second stage of the ‘Healthy and Positive Environment Initiative 2018’ at the Ministry of Infrastructure Development in Dubai as part of its bid to promote happiness and positivity in local society. The initiative seeks to create a supportive health environment to help employees adopt healthy habits and lifestyles as well as increase their health awareness.
The initiative targets the employees of 15 federal and local government entities across the country. The launching ceremony was attended by H.E. Dr. Hussein Abdulrahman Rand, Assistant Undersecretary for the Ministry’s Health Centers and Clinics; Dr. Fadila Mohammed Sharif, Director of the Health Education Department; and H.E. Nadia Musallam Al Naqbi, Assistant Undersecretary of the Support Services Sector of the Ministry of Infrastructure Development.
Free medical examinations were lined up during the event, including A1C, cholesterol and blood pressure tests, carbon monoxide screening, and body mass index calculation. Additionally, experts were on hand to discuss the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and give medical advice and guidance with regard to maximizing the Ministry’s offered health services.
Commenting on the launch, H.E. Dr. Rand said the second phase will boost further the gains made during the successful first phase, which focused on encouraging behavioral changes among employees when it comes to healthy lifestyle. The ‘Healthy and Positive Environment Initiative 2018’ forms part of the national initiative called ’Promoting awareness of healthy lifestyle in the society.’ This national initiative is aligned with the Ministry's strategy to provide a comprehensive and integrated health care delivered in innovative and sustainable ways to ensure community protection from diseases and improve the country’s scores in national healthy lifestyle indicators in line UAE Vision 2021.
H.E. Dr. Al Rand also pointed out the importance of the Ministry-led awareness programs in promoting healthy lifestyles according to the government’s efforts to bring happiness to the people and build positive work environment. Focusing on healthy lifestyles is expected to impact the performance of both companies and their staff and is seen as an effective measure to protect employees from chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and depression. As such, companies are enjoined to build areas in the workplace dedicated to physical activities as well as highlight the benefits of healthy eating and of stopping cigarette smoking. Showcasing various ways to face work pressures should also be prioritized.
He thanked all participating federal and local government entities for supporting the initiative and expressing their commitment to implement the program to bring happiness to their employees and promote healthy behavior. He also thanked all official sponsors of the initiative, including Munchbox Company and Clikon Company, for their support and participation.
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