DOHA: Around 2,500 people were screened at pre-Ramadan diabetes booths set up by Action on Diabetes at two Al Meera stores for five days.
Action on Diabetes, a public-private partnership set up by Maersk Oil Qatar, Qatari health authorities and Novo Nordisk, a world leader in diabetes care and funded by Maersk, joined Al Meera Consumer Goods Company, screened people and advised diabetics on healthy lifestyles and safe fasting.
The partnership with Al Meera, in its second year, took place from June 11 to 15 and saw Action on Diabetes booths staffed by diabetes nurses and educators at Al Meera stores in Airport, Mansoura and Muraikh areas to screen shoppers during the pre-Ramadan rush.
Beneficiaries received a personalised analysis of results and recommendations on how to fast safely and reduce the risk of developing diabetes in the future.
Brochures and educational information were distributed at each location to provide shoppers with information on diabetes, highlighting the importance of early detection and tips on a healthy lifestyle.
Dr Mohammed Nasser Al Qahtani, Deputy CEO, Al Meera, said, “We have raised the level of awareness among consumers with regard to managing diabetes and eating healthy during the holy month.
“We prioritise our consumers’ health and are striving to achieve the best food safety practices.”
Ahmed Al Kuwari, Technical Liaison Manager, Maersk Oil Qatar, said, “We were delighted to see such large numbers of people screened at Action on Diabetes booths at Al Meera branches. We hope this educated the community on safe and healthy fasting during Ramadan.”
This year’s partnership is one of education, awareness and screening programmes led by Action on Diabetes. Action on Diabetes is collaborating with organisations, including Hamad Medical Cooperation, (HMC) Primary Healthcare Corporation (PHCC) and Qatar Diabetes Association to hold events to educate diabetics on precautions while fasting and how to manage their condition and medication effectively.
Herluf Nis Thomsen, Programme Manager, Action on Diabetes, said, “We hope to have helped spread more knowledge about diabetes, as early detection is important for prevention and management of diabetes.”
For questions or enquiries related to diabetes during Ramadan, patients can contact Qatar Diabetes Association hotline 44547311 or 55274919 from 8.30am until 1.30pm. For medication instructions or details, contact HMC & PHCC hotline 55981331 from 8pm until 11.00pm.
The Peninsula
