The Risk Factor screening camp was conducted in The Oberoi Beach Resort, Al Zorah, Ajman on the December 21, 2022 in collaboration with Thumbay University Hospital, Ajman as part of our Community Engagement activity. The camp was focused on screening the employees of the Resort for risk factors to the ‘Big 4 Diseases’ prevalent in the UAE namely, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer and respiratory disorders.
Physical factors such as Body Mass Index (BMI is measured using height and weight), blood pressure, random blood sugar and dental check-up were done. Modifiable risk factors like tobacco use, alcohol intake and physical activity were also assessed. The visitors of the campaign were also asked if they had a family history of any medical conditions. These questions enabled the medical students to gain an understanding of the general health, as well as detect presence of any indicators which may place them at the risk of developing any health problems. It also enabled them to provide appropriate health education to the Resort employees. A licensed General Practitioner was readily available for consultation for those with abnormal finding on screening.
According to medical students, the risk factor screening camp was a great opportunity for them to gain experience with regard to measurement of vitals as well as interaction with people from diverse backgrounds. Select students from first to fifth year of the medical program actively participated in the camp under supervision of experienced clinicians.
In their own words, “This enabled us to improve our capacity to work as a team, as well as to efficiently coordinate the different elements of the camp. The community engagement programme also provided us with the ability to educate the employees in the hospitality sector about the importance of regular screening and health check-ups, as well as the optimal lifestyle patterns to follow in order to remain fit and healthy. Overall, the camp was a very illuminating experience which gave us the opportunity to apply the theoretical knowledge gained in the classrooms to a practical setting”.
“Activities like these are evidence of our commitment to community engagement and social accountability to our immediate community. We are proud to provide ample opportunities to our students in the program to imbibe these values to become competent and empathetic healthcare providers,” said Prof. Manda Venkatramana, Vice Chancellor Academics and Dean, College of Medicine.
“Health of our staff is important for us. Thank you, Gulf Medical University and Thumbay University Hospital for screening our employees,” said the manager of the popular Resort, visibly happy.