qatar health magazine - issue 8 - april-may 2015

ISSUE 08 APRIL-JUNE 2015

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Outstanding health projects, stemming from an integrated vision...Health is a diverse and integral matter. Hospitals, medical centers and facilities are not enough on their own to achieve the goals set out by the Supreme Council of Health; our focus therefore is now on awareness and promotion of healthy lifestyles in the community, the biggest ideal to ensure sustainable health. In accordance to our vision, Supreme Council of Health has recently launched the innovative Qatar Dietary Guidelines, setting a precedent in the entire Gulf region. The Qatar Dietary Guidelines provide valuable insights and guidance for healthy eating; it shows – with pictures and in-depth information – the foods we should consume to enhance healthy lifestyles, as well as the specific amounts of each food group. It also further includes the necessary advice on food that should be avoided. In addition, Qatar Dietary Guidelines, which are considered as an important part of the Qatar National Nutrition and Physical Activity Action Plan for 2011-2016, provides general advice on food-related health lifestyle. Moreover, the most important aspect of this innovative project, in which tremendous efforts were exerted and specialized teams worked to accomplish it in such a distinctive way, is the scope ofsuccess in implementation as well as the satisfaction of the community to adopt a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet, a fundamental attribute for achieving our goals and ensuring that everyone is benefitting from wellness as a whole. Furthermore, we cannot overlook the importance of medical research’s role in promoting the health of the population in a factual and scientific capacity. Proudly the recent inauguration of the Qatar Biobank is a milestone in medical research. This innovative establishment will further enhance our contributions in this field and will assist in knowledgeable answers and information on health issues amongst the Qatari population. Our Health Projects, which are diversified in many areas, are being implemented and completed in accordance with an integrated vision set by the Qatar National Vision 2030. This vision will develop an integrated health care system that assists in a long and healthy life for current and future generations.

Hamad Jassim M A Al-HammarEditor-in-ChiefManager of Public Relations

WELCOME

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CONTENTS

HEALTH UPDATES

QATAR BIOBANK A FIRST OF IT’S KIND IN THE GCC

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What’s happening in and around Qatar and the region.

Qatar is one of the few countries investing heavily in scientific research, we look at the inauguration of the Biobank.

DIABETES

PROGRESS

UNDER THE WEIGHT OF

UPDATED

Are you at risk of diabetes? We have a closer look at this complex disease, as well as measures taken through stem cell treatment and research.

Every year Supreme Council of Health issues an annual report providing an update on the reforms being undertaken by the council and all partners.

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SHEIKHA DR. AL ANOUD AL-THANI

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS WITH

22HMC HGH Trauma and Emergency Expansion, Doha, 2018

HMC HGH Expansion of Pediatric Emergency Centre Al Sadd

HMC HGH Trauma and Emergency Expansion, Doha, 2018 HMC HGH Trauma and Emergency Expansion, Doha, 2018

HMC HGH Trauma and Emergency Expansion, Doha, 2018

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QATAR BIOBANK

QATAR DIETARY GUIDELINESACHIEVING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE IS NOW EASIER, THANKS TO THE

RECENTLY LAUNCHED BY THE SUPREME COUNCIL OF HEALTH

Since the release of Qatar Dietary Guidelines at a two-day conference held by the Supreme Council of Health (SCH) in April, the framework has offered valuable insights and guidance for healthy eating for the first time in a GCC country.

TIMELINE

A HEATED MATTER...

The summer season ushers in a severe climate change with increased heat waves and temperatures rising above 40 degrees celcius.

For its part, the Supreme Council of Health works to prevent work-related injuries or deaths and promote the health of labourers at the workplace. We provide a closer look at the measures taken.

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CONTENTS

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A stroke can happen in a flash and without any warning. We look at ways to assist should you ever face this ordeal as well as the symptoms to detect during or before a seizure.

- WHEN LEAST EXPECTEDSTROKE

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HEALTH UPDATES

Aspetar Launches 2015 Step Into Health Campaign in Malls

SCH Organises Workshop on “Heat Stress”

Aspetar launched its 2015 Step Into Health (SIH) campaign on the 24th of April in malls all around the country to help Qatar’s community remain fit in spite of the summer heat. The objective was to engage the Qatar public in a self-managed, life-long program based on a moderate amount of daily, healthy activity. Under the campaign, Health-Promoting Malls (HPM) offered people a range of opportunities for indoor physical activities as well as a comfortable walking environment. It was aimed at encouraging each person to walk 10,000 steps or more a day, in a non-competitive, recreational and social way.

The Supreme Council of Health (SCH) recently organized a workshop entitled “Beware of Heat Exhaustion” in cooperation with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs and Qatar Petroleum. The workshop was attended by experts from SCH occupational Health Section and Health officials from private companies and organizations. It included important lectures on types of heat exhaustion, its effect on the eyes, ways to deal with heat exhaustion cases, as well as a review of laws on working hours during summer.

Brochures on heat stress which included guidelines and recommendations in different languages were distributed at the end of the workshop.

University of Calgary in Qatar and Primary Health Care Corporation Sign MoUThe University of Calgary in Qatar (UCQ) and Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) signed a memorandum of understanding that allows PHCC to sponsor its nurses in UCQ’s Master of Nursing program. The milestone agreement further enhances Qatar’s growing health workforce by granting top nursing professionals from PHCC, one of Qatar’s largest healthcare providers operating through twenty-one primary health care centers.

The University of Calgary in Qatar contributes to the achievement of key goals of the Qatar National Vision 2030 as well as the National Health Strategy.

Researchers at WCMC-Q (Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar) have published the first comprehensive analysis of Internet health information in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region.

The study entitled “Typology and Credibility of internet health websites originating from Gulf Cooperation Council countries” appeared in the World Health Organization (WHO) publication Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal. This research additionally won a national award for the top student research grant, awarded by Qatar National Research Fund (QNRF) in its Undergraduate Research Experience Program.

FIRST STUDY OF GCC INTERNET HEALTH

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HEALTH UPDATES

NEW Electronic System in COMMUNICABLE DISEASE SURVEILLANCE

HMC 1ST ADVANCEDTRAUMA RESEARCH WORKSHOP

The Supreme Council of Health (SCH) has recently announced that a new electronic system for the early detection of communicable diseases, the first of its kind in the Middle East, will be launched next year.

Dr. Hamad Eid al-Rumaihi, head of the Communicable Diseases Control Department SCH, pointed out that the system would be comprehensive, focusing on various environmental risks, whether biological, chemical, or radioactive, to help in a speedy detection and containment of any potential diseases.

Dr. al-Rumaihi said that work had started to prepare a draft list of guidelines and directives of the system in co-operation with all the participating entities.

Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) conducted the first ever Advanced Trauma Research Workshop (ATRW) in Qatar, bringing together international experts and local trauma healthcare professionals and providing a unique platform to engage in discussions and highlight best practices in trauma research. The four-day intensive workshop convened as many as ninety healthcare professionals, including trauma surgeons, specialists, nurses, pharmacists, residents and fellows. The main aim of the workshop was to provide participants a thorough understanding of how to perform high-quality clinical research that will inform injury prevention programs.

During the workshop, delegates were able to benefit from dynamic lectures, presentations and focused discussions covering topics such as clinical research, statistical concepts, and considerations for designing effective clinical trials, basic and advanced concepts of data analysis, diagnostic tests and ethics in research.

Mother and Child Cohort StudyThe Supreme Council of Health (SCH) plans to study the link between exposure to environmental, biological and lifestyle hazards and their impact on the health of mother and child which will be conducted by SCH’s Biomedical Research Department and has been titled the Birth “Cohort” study. This long term study will examine gestational diabetes in mothers, metabolic syndrome and postpartum depression, breastfeeding and nutrition, lifestyle traits including physical activity, sleep and timing of activities and psychosocial activities.Child health outcome will include, preterm births, low weight at birth, obesity and metabolic-related disorders, neuro-development, immune system, asthma and allergies.

NEW E-SYSTEM TO RECORD VACCINATIONS

The director of Public Health Department

at the Supreme Council of Health (SCH),

Dr. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad

Al Thani has revealed that Hamad

Medical Corporation (HMC), the Primary

Healthcare Corporation (PHCC) and

Health Insurance, are currently gearing

up to implement a new electronic system

tagged “Cerner”, which will contribute

to providing a tracking and monitoring

mechanism and provide information on

individuals who miss their vaccinations.

The system will enhance control on

accuracy of data, following up with

individuals who miss their vaccination

and reaching them through SMS about

the importance of being vaccinated.

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QATAR BIOBANK

QATAR BIOBANKSETTING A PRECEDENT,THE FIRST OF ITS KIND

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THE STATE OF QATAR IS AMONG THE FEW RARE COUNTRIES INVESTING HEAVILY IN SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH. 2.8% OF QATAR’S ANNUAL GDP IS ALLOCATED FOR FUNDING AND IS PROMOTING RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, THIS HAS LED TOTHE BIRTH OF QATAR BIOBANK (QBB).

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QATAR BIOBANK

Qatar Biobank – the first in the GCC region, is part of Qatar’s efforts towards grooming knowledge and assisting with health problems facing the country’s citizens. This is done through the employment of scientific research, for the sole purpose of providing a population study, to better understand of the causes of prevalent illnesses. Ultimately the goal is to provide a more tailored healthcare forall residents.

Located inside a new state-of-the-art facility at Hamad bin Khalifa Medical City, Qatar Biobank (QBB) is a podium that will make vital health research possible through its collection of urine, blood, saliva and other human liquids’ samples and information on health and lifestyle from long-standing members of the Qatari population. QBB, Qatar’s long-term medical health initiative, was fashioned to give Qatari people better chances of avoiding serious illnesses, and to promote better health for future generations.

QBB was created by Qatar Foundation and the Supreme Council of Health (SCH) in collaboration with Hamad Medical Corporation (MHC) and with the expert support of scientists from Imperial College London.

Through its collection of samples and information on health and lifestyle, researchers will be able to understand why some people in the Qatari population develop certain diseases and why others do not.

Small samples of blood, urine and saliva are collected from each participant during the assessment, which will allow a

QBB not only aims at giving Qatari nationals and residents greater chances of avoiding serious illnesses, but it also aims at safeguarding and promoting better health for future generations.

Accredited medical researchers will have access to the information and samples provided by volunteers and participants. Information about participants is to be treated as con-fidential. Likewise, the data from the findings are strictly privileged and will only be shared if the participant allows this.

Those who are willing to participate must be at least eighteen years old and either Qatari nationals or long-term residents who have lived in Qatar for at least fifteen

years. Currently, there is no upper age limit but the programme planners say that they will extend the invitation to younger generations below eighteen.

Participants will attend a three-hour assessment session after which they will

wide range of different tests. The samples will be processed and stored at QBB’s laboratory.

Each sample is divided into several smaller sections to prepare for on overall freezing process. Processing includes preserving the white cells in such a way that they can be grown, and thus provide more genetic material in the future.

The QBB resource will become increasingly valuable for medical research over the years, so these samples may be kept for many years. During this time, parts of the samples will be used by researchers. At the end of their natural life, all the remaining samples will be securely destroyed.

Over the next few years, research enabled by QBB will show how the health of the

Qatari population is affected by their lifestyle, environment and genes. Therefore, QBB will help improve prevention and treatment of diabetes, heart disease, cancer, obesity and other life-threatening and incurable diseases that affect communities in Qatar.

Biobanking is one of the great healthcare opportunities of our time. The Qatar Biobank has quickly established itself as the most ambitious of its kind in the region. The data from our noble volunteers will be used to help understand how lifestyle, environment and genes affect health locally, and will play a critical role in helping develop treatments and preventing disease for the health of future generations.

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Dr. Hanan Al Kuwari, Chairperson at Qatar Biobank Board of Trustees

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HH Sheikha Moza at the official opening of the Qatar Biobank.

QATAR BIOBANK

QBB not only aims at giving Qatari nationals and residents greater chances of avoiding serious illnesses, but it also aims at safeguarding and promoting better health for future generations.

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QATAR BIOBANK

give their consent to take part and to allow QBB to track and assess their health record for many years to come.

It is important to take precise measure-ments such as height, weight, blood pressure, body composition, heart and lung function before the onset of taking samples. However, the process is run on a purely voluntary basis.

Following the measurement stage, volunteers will have to fill in a questionnaire about their health and lifestyle either using a specially-designed touchscreen computer or with an assistance of a trained interviewer. The questionnaire outcome will be dealt with in the strictest confidence.

QBB is also in alignment with the Qatar National Vision (QNV) 2030, which aims to meet the healthcare challenges of Qatar’s

experienced large scale participation from Qataris and has witnessed a long waiting list of willing and viable participants with a healthy balance of male to female ratio; however the Biobank cannot take more than 24 contributors per day.

On the availability of sufficient medical

researchers, Prof. Nahla said that the

Biobank has received about eighteen

research proposals from Qatar University,

Weil Cornell Medical College in Qatar and

Hamad Hospital.

Before the establishment of the

Biobank, most medical research work

for developing medical treatments had

been done with the use of Western

populations due to a lack of large-scale

research based on Qatari/GCC

population.

The benefits of this Biobank will be felt

in years to come and it will be a priceless

legacy for future generations.

growing population and mandating SCH and HMC to take “proactive measures”.

As one of the Doha-based researchers said, “QBB will help scientists develop ‘smart drugs,’ which are targeted to the individual and are effective treatments for the Qatari population”.

Its success is greatly hinged on positive and effective public interest and engagement since its inception in 2010. Qatar Biobank is in cohorts with Qatar Foundation’s mission which is to ensure that the State of Qatar addresses prevalent national health issues, by enabling research on the risk factors and causes of recurring diseases in Qatar. The Biobank’s public recruitment approach provides a model for public involvement in biomedical research.

Speaking with Prof. Nahla Maher Afifi, MD., (Scientific and Education Manager), she confirmed that the Biobank has

Before the establishment of the Biobank, most medical research work for developing medical treatments had been done with the use of Western populations due to a lack of large-scale research based on Qatari/ GCC population.

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December 2013: Qatar Genome Project (QGP) was launched by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation. Its aim was to take QBB to the next stage. The project would carry out extensive studies on the full individual sequencing of DNA. This would contribute to making personalized healthcare a reality.

23 March-3 April 2014: For 14 days, QBB held booths across campus at Qatar University (QU) to educate the Qatar University community. QBB staff met with students, fellow colleagues and faculty members to talk about QBB’s aligned aims and informed the QU community about the benefits of participating at Qatar Biobank. The students showed enthusiasm to support Qatar Biobank.

Timeline for Qatar Biobank

Efforts were underway to decode the Qatar genome with the launch of the pilot phase.

2012

20132014

By 2018, QBB aims at collecting biological samples from 60,000 Qataris and long-term expatriates from among its participants.

8, 9 February 2015: QBB hosted its inaugural conference that explored the development of Qatar’s healthcare and medical research community, at Qatar National Convention Centre. The conference, titled “Biobanking in the Context of Personalised Healthcare,” gathered local, regional and international experts to discuss the future of personalised healthcare in integration with Biobanking worldwide.

11 February 2015: Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF), officially opened the Qatar Biobank building in Hamad bin Khalifa Medical City.

2015

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THE WAY FORWARD

SPOTLIGHT ON DIABETES

UNDER THE WEIGHT OF DIABETES -

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Diabetes is a complex condition that could lead to severe long-term complications and acute illness. The disease has reached epidemic proportion in Qatar with about 17% of the state’s adult population thought to have diabetes. With recent statistics suggesting that over 70% of the population is overweight and obese raising community awareness of healthy lifestyle practices becomes a vital strategy for reducing the incidence of type2 diabetes in Qatar.

The comfort of modern-day life is fast contributing to the rise in both obesity and diabetes, 80 out of 90% of people with diabetes are also diagnosed as being obese. The excess weight puts an added pressure on the body’s ability to control its blood sugar, thus leading to the use of insulin.

However, the use of insulin in the treatment of diabetes leads to weight gain; the more insulin used to stabilize the body’s blood sugar, the more glucose is absorbed into the cells which is stored as fat, resulting in weight gain… a vicious cycle .

About 5.8% of Qatar’s population is considered to be pre-diabetic.

Also, approximately 10% of pregnant women in Qatar have diabetes. But it is estimated that as many as a third of diabetics are not aware of their disease.

“ “ABOUT 11% OF QATAR’S POPULATION IS CONSIDERED TO BE PREDIABETIC.

ARE YOU AT RISK OF DIABETES? If you notice the following signs, you may be experiencing symptoms of Type2/Type1 diabetes: Extreme thirst, Excessive visits to the bathroom, Feeling tired and drowsy (fatigue)

regularly, Severe Headaches, Blurred vision, Weight loss/weight gain, Slow-healing wounds, Itchy skin (especially of your inner

tights), Recurrent yeast infections, Numb hands and feet.

“ “ABOUT 5.8% OF QATAR’S POPULATION IS CONSIDERED TO BE PREDIABETIC.

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...type2 diabetes is typically a disease with slow progression, and its early stages are usually symptom free.

“ “DO YOU KNOW YOUR HbA1C/A1C?

The Qatar Diabetes Association advises that if you have been diagnosed with the condition, you must know your HbA1C or A1C.

A1C tells you the average level of glucose (sugar) in your blood over the past three months and it is reported as a percentage (for example 7%).

Knowing your A1C tells you about your risk for complications of diabetes, such as blindness, kidney disease and amputations, heart attacks and stroke.

Your risk of complications heightens whenever you have high A1C.

DIABETES CARE CENTRES

In a bid to match the increase in diabetic cases, a world-class treatment center that will provide Qatar’s diabetic population with improved patient care and access to specialized services through a multi-disciplinary approach was opened at the Hamad General Hospital in 2013.

The center also houses research teams who will be studying evidence-based strategies for the treatment and prevention of diabetes and its complications.

The State of Qatar’s world-class treatment center, The National Centre for Diabetes Treatment that provides Qatar’s diabetic population with improved patient care and access to specialized services through a multi-disciplinary approach, was opened in 2013.The diabetes center is located on the second floor of the outpatient department, a first in a chain of diabetic care centers across HMC hospitals that will serve as a one-stop shop in which patients can speak with specialist doctors and nutrition experts, renew prescriptions and learn about how to manage their condition. The facility boasts of a range of services, including foot care, counselling, blood investigation and insulin pump therapy. A second center has been opened in Al Wakrah Hospital, and the openning of the third one in Al Khor hopsital is on its way.

Prediabetes occurs as a result of a buildup of sugar in the blood and leads to type2 diabetes which is a direct effect of your body’s blood sugar staying too high for too long.

A fasting blood sugar level less than 100mg/dL (5.6mmo1/L) is considered normal; 100 to 125mg/dL is prediabetic; 126mg/dL or higher means you have full blown diabetes (Type 2/Type1).

If your blood sugar levels are always above target level, you stand a risk of damaging your blood vessels and nerves (Neuropathy) and this could lead to a buildup of Plaque which increases your risk of coronary heart disease, heart attack or even stroke.

HEALTH RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH DIABETES

The seriousness of the health impact is often not appreciated, this is because type2 diabetes is typically a disease with slow progression, and its early stages are usually symptom free.

Diabetes is not as dramatic as cancer or heart disease, but its repercussions in the longer term are extremely serious. Diabetes doubles the risk of coronary

heart disease in men, and quadruples it among women. Stroke in people with diabetes is three

times higher than in people without diabetes. Diabetes is the leading cause of end

stage renal disease. Diabetic retinopathy accounts for 5

percent of all cases of blindness globally. Someone with diabetes is at more than

25 times greater risk of limb amputation than someone without diabetes.

As a result of these complications, diabetes can reduce a person’s life expectancy by up to 10 years, and according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) there were around 5 million deaths in 2014 as a result of diabetes and its related diseases. Nearly half of these deaths were of people aged under 60.


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REDUCE YOUR RISKS OF DEVELOPING DIABETES

Think Milk - a 2010 study from Harvard found that those who drink more milk have a 60% chance of reducing the risk of developing type2 diabetes.

Tea Party - Recent research shows that a daily consumption of chamomile tea reduces complications of diabetes.

Juice your Aloe Vera - an Indian University (Majodol) in 1996, discovered that Aloe Vera possessed anti-diabetic effects.

Coffee Breaks - drinking several cups of black coffee a day can reduce your overall risk of developing diabetes by 30%, according to a new research.

Loose the Weight - Losing weight through a healthy diet and exercise reduces the risk of diabetes.

Just Move - reduced activity fuels your risk of type2 diabetes. A brisk 30-minute walk cuts your risk of developing the condition by 30%.

STEM CELLS - THE FUTURE OF DIABETES TREATMENTIn 2014, researchers at Qatar Biomedical Research Institute (QBRI) achieved an important scientific breakthrough in diabetes research via the development of specialized Stem Cells.

The research showed that stem cells could be used in the secretion of insulin and help control blood sugar. People living with diabetes generally have a

high blood sugar level due to the inability of the pancreas to produce sufficient insulin.

This is a major milestone for Qatar in its quest for becoming world leaders in diabetic research.

QBRI was established in 2012 as a member of Qatar Foundation Research and Development, concentrating on developing plans for research and treatment methodologies for diabetes and cancer in the first five years of its operation.

The stem cell research was ongoing at both the clinical laboratories in Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar and Qatar Science and Technology Park. This stem cell treatment will be the first of its kind in therapies for diabetes.

It is believed that this research will lead the initiative for the treatment of many other diseases with stem cells.

Stem cell treatment would eventually eliminate the need for insulin injections commonly administered to diabetic patients, after the final certification of results. It would make medication obsolete as well. Stem cells to be used in the treatment of diabetes can be acquired from the patient’s blood or from any external donor.

With diabetes being a major challenging disease in the Qatari population, stem cells and regenerative medicine offer hope to many afflicted individuals.

Stem cell treatment would eventually eliminate the need for insulin injections...“ “


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QATAR DIETARY GUIDELINES

IN ACHIEVING A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE

A MILESTONE

SINCE THE RELEASE OF THE QATAR DIETARY GUIDELINES AT A TWO-DAY CONFERENCE HELD BY THE SUPREME COUNCIL OF HEALTH (SCH) IN APRIL 2015, THE FRAMEWORK HAS OFFERED VALUABLE INSIGHTS AND GUIDANCE FOR HEALTHY EATING FOR THE FIRST TIME IN A GCC COUNTRY. WE DISCUSS DIFFERENT ASPECTS AND TIPS OF THE GUIDELINES TO ACHIEVE AN OVERALL HEALTHY LIFESTYLE.

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As part of the National Health Strategy of reducing morbidity and mortality attributable to “chronic non-com-municable diseases (NCDs) in the State of Qatar,” the Dietary Guidelines aims at reducing rates of obesity and overweight, increasing rates of physical activity, and enhancing nutritional status. Moreover, the development of the Guidelines supports and fosters healthy lifestyle patterns to accomplish the objectives of health, nutrition and physical activity within fundamental building blocks.

Since the 1992 International Conference on Nutrition in Rome, Italy, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Health Organization (WHO) adopted the term of Dietary Guidelines through the determination of the lifestyle patterns that are associated with diet-related diseases. They can be a useful tool in educating the public in healthy eating and prevention of diet-related chronic diseases. This conference recommended that individual countries should develop simple Dietary Guidelines that are based on their specific public health concerns and relevant to people of different ages, lifestyles, and cultures. The concept of food-based Dietary Guidelines has come to light and was promoted by the SCH. These Guidelines take into consideration the sociocultural status and nutritional problems in Qatar.

Qatar has undergone a rapid change in its socio-economic situation, food consumption patterns, lifestyle and health status during the past three decades, what took place thanks in part to the sharp increase in income levels. Conversely, communicable diseases have almost diminished and diet-related chronic diseases have become the main health problems.

DEVELOPING METHODS FOR DIETARY GUIDELINES IN QATAR

Qatar faces great challenges to prevent and control several nutritional problems and diet-related chronic diseases. Two types of nutritional and health problems occur: those associated with change in lifestyle, such as obesity, cardiovascular

disease, diabetes, hypertension, cancer, dental caries, and osteoporosis and those associated with nutrient deficiencies, such as iron deficiency anemia and deficiencies of vitamin D and calcium. In addition, food-borne diseases are a problem of concern in these countries. Therefore, the need for simple Dietary Guidelines to address the burden of these diseases is urgent, especially as some of them contribute to more than 50% of total mortality in the GCC region.

In addition to the changes in food consumption patterns, other changes in lifestyle, are also apparent and include smoking and a decrease in physical activity. The increase in sedentary lifestyles is mainly due to the abundant use of cars, dependency on housemaids for home management, as well as due to spending a long time watching television and using the Internet, particularly by

children, teenagers, and young people. In addition to addressing the prevention

and control of the main nutritional problems and diet-related diseases in Qatar, the Guidelines are based on affordable and available foods, which are commonly consumed by the public, focusing on traditional foods. It also consider the cultural and religious background of the population in Qatar given that Islamic law is applicable here. It promotes a healthy lifestyle, especially the importance of physical activity and it is being based on current scientific and health information.

There has been a drastic change in food consumption patterns in Qatar and the region. This change includes both quantitative and qualitative change in diet. The structure of diet has shifted


Development of Qatar Dietary Guidelines supports and fosters healthy lifestyle patterns to accomplish the objectives of health, nutrition and physical activity within fundamental building blocks.

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“ “Legumes are a rich source of protein, some vitamins, and minerals, and dietary fiber.

towards high-energy-density meals with more fat and added sugar in foods, more saturated fat (mostly from animal origin) and lower intake of complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, fruit, and vegetables. For example, the total per capita energy intake exceeds 3000 kcal in all Arab Gulf countries, and the fat represents 25–35% of total energy.

Food rich in salt is highly consumed in the region. The high use of table salt, spices, and pickles, in addition to the salinity of water are contributing factors for the high intake of sodium in these countries. Among children and adolescents, the high consumption of fast foods and French fries is playing a great role in the increasing intake of sodium among these age groups. High intake of foods rich in added sugar, particularly among children

and adolescents, has been reported by many studies in the region.

Although Qatar enjoys a sunny en-vironment all year long, vitamin D deficiency is one of the main public health problems. Studies in Qatar revealed that 69% (an example), of children below sixteen years had vitamin D deficiency.

The change in dietary habits, lifestyle, and life expectancy in Qatar and the region has led to a remarkable change in disease trends. Diet-related chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes mellitus, hypertension, obesity, cancer, dental caries, and osteoporosis have become the main health problems. Additionally, overweight and obesity have become epidemic among all age groups in Qatar, responsible for increased morbidity. Inactivity, high consumption of high-energy-density foods and long duration of watching television or using the Internet were reported as contributing factors for high prevalence of obesity.

Food-borne diseases in Qatar and the region are mainly caused by bacteria, specifically salmonellosis, Hepatitis A, shigellosis, and poisoning with staphylococcus.

The Guidelines advise about eating a variety of different foods on a daily basis. The human body needs more than 40 nutrients to maintain good health and prevent disease. Therefore, increasing the variety of foods consumed is important to ensure an adequacy to intake of these nutrients in our meals, breakfast, lunch, supper, and snacks.

The Guidelines also advise that fruit and vegetables should comprise a basic part of the daily diet to maintain a healthy body. They also contend that meat, fish, and poultry are the main source of dietary balanced protein and are rich in essential nutrients, especially iron, zinc, and other vitamins. Many of the expatriates, frequently suffer from anemia, mainly iron deficiency anemia.

... 69% of children below 16 years had vitamin D deficiency.“

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Meat, fish, and chicken are good sources of good absorbable iron. At the same time, red meat consumption should be restricted and putting a limit to the intake of processed meat products that are rich in fat and salt such as sausages and mortadella should be exercised.

Legumes are a rich source of protein, some vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Legumes include, among others, beans, lentils, cowpeas, kidney beans, lupine, green peas, and soybeans. On the other hand, unsalted and unroasted nuts such as walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, and pine nuts, as well as seeds such as watermelon seeds, muskmelon, and sunflower are very rich sources of energy for their high fat content.

The Guidelines advises everyone to try to concentrate on foods based on whole grains especially bread, biscuits, and other bakery products. Cereal-based foods such as cakes, biscuits, and pastries, which can have high levels of added fats and sugars are not included in this recommendation and should be regarded as occasional treats only.

Milk and dairy products, which contain

many essential nutrients, are important for the body and for its development. The Guidelines say that dairy products are the best source of calcium, which is vital to strengthen bones and for a healthy nervous system.

The consumption of milk and dairy products is important for building a healthy body, particularly during childhood and adolescence. For those who are allergic to milk or who are intolerant to lactose, low-fat yogurt or cheese, and other non-dairy products like hummus or broccoli are suitable substitute for milk.

Many foods and traditional dishes consumed in Qatar and the region are known for their considerable high fat content. Fat provides energy, essential fatty acids are necessary for development and fat helps in the absorption of certain vitamins. Nevertheless, moderate intakes of fat should always be maintained by selecting healthy food like olive oil instead of butter or margarine.

Overconsumption of food rich in sugar leads to an increase in energy intake, which contributes to an increase in your weight. In the same vein, the Guidelines suggest that teeth

be cleaned immediately after eating such foods especially among children in Qatar.

Many Qatari traditional dishes, canned, and fast foods contain high amounts of salt. Studies show that an over-intake of sodium is associated with high blood pressure, strokes, and contributes to heart attacks, heart failure, and kidney failure. The Guidelines recommend that the amount of salt does not exceed 5 g per day. To achieve low intake of salt, people should consume fresh foods, foods normally processed without salt, and add low salt or avoid addition of salt to food.

The Dietary Guidelines advises about frequent intakes of water (8-12 glasses a day) and other liquids as water is an essential nutrient for life. It accounts for more than 60% of our bodies and plays important roles in digestion, absorption, and transportation of nutrients in the body, as well as for elimination of waste products and thermoregulation.

The quantity of water consumed may differ from one person to another. Factors like body size, weather, physical activity, and individual differences have an effect on the body’s need for fluids. However, intake of fluids containing added sugar

A study by Dr. Barbara Ann Seed, former Nutrition Policies and Programs Coordinator at SCH, highlighted the SCH’s commitment to “educating the population about the relevance and importance of these principles and establishing champions to advocate for them”.

Many foods and traditional dishes consumed in Qatar and the region are known for their considerable high fat content.

“ “


sch.gov.qa 21

should be avoided as much as possible.

Obesity has become an epidemic in Qatar and the region during the last two decades. The more weight a person has the more the chances of developing hypertension, cardiovascular disease, hyper-cholesterolemia, and certain kinds of cancers, osteoarthritis and other respiratory problems.

The major health objective of the Dietary Guidelines therefore is to maintain a weight that sustains a healthy life and prevent extra weight gain. The way to achieve a healthy body weight is to balance intake of food and drinks with physical activity.

The findings of the Guidelines show that inactivity is one of the main factors contributing to high prevalence of obesity in Qatar that children and adolescents have become less active. These findings correspond with studies in Arab Gulf countries indicating that a serious decline in physical activity especially among women and adults. Making physical activity a part of our daily routine and maintenance of optimum weight are two important issues for good health and both can benefit your health in different ways.

The current Dietary Guidelines are useful guides for the Qatari community to promote healthy eating and lifestyle to reduce the incidence of nutrition-related diseases among residents and nationals. The SCH pledges to revise these Guidelines periodically (every 3 to 5 years) with the change of scientific evidence and research regarding the risk factors for nutrition-related diseases.

RESEARCH ON DIETARY GUIDELINES

In a research paper titled “Sustainability in the Qatar national Dietary Guidelines, among the first to incorporate sustainability principles,” Dr. Barbara Ann Seed, former Nutrition Policies and Programs Coordinator at SCH, concluded that the SCH and the dietary Guidelines “task force” would determine how the population in Qatar would embrace the

principles found in the Guidelines. The study also highlighted the SCH’s commitment to “educating the population about the relevance and importance of these principles and establishing champions to advocate for them”. It is noteworthy that Dr. Seed’s paper aimed to “present one of the first national Dietary Guidelines that incorporate food sustainability principles into its public health recommendations”.

sch.gov.qa


22

INTERVIEW - SHEIKHA DR. AL ANOUD AL-THANI

Sheikha Dr. Al Anoud Bint Mohammed Al Thani, Director of Health Promotion and Non-Communicable Diseases, Pub- lic Health Department, Supreme Council of Health, presented a detailed ex-planation about the Dietary Guidelines for Nutrition in the State of Qatar. DR. Al Anoud showed the stages undergone by the project since its inception in addition to highlighting components of the Guidelines in an exclusive interview with Qatar Health.Dr. Al Anoud has also pointed out that the Guidelines explain using pictures and illustrations of food that should be

which we are used to and that it is in the form of a shell.Dr. Sheikha Al Anoud Bin Mohammed Al Thani: Yes, the Dietary Guidelines represent an integrated concept. Therefore, we have chosen the form of the “shell” in order to reflect this concept in nutrition.

Qatar Health: After the release of Qatar Dietary guidelines, in what way do Dr. Al Alnoud think that these guidelines could serve in the fight against non-communicable diseases? Are you optimistic?

consumed as well as the quantities of each type of food, vegetables and fruits. Dr. Al Anoud noted that the guidelines also provide tips and recommendations on what foods that should be avoided or minimized. She also said that they make the provision of general advice about food associated with a healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Al Anoud also indicated that Guidelines booklet contains a copy with references and bibliography for the benefit of academics in various fields.

Qatar Health: I noticed that the shape of the paradigm is not indicative of the pyramid,

SHEIKHA DR. AL ANOUD AL-THANI GIVES US SOME INSIGHT INTO THE QATAR DIETARY GUIDELINES.

HEALTHY EATING, HEALTHY LIVING

sch.gov.qa 23

Dr. Sheikha Al Anoud Bin Mohammed Al Thani: Yes, I am very optimistic about the successful application of these Guidelines. The guidelines are an important part of the Qatar National Nutrition and Physical Activity Action Plan for 2011-2016. We have adopted nutrition studies in Europe and the Gulf States. Additionally, we have adopted the World Health Organization Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean Guide.

Exhibiting behaviours that are consistent with the Dietary Guidelines helps in reducing risk factors for non-communicable chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer.

The Dietary Guidelines booklet includes tips and recommendations about the importance of eating healthy foods of the six food groups and maintaining a healthy weight, in addition to reducing foods that are high in sugar, salt and fat. Regular physical activity, consuming sufficient amounts of water, ensuring the safety, cleanliness of ways to prepare foods, healthy eating and environmental conservation are all under the umbrella of the Qatar Dietary Guidelines.

Qatar Health: Dr. Al Anoud supervised the 2012 survey on Chronic Disease Risk Factor Surveillance; could you give me a note on the report? Is it annual? In other words, do you think Qatar needs an update?

Dr. Sheikha Al Anoud Bin Mohammed Al Thani: The world health survey results in the

There are also other non-Qatari surveys such as the survey on food consumption. Such surveys are due every five years. The next survey will be conducted in 2016-2017.

Qatar Health “It’s an epidemic in Qatar,” you explained regarding the implication of diabetes and its association with non-communicable diseases “among the five major causes of death in Qatar”. You also said, “Injuries are the first cause of mortality, then chronic cardiac disease, then cancer, then endocrine diseases, especially diabetes”. Have you noted any improvements in people’s awareness since then?

Dr. Sheikha Al Anoud Bin Mohammed Al Thani: Of course, we have improved the awareness of individuals, Qataris and non-Qataris, regarding diabetes. However, some individuals lacked the extent and method of preventing this disease. The Qatar Dietary Guidelines were built on Aspetar’s Sports Guidelines, among several others. The Qatar Dietary Guidelines also contain their own directory for exercise.

Qatar Health: Dr. Al Anoud delivered a speech - “An Overview of the Qatar Dietary Guidelines” during the conference on Qatar Dietary Guidelines held on 8-9 April, what is your conclusion regarding the guidelines mechanism and modus operandi?

Dr. Sheikha Al Anoud Bin Mohammed Al Thani: The Qatar Dietary Guidelines represent an integrated mechanism and a clear plan during a year, which includes workshops, media coverage, question-and-answer sessions, and test samples and questionnaires and surveys in the gathering places such as mosques.The Qatar Dietary Guidelines have been taught to university students and integrated in their curricula. With the launch of the first faculty of medicine Qatar Dietary Guidelines will have the greatest impact in the community.

State of Qatar, held in 2006 in collaboration with the World Health Organization, showed that more than two-thirds of adults (67.8%) are either overweight or obese and more than half (56%) do not have the recommended levels of physical activity by the World Health Organization (WHO). It should be at a rate of 150 minutes per week of moderate physical activity. Additionally, 81.7% of respondents in this health survey do not consume the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables, and 11% use tobacco daily of various types. All these factors are the main risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The survey results also showed that 10% of the sample also had high blood pressure and a blood lab tests showed that 10% of the sample have ill glucose prediabetes. Therefore, we need valid data for the formulation of health policy and monitor the tendency of these diseases in the community.

Statistics showed in 2008 in the State of Qatar that the main causes of death are external causes of death, which include accidents and injuries at work, which claim the lives of twenty people per 100,000 of population, followed by diseases of the circulatory system, causing 19.4 deaths per 100,000 of the population. Different types of tumours are the third leading cause of death and kill 12.0 people per 100,000 of the population.

We have tested the messages at the beginning of the National Health Strategy in 2011 on Qataris between the ages of 18-64. Data and samples were collected in a very structured way using Personal Digital Assistants (PDA) for the first time in the Gulf.

I am very optimistic about the successful application of these Guidelines. The guidelines are an important part of the Qatar National Nutrition and Physical Activity Action Plan.

“ “

INTERVIEW - SHEIKHA DR. AL ANOUD AL-THANI

24

HEAT STROKE: CHALLENGES AND THE FUTURE

A HEATED MATTER...

THE SUMMER SEASON USHERS IN A SEVERE CLIMATE CHANGE WITH

INCREASED HEAT WAVES AND TEMPERATURES RISING ABOVE 40

DEGREES CELCIUS.

24

sch.gov.qa 25

is administered. It advises that anyone suspected with this condition should not be sent home or left unattended unless that action has been approved by a doctor.

OTHER SUPREME COUNCIL OF HEALTH INITIATIVES:

1. The SCH issues full color illustrated

brochures and multilingual pamphlets

in many languages such as Urdu

and English in addition to Arabic,

to promote drinking water habits at

frequent intervals.

2. Wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT),

a composite temperature is applied

by a wide array of industrial hygienists,

athletes, the military and other

institutions to estimate the effect of

temperature, humidity, and infrared

radiation (usually sunlight) on humans,

which determines appropriate

exposure levels to high temperatures.

It is derived from the following formula:

WBGT = 0.7T+ 0.2T+ 0.1Td g w

Where:

Tw = Natural wet-bulb temperature

(combined with dry-bulb temperature

indicates humidity)

Tg = Globe thermometer temperature

(measured with a globe thermometer,

also known as a black globe

thermometer)

Td = Dry-bulb temperature (actual air

temperature)

Indoors, or when solar radiation is

negligible, the following formula is often

used:

WBGT = 0.7T+ 0.3Tgw

Medically, Heat Stroke occurs when the

body temperature is greater than 40

Celsius degrees leading to complications

involving the central nervous system,

resulting from exposure to high

temperatures. This condition progresses

from heat-related illnesses such as heat

cramps, heat syncope (fainting), heat

exhaustion. A major cause of the condition

is the prolonged exposure to high

temperatures coupled with dehydration,

leading to a breakdown of the body’s

temperature control system due to loss of

minerals and body fluids.

The main symptoms of heat stress

exhaustion as those that include heavy

sweating and rapid pulse conditions

caused by an overheated body

Heat stress disorders also cover the

following symptoms; heat cramps, heat

rash, heat stroke, and heat exhaustion.

Signs of heat exhaustion may develop

suddenly or overtime, especially with

prolonged periods of working under high

humidity or rigorous exercise.

POSSIBLE HEAT EXHAUSTION SYMPTOMS MAY INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: Heavy sweating,

Moist and cool skin with goose pimples when in the heat,

Weak, rapid pulse,

Faintness,

Fatigue; dizziness,

Low blood pressure upon standing,

Muscle cramps,

Headache,

Nausea.

TREATMENT OF HEAT EXHAUSTIONCasualties of heat exhaustion should

swiftly be administered first-aid.

The SCH also advises the following:

1. Call 999,

2. Help the casualty to cool off by;

Moving the patient to a cool place,

Drink cool water,

Remove unnecessary clothing or just loosen the victim’s clothes,

Shower or sponge with cool water.

The SCH also defines heat stroke as a condition whereby the body can no longer cool itself and the body temperature rises to critical levels

Other primary signs and symptoms of heat

stroke may include the following:

Confusion,

Irrational behavior,

Loss of consciousness,

Convulsions,

Lack of sweating,

Hot, dry, reddened skin,

Abnormally high body temperature for example 41 degrees celsius.

TREATMENT OF HEAT STROKEFor anyone showing signs/symptoms of heat

stroke, the SCH advises the following:

1. Call 999,

2. Provide immediate, aggressive, general cooling;

• Immerse victim in a tub of cool water,

• Place in cool shower,

• Spray with cool water from a hose,

• Wrap the affected person in cool wet sheets and fan rapidly,

3. Transport victim to hospital,

4. Do not give anything orally to an unconscious victim.

The Supreme Council of Health warns that heat stroke can be fatal even after first aid

HEAT STROKE: CHALLENGES AND THE FUTURE

26

SUPREME COUNCIL OF HEALTH REPORT 2014

Qatar’s Supreme Council of Health was vested with enhanced decision-making resources to undertake rapid reforms and meet the Qatar National Vision 2030 for world-class care. Its duties include, but are not limited to, regulating and monitoring the country’s health system, funding Qatar Council for Healthcare Practitioners, providing public health testing, funds and supervising Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) and Hamad Medical Corporation.

In the latest report a summarized progress of the Supreme Council of Health (SCH) against over four hundred national reforms targets, highlights advances in areas such as expansion, remodeling and quality of healthcare services in Qatar.

One of the major achievements in 2014 was the completion of an average of 55 % of the outputs of the National Health Strategy 2011-2016 projects and exceeding several 2016 targets, such as ambulance response rates, and vacancy rates. 2014 was also

the year when SCH provided 38 million free healthcare services to all resident, completed seven facility projects, and advanced the construction of over seventy new facilities and forty-five renovation projects.

In the ‘Facilities’ section of the report we can read about the Supreme Council of Health licensing over two hundred private sector facilities in 2014, which was 46% higher than in 2013 and the largest since 2011. This was necessary in order to

EVERY YEAR SUPREME COUNCIL OF HEALTH ISSUES AN ANNUAL REPORT

PROVIDING AN UPDATE ON THE REFORMS BEING UNDERTAKEN BY THE

COUNCIL AND ALL PARTNERS.

OFFICIALLY ON PAPER

26

sch.gov.qa 27

bridge the gap highlighted in the Qatar Healthcare Facilities Master Plan 2013-2033 and encourage healthy competition for improved healthcare outcome. SCH also informs about renovations being completed for five healthcare facilities in 2014 and opening of two others, among which was the Interim Translational Research Institute, which comprises research and consulting suites, DNA extraction, cell cultural labs and genomics, proteomics and generic wet labs.

As per the information included in the ‘Workforce’ section of the 2014 report, the SCH updated and expanded its National Healthcare Workforce Plan (NHS 4.1) where Qatarization continued to be the focus of recruitment and retention leading towards an SCH Qatarization plan, which is expected in 2015 (NHS 5.14). Qatari physicians were sponsored by the Primary Health Care Corporation for specialized fellowship and the nursing leaders were provided with a leadership program.

Also, according to the report, the Supreme Council of Health launched the new National Health Insurance Scheme (NHS 6.3), ahead of schedule for stage 2 of the National Health Insurance Scheme (Seha), which extended membership to all nationals for a broad set of services at both public and private providers. Under Seha, the government funds the cost of care for nationals and co-funds with employers the cost of care for non-nationals.

Another feature of the SCH 2014 report stated that a tender for a five-year preventive

health strategy, preventive health evaluation system and review of the current preventive health governance structure was issued as the SCH is strengthening its preventive health governance to coordinate and evaluate national activities (NHS 3.1).

Owing to the current reality of the rise in obesity and diabetes in the State of Qatar, nutrition and physical activity have been the focal points for achieving a decrease in the prevalence of obesity, of which the SCH seeks to reduce by 3% by 2016 and prevent Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs). As a result, it expanded the “We Are Healthy Kids” awareness program, reaching 10,280 students, a 47% annual increase and conducted training for two hundred fifty nurses in over one hundred twenty schools (NHS 3.2).

The report further recorded that the Primary Healthcare Corporation piloted a new antenatal care model in six health centers, including a new package of care, disease screening and guidelines.

It developed bilingual education materials, including for breastfeeding, and completed the postnatal service redesign (NPHCS 37,41). It introduced 6 new screening guidelines on developmental delays, autism spectrum disorder, anemia, hip dislocation, vision and hearing problems (NPHCS 42). It also provided pharmaceutical safety training to staff at all health centers, including on medication reconciliation and patient allergy checks.

Podiatry services and more staff were added to the specialized Multidisciplinary Diabetes Centre in Hamad General Hospital, which provides a comprehensive range of diabetes

An annual platform for safety innovation, Qatar Patient Safety Week, was held by the SCH where it launched the WHO Patient Safety Friendly Hospital Initiative to promote international safety standards...

“ “Qatar Outpatient Activity 2011


sch.gov.qa 27

٪٣٩

٪٢٧

٪٣٣٪٢

39%

27%

33%

2%

áë°ü∏d ≈∏YC’G ¢ù∏éŸG

á«dhC’Gá«ë°üdG ájÉYôdG á°ù°SDƒe

á«Ñ£dGóªM á°ù°SDƒe

iôNCG

SCH

PHCC

HMC

Other

39%

27%

33%

2%

28


care services set up to manage the condition and its complications, making diabetes management convenient for patients, followed by the Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) Qatar’s first symposium on childhood diabetes.

The ‘Hospital Care’ section of the reports states that 2014 witnessed a 20% increase in the number of people coming forward to register as organ donors, and a 50% increase in the number of organ transplant.

Furthermore the ‘Treatment Abroad’

category updates on the new national policies and an electronic application process being developed by Supreme Council of Health, which will be piloted in HMC and SCH in early 2015 for those seeking healthcare abroad.

The SCH’s focus on safety and reliability of practitioners were reflected in almost two thousand verifications of already licensed practitioners conducted by the Qatar Council of Healthcare Practitioners (QCHP) last year; it completed procedures for applying continuing education requirements during re-licensing to upgrade practitioner skill sets

(NHS 5.2).As part of Supreme Council of

Health efforts towards improving the quality of care, which constitutes the third reform area, the SCH conducted more than three hundred facility inspections, 34% more than in 2013 and successfully supported private hospitals in obtaining international accreditation (NHS 5.3).

An annual platform for safety innovation, Qatar Patient Safety Week, was held by the SCH where it launched

28

Current and Future Model of Care in the Expansion area of the SCH reform.

sch.gov.qa 29

the World Health Organizaation (WHO) Patient Safety Friendly Hospital Initiative to promote international safety standards (NHS 2.1). 2015 will herald the region’s first annual conference of The International Society for Quality in Healthcare, a leading standard assurance organization, for discussions and solutions to safety challenges.

As part of the involvement strategy the SCH increased publications, events, media interviews, press releases and external event sponsorship by 36%, it also launched a website which received the highest accessibility ranking by the Qatar Assistive Technology Centre, an independent organization for connecting people with disabilities to information technology, also, the launch of the Government Health Communication Centre project which is a new portal for patient feedback, received 210% more feedback than it did in 2013.

World’s Fastest Growing Countries, 2003-2013

World’s Highest Migrant Countries, 2013

In 2014, the SCH and its partners opened 2 new facilities and completed renovations to 5 others.

1. The SCH opened on schedule the Central Food Laboratory’s Abu Samra Branch, situated in a busy land border post. This received the largest number of shipments among all branches in 2014.

2. The HMC opened on schedule the Enaya Specialized Care Facility, a long-term care facility. This received the region’s first accreditation through the Joint Commission

International (JCI) long-term care standards.3. The SCH completed on schedule the interim relocation

of the Drug Quality Control Laboratory. It now incorporates some of the latest and most efficient chromatography testing systems.

4. The PHCC completed on schedule renovations to the Al Ghuwairiya health center. This included the installation of computerized maintenance systems to streamline working processes.

5. The PHCC completed on schedule renovations to the Al Karaana health center. This included the installation security system upgrades to enhance patient safety.

6. The HMC completed on schedule the expansion to the Heart Hospital’s Emergency Department. Now totaling 697 meters square, it added a congestive heart failure unit and three bays for recliner beds.

7. The HMC opened on schedule the Interim Translational Research Institute. This comprises research and consulting suites, DNA extraction and cell culture labs, and genomics, proteomics and generic wet labs.

NEW FACILITIES

HMC Translational Research Institute, Doha, 2014

HMC Enaya Specialized Care Facility, Doha, 2014

HMC Enaya Specialized Care Facility, Doha, 2014 SCH Interim Drug Quality Control Laboratory, Doha, 2014


12


HMC Women’s Wellness and Research Center, Doha, 2016

SCH naufar Center, Al Rayyan, 2016

HMC Central Laboratory Tower, Doha, 2018 HMC Specialist Clinical Center, Doha, 2018

HMC Translational Research Institute, Doha, 2017

SCH naufar Center, Al Rayyan, 2016

17

HMC Women’s Wellness and Research Center, Doha, 2016

sch.gov.qa 29


30


Guidelines for the ethical research in genomic medicine and policies for accessing data and biological samples stored at Qatar Biobank were completed in 2014 by the SCH (NHS 2.4, 7.1). It also began the development of the National e-Health Strategy to fully digitize the health economy, this will establish robust information technology and develop novel national e-health standards.

In order to promote efficiency and improve the national workforce productivity, the Qatar Council for Healthcare Practitioners launched E-Jaza, a national system for the electronic entry of sick leaves, against standardized codes and standard

establish a Qatar National Screening Committee to give clear guidelines on screening, training and support of community pharmacists so they can play a role in cancer awareness, prevention and early detention, among other things.

Finally the report highlighted that under the Qatar National Mental Health Strategy 2013-2018, they pledged to; make mental health information resources widely available, provide a coordinated multi-sectoral approach to mental health development and planning, ensuring mental health research evidence translates into improvements in clinical practice and patient outcomes.

leave allowances for each diagnosis, which will regulate and simplify sick leave issuance and minimize fraud. To motivate staff, the SCH doubled scholarships and developed performance incentives and inducted 63% more new employees than the previous year to quickly familiarize them with workloads in order to maximize the productivity of human resources (NHS 5.1).

Expansion of facilities in remote and growing areas are underway by the SCH and its partners so as to ensure equitable geographic access.

The National Cancer Strategy 2011-2016 made a number of recommendations which includes; education sessions on cancer at schools; begin building a new cancer hospital within the next five years;



HMC HGH Trauma and Emergency Expansion, Doha, 2018 HMC HGH Trauma and Emergency Expansion, Doha, 2018


20


3030

sch.gov.qa 31

STROKE- When least expected

A stroke can happen in flash and without any warning. We look at ways to assist should you

ever face this ordeal as well as the symptoms to detect during or before a seizure.

STROKE - WHEN LEAST EXPECTED

sch.gov.qa 31

32

may lose the ability to speak at all even while still in a conscious state.

Time – it is imperative to dial 999 immediately if you see any of these signs or symptoms.

In some cases, these Symptoms may disappear in a flash, even before the paramedics arrive, this is however not a good sign as it signifies that you have had a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) placing you at risk of having a full stroke in the near future.

The progression of stroke symptoms depends largely on the part of your brain affected and the extent of the damage.

People living with diabetes, high blood pressure, people who are obese or have a high cholesterol level,are at a higher risk of falling victims to stroke.

A stroke occurs when the blood supply transporting oxygen and other important nutrients, to the brain, is impeded or cut off, caused by a blood clot, leading to a partial/total shut down of the brain- the body’s power house. Blood clots are formed around the arteries that have over time been blocked by plaques (fat deposits).

The prevalence of the condition is fast reaching an alarming rate all around the world, its fatality is overwhelming, leaving victims with one or more forms of deformity.

As a result of the increase in cases of stroke in the state of Qatar, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) recently launched a new campaign highlighting the symptoms of a stroke and the importance of quickly seeking help as brain attacks are silent and basically painless.

Prompt action and a swift call for help could save the life of a stroke victim.

The first phase of the campaign will run until Ramadan and will feature radio and television commercials, newspaper adverts, print media and online, and campaign messaging in shopping malls.

SYMPTOMS OF STROKE- think F.A.S.T

There are four basic warning signs for detecting a probable stroke victim:

Face – the face may have sagged to one side, making the patient unable to smile or their mouth or eye may have dropped.

Arms – the person experiences numbness in one or both arms and may not be able to lift up their hands for long periods.

Speech – a rapid speech impediment also occurs and he or she begins to jumble words, in extreme cases the victim

According to the World Health Organization (WHO) Statistics, 6.2 million people die due to stroke each year, equating to one death every 10 seconds.

“ “

Several other symptoms of a Stroke include:

Total paralysis of one side of the body,

Hazy vision,

Lightheadedness,

Disorientation,

Slow comprehension,

Problems with balance and co-

ordination,

Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia),

A sudden and very severe headache

resulting in a blinding pain unlike

anything experienced before,

Loss of consciousness.


sch.gov.qa 33


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A less common type of stroke is the Haemorrhagic stroke which occurs when a blood vessel within the skull bursts and bleeds into the brain and its surroundings. This is largely caused by high blood pressure, which naturally weakens the arteries in the brain making them liable to burst or rupture.

WHO IS AT RISK OF A STROKE?

A sedentary lifestyle that involves little or no exercise, being overweight, consuming high amounts of alcohol, and stress, puts you on the “potential-stroke-victim” list. Age, heredity, race, and gender can also increase one’s risk as well.

The world-wide obesity epidemic is sadly causing a shift in the age burden of the disease as reports of the condition in the young and middle-aged is on the rise.

Lastly, a gradual switch to a healthier and more active way of living could significantly reduce your risk of developing a stroke in your lifetime.

AFTERMATH OF STROKE

Like most brain injuries, stroke patients experience several changes in their emotional and behavioral mood which are sometimes harder to detect physically.

In the event that a stroke patient goes into a comatose state, there is every tendency that they are likely to experience post-traumatic amnesia when consciousness is regained, causing them to speak in unassimilable manner with an inability to understand spoken words or to recognize familiar faces. Cognitive mental skills responsible for thinking, memory, understanding, concentration and language could also become affected.

STROKE TREATMENT

It is clear that a fast and specialized medical intervention is paramount to a

successful treatment for patients.

There is no tailor-made stroke treatment as this will be determined by the type of stroke the patient has.

In general, most stroke medications are targeted towards the removal of blood clots and the reduction of blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

However, in extreme cases, surgery

may be necessary in treating swelling in the brain to reduce the risk of excessive bleeding, in the event of a hemorrhagic stroke.

Once a stroke has occurred, a rehabilitation team tries to help regain lost skills and allow the brain to repair and retrain itself as much as possible, but long-term effects cannot be ruled out; hence, prevention is the best form of treatment.


qatar health magazine - issue 8 - april-may 2015

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