Health Pulse

Tobacco kills half of its users and 90% of tobacco smokers are addicted by the age of 25. Tobacco use is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory diseases, which are top causes of death in Qatar.         

Policy efforts, tobacco cessation, stakeholder engagement and education remain paramount for public health and healthcare in Qatar. Tobacco users are encouraged to visit tobacco cessation clinics in PHCC or HMC.         

Non-tobacco users can play a role by encouraging family members and friends to seek professional support.         

For more information, please contact:
Dr. Mohammed Al-Hamdani
Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences
Email: malhamdani@qu.edu.qa
         

Common Signs of TB            

• A cough that lasts for weeks (sometimes with blood)
• Fever
• Night sweats
• Unexplained weight loss
• Feeling very tired

How to Protect Yourself and Others            

• Vaccination: The BCG vaccine helps protect against TB.
• Early Detection: If you have symptoms, get tested and treated quickly.
• Avoid Close Contact: Stay away from people with active TB until they are treated.

Qatar’s Commitment to TB Prevention            

• Treatment success rate above 90%, surpassing the global average of 86%
• Mandatory TB screening for 1.7 million expatriates entering Qatar annually
• Free screening, diagnosis, and treatment for all residents
• Awareness campaigns and early detection initiatives
• One of the lowest TB case rates in the region: 15–12 cases per 100,000 annually

QU Health’s Role
We continue to support TB eradication efforts through research, education, and community engagement because Yes! We Can End TB.            

For more information, please contact:
Ms. Shouq Fahad AlRumaihi
Teaching Assistant, Biomedical Sciences Department, College of Health Sciences
             

Email: sh.alrumaihi@qu.edu.qa
            

Cancer is a leading cause of death in Qatar, with breast cancer making up 31% of cases in women              

Focus on prevention, early detection, and personalized treatment:
The plan includes 23 strategic objectives to make Qatar a regional leader in cancer care.              

Advanced treatment options:
Qatar continues to improve cancer care by offering the latest and most effective treatments tailored to individual needs.              

Early detection saves lives:
Catching cancer early increases the chances of successful treatment and recovery.              

Significant progress in survival rates:
Qatar’s 5-year cancer survival rate has increased from 59.7% in 2016 to 80.2% in 2020.              

Qatar Cancer Plan 2026–2023:
Launched with the motto “Excellence for All”, the plan aims to provide top-tier cancer care for everyone.              

Prevention is key:
Promoting healthier lifestyles and encouraging regular screenings to reduce cancer risks.              

Holistic cancer care:
The plan focuses on not only treating cancer but also addressing patients’ mental and social well-being.              

For more information, please contact:
Dr. AlJazi Al-Qahtani
Lecturer of Human Nutrition, College of Health Sciences
               

Email: AlJazi.AlQahtani@qu.edu.qa
              

Global Diabetes Impact:             

• 240 million affected people worldwide.
• 90% of diagnosed individuals have Type 2 Diabetes, while 10% have Type 1 Diabetes.
• 63% of diabetics worry about complications, and 28% struggle to maintain a positive outlook.
• 30–45% of adults in Qatar are impacted — one of the highest rates globally.

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes:
Often preventable through a healthy lifestyle, including:             

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Regular exercise
• Balanced nutrition

Community Actions in Qatar:             

• Enhanced diabetes management through integrated care clinics featuring dietitians, endocrinologists, diabetes educators, nurses, pharmacists, psychologists, social workers, and fitness experts.
• Primary Health Care Centers offer free screening for early detection.

Qatar University (QU) Health Sector Efforts:             

• More than 150 research papers on diabetes published from 2019 to 2024.
• Partnerships with the Qatar Metabolic Institute for enhanced prevention and management.
• Active engagement in community initiatives to raise awareness of diabetes risk factors.

Call to Action:             

• Encourage healthy living
• Utilize free screenings
  
• Support diabetes education in the community

Together, we can combat diabetes!             

For more information, please contact:
Ms. Tamara Al-Abdi
Lecturer of Human Nutrition, College of Health Sciences             

Email: Tamara.alabdi@qu.edu.qa
             

We spend 7–8 hours a day at work.
15% of employees face mental health challenges, leading to a staggering 1$ trillion loss in global productivity.
In GCC countries, 37.5 million lost productive days annually, costing $3.5 billion.              

Benefits of a healthy workplace:              

• Reduced absenteeism, burnout, cost related to medical leaves, performance variability.
• Increased creativity, satisfaction, productivity, recruitment/retention.

At QU Health Sector, we enhance well-being through initiatives like Well-being Checks, Lounges, and Well-being Advocates. We also have four committees and groups: two groups for mental health research and two committees for well-being programs and events, reinforcing our commitment to overall health and support.
              

To create a healthier work environment, recognize the importance of mental health, encourage work-life balance, and foster supportive spaces for open conversations.              

Let’s commit to making mental well-being a daily priority!              

For more information, please contact:
Taysir Eltayeb Abbas Elgaili
Senior Well-being Specialist
               

Email: Telgaili@qu.edu.qa
              

Qatar University’s (QU) Research Impact
QU’s Health Sector leads with over 500 published articles on cardiovascular research, significantly advancing heart health.
                

National Health Strategy
Qatar’s Health Strategy (2020–2024) aims to increase life expectancy to 82.6 years, aligning with QU’s commitment to a healthier future.
                

Cardiovascular Health in Qatar
Cardiovascular diseases are a major concern, responsible for 27% of all deaths in Qatar (MoPH, 2023).                

Collaboration is Key                

• Qatar University’s Health Sector has set up research groups to encourage teamwork across different fields, with a focus on heart health.
• The Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) uses research-based methods to address heart disease.

For more information, please contact:
Dr. Hassaan Rathore
Associate Professor, College of Pharmacy
                 

Email: hrathore@qu.edu.qa
                

Hepatitis A                  

• Transmission: Contaminated food or water
• Prevention and Treatment: Vaccination, practice safe hygiene, medical treatment for severe cases

Hepatitis B                  

• Transmission: Blood, sexual contact, mother to child during childbirth
• Prevention and Treatment: Vaccination, safe sex practices, avoid sharing needles, regular testing, medical treatment for chronic infection

Hepatitis C                  

• Transmission: Blood, sharing needles, contaminated blood transfusions
• Prevention and Treatment: Avoid sharing needles, regular testing, medical treatment for chronic infection

Hepatitis D                  

• Transmission: Occurs in individuals already infected with hepatitis B
• Prevention and Treatment: Vaccination against hepatitis B to prevent hepatitis D

Hepatitis E                  

• Transmission: Contaminated food or water
• Prevention and Treatment: Practice safe hygiene, medical treatment for severe cases
• Fact: Hepatitis E Virus (HEV) globally infects 20 million and causes 3.3 million symptomatic cases annually

Hepatitis causes 1.3 million deaths annually.                  

Qatar’s Context
In 2021, a study by Qatar University and Hamad Medical Corporation found a rise in HEV cases among Indian subcontinent immigrants. Qatar ensures accessible healthcare for all, offering hepatitis screening, testing, and treatment across various facilities for residents and expatriates.                  

For more information, please contact:
Ms. Joyce Moawad
Lecturer of Human Nutrition, College of Health Sciences
 
                  

Email: jmoawad@qu.edu.qa
                  

• Boost Bone Marrow: It stimulates bone marrow (the blood cell production site), enhancing its effectiveness in maintaining overall health.
• Lower Blood Pressure: Experience the added bonus of reduced blood pressure and a headache-free existence.
• Revitalize Your Circulation: Donating blood kick-starts your circulation, invigorating your body’s life force.
• Vital Screenings: Donors receive comprehensive lab tests for infectious diseases, ensuring their well-being.

Remember: If you are 18 or older, well rested, had a snack, and free of skin issues and piercing, you are ready to make a life-saving impact!                    

For more information, please contact:
Dr. Tameem Hadwan
Teaching Assistant of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences                    

Email: hadwan@qu.edu.qa
                    

• Monitoring tobacco use and prevention policies
• Protect people from tobacco smoke
• Offer help to quit
• Warn about the dangers of tobacco
  
• Enforce bans on tobacco advertising, promotion, and sponsorship
• Raise taxes on tobacco

Recent studies conducted by Qatar University Health Sector indicate shisha smokers face a higher heart disease risk, underscoring serious health implications.
The Health Sector actively engages in public health campaigns, educates students on tobacco risks, and provides smoking cessation advice, contributing to Qatar’s anti-smoking efforts.                      

Hamad Medical Corporation’s Tobacco Control Center annually treats approximately 1200 new patients and strongly emphasizes its commitment to combat smoking and maintain smoke-free areas in Qatar.                      

Recognized as a global health concern, 1/3 of adolescents in the Eastern Mediterranean Region acknowledge tobacco use, with an expected increase.                      

In 2022, a survey in Qatar found shisha smoking prevalence at 8.3%. Notably, males had double the rate of females (10% vs. 5%), signaling a worrying trend in female shisha usage.                      

For more information please contact:
Dr. Sruthi Sunil
Lecturer of Clinical Oral Health Sciences, College of Dental Medicine
                       

Email:sruthi.sunil@qu.edu.qa
                      

FACTS                         

• Over 140 countries acknowledge health as a constitutional human right
• In 2021, over half the world lacked complete coverage of essential health services

QATAR’S COMMITMENT
Qatar’s health system prioritizes:                         

• Respectful care
• Safety
• Information
• Decision-making
• Privacy and confidentiality
• Complaint procedures under patients’ rights

GLOBAL INITIATIVE
World Health Day 2024 champions the right to:                         

• Quality health services
• Education
• Information
• Safe drinking water
• Clean air
• Good nutrition
• Quality housing
• Decent working conditions
• Environmental well-being
• Freedom from discrimination

EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS                         

• Active involvement in health decisions is a priority
• Valuing human rights leads to improved health outcomes and more efficient health systems

For more information please contact:
Dr. Ghadir Fakhri Al-Jayyousi
Assistant Professor of Public Health, College of Health Sciences                         

Email:g.aljayyousi@qu.edu.qa
                         

• For thrice-daily medications, consult your doctor for potential adjustments
• Diabetic patients may need insulin adjustments; consulting a physician is vital
• Suppositories and enemas are permitted when necessary
• Levothyroxine users should take it at iftar, delaying the meal for up to an hour
• Nitroglycerin tablets under the tongue for angina do not break the fast if not swallowed
• Hypertensive patients on diuretics may consider taking medication at iftar
• Changing medication without guidance can impact therapeutic outcomes
• Warfarin users need explicit evaluation for fasting. Avoid major changes in vegetable consumption
• If faced with challenges managing health during Ramadan, seek advice from healthcare professionals

For more information please contact:
Dr. Hassaan A. Rathore
Associate Professor, College of Pharmacy
                            

Email:hrathore@qu.edu.qa
                           

• Prioritize dental visits for any abnormalities, as preventive care can avert oral health complications.
• Combat bad breath and prevent oral health issues by diligently caring for your teeth.
• Choose fruits and vegetables over sticky sweets to minimize the risk of tooth decay and plaque.
• Brush after both Iftar and Suhoor to eliminate food residue and stave off cavity development.
• Embrace the natural benefits of Siwak for effective teeth and gum cleaning during fasting.
• Stay hydrated between meals by consuming ample water, promoting mouth cleanliness.
• Quit smoking during Ramadan to enhance oral health and combat bad breath.
• Avoid soft and acidic drinks to protect your enamel.

For more information please contact:
Dr. Asmaa Al-Khatib
Clinical Associate Professor, College of Dental Medicine
                             

Email:asmaaalkhatib@qu.edu.qa
                            

Balanced Iftar
Opt for a balanced Iftar with nutrient-rich foods (vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins). Control portions, savor each bite, and avoid overeating.                              

Optimizing Fasting Benefits
Make mindful food choices for a healthy Ramadan. Embrace a holistic, nourishing Ramadan journey for enhanced well-being.                              

Balanced Suhoor
Fuel the day with a balanced Suhoor for sustained energy. Use Suhoor for mindful eating and spiritual reflection.                              

Hydration and Snacking
Prioritize hydration (8–12 glasses of water between Iftar and Suhoor). Avoid sugary drinks, salty snacks, caffeinated drinks such as coffee, tea and processed foods. Enjoy sweets in moderation. Consume hydrating foods with high water content such as fruits and vegetables.                              

For more information please contact:
Ms. Aya Hamdan
Teaching Assistant of Human Nutrition, College of Health Sciences
                               

Email:ayahamdan@qu.edu.qa
                              

Mission Move
National Sport Day combats static living, urging everyone to get active and learn about health risks.                                 

Health Impact
The event actively boosts preventive healthcare, with campaigns highlighting the lasting benefits of regular physical activity.                                 

Daily Activity Recommendation
Engaging in 30 minutes of daily physical activities, five days a week, offers comprehensive benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing, including lower risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and various types of cancer. In addition to exercising regularly, we need to follow a healthy, balanced diet, reduce sitting periods as much as possible, sleep early and wake up early, and not smoke.                                 

For more information please contact:
Dr. Hiba Chatila
Lecturer, Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences
                                  

Email:hchatila@qu.edu.qa
                                 

Prevention                                  

Some medications may be provided as prevention, but there is currently no vaccine for leprosy. Avoiding close contact with infected individuals is effective in preventing transmission. Early detection and treatment significantly reduce the risk.                                  

Symptoms                                  

Leprosy presents as discolored skin patches, numbness in specific areas leading to a loss of sensation, and enlargement of nerves, primarily in the hands and feet. Symptoms vary in leprosy and their progression is gradual.                                  

Diagnosis                                  

Involves a physical examination and a skin biopsy.                                  

Complications                                  

If left untreated, paralysis and crippling of hands and feet can occur, with painful and tender nerves that may lead to limb amputation, blindness, and loss of eyebrows.
                                  

Treatment                                  

Leprosy is a curable disease and is treated with a combination of antibiotics over an extended period.                                  

Risk Factors                                  

Include household contact and residing in regions with higher prevalence. Other risk factors include poor sanitation and/or weakened immune system.
In Qatar, the prevalence of leprosy is notably low, with only 17 cases reported in 2022.
                                  

For more information please contact:
Dr. Ziad Nasr
Clinical Assistant Professor and Coordinator, Structured Practical Experiences in Pharmacy (SPEP) Program, College of Pharmacy
                                   

Email:znasr@qu.edu.qa
                                  

With regards to survival rates, it was found to be one of the highest compared to other countries, reaching 88% for breast cancer in women and nearly 82% for colorectal cancer.                            

Among children aged 0–14 years old, 46 new cases of cancer were diagnosed during 2018, with 33% among Qataris, 67% among residents, and 63% among females compared to 37% among males. Leukemia was the most common cancer, accounting for 32.61% of all childhood cancers, followed by brain cancer at 13.04%.                            

The most common cancer among all nationalities was breast cancer, accounting for 14.7% of all cancer cases, followed by colorectal cancer at 11.7%.
                            

Nutritional Tips to prevent cancer and enhance the survival rate:                            

Maintain a healthy weight                            

For mothers: breastfeed your baby, if you can                            

Avoid tobacco and excess sun exposure                            

Eat a healthful diet                            

• Limit “fast” foods
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Limit red and processed meat
• Limit sugar-sweetened drinks
• Don’t use supplements for cancer prevention
• Eat a diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruit, and beans

Be physically active                            

After a cancer diagnosis: follow the recommendations, if you can                            

For more information please contact:
Prof. Reema Fayez Tayyem, Professor of Human Nutrition, Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences.
                             

Email: reema.tayyem@qu.edu.qa                                         

The high prevalence of physical inactivity together with dietary factors have led to the rise of obesity rate in Qatar.

• Physical activity has significant health benefits for hearts, bodies and minds.
• Physical activity ensures healthy growth and development in young people.
• Physical activity contributes to preventing and managing non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and diabetes.
• Physical activity improves overall well-being.
• Physical activity reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety.
• People who are insufficiently active have a 20% to 30% increased risk of death compared to people who are sufficiently active.
• Physical activity enhances thinking, learning, and judgment skills.
• More than 80% of the world’s adolescent population is insufficiently physically active.
• Globally, 1 in 4 adults do not meet the global recommended levels of physical activity.

For more information please contact:
Ms. Hiba Chatila, Lecturer of Human Nutrition, Department of Human Nutrition, College of Health Sciences.                               

Email: hchatila@qu.edu.qa                                

Digital dentistry encompasses intraoral scanning, 3D printing, and milling technologies, which have rapidly become the industry standard. These innovative technologies have transformed a once complex and delicate aspect of dental care into a streamlined process with highly precise results.

Digital dentistry – The use of advanced digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized dental procedures, resulting in increased efficiency and accuracy, and more consistent and predictable clinical outcomes. Digital dentistry encompasses intraoral scanning, 3D printing, and milling technologies, which have rapidly become the industry standard. These innovative technologies have transformed a once complex and delicate aspect of dental care into a streamlined process with highly precise results.

The College of Dental Medicine (CDEN) at Qatar University (QU)
The first and only dental school in Qatar. It was established in 2019 to address the growing demand for qualified dental professionals in the country and the region. The program offers a full-time six-year program, and the current senior students are in their fourth year of study.                                  

CDEN educates dental students to provide patient-centered care and encourages these future dentists to play an active role in improving healthcare outcomes by educating patients and conducting patient screenings.                                  

CDEN dental students are playing a crucial role in promoting oral health through community-based programs that include oral health education, with the goal of improving overall oral health.                                  

CDEN is actively involved in QU Health interprofessional education program (IPE), collaborating with other health profession programs in both curriculum development and training.                                  

For more information please contact:
Randa Fathi Ali Abidia, Professor of Public Health Dentistry, College of Dental Medicine                             

Email:rabidia@qu.edu.qa
                                  

As of January 2, 2023, there are 110,393 Registered Dietitians Nutritionists around the world.                                       

What is the role of a RDN?
Provides evidence-based nutrition counseling to individuals and groups, using a patient-centered approach.
Helps people manage chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer, by developing personalized nutrition plans that fit their medical conditions, lifestyle, cultural preferences, and budget.
Supports people in making sustainable behavior changes that improve their health outcomes.                                       

Where do RDNs work?                                       

• Hospitals, clinics or other health care facilities
• Governmental and non-governmental health organizations
• Sports nutrition and corporate wellness programs
• Food and nutrition related businesses and industries
• Private practice
• Community and public health settings
• Universities and research centers

In Qatar
Graduates from Qatar University’s Department of Human Nutrition are qualified to apply for a dietetic internship in the United States to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Additionally, they are eligible to apply for licensure as practicing dietitians in Qatar through the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH).                                       

In 2008, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics initiated the celebration of RDNs Day to raise awareness of the critical role that Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) play in providing food and nutrition services. As a result, RDNs Day is now observed annually on the second Wednesday of March.                                       

For more information please contact: Ms. Joyce Moawad, Teaching Assistant, Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences.                                        

Email:jmoawad@qu.edu.qa
                                       

Know your Risk Factors and Take Action Today!
Non-modifiable risk factors: Family history, Age, Co-existing disease like diabetes
Modifiable risk factors: Healthy diet, Increasing physical activity, Avoiding tobacco and alcohol, Maintaining a healthy weight                                           

Small Changes, Big Impact: Take Simple Steps to Prevent Hypertension Today!
By reducing your salt intake and making regular exercise a part of your routine, you can significantly lower your risk of developing hypertension and its associated complication. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear - take action now to prioritize your health.                                          

Manage your Blood Pressure with these Simple Steps!
Regular checkups, healthy habit, medication compliance, and managing other medical conditions can all contribute to better blood pressure management. Don’t let hypertension hold you back - take control of your health. Manage your other medical conditions, if any.                                          

Complications:
Left untreated, hypertension can wreak havoc on your heart health, leading to complications such as heart failure, heart attacks, chest pain (angina) and irregular heartbeat – all of which can be fatal.                                          

For more information please contact: Dr. Hussein Eid, Associate Professor of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine.                                          

Email:ali.eid@qu.edu.qa
                                          

Qatar joined the global celebration of international nurses day this month, honoring the invaluable contributions of nurses to healthcare and society. During this significant week, QU Health's College of Nursing reflected upon the remarkable milestones that have shaped its journey.
                                               

• Established in 2022, the QU Health College of Nursing offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree, currently serving 57 students who will graduate as the inaugural class in 2026.
• The College fosters exemplary professionals who honor the nursing profession through nurturing and empowerment. The focus on compassion, competence, and preparedness equips students with the necessary knowledge, skills, and values for success. The College upholds high educational standards, encourages research and innovation, promotes collaboration, and engages with the community to advance healthcare education and practice in Qatar.
• Graduates of QU's College of Nursing will aim to make a significant impact on healthcare transformation locally and globally.
• The College plays a pivotal role in producing exceptional nursing professionals who provide exemplary care and contribute to the ongoing evolution of the nursing profession.
• The College's mission aligns with the powerful ICN’s motto of “Our Nurses. Our Future.”, inspiring and nurturing a new generation of healthcare leaders who will make a lasting impact on the lives of patients, families, and communities.

OUR NURSES. OUR FUTURE.
International Council of Nurses
International Nurses Day – 12 May 2023                                               

For more information please contact: Mrs. Noof Al-Kuwari, Assistant Dean for Student Affairs, College of Nursing.                                                

Email:nursing@qu.edu.qa
                                               

World No Tobacco Day 2023: aims to promote the need for growing food instead of tobacco. The campaign will raise awareness among tobacco farmers on the importance of growing sustainable and nutritious crops while also highlighting the tobacco industry’s interference with the substitution of tobacco for sustainable food crops.                                                  

The advantages of substituting tobacco with food include:                                                  

• Increased local and sustainable farming, benefiting the economy.
• Combating food insecurity through lower prices and increased availability.
• Decreased tobacco production and access to tobacco products.
• Reduced need for tobacco imports.
• Access to fresh and nutritious local food.
• Less waste and pollution from transportation and packaging.
• Better ecosystems with healthier soil, water, and air due to local farming practices.

For more information please contact: Dr. Mohammed Al-Hamdani, Assistant Professor, Department of Public Health, QU Health, College of Health Sciences.                                                   

Email:malhamdani@qu.edu.qa
                                                  

Vaccines in Qatar
The Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) in Qatar offers various vaccines that are given at specific times to ensure effectiveness, and children between birth to twelve years old receive twelve different vaccines, offering protection from fourteen diseases.                                                      

Vaccines for COVID-19
With unprecedented speed, safe and effective vaccines for COVID-19 were developed, produced, and distributed around the world. The first COVID-19 vaccine doses were administered just one year after the first case of the disease was detected in December 2019.                                                      

Vaccines for Children
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that your child receives all recommended vaccinations at the appropriate times, as some vaccines may require additional doses, boosters, or catch-up vaccinations.                                                      

For more information please contact: Dr. Muhammad Naseem Khan, Associate Professor, Department of Population Medicine, College of Medicine.                                                       

Email:Naseem@qu.edu.qa
                                                      

In Qatar, the government enforces strict food standards to protect the nation’s supply. Ministries of Public Health and Municipality work tirelessly for food safety, prioritizing citizen well-being.
                                                                      

This year’s theme is highlighting the crucial role of food standards in providing safe food for everyone, everywhere. It is alarming to know that nearly 600 million people, roughly 1 in 10 individuals worldwide, suffer from illnesses caused by consuming contaminated food, resulting in a staggering 420,000 deaths annually. Shockingly, children under the age of five bear 40% of the burden, with 125,000 young lives lost each year.                                                                      

Producers from various sectors play a vital role in maintaining food quality and safety standards. When combined with good consumer practices, we ensure a safe and healthy food supply chain.                                                                      

Discover how QU Health at Qatar University (QU) leads the way in advancing food safety! As a symbol of knowledge and progress, QU Health plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of food safety. Through groundbreaking research, top-notch education, and captivating outreach initiatives, QU Health equips students and enlightens the public and industry leaders about the best strategies for safeguarding our food. Additionally, QU Health develops ingenious solutions to address emerging challenges and risks, setting the gold standard with science-based food standards and policies. Join us as we embrace innovation and excellence in ensuring a safer and more secure food landscape.                                                                     

For more information please contact: Dr. Layal Karam, Assistant Professor of Food Safety, College of Health Sciences. 
                                                                      

Email:lkaram@qu.edu.qa
                                                                      

As a donor, you also receive comprehensive laboratory screening tests for infectious diseases like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, HIV, HTLV, malaria (if indicated), and syphilis.                                                                         

Additionally, blood donation lowers blood pressure, eliminates headaches, and boosts vitality, giving you more energy and lifelines.                                                                     

Any concerns or issues are addressed by the Blood Donor Center at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), offering counseling and appropriate medical referrals if needed.                                                                     

To become a blood donor, you must be between the ages of 18 and 65, and it’s important to relax, get enough sleep, and have a snack before donating.                                                                     

Donors are required to have a QID and should be free of skin lesions and piercings.                                                                     

For more information please contact: Mr. Tameem Hadwan, Teaching Assistant of Biomedical Sciences, College of Health Sciences.                                                                          

Email:hadwan@qu.edu.qa
                                                                         

QU Health Shaping the Future of Health Together:
Emphasizes patient safety’s importance amongst all health profession programs at QU Health.
                                                     

► Challenge: Collaboration and mindset change.                                                    

QU Health’s emphasis on teamwork and collaborative efforts, through interprofessional education initiatives among health profession programs, to understand human factors to reduce safety incidents.
► Challenge: Sustaining a culture of safety and addressing incidents appropriately is an ongoing challenge in healthcare.
                                                     

► Challenge: Ensuring competencies for accessible, equitable, and safe care is vital but may face resistance in traditional healthcare models.                                                    

Highlights from College of Pharmacy (CPH)
Patient-Centered Pharmacy Education:
CPH fosters a “first do no harm” culture in drug therapy and patient care.
                                                     

► Challenge: Balancing medication safety and patient-centered care can be challenging, but CPH addresses it through dedicated courses and research such as pharmacy ethics and safety course.                                                    

Empowering Patients:
CPH emphasizes patient engagement, empowering patients to take control of their health and safety.
                                                     

► Challenge: Encouraging patients to actively participate in decision-making is crucial but requires ongoing effort.                                                    

For more information please contact: Dr. Stephanie Atweh, Teaching Assistant, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Practice, College of Pharmacy.                                                     

Email:s.atweh@qu.edu.qa
                                                    

• Comprehensive community-based care system; PHCC screens for anxiety and depression
• Community-based HMC mental health facilities; Enaya Community Care Center in Muaither
• Free National Mental Health Helpline #1600
• Free QU Student Counseling Hotline #33010722
• QU Health Wellbeing programs support the wellbeing for students, staff, and faculty. Adopting a preventative holistic approach for healthier relationships in a sustainable environment

Supporting 1 in 5 in Qatar challenged with mental health
Mental health conditions make up 13.67% of Qatar total disease burden; Ongoing efforts to boost productivity and happiness, outweighing the cost                                                       

For more information please contact: Ms. Taysier Eltayeb Elgaili, Senior Wellbeing Specialist, Office of The Vice President for Medical and Health Sciences.                                                       

Email:telgalil@qu.edu.qa
                                                       

Qatar 2022 Data
Estimated number of children (aged 5–19 years) living with disability in Qatar: 18,360 disabled people (7,562 Qatari, 10,798 Non-Qatari). 7,036 disabled students (2,363 Qatari, 4,673 Non-Qatari). Estimated number of disabled people in Qatar.
Global 1 in 6 of the world’s population experience significant disability (1.3 billion people, 16% of the world’s population).                                                               

Initiatives from Qatar University College of Dental Medicine (CDM)
Qatar’s commitment is evidenced through concrete actions, providing accessible, equitable, and high-quality oral healthcare to all, with a specific focus on citizens with disabilities due to their higher susceptibility to oral health issues. CDM plays a pivotal role by offering Special Needs Dentistry in its curriculum. Students actively engage with disability centers to provide essential oral health education.                                                              

From 2015 to 2022 Provided essential dental care to 2086 special needs children. Team of 20 pediatric dentists Hazm Mebaireek Dental Academic Center.                                                              

Hazm Mebaireek Dental Academic Center
An educational facility jointly supported by Hamad Medical Corporation’s Hamad Dental Center and CDM. First dental clinic exclusively designed for patients with special needs. Designed with accessibility in mind, this state-of-the-art dental facility boasts ramps, wide doors, and special restrooms to accommodate patients with disabilities. A dedicated team of 20 pediatric dentists specializes in caring for children with various disabilities.                                                              

For more information please contact: Prof. Randa Abidia, Professor of Public Health Dentistry, College of Dental Medicine.                                                               

Email:rabidia@qu.edu.qa
                                                              

Global 4.95 million deaths in 2019 were due to AMR infections.
Global AMR directly caused 1.27 million deaths. 1 in 5 occurring in children under 5 years.
Qatar In 2019, Qatar reported 66 AMR-attributed deaths and 266 AMR-associated deaths. Qatar ranks 89th globally for age-standardized mortality rate related to AMR.                                                                        

Proposed Solutions:                                                                        

• Use antimicrobials only when necessary
• Adopt infection prevention practices, such as handwashing and isolating infected patients
• Advocate for research and development to produce new antimicrobials

For more information please contact: Dr. Usman Abubakar, Assistant Professor of Clinical Pharmacy and Practice, College of Pharmacy.                                                                        

Email:usman.abubakar@qu.edu.qa                                                                        

According to WHO, 1 in 10 people suffer from mental health problems. In Qatar the ratio is 1:5.                                                                        

We need to consider preventive interventions; balancing our professional and personal life; fostering self-care and connections with colleagues and loved ones; practicing mindfulness, empathy and self-compassion, and emotional regulation skills to name a few.
Healthy working environment not only improve teamwork and compassionate collaborative practices, but also lead to productivity and less absenteeism.                                                                        

National Mental Health Helpline in Qatar (Tel#16000), was implemented during the pandemic to attend for grief, anxiety, depression and other mental illnesses.
It is about time we normalize mental illness, like any other illness with the right treatment plan and early screening the majority of disorders can be managed.                                                                        

For more information please contact: Ms. Taysier El-Galil, Health Counselling Psychologist, Wellness Officer at QU Health.                                                                        

Email:telgalil@qu.edu.qa                              

Phone number: 4403 3762.
                                                                        

Types of Diabetes                                                                         

• Type I Diabetes, the less common type, usually occurs during childhood and adolescence
• Type II Diabetes, the highly prevalent type, is more common in older adults
• Gestational diabetes, the one diagnosed during pregnancy
  

Primary Symptoms                                                                         

• Excessive hunger or increased appetite
• Increased urination
  
• Increased thirst
• Fatigue
• Unintended weight loss
• Blurred vision

TIPS AND DIETARY INTERVENTIONS FOR DIABETES                                                                         

• Lose weight gradually in cases of overweight or obesity
• Engage in 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week, spread over at least 3 days/week, with no more than 2 consecutive days without activity
• Enjoy a plate: Half-filled with non-starchy vegetables (capsicum, pepper, cabbage, lettuce, cucumber, kale, broccoli, eggplant). Quarterly filled with carbohydrates foods of low glycemic index (legumes, whole-grain pasta, whole-grain bread). Quarterly filled with lean meats or proteins (fat free meats, fish)
• Monitor your blood glucose level on a daily basis
• Read food labels to check the sugar/starch content of the food product
• Eat your meals and snacks on time everyday
• Never skip meals and map them with medications

For more information please contact: Ms. Joyce Moawad, Teaching assistant, Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences.                                                                          

Email:jmoawad@qu.edu.qa
                             

• Avoid consuming high-fat meals before exercise because they delay emptying of the stomach, making athletes feel sluggish and thereby adversely affect performance.
• Consume meals 3 hours prior to workout to allow for proper digestion and avoid gastrointestinal upset.
• Ensure that your meals are rich in carbohydrates, protein and low in fat and fiber. Good sources of carbohydrates include whole grains, starchy vegetables, fruits, and milk/yogurt. Proteins are found in lean meat and poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans and nuts. Foods rich in healthy fat include nuts, seeds, and plant oils especially olive oil.
  
• If you are practicing a long-term event, that lasts more than 1 hour, sports drinks and/or easily digestible carbohydrate-rich food such as fruit or granola bars can be ingested to help refuel and keep energy levels high.
• After exercise, drink plenty of water to restore water loss.
• Proteins and carbohydrates are also important to consume 15–60 min after workout in order to replace muscle fuel and to build new muscles especially in hot weather.

For more information please contact: Ms. Tamara Al-Abdi, Lecturer, Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences.                                                                              

Email:tamara.alabdi@qu.edu.qa
                                                                             

Risk factors could be genetic or environmental, or in most cases, a combination of both. Female gender (occurs nearly 100 times more often in women than in men). The advanced age (increases with age above 55 years). Caucasian ethnicity, obesity, family history and smoking or tobacco use including passive exposure to tobacco.                                                                               

Lifestyle changes for prevention                                                                               

• Stop smoking
• Keep your weight within the healthy range
• Be physically active (150 min/week of moderate intensity or 75 min/week of vigorous intensity)
• Follow a diet rich in whole grains, legumes, vegetables and fruits
• For Mothers: Breastfeed Your Baby, if you can
• Limit the consumption of fast foods, processed foods and sugar-sweetened drinks. Drink water and unsweetened drinks

For more information please contact: Ms. Grace Youssef Attieh, Teaching assistant, Human Nutrition Department, College of Health Sciences. 
                             

Email:gattieh@qu.edu.qa
                                                                               

Physiotherapists play a major role in managing OA and may use some of following treatment interventions to reduce pain and disability related to the condition: Exercise, Manual therapy, Education on OA, Activity modification, Biomechanical correction and Joint unloading techniques.
Consulting a Physiotherapist/Physical Therapist when you have OA can considerably reduce or delay the wear and tear, and resulting pain and disability, caused by OA in the joints.
In QATAR OA is the common condition found among the older population and mostly affects the knee joint.                                                                             

The Physical Therapy undergraduate program at Qatar University, launched in 2018, was the first entry-to-practice program delivered in Qatar. In May 2022, we graduated the first 17 female students successfully.
                                                                             

For more information please contact: Mr. Tarik Al-Dieri, Clinical Lecturer, Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Practice, College of Pharmacy, Qatar University.                                                                              

Email:tarik.aldieri@qu.edu.qa
                                                                              

Medication-related events
such as medication errors, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), drug misuse and abuse, and unsafe medication practices are a leading avoidable cause of harm in healthcare globally. As patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals, we can make a difference by being actively involved in the safe use of medicines in the society.                                                                                          

Medication safety is everyone's concern, and as stakeholders, we can all join hands to save lives through:                                                                                          

• educating others about the high burden of medication-related harm resulting from medication errors, ADRs, and unsafe practices;
• reporting these medication-related events; and
  
• saying no to drug misuse and abuse in our communities.
  

Qatar University Health is an advocate of fostering patient safety culture in our health institutions, and we aim to build a strong patient safety culture, education, and research in our curriculum.
                                                                                          

For more information please contact: Professor Ahmed Awaisu, Head of Clinical Pharmacy and Practice Department                                                                                          

Email: aawaisu@qu.edu.qa                                                                                           

Dementia knows no social, economic or geographical boundaries. Those affected are unable to care for themselves and need help with all aspects of daily life. Although there is no cure at present, there are still medications which can help with some of the symptoms. A diagnosis provides an opportunity to discuss dementia and plan for the future to maximize the patient’s quality of life and maximize independence. Dementia is now the 7th leading cause of death worldwide.                                                                                               

Today, more than 55 million people worldwide are living with dementia.Qatar National Dementia Plan 2018–2022 includes seven work areas to improve Dementia patients’ care. These include:                                                                                               

• Dementia is one of the priorities of public health; 
• Awareness of Dementia and understanding it;
• Reducing the risks of Dementia; diagnosis of Dementia, 
  
• Its treatment, the health care and support; 
• Supporting the caregivers of the people with Dementia; 
• Dementia Information systems and dementia-related research and innovation.