UAE- May 2024- The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has joined the international community in marking International Thalassemia Day on May 8 by illuminating several prominent tourist landmarks in red across the UAE.
The initiative aims to raise awareness about thalassemia, its symptoms, and living with the disease while also conveying a message of support and solidarity with patients both locally and globally.
As part of the campaign, landmarks such as the Dubai Frame, the House of Wisdom in Sharjah, Al Hosn Roundabout in Ajman, Umm Al Quwain Museum, Ras Al Khaimah Museum, and the Falcon Roundabout in Fujairah were lit in red. The move comes as part of a series of activities by the Ministry to support the Emirates Thalassemia Society.
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The activities include distributing awareness films throughout all primary health care centers under Emirates Health Services, premarital examination centers, distributing educational awareness leaflets in Arabic and English to government and private institutions, publishing visual materials in various private institutions, and organizing awareness lectures by doctors for individuals planning to marry.
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Improving patients’ quality of life
The Ministry stressed that raising awareness about the importance of premarital medical examinations plays a crucial role in preventing various genetic and familial diseases and reducing the incidence of certain genetic blood disorders.
MoHAP reaffirmed its commitment to educating the community about thalassemia and its complications and providing guidelines on how to appropriately support patients while alleviating the suffering of those with genetic blood diseases, offering ongoing support to help them integrate into society and enhance their quality of life.
The awareness campaigns organized by the Ministry, health authorities, and the Emirates Thalassemia Society have significantly enhanced public knowledge about genetic blood diseases and their types. By doing so, the Ministry not only seeks to boost community awareness about prevention methods but also reinforces the country’s standing as a leader in the management and care of genetic blood disorders, highlighting the nation’s excellence in healthcare. both locally and internationally.
In the UAE, premarital testing is mandatory for individuals planning to marry, ensuring they are free from genetic, infectious, and sexually transmitted blood diseases. This policy safeguards the health and safety of couples, preventing the transmission of these conditions to each other and future generations.
