Medical checkups for labourers

Thousands of labourers will be offered tests for chronic diseases as well as healthy fasting tips this Ramadan in an initiative undertaken by the Emirates Nursing Association (ENA). Starting from July 27-28, Ramadan tents set up in all emirates will invite labourers for different tests one hour before Futoor (breaking the fast) and an hour after to check for presence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and other conditions. The tests will be used as statistics at a later stage. “Between 12 and 25 volunteers such as nurses, educators and nutritionists will be present in Ramadan tents set up by the Red Crescent to carry out the tests,” said Obaid Ismail, head of the ENA. In case of chronic cases or an emergency, the labourers will be sent immediately to hospitals for observation and treatment. Though the tests are free, the treatment will either be borne by the patient’s company or the patient himself. “We have also prepared booklets in four languages — Arabic, English, Hindi and Urdu — to guide the workers on healthy habits for the month,” said Obaid. The ENA plans to hold a similar campaign for schools, government offices and domestic helpers in future.