Qatar Diabetes Association (QDS) and the Oral Health Prevention and Promotion Department of the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) recently collaborated to host an event focused on diabetic patients traveling for Hajj. The event, titled “Safe Hajj with Diabetes,” aimed to raise awareness about oral and dental health among pilgrims. The event saw the participation of 300 pilgrims, who received an awareness lecture on the importance of dental check-ups before embarking on their journey to Hajj.
Dr. Najat Al Yafei, Manager of Oral Health Prevention and Promotion at PHCC, emphasized the significance of dental and gum health for diabetic patients, especially when undergoing the physically demanding rituals of Hajj. The collaborative efforts between QDS and PHCC aim to promote preventive measures and provide essential tips on managing dental emergencies while traveling for Hajj. The dental medical team, equipped with a mobile dental unit, conducted oral check-ups for all diabetic patients attending the event, ensuring their oral health needs were addressed prior to their pilgrimage.
Dr. Adbulla Al Hamaq, Executive Director of QDS, highlighted the importance of advanced planning for diabetic patients traveling for Hajj. He emphasized the need for precautions to be taken due to the changes in physical activity, dietary patterns, and meal timings during the pilgrimage. Ensuring that blood sugar levels are well-managed during Hajj requires careful planning and preparation, taking into account the unique challenges that diabetic patients may face while performing the religious rituals.
The collaboration between QDS and PHCC serves as a platform for raising awareness and providing crucial information to diabetic patients, empowering them to make informed decisions about their oral and dental health. By emphasizing the importance of dental check-ups before travel, the organizations are working towards reducing the risk of dental issues that pilgrims may encounter during their pilgrimage. Additionally, the event provided pilgrims with preventive tips on maintaining good dental hygiene while on their journey, contributing to their overall health and well-being during this sacred time.
The event organized by QDS and PHCC not only focused on dental health but also shed light on the broader aspects of managing diabetes during Hajj. By addressing the need for advanced planning and precautions, diabetic patients were equipped with the knowledge and support needed to navigate the challenges of maintaining their blood sugar levels while performing the physically demanding rituals of Hajj. The collaborative efforts of the two organizations underscore their commitment to promoting holistic health and well-being among diabetic patients, ensuring a safe and fulfilling experience during their pilgrimage.
Overall, the collaborative event between Qatar Diabetes Association and the Oral Health Prevention and Promotion Department of PHCC was a success, with 300 pilgrims benefitting from the valuable information and services provided. By joining forces to raise awareness about oral and dental health for diabetic patients traveling for Hajj, the organizations have demonstrated their commitment to supporting the health and well-being of the community. Through events like “Safe Hajj with Diabetes,” QDS and PHCC are paving the way for better health outcomes and improved quality of life for diabetic patients, both during their pilgrimage and beyond.
