DP world organises employee fitness activities to mark world heart day

On the occasion of World Heart Day, DP World, UAE Region has organised a series of employee activities for four weeks, with the aim of promoting cardiovascular health and fitness in the workplace.

The port operator is collaborating with UAE Ministry of Health, Canadian Specialist Hospital and MMA Fitness Center to increase awareness on the severity of cardiovascular diseases and to encourage heart-healthy habits amongst their employees.

The activities kick-started on September 29 to mark World Heart Day with a Walkathon. As part of the month long activities, medical specialists from Canadian Specialist Hospital will be at DP World premises to conduct health screenings, one-on-one consultations and on-the-spot blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol testing. Employees will also be informed on the perils of smoking through a Quit Smoking Programme backed by the Ministry of Health.

Mohammed Al Muallem, Senior Vice President and Managing Director, DP World, UAE Region, said: “DP World has always prioritised its employees’ welfare through its community initiatives. World Health Day is an opportune time to promote heart-healthy messages and raise awareness about the risk factors for heart disease and strokes. We strongly believe that workplace wellness is much more than just a health issue, it is critical to the nation’s overall productivity and vigor.”

Dr Wedad Al-Maidoor, Head of Tobacco Control Team, UAE Ministry of Health, said: “Health is wealth and the UAE Government takes this opportunity to spread this message across the country. The World Heart Day is a wonderful opportunity to step up our drive against the proven hazards of smoking through the Ministry of Health’s Quit Smoking Programme. We are pleased to be associated with DP World to promote this cause.”

Dr Hayder Al Zubaidy, CEO, Canadian Specialist Hospital, said: “Our experience shows that cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of mortality in the UAE. It is essential that people take all precautions, especially periodic health screenings, to detect any anomalies and receive timely treatment if needed. DP World is doing a public service through this campaign and we are pleased to contribute to it.”

Basic group fitness exercises will be conducted by MMA Center throughout the month. A fitness helpline will be set up for the employees during the 4 week programme and pamphlets and literature on nutrition and balanced diets will be distributed to participants.  

Paul Haywood, Managing Director, MMA Fitness Center, said: “Exercising regularly is the surest way to a healthy heart and healthier living. MMA Fitness Center is honoured to participate in this joint campaign to spread awareness among DP World employees on the need to keep fit through exercise and balanced diets.”

The UAE has high prevalence of chronic diseases related to sedentary lifestyles, smoking and unhealthy eating habits. According to the Health Authority, Abu Dhabi (HAAD) cardiovascular diseases accounted for over a quarter of deaths among UAE Nationals in 2010.