In 2007, Mina performed in the emirate for the first time and was encouraged to start building a comedy scene
UAE17 hours ago
Nearly half of UAE residents — 47 per cent — are not aware of Hepatitis B, according to a recent survey done ahead of World Hepatitis Day, which is being observed today.
Hepatitis B is a liver disease caused by a virus and, if left untreated, it could turn into a life-threatening condition.
An estimated 15.5 million people in the Middle East and North Africa are chronically infected with the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). However, its prevalence among the Emirati population is only between 1 and 1.5 per cent.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has a target to reduce new viral hepatitis infections by 90 per cent and deaths due to viral hepatitis by 65 per cent by 2030.
The survey reveals there is a lack of awareness about the disease with the majority of respondents (84 per cent) not knowing that it can be asymptomatic and less than a quarter (21 per cent) knowing how it can be transmitted.
A majority (85 per cent) of the respondents are not aware of how HBV is prevented, while 92 per cent believe that the disease cannot be treated easily. Only a quarter of the respondents believe that HBV can lead to serious health complications.
“The lack of awareness around HBV means securing appropriate and prompt treatment remains a challenge,” said Dr Mohamed Farghaly, professor of medicine at Dubai Medical College, consultant and CEO advisor of Dubai Health Insurance Corporation (DHIC).
“General practitioners and healthcare physicians also have limited knowledge and expertise in this field, so it is essential to seek advice from specialist centres to ensure that an optimal treatment path is secured. HBV treatment is covered by most medical insurance packages in the UAE so the required care and treatment is easily accessible to patients who need it.”
reporters@khaleejtimes.com
In 2007, Mina performed in the emirate for the first time and was encouraged to start building a comedy scene
UAE17 hours ago
The fair, running till May 29, sees participation of more than 1,130 publishers from over 80 countries
UAE17 hours ago
Tadweer has worked throughout Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr to enhance public sanitation services
UAE19 hours ago
As per an agreement signed between MBRGI and WEF, Dubai will be the international headquarters for the annual meeting of the Food Innovation Hubs
UAE19 hours ago
Healthcare professionals underline the country possesses the technological and diagnostic capabilities and the efficiency to treat people
UAE21 hours ago
They also apply to fees charged on impounded vehicles and late fine payments (if any)
UAE21 hours ago
It is currently affecting Syria, Iraq and northern Saudi Arabia
UAE23 hours ago
Its incubation period is usually from seven to 14 days, but can extend to 21 days
UAE1 day ago