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29 March 2024

DHA's obesity programme a success

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By Staff

Dubai Health Authority's programme to tackle obesity among residents has proved successful as several patients have managed to reduce weights, reported 'Emarat Al Youm'.

Dr Faisal Al Badri, Head of Department of General Surgery, Rashid Hospital, said the department, on an average, gets patients who weigh more than 250kgs. There have been a couple of cases of 300-400kg patients, as well.

At present 153 patients are undergoing treatment. And there is a waiting list of more than 120. The team performs two operations per week to cater to the rush.

Detailed follow-up is required even after the patients return home post-surgery.  Dr Alia Saif Al Mazroui, Advisory, Department of General Surgery, Rashid Hospital, said surgery includes either cutting a portiopn of the stomach or making bowel diversions.

Such treatments have been prevelant in the West, she added. The success rate at Rashid Hospital is 100 per cent. The medical team at the hospital comprise surgeons; specialists in digestive system, nutrition, anesthesia; and beauty specialists; psychologists; and others. Al Badri said most patients who opt for obesity treatment are UAE citizens. And women outnumber men.