Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Saturday, October 1st 2011 [ME NewsWire]
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.
-ENDS-
About DP World
DP World operates more than 60 terminals across six continents(1), with container handling generating around 80% of its revenue. In addition, the company currently has 10 new developments and major expansions underway in 10 countries.
DP World aims to enhance customers’ supply chain efficiency by effectively managing container, bulk and other terminal cargo. Its dedicated, experienced and professional team of nearly 30,000 people serves customers in some of the most dynamic economies in the world.
The company constantly invests in terminal infrastructure, facilities and people, working closely with customers and business partners to provide quality services today and tomorrow, when and where customers need them.
In taking this customer-centric approach, DP World is building on the established relationships and superior level of service demonstrated at its flagship Jebel Ali facility in Dubai, which has been voted “Best Seaport in the Middle East” for 17 consecutive years.
In 2010, DP World handled nearly 50 million TEU (twenty-foot equivalent container units) across its portfolio from the Americas to Asia. With a pipeline of expansion and development projects in key growth markets, including India, China and the Middle East, capacity is expected to rise to around 95 million TEU by 2020, in line with market demand.
www.dpworld.com
(1) As of September 2011. Includes non-container terminals
Contacts
DP World
Natasha Bukhari
Global Corporate Communications Manager
Tel: +97156 6821699
Natasha.Bukhari@dpworld.com
Hasaad Communications:
Sanaa Maadad
Director, Media
Hasaad Communications
Tel: +97150 5522610
sana@hasaad.ae
