Global Pulse

分类： health

  • Ahmed bin Saeed launches Al Jalila Foundation’s ‘The Cancer Fund’

    Ahmed bin Saeed launches Al Jalila Foundation’s ‘The Cancer Fund’

    In a significant development for healthcare philanthropy, Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, has officially launched ‘The Cancer Fund’ under the Al Jalila Foundation. The ceremony, held at Dubai Hospital, was attended by Sheikh Mansoor bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice Chairman of the Dubai Health Board of Directors, alongside senior officials and dignitaries.

    The newly established fund represents a strategic initiative designed to provide crucial financial assistance for cancer treatment throughout patients’ recovery journeys. By mitigating the substantial economic pressures associated with cancer care, the fund ensures continuous treatment access regardless of patients’ financial circumstances.

    Concurrently, Sheikh Ahmed unveiled ‘The Giving Wall’ at Dubai Hospital, a permanent installation recognizing the generosity of donors who have supported the hospital’s treatment programs. This visual tribute highlights the community’s collective commitment to healthcare advancement.

    During the launch event, Sheikh Ahmed emphasized the UAE’s deeply ingrained cultural values of generosity and compassion, noting that current leadership continues to build upon this legacy by prioritizing citizen health and wellbeing. He praised the collaborative efforts of individuals and institutions whose contributions strengthen community philanthropic initiatives.

    Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Member of Dubai Health Board of Directors and Chairperson of Al Jalila Foundation, described the fund as “a strategic step towards building a sustainable support system for patients” that represents “a forward-looking model of collaboration” between community and institutional giving. She emphasized the role of sustainable philanthropy in creating a more cohesive society.

    Dr. Amer Al Zarooni revealed that the foundation’s Ramadan 2026 campaign will be dedicated to The Cancer Fund, building upon previous success that saw AED43 million in contributions through the ‘A’awen’ program, which provided care to 650 cancer patients over the past year. The foundation now encourages individuals and organizations to support this vital initiative through various donation channels.

  • Saudi health authority summons medic for viral video with ‘misleading claims’

    Saudi health authority summons medic for viral video with ‘misleading claims’

    Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Health has initiated disciplinary proceedings against a medical professional following the viral dissemination of a video containing dangerously misleading information about cholesterol medications. The controversial video, which circulated extensively across social media platforms, contained unsubstantiated claims regarding statin drugs that prompted numerous patients to abruptly discontinue their prescribed treatments without medical consultation.

    The health authority confirmed it has formally summoned the physician responsible for the content to provide an official statement regarding the circulated misinformation. The ministry emphasized that the unauthorized cessation of statin medications exposes patients to significant health risks, particularly those with existing cardiovascular conditions requiring consistent pharmaceutical management.

    In an official statement, the ministry reiterated that all medical decisions must be made exclusively under proper physician supervision rather than based on unverified social media content. The regulatory body further warned that legal measures will be enforced against any individual found to be distributing misleading medical information or violating established healthcare profession ethics.

    This incident represents the latest in Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to combat medical misinformation online, following recent actions against individuals spreading false information about criminal cases and inciting public opinion through digital channels. The ministry’s prompt response demonstrates the government’s commitment to maintaining evidence-based medical practices and protecting public health from potentially dangerous misinformation.

  • Top 3 Clinics for Endolift Treatment in Dubai for Skin Tightening

    Top 3 Clinics for Endolift Treatment in Dubai for Skin Tightening

    Dubai has emerged as a leading destination for advanced non-surgical aesthetic treatments, with Endolift laser therapy gaining significant popularity among those seeking facial rejuvenation and skin tightening solutions. This minimally invasive procedure utilizes ultra-fine laser technology to stimulate collagen production and reduce subcutaneous fat without surgical intervention.

    Three established clinics in Dubai have distinguished themselves in providing exceptional Endolift treatments:

    Enfield Royal Clinic stands out for its integration of cutting-edge technology with personalized patient care. The facility employs experienced dermatologists who conduct comprehensive facial assessments to develop tailored treatment plans. The clinic maintains nationwide 24/7 availability and offers a luxury treatment environment at accessible pricing structures.

    Tajmeel Clinic has built its reputation on combining advanced technical equipment with a strong emphasis on patient comfort and procedural accuracy. The clinic provides a comprehensive suite of cosmetic and dermatological services, with Endolift representing one of their signature non-invasive treatments designed to enhance skin radiance without recovery downtime.

    Dynamic Clinic completes the trio with its focus on delivering technologically advanced yet affordable aesthetic solutions. The clinic’s medical practitioners specialize in achieving subtle skin tightening and rejuvenation effects through Endolift, supported by continuous patient support services and flexible scheduling options.

    The Endolift procedure itself involves the insertion of a microscopic laser fiber beneath the skin’s surface, where thermal energy triggers natural collagen regeneration while simultaneously reducing localized fat deposits. Clinical benefits include significant skin texture improvement, enhanced facial contours, and long-lasting firmness results typically maintained for several months.

    As a FDA-cleared treatment modality, Endolift presents minimal risk factors compared to surgical alternatives, requires no significant recovery period, and demonstrates compatibility with diverse skin types. Prospective patients are advised to consult directly with qualified medical professionals to determine individual suitability and expected outcomes based on specific aesthetic goals and physiological considerations.

  • Where to get doctor at home services in Dubai.

    Where to get doctor at home services in Dubai.

    Dubai has transformed healthcare accessibility through its advanced doctor-at-home service network, providing professional medical care directly to residents’ doorsteps. This innovative healthcare model delivers qualified physicians to patients’ homes for non-emergency medical situations, operating outside conventional clinic hours to ensure round-the-clock availability.

    The service offers substantial advantages over traditional clinic visits, particularly eliminating travel requirements and extensive waiting times. This proves especially beneficial for elderly patients with mobility limitations, immunocompromised individuals, and busy professionals with constrained schedules. Medical teams typically arrive within 30 minutes of request, performing comprehensive assessments, diagnostic testing, and immediate treatment in the comfort of patients’ homes.

    Treatment capabilities encompass diverse medical services including medication administration, intravenous antibiotic therapy, wound care management, minor surgical procedures, physiotherapy interventions, and comprehensive IV nutrient therapy. The service accommodates various patient demographics including families with children experiencing common illnesses, recovery patients requiring follow-up care, and tourists needing immediate medical attention while visiting Dubai.

    Patient safety and quality assurance remain paramount, with healthcare providers recommending thorough verification of physician credentials and review analysis before service engagement. This healthcare innovation represents Dubai’s commitment to advancing medical accessibility while maintaining highest standards of professional medical care delivered directly to residents’ homes.

  • How Eric Dane gave his final months to ‘moving the needle’ on ALS

    How Eric Dane gave his final months to ‘moving the needle’ on ALS

    Eric Dane, the acclaimed actor renowned for his portrayal of Dr. Mark ‘McSteamy’ Sloan on the hit medical drama Grey’s Anatomy, has passed away at age 53 following a courageous battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). His death comes just ten months after publicly disclosing his diagnosis with the progressive neurodegenerative condition.

    Dane transformed his personal health struggle into a powerful advocacy mission, dedicating his final months to raising both funds and public consciousness about ALS, the most prevalent form of motor neurone disease. In a poignant interview with Time magazine published shortly before his passing, the actor revealed his dual motivation: ‘I’m trying to save my life,’ while simultaneously striving to advance research for countless others affected by the incurable illness.

    The California-born performer launched an ambitious three-year campaign last September targeting over $1 billion in federal research funding. His advocacy efforts included joining the board of Target ALS, where his involvement helped surpass a $500,000 fundraising goal. Dane further leveraged his acting profession to illuminate the ALS experience, delivering a critically acclaimed performance on medical drama Brilliant Minds as a firefighter confronting the emotional and physical realities of diagnosis.

    Medical experts emphasize the particular challenges in treating ALS, which Professor Kevin Talbot of Oxford University describes as lacking ‘a single unifying cause.’ The disease’s rapid progression and relatively small patient population create significant obstacles for clinical trials, as noted by Neil Thackur of the ALS Association.

    Dane’s condition deteriorated rapidly following his April 2025 diagnosis. Colleagues including Grey’s Anatomy co-star Patrick Dempsey reported the actor had become bedridden with severely compromised swallowing and speech functions. Despite these challenges, Dane maintained his public advocacy until the end, telling People magazine that sharing his journey had become ‘imperative’ because he no longer felt his life was ‘about me anymore.’

    While medical interventions can improve quality of life for ALS patients, Professor Talbot emphasizes that finding a cure will require ‘major funding, sustained for years’ to overcome the complex biological mechanisms underlying not just ALS but other neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.

  • Sweet Surprise by Aster raises awareness on hidden sugar as UAE’s new levy takes effect

    Sweet Surprise by Aster raises awareness on hidden sugar as UAE’s new levy takes effect

    In response to the UAE’s newly implemented volumetric sugar tax system, Aster Clinics UAE has launched a comprehensive public health campaign titled ‘Sweet Surprise by Aster’ alongside the establishment of its Diabetes 360 Care Clinic in Al Qusais. The initiative represents a strategic alignment with national efforts to combat rising diabetes and obesity rates through enhanced public education and early screening programs.

    The volumetric taxation approach, effective since January 1, 2026, replaces the previous flat excise duty with a tiered system that imposes levies based on sugar content per 100ml in beverages. This policy shift creates financial incentives for both manufacturers and consumers to prioritize lower-sugar alternatives amid concerning health statistics: approximately one in three UAE adults currently live with diabetes or prediabetes, while 27.3% exceed recommended sugar consumption guidelines.

    Aster’s program operates within the framework of Dubai’s 10X initiative, championing a future-ready healthcare model that emphasizes early detection and prevention. The Diabetes 360 Care Clinic employs data analytics and artificial intelligence to identify potential health risks before symptoms manifest, marking a significant shift from reactive treatment to proactive health management.

    The campaign specifically addresses the challenge of hidden sugar consumption, with research indicating that over a quarter of UAE adults regularly consume sugar-sweetened beverages. This exceeds World Health Organization recommendations that free sugars should constitute less than 10% of total daily energy intake, approximately 25-50 grams for adults.

    Through community engagement and educational outreach, Aster aims to transform public awareness into tangible action, encouraging behavioral changes that support long-term health outcomes and sustainable wellness practices across the Emirates.

  • Ramadan 2026: Tips to prioritise self-care and wellness

    Ramadan 2026: Tips to prioritise self-care and wellness

    As Ramadan approaches in 2026, health experts emphasize the critical importance of integrating comprehensive self-care practices during the holy month of fasting. This spiritual period, while focused on renewal and devotion, presents unique physical and mental challenges that require thoughtful wellness strategies.

    The physiological demands of prolonged fasting hours, altered sleep patterns, and increased social commitments can significantly impact one’s wellbeing. Christian Kiefer, Spa Wellness Project Management expert, notes that wellness during Ramadan serves as an essential support system, helping maintain energy levels, emotional stability, and mental clarity throughout the month.

    A holistic approach to Ramadan wellness encompasses multiple dimensions. Gentle physical therapies including calming massages and aromatherapy rituals help alleviate the physical fatigue that accumulates from fasting and disrupted sleep cycles. Mindful practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and journaling provide mental respite and spiritual connection.

    Nutrition remains paramount during this period. Experts recommend consuming balanced meals during suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and iftar (evening meal), emphasizing complex carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Hydration during non-fasting hours is crucial, with particular attention to water intake before dawn and after sunset. Incorporating abundant fruits and vegetables ensures adequate vitamin and mineral intake while avoiding excessive fatty and spicy foods.

    Physical activity should be modified to accommodate the fasting state. Light exercises such as stretching, yoga, or evening walks after iftar help maintain circulation and muscle flexibility without overexertion. Sleep prioritization and maintaining consistent rest patterns help the body adapt to changed circadian rhythms.

    Chef Alaa Alnachar of Grand Millennium Hotel Dubai shares a nutritious red lentil soup recipe (Shorbet Aadas) ideal for Ramadan meals. This nutrient-dense dish provides essential proteins and minerals while being gentle on the digestive system during fasting periods.

    Special populations including those with medical conditions, eating disorders, or pregnant/breastfeeding women are advised to consult healthcare professionals before undertaking Ramadan fasting. The integration of community connections through iftar gatherings and family interactions further enhances the holistic wellness experience during this sacred month.

  • Is dopamine fasting key to doomscrolling and online addiction?

    Is dopamine fasting key to doomscrolling and online addiction?

    In an era of endless digital stimulation, a Dubai-based entrepreneur’s personal revelation highlights the neurological realities behind compulsive scrolling and impulse behaviors. Elissa, a 43-year-old expat mother of three, discovered her seemingly harmless phone habits were fundamentally altering her brain chemistry and emotional state.

    The turning point came when her youngest son observed that she appeared consistently angry when offline but smiled continuously during screen time. This prompted professional consultation that revealed her ‘me-time’ scrolling sessions were actually overstimulating her brain’s reward system through constant micro-releases of dopamine—the neurotransmitter responsible for pleasure and motivation.

    Contrary to popular psychology trends that villainize dopamine, specialists clarify this neurotransmitter isn’t inherently negative. Dr. Rajasekaran, a specialist psychiatrist at OPENMINDS Centre for Psychiatry, Counselling and Neuroscience, explains: ‘Dopamine is critical for motivation, cognition, and mood regulation. The issue emerges when modern stimuli—social media notifications, abundant entertainment options, and accessible pleasures—constantly trigger phasic dopamine releases.’

    This continuous high-intensity stimulation desensitizes dopamine receptors, making ordinary experiences feel less rewarding and creating cycles of compulsive behavior. The solution, however, isn’t the social media-popularized concept of ‘dopamine fasting’—a misleading term suggesting complete abstinence from dopamine-producing activities.

    Instead, experts recommend recalibrating the brain’s reward system through balanced activities that promote tonic dopamine release: steady-state pursuits like reading, exercise, or creative endeavors. Elissa’s successful intervention involved replacing scrolling with evening walks and reading, resulting in improved mood and presence that even her children noticed.

    The clinical approach focuses on restoring neurological sensitivity rather than eliminating dopamine itself. By reducing high-intensity stimulation, the brain gradually regains its ability to find satisfaction in everyday experiences, improving focus, emotional regulation, and overall mental wellness without resorting to extreme restrictions.

  • Overwashing, too much Retinol: Ramadan skincare mistakes to avoid

    Overwashing, too much Retinol: Ramadan skincare mistakes to avoid

    As the holy month of Ramadan transforms daily routines with extended fasting periods and altered sleep patterns, dermatologists across the UAE are highlighting significant skincare concerns that emerge during this spiritual period. Medical experts identify dehydration-induced dryness, increased sensitivity, and circadian rhythm disruptions as primary challenges affecting skin health during this time.

    Dr. Malaz Eldirdiry, specialist dermatologist at Burjeel Medical City in Abu Dhabi, explains that reduced daytime fluid intake directly impacts skin physiology. “Dehydration can manifest as visible dryness and dullness while potentially exacerbating pre-existing conditions like eczema,” she notes. However, with proper post-iftar hydration management, fasting can yield neutral or even beneficial effects including improved oil balance and acne reduction.

    The disruption of natural sleep-wake cycles presents another significant factor. Skincare professionals emphasize that late nights and early suhoor awakenings interfere with the skin’s nocturnal repair processes, potentially leading to delayed healing, persistent inflammation, and fatigued appearance.

    Common Ramadan Skincare Missteps:

    Excessive cleansing rituals intended to maintain freshness often backfire by compromising the skin’s protective barrier. Dermatologists recommend limiting cleansing to morning and evening sessions using gentle formulations rather than harsh soaps that trigger rebound oil production.

    The temptation to combat dullness through aggressive exfoliation—particularly as Eid approaches—frequently results in heightened sensitivity and pigmentation issues. Experts advise prioritizing hydration over intensive scrubbing to restore natural radiance.

    Potent active ingredients including retinol, high-concentration acids, and alcohol-based toners may require reduced frequency during Ramadan. Rather than complete elimination, spacing applications while monitoring skin response helps prevent adverse reactions.

    Barrier repair emerges as the cornerstone of effective Ramadan skincare. A simplified routine featuring hydrating serums with hyaluronic acid, appropriate moisturization, and consistent sun protection proves most effective.

    Professional treatment scheduling requires strategic timing, with aesthetic expert Ahmed Nhaban recommending appointments 2-3 hours post-iftar when hydration levels are restored. UAE clinics report increased evening bookings during Ramadan for this reason.

    For pre-Eid preparations, dermatologists advise advanced scheduling of cosmetic procedures, noting that Botox requires 10-14 days for optimal results before celebrations commence.

    Skincare specialists recommend adopting a two-phase daily approach: lightweight hydration with antioxidant protection and sunscreen after suhoor, followed by intensive repair formulations featuring barrier-restoring ingredients after iftar. This circadian-aware strategy helps maintain skin equilibrium throughout Ramadan’s unique demands.

  • Ramadan fatigue? Your gut may be the reason

    Ramadan fatigue? Your gut may be the reason

    As Ramadan progresses beyond its initial days, many fasting individuals encounter a puzzling phenomenon: instead of experiencing renewed energy after Iftar, they face pronounced fatigue, bloating, and discomfort. Nutrition science now reveals that these symptoms originate not from fasting itself but from underlying digestive system imbalances that the fasting period exposes.

    The human gut microbiota, comprising trillions of beneficial bacteria, plays a crucial role in nutrient extraction, vitamin production, and immune defense coordination. Remarkably, approximately 70% of the body’s immune functionality connects directly to gut health. When this microbial equilibrium becomes disrupted, the body manifests various symptoms including acidity, constipation, low energy, and increased susceptibility to illness.

    During fasting hours, the digestive system undergoes a beneficial cleansing process, clearing residual food particles and excess bacteria. The challenge typically emerges at Iftar when individuals frequently consume large quantities of comfort foods rapidly, particularly fried items, sweets, and sugary beverages. This abrupt dietary onslaught overwhelms the digestive system, triggering fermentation processes that produce gas, inflammation, and that characteristic heavy, sleepy sensation.

    The post-Iftar fatigue stems not from nutritional deficiency but from the enormous metabolic effort required for digestion. Efficient energy production depends significantly on optimal nutrient absorption facilitated by beneficial gut bacteria. When these microorganisms are diminished, absorption of critical nutrients like iron and B-vitamins declines, resulting in persistent fatigue despite adequate food intake.

    Fasting inherently provides an opportunity to reset the gut environment, but achieving balance requires conscious dietary support. Nutrition experts emphasize breaking fasts gradually with dates and water, beginning with light soups, and avoiding excessive consumption during the initial hour. Incorporating vegetables, fruits, and probiotic-rich fermented dairy products supports microbial health. For Suhoor, recommendations include whole grains, proteins, and adequate hydration.

    Additionally, the increased illness incidence during Ramadan frequently connects to dehydration, sleep disruption, and high sugar consumption compounded by gut imbalance rather than fasting itself. Since immune cells maintain close communication with gut bacteria, enhancing digestive health directly strengthens natural defense mechanisms.

    Ramadan represents both a spiritual reset and a biological opportunity. When fasting combines with mindful eating practices and gut microbiome support, many individuals report improved mental clarity, sustained energy levels, and enhanced digestive comfort throughout the holy month.