DOHA: Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) has urged people to safeguard their health by exercising restraint on food and drinks, be more cautious while driving and show more compassion towards the needy, especially by donating blood or making a pledge to donate an organ, during Ramadan.
Hamad General Hospital’s (HGH) Medical Director, Dr Yousuf Khalid Al Maslamani, encourages residents, especially Muslims fasting during Ramadan to take care of their health by not eating excessively during Suhoor and Iftar.
“On behalf of HMC, I wish all people a blessed and healthy Ramadan. It is a time when families gather, friends host Iftars, and meals are shared but it is also a time when hundreds visit HGH’s Emergency Department as a result of overeating,” said Dr Al Maslamani.
He stressed that self-restraint is an integral aspect of the holy month, as it is a time to cleanse the body and soul from impurities and re-focus on worship of God. Ramadan is a time of intense devotion and reflection – when Muslims fast during the day and perform Taraweeh prayer at night, reciting and listening to the entire Quran over the course of the month.
“Ramadan is an occasion of giving zakat and demonstrating compassion, kindness and generosity to others. I would like to inspire everyone to help save lives by giving blood and consider signing up for organ donation, the ultimate gift of oneself,” he said.
Dr Al Maslamani said fasting is a concept shared by many faiths as a way of bringing people closer to God and those who cannot take their next meal for granted. “Rituals remind us of the principles we hold in common. Ramadan is also a time to be mindful of our health and that of our families and communities.
“By changing routines, Muslims and non-Muslims have an opportunity to establish healthier lifestyle habits, particularly with regard to diet and smoking cessation,” he said.
During Ramadan, HMC is sharing with people information on how they can stay healthy and safe while observing the holy month.
The Peninsula
