Weqaya to include Vit D, kidney tests

Phase 2 of the Weqaya (precaution) programme for the Emirati adults will now include tests for Vitamin D deficiency and kidney function, of which results will be given in five days. Dr Khaled Aidha Al Jaberi, Director of Non-Communicable Disease section at the HAAD said that phase 2 was already started early this year but was made optional for those who are renewing their Thiqa card. “We know that we have a huge problem in this area (Vitamin D deficiency) and we would like to know how huge the problem is,” said Dr Al Jaberi. He urged his compatriots to take advantage of this medical screening programme which would greatly benefit them in enjoying a full and health life. The HAAD has also hastened the processing of the results for early intervention. The Weqaya report cards give patients their own personal results aimed to empower individuals to care for their own health and improve patient-doctor interaction. It tells each individual their personalised levels of blood sugar (an indication of risk of diabetes), cholesterol and body mass index (an indication of risk of heart disease). Between 2008-2010, around 185,000 (97 per cent of the population) Emirati adults, 18 years and above, were screened. From : Khalij