‘It’s time to invest in women’s health’: Female healthcare is a UAE priority, says official
Published: Tue 28 Jan 2025, 6:00 AM
Dr Maryam Matar stressed that both women and men need a better understanding of their health to prevent various diseases
The UAE is making significant strides in addressing the unique healthcare needs of women, with a focus on increasing awareness and education.
Speaking to Khaleej Times on the sidelines of Arab Health 2025 on Monday, Dr Maryam Matar, founder and chairperson of the Emirates Genetic Diseases Association, emphasised the importance of empowering students in higher education “so they understand the basic physiology of their bodies”.
This knowledge will help them gain “a better understanding of epigenetic impact on how our bodies react to different factors,” she explained.
She also stressed the importance of health education, noting that both women and men need a deeper understanding of their health. By empowering individuals with proper information and resources, she believes many diseases can be prevented. She also pointed out that one of the simplest and most effective ways to preserve health is ensuring a good night’s sleep.
Her insights were shared during a panel discussion on ‘Advancing Healthcare for Women in the MENA’ at Arab Health 2025. Alongside Dr Matar, the panel included three other notable health professionals: Dr Nawal Nour, chair of OBGYN at Mass General Brigham hospital, Dr Kalthoom AlBulooshi, chief innovative officer at Emirates Health Services, and Farouk Shamas Jiwa, head of policy and communications META at Organon.
https://www.khaleejtimes.com/lifestyle/health/uae-advancing-womens-health-is-a-priority-for-the-country-officials-say