Imam Abdulrahman Al Faisal Hospital - Dammam launched the Prevention of Obesity’s activities which targeted the patients, the visitors and staff. The Regional Executive Director of National Guard Health Affairs - Eastern Region, Dr. Ahmed Al Arfaj pointed out saying: ”This event is to raise awareness about obesity risks, the importance of preventive measures as well as covering the surgical and non-surgical treatment options”.
He added: “an awareness educational exhibition was held in which several departments and divisions have participated, these activities confirm that obesity has become an epidemic, which threatens the lives of many; and according to statistics, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf countries are suffering from the prevalence of obesity".
He also added: "Our goal is to emphasize that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure , that’s why we are so keen on guidance and awareness aspects, which helped in achieving tangible results and excellent feedback through our direct contact with the public.”
Furthermore, the head of Laparoscopic-Surgery Department at Imam Abdulrahman Al Faisal Hospital, Dr. Khalid Mirza pointed out that "Imam Abdulrahman Al Faisal Hospital is one of the leading centers specializing in the treatment and surgery of obesity; it has performed around 1,500 surgeries with satisfactory results as well as organizing a number of workshops in this specific field”.
He added, "We are keen on organizing on holding conferences that cover the latest developments and topics regarding obesity treatment and prevention, and we will host a global conference next February that will discuss the latest updates in this regard”.
Dr. Mirza explained that “this disease has become a nightmare, ad that’s why we lay emphasis on the effectiveness of surgical treatments, the importance of prevention, as well as early childhood care and ongoing educational activities that are inclusive of this disease".