Explore comprehensive insights into children’s health in UAE – In the early stages of a child’s life, fostering proper growth and development is paramount. From ensuring the well-being of newborns with comprehensive health check-ups to adhering to a vaccination schedule that safeguards them against preventable diseases, it’s essential for parents and caregivers to be well-informed. Moreover, promoting healthy nutrition and dietary choices for children is a cornerstone of their overall well-being. This guide delves into the vital aspects of early childhood care and development, providing essential information to support the health and growth of the youngest members of our families.
Children's Health in UAE
Early Childhood Development and Care
In the domain of early childhood development and care, the healthcare institutions under the UAE Government’s purview extend their services to encompass comprehensive health check-ups for newborns and essential vaccination programs. Furthermore, specialized healthcare is readily available for pediatric patients, focusing on the well-being of children, within the outpatient departments of government hospitals.
Newborn Health Check-ups
Healthcare facilities in the UAE extend vital early detection services to safeguard the health of newborns. These examinations encompass the evaluation of approximately 40 genetic diseases in alignment with international standards. Notable conditions screened for include:
- Phenylketonuria
- Endocrine insufficiency
- Sickle cell anemia
- Congenital malformations
- Biotin deficiency disease
- Diseases of amino acids, organic compounds, and fatty substances (using mass spectrometer)
- Galactosemia
In addition to genetic screenings, comprehensive assessments such as cardiac examinations are performed to identify critical congenital heart defects. Early screening for hearing disorders is also conducted, aiding in the prompt identification of hereditary deafness among newborns.
The Department of Health in Abu Dhabi has introduced the Enaya screening program, which involves a thorough assessment of newborns for rare medical conditions. This program comprises:
- Medical examination by a qualified doctor
- Hearing screening
- Screening for congenital heart diseases
- Heel prick/bloodspot test to detect specific health indicators.
For additional insights, you can explore the Maternal and Child Health Program offered by the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre.
Vaccination Schedule for Children's Health in UAE
The UAE Government has established a comprehensive vaccination schedule, which begins from a child’s birth and continues until they reach Grade 11. These vaccinations play a pivotal role in safeguarding children from various preventable diseases. The mandated vaccinations encompass protection against the following ailments:
- BCG: Bacillus Calmette-Guerin (for tuberculosis)
- DPT: Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus
- DTaP: Diphtheria, Tetanus, and acellular Pertussis
- Hep B: Hepatitis B
- Hexavalent: DTaP, Hib, Hep B, and IPV
- Hib: Haemophilus Influenzae Type B
- HPV: Human Papillomavirus
- IPV: Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine
- MMR: Measles, Mumps, and Rubella
- OPV: Oral Poliovirus Vaccine
- PCV: Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine
- Pentavalent: DPT, Hib, and Hep B
- Tdap: Tetanus, reduced Diphtheria, and reduced Pertussis
- Tetravalent: DTaP and Hib.
These vaccinations are a fundamental part of promoting well-being and children’s health in UAE. Like Children’s Health in UAE, you may also like to read about vaccinations in the UAE.
Promoting Healthy Nutrition
In the UAE, it’s a mandate for all schools and their food providers to adhere to the established nutritional guidelines, ensuring the provision of healthy and nourishing meals to schoolchildren. These guidelines are set forth by relevant authorities to prioritize the well-being of young students.
The Department of Health in Abu Dhabi has introduced the “Schools for Health” program, a comprehensive health initiative that places emphasis on the holistic well-being of schoolchildren. Moreover, the government is actively addressing concerns such as obesity and endeavors to shield children from the adverse consequences of smoking, underscoring their commitment to safeguarding the health of the younger generation.
Addressing Childhood Obesity
Childhood obesity is a pressing concern within the UAE. As per the findings of the National Health Survey 2017–2018, the obesity rate among children and adolescents, aged between 5 and 17 years, has reached approximately 17.35 percent.
In response to this challenge, the National Program for Government Communication introduced the “2021 Healthy Children” initiative, aimed at combating childhood obesity. Aligned with the UAE National Agenda, this initiative seeks to reduce the prevalence of obesity among children from 13.17 percent (as of 2014) to 12 percent by the year 2021.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) has launched the innovative ‘Mutabah’ system, representing the UAE’s first online system of its kind designed to collect data on obesity and excess weight among school students. The ‘Mutabah’ system conducts annual assessments to accurately and swiftly identify overweight school students, offering tailored dietary guidance and recommendations on physical activity to support the attainment and maintenance of a healthy weight.
Conclusion
Children’s Health in UAE is a paramount concern, reflecting the nation’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of its youngest citizens. The emphasis on Children’s Health in UAE is evident in the comprehensive healthcare initiatives and programs designed to address the unique needs of the younger population.
The holistic approach to Children’s Health in UAE encompasses preventive measures, timely medical interventions, and educational campaigns promoting healthy lifestyles. By prioritizing Children’s Health, the UAE seeks to build a foundation for a thriving and resilient future generation.
In summary, the collective efforts to prioritize Children’s Health in UAE contribute to creating a supportive environment where children can grow, learn, and flourish. As the UAE continues to invest in healthcare infrastructure and awareness programs, it underscores the nation’s dedication to safeguarding the health and happiness of its children. The ongoing commitment to Children’s Health in UAE ensures a brighter and healthier future for the young minds that represent the nation’s promise and potential.
