The Ministry of Public Health’s Healthcare Communications Committee has expanded the Ramadan Health initiative by introducing a companion smartphone and tablet app. The website has also been re-launched to help the public stay healthy during Ramadan.

Introduced three years ago, the Ramadan Health website is Qatar's first online resource devoted to health and wellness during the holy month of Ramadan. Ali al-Khater, chair of the Healthcare Communications Committee and chief communications officer, Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) said the website provides the public with the combined health and wellness expertise and knowledge of the Ministry of Public Health, HMC, and the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC).

He said it has information about common health complications that can arise during the month of Ramadan and added that the new app will improve the user experience, making the information easier to access.

“Ramadan provides an opportunity to focus on a balanced and healthy lifestyle. However, there can be health issues related to fasting and we understand that members of the public have questions and concerns. The Ramadan Health website and companion app contain important information about healthy eating, physical exercise, and other strategies for staying well during Ramadan," said al-Khater.

The online resource includes information about the benefits of fasting as well as potential risks associated with fasting for individuals who are managing various health conditions. It also contains a daily calendar with health tips and answers to frequently asked questions.

“In developing the Ramadan Health website and app our main objectives were to help the public make more informed choices, minimise complications and potential health risks, and maximise the benefit of their fast. The information does not replace medical advice from one's doctor, but using the combined resources and expertise of the Ministry of Public Health, HMC and the PHCC, we aim to address the most frequently asked questions about fasting in general and medical issues in particular,” said al-Khater.

He added that the website and app contain Ramadan clinic hours, a calendar with daily health tips, and information about common health concerns, such as managing diabetes while fasting, advice for staying hydrated, and suggestions for healthy eating.

People can visit the Ramadan Health website at www.hamad.qa/ramadanhealth, or download the app to the phone or tablet by searching for ‘Qatar Health’ available for iOS and Android operating systems.

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