Learn what to look out for and what changes you need to make to avoid these serious illnesses that have become prevalent in the capital

We don’t mean to sound ominous, but you should never take your health for granted, because even the healthiest among us can be struck down by illness.

Being aware of any changes in your body, and not being afraid to seek medical assistance could save your life. After all, the earlier you detect a serious illness, the more likely you are to make a full recovery.

So what are the biggest threats in Abu Dhabi?

In focus

Here in the UAE, the average life expectancy is 77.1 years (76.4 for males and 78.6 for females), which is above the world average of 71.4 years.

Many of the diseases and illnesses that are common in Abu Dhabi are heavily influenced by our lifestyle choices, including diet, lack of physical activity and smoking.

Cardiovascular disease

Should I be concerned?

According to a report by WHO, up to 50 percent of people with cardiovascular diseases in the Gulf die before the age of 60, mainly due to poor diet and lack of exercise.

What to look out for…

“The most common symptoms are chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, sweating, nausea and upper body discomfort in one or both arms, the neck, jaw or stomach,” says Dr Jairam K Aithal, consultant of cardiovascular disease at Burjeel Hospital. “All people aged over 40 should have a cardiovascular health risk assessment.”

How can I reduce my risk?

“Improving your lifestyle definitely helps in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This includes not smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, choosing healthy foods, reducing your salt intake, increasing physical activity and maintaining a stress-free life.”

Cancer

Should I be concerned?

According to WHO, the number of cancer diagnoses in the Middle East is projected to double in the next two decades. Cancer caused 13.5 percent of all deaths in Abu Dhabi in 2015.

How can I reduce my risk?

“Living an active and healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced, antioxidant-rich diet and exercise is the best regimen to prevent cancer. Regular health screenings are also a good measure to keep cancer at bay,” says Dr Norbert W Dreier, consultant of oncology at Burjeel Hospital.

Obesity

Should I be concerned?

Obesity is a prevalent issue in the UAE, as a whopping 36 percent of children are considered obese, according to WHO. A study by the University of Washington showed that 66 percent of men and 60 percent of women in the UAE are obese.

How can I reduce my risk?

“Reducing the quantity and improving the quality of your food gradually helps in reducing weight,” says Norlyn Torrena, clinical dietician at Burjeel Hospital. “Focus on eating healthy, balanced and nutritious meals that are high in fibre and low in fat, and follow a regular exercise regime.”

Diabetes

Should I be concerned?

In MENA, more than 35.4 million people are affected by diabetes, with the number expected to rise to 72.1 million by 2040.

How can I reduce my risk?

“Diabetes can be controlled by medication and changing your lifestyle by eating healthily and implementing physical activities in your daily routine,” says Dr Job Simon, consultant of endocrinology at Burjeel Hospital.

Osteoporosis

Should I be concerned?

A recent study in the UAE on 1,825 healthy individuals showed that 24 percent had osteopenia and 2.5 percent had osteoporosis. Vitamin D deficiency – vital for bone health – could be as high as 90 percent.

Digestive illness

Should I be concerned?

Bowel cancer is the second most common cancer in the emirate. Approximately one in 20 adults will develop bowel cancer during their lifetime.

Don’t delay, see a doctor

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned in this article or are concerned about your health, the first thing you should do is book an appointment with your doctor.

Need to know

Health Authority Abu Dhabi (HAAD) – 02 449 3333, haad.ae

Burjeel Hospital – 02 508 5555, burjeel.com