(MENAFN- Arab News) RIYADH: 'Hello Ramadan' a phone-in program which the Ministry of Health launched in the beginning of Ramadan is attracting a large number of Saudis who benefit from its guidelines on health related issues that they may face during the month.
Speaking with Arab News Health Ministry spokesman Dr. Khalid Al-Mirghalani said 'Your Health in Ramadan' which is in its 11th consecutive year is benefitting a large number of citizens who seek answers to their queries 'regarding various health problems that they might encounter during their month-long fasts.'
'It helps Muslims in the Kingdom clear their doubts regarding the medical problems they face especially during this month' he said.
The program this year is focused on the theme of ensuring Muslims maintain their health and a balanced lifestyle throughout Ramadan and is organized by the MoH's Media Information and Health Awareness Center. He said that the program will focus on the importance of taking the prescribed doses of medication during the month of Ramadan and will provide medical tips and consultations.
The service is available on toll free number 8002494444 which will be operated in Arabic and is open for the public during office hours on week days.
'We have arranged a panel of specialist doctors in various fields to answer live questions on all week days during the month' he said adding that the physicians would also interact with the public through social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook.
The official said the annual program during the holy month has been a big hit and he hoped that this year's service would also attract a larger number of Muslims.
'We assure all callers strict confidentiality of the information provided during their telephonic inquiries he said adding that men suffering from chronic ailments such as diabetes and hypertension are free to ask questions about their dose of medicines and how they should consume their insulin during the holy month while women could inquire about matters related to their health and their children's health for example.
Besides this program he also said the ministry would continue with its health education program through television and radio channels. 'The whole idea of the program is to balance one's lifestyle during Ramadan to consume the right portions of food and intake of medication' he said pointing out that over-eating during the holy month can result in obesity and stressed that the timing of the medicines to be taken during the non-fasting hours should be according to medical advice.
Previously the ministry had been carrying out a similar program to educate people of the food habits to be followed to beat the heat during the summer holiday season.
'Now we will continue the program but with a focus on Ramadan' Al-Mirghalani said.