Press Release

Al Jalila Foundation in collaboration with Gargash Enterprises initiate medical research on the prevalence of osteoporosis and vitamin D deficiency in the UAE

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical education and research, today announced the launch of ‘Together Against Osteoporosis’. This is the first osteoporosis research study of its kind in the United Arab Emirates and will be conducted by Dubai Bone & Joint Center (DBAJ). Gargash Enterprises, the general distributor of Mercedes-Benz vehicles in Dubai, Sharjah, and the Northern Emirates, has donated two fully equipped Mercedes-Benz Sprinter vans to facilitate the pioneering research in line with their corporate social responsibility giving initiative.

The ‘Together Against Osteoporosis’ medical research study investigates the prevalence of osteoporosis and vitamin D deficiency in the UAE, as well as the correlation of vitamin D, diabetes mellitus and other risk factors with bone mineral density. Osteoporosis is preventable and treatable, however, many people are not diagnosed in time to receive effective therapy during the early phase of the disease. The goal of this study is to raise awareness about this silent disease, preventative measures and the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. The study will be conducted during a 24 month period and aims to asses a total of 2,500 participants. The data collected will be published to provide healthcare professionals with accurate epidemiological information about osteoporosis in the UAE.

Dr Abdulkareem Sultan Al Olama, Chief Executive Officer, Al Jalila Foundation said: “Vitamin D deficiency has become a global health concern. Studies have shown that insufficient levels of Vitamin D can lead to a number of chronic illnesses and life-threatening diseases. As the ‘Year of Giving’ kicks off we are grateful to Gargash Enterprises for their support and look forward to working together on this important study to advance medical research, improve patients’ lives and contribute to a healthier and happier nation.”

Shehab Gargash, Board Member of Gargash Enterprises supported: “With more than a 70% prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency among the UAE population, we see it as our privilege, as well as our duty, to be part of this noble cause, and we are proud to stand side by side with the Al Jalila Foundation and Dubai Bone & Joint Center to accomplish it. The journey ahead of us to raise awareness is a long one, but with the Mercedes-Benz mobile clinic Sprinter vehicles that Gargash Enterprises has contributed, we have the confidence that the research team will be readily equipped for the challenges they may face and we look forward to raising awareness about Osteoporosis and Vitamin D deficiency and thus helping people learn about treatment and prevention.”

The two fully equipped mobile clinic vehicles that Gargash Enterprises has donated, will facilitate the country-wide medical assessments of adults across the United Arab Emirates. These mobile clinics will drive the research programme and allow Dubai Bone & Joint Center to screen thousands to promote early detection and prevention of the debilitating disease.

Michael Stroud, CEO of DBAJ, said: ‘’Dubai Bone & Joint Center are extremely grateful to Al Jalila Foundation and Gargash Enterprises for sponsoring this very important research and we are delighted that DBAJ can make a positive contribution to the future healthcare of the UAE’’.

Al Jalila Foundation, a member of the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives, continues to invest in innovative healthcare programmes to position Dubai at the forefront of medical innovation. 100% of donations are invested in medical treatment, education and research to improve lives in the UAE and the region.

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