Press Release

Al Jalila Foundation Receives A USD100,000 Health Access Grant From The Medtronic Foundation

Al Jalila Foundation, a global philanthropic organisation dedicated to transforming lives through medical education and research, announced today that it received a two-year Health Access Grant for the amount of USD100,000 from Medtronic Foundation.

The grant will fund a local research programme focusing on Vitamin D deficiency in adults and children across the United Arab Emirates. The study will concentrate on early detection, evaluation, and treatment of vitamin D deficiency. The grant will allow Al Jalila Foundation to screen thousands across the UAE to promote early detection and prevention of the debilitating disease.

According to the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF), up to 90 percent of those living in the emirates suffer from a Vitamin D deficiency. IOF stated that the number of UAE residents suffering from the deficiency, which causes osteoporosis, a bone degeneration disease, is one of the highest in the world with the highest incidences among women. Osteoporosiscauses the deterioration of bone tissue and creates low bone mass, leading to bone fragility and a higher risk of broken bones.

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. We are grateful to the Medtronic Foundation for their support and look forward to working together on this important study. It is our hope that through increased awareness and early detection patients will be better equipped to manage the disease to lead a healthy, happy and productive life.”

“At Medtronic, we are driven by a belief that access to quality healthcare is fundamental for all people around the world,” says Majid Kaddoumi, Vice President and Managing Director of Medtronic, Middle East, Africa, Central Asia and Turkey region. “Through the Medtronic Foundation, we invest in localized health access initiatives that support and recognize community-based organizations such as Al Jalila Foundation, allowing them to continue and expand their great work.”

Medtronic Foundation Health Access Grants are awarded in 72 different communities around the world in recognition of community-based programs and organizations that demonstrate a commitment to expanding access to chronic disease care for the underserved.

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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