Daman, the health insurance provider in the UAE, has partnered with NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD)’s Public Health Research Centre (PHRC), aiming to collaborate on broader promotion and support of the UAE healthy future study
Investigators from NYUAD and the NYU Langone Medical Centre have collaborated with local partners in Abu Dhabi to conduct this long-term study in order to understand the reason of the spread of obesity, diabetes and heart diseases in the region.
The study is also looking to recruit 20,000 UAE nationals between the ages of 18-40. According to NYU Abu Dhabi, more than 4,000 participants have signed up to take part in the study.
Under the partnership programme, Daman is expected to support the study’s recruitment drive by displaying information about the study at its Thiqa branches and service points. Additionally, personnel from the study will be present at Daman’s premises and ActiveLife events in order to promote the study and recruit willing volunteers.
Thiqa, managed by Daman on behalf of the government of Abu Dhabi, delivers healthcare services to the UAE nationals in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. This partnership aims to ensure that the message of the study reaches its target audience.
Dr Michael Bitzer, CEO of Daman, said, “Our collaboration with NYU Abu Dhabi marks a step in the right direction as we look to identify effective ways of dealing with common UAE health epidemics, such as obesity.”
“Through our extensive Thiqa network, service points and branches, we are working to recruit and provide access to UAE nationals to partake in the study. Those who agree to participate will provide valuable data that supports this significant research, crucially, they will also be part of a positive movement for the UAE,” he added.
He further commented, “We look to get to the root-cause and combat the UAE’s health concerns. Our work with NYU Abu Dhabi enables us to continue working towards creating healthier communities and achieve a better health outlook for the country.”
