PHCC launches awareness drive to promote wellness in hot weather
Doha
As part of its strategy to promote awareness and healthy lifestyles, the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has launched an awareness campaign under the slogan 'Step into a Healthier Summer'.
The campaign is being rolled out via the Corporation's social media platforms and official website, with the aim of educating community members on how to maintain their health during the summer season and providing guidance on avoiding the harmful effects of high temperatures.
Hassan Mohammed Zainal, manager of Health Awareness and Community Engagement at PHCC's Corporate Communications Directorate, said this annual campaign aims to remind people of the importance of caring for their body and skin during this hot season, and to encourage the adoption of a healthy lifestyle through proper nutrition, hydration, and appropriate preventive measures, especially with the rise in temperatures that can lead to dehydration, fatigue, loss of appetite, and in some cases, heatstroke.
This year's summer campaign targets all segments of the community, both citizens and residents. As part of the summer health awareness plan, PHCC will host several nutrition specialists in live broadcasts to discuss healthy eating during the summer, as well as maintaining a healthy lifestyle for children during the long school vacation. The campaign also involves community partnerships with government entities and summer clubs to deliver educational and awareness lectures suitable for all age groups, focusing on common summer illnesses and how to prevent them.
Hassan added that PHCC will leverage its media platforms to reach the widest audience possible, utilising its experienced staff in community outreach — whether through interactions with visitors at the Corporation's 31 health centres or through its various community partnerships.
He also noted that simplified and direct health information will be shared in the form of 'Health Cards' specifically designed to align with the campaign's goals, offering clear and useful tips.
The campaign highlights key recommendations, including:
• Drinking enough water daily to compensate for fluid loss due to sweating.
• Using moisturisers and sunscreen to protect the skin from dryness and sunburn.
• Avoiding direct sun exposure, especially during peak hours between 10am and 4pm.
• Wearing light-coloured, cotton clothing that allows the body to breathe and helps reduce heat.
• Protecting the eyes by wearing sunglasses that block ultraviolet (UV) rays.
• Maintaining personal hygiene and engaging in physical activity during cooler parts of the day.
This campaign is part of a series of awareness initiatives launched by PHCC in alignment with the National Health Strategy, which emphasises prevention and the adoption of healthy behaviours through scientifically grounded programmes.
The Corporation stressed that following these simple tips can help prevent many summer-related illnesses and enable individuals to enjoy a safe and healthy season free of complications and health risks.
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