Abu Dhabi: The Health Authority in Abu Dhabi (HAAD) has started a programme to help its staff stop smoking.
The programme is part of the Authority's goal to improve public health.
The programme, which began this month, supports HAAD employees who wish to quit smoking. It will cover the entire cost of their treatment plus provide follow-up consultations.
Health Authority in Abu Dhabi chief executive officer Zaid Al Siksek told staff: "I encourage all smokers to consider joining the programme to quit. HAAD will provide encouragement throughout the journey in the form of group therapy, counselling and medical treatment."
Medical advice
The programme, which is co-ordinated by Dr Ahmad Abdullah, Senior Officer in the Department of Public Health, will also offer medical advice and information about the harmful outcomes of smoking. Information about ways to quit smoking will be provided, as well as psychological support and life skills to help the smokers' families, Dr Abdullah said.
"The programme has had a positive outcome so far as numerous HAAD employees have already registered and are due to start within a short period of time. Enrolment is still open and will remain so for a while," an Authority spokesman said.
— With inputs from Mayar Raouf, Staff Reporter
