Brifing

Abu Dhabi Launches Lifestyle Improvement Programme for Chronic Disease Prevention

A new 24-week initiative offers personalized health management for eligible UAE Nationals.

Gulf News2 min

1Preventive Healthcare Shift

Abu Dhabi has launched the Lifestyle Improvement Programme, a 24-week research initiative designed to combat chronic disease risks. Led by the Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre in collaboration with the Institute for Healthier Living, the project moves beyond basic screenings to provide active, personalized support for residents seeking long-term health improvements.

2Clinical Evaluation Process

Participants receive a comprehensive clinical evaluation at the Institute for Healthier Living, the world's first regulator-licensed Healthy Longevity Medicine Centre. This process includes detailed health tests, body composition assessments, and the setup of wearable devices. These tools establish a baseline for the multidisciplinary team to monitor progress throughout the study period.

3Multidisciplinary Support Teams

Each participant is assigned a dedicated team comprising doctors, dietitians, health coaches, exercise specialists, and nurses. This group develops individual health plans based on personal goals, lifestyle patterns, and clinical results. The goal is to translate complex health information into practical, sustainable daily actions that improve overall quality of life.

4Research and Data Impact

Beyond individual health benefits, the programme functions as a research initiative to study the impact of lifestyle changes on chronic condition risk factors. By gathering scientific evidence, the project aims to demonstrate how personalized interventions can effectively support disease prevention, contributing to the emirate's long-term health priorities and community well-being.

5Eligibility and Requirements

The programme is open to UAE Nationals aged 25 to 50 who possess a Thiqa card. Applicants must have a BMI between 30 and 35 and have previously completed the Emirati Genome Programme and IFHAS screening. Participation is free, though eligibility is subject to a final assessment by the research team.

6Addressing Chronic Conditions

Chronic conditions significantly impact daily activities and long-term health as individuals age. By addressing risk factors early, the initiative helps residents make informed decisions about their health. This proactive approach aims to reduce the likelihood of developing more serious conditions, ultimately fostering a healthier community through sustained, professional medical guidance.

7Strategic Health Goals

This collaboration supports Abu Dhabi's wider efforts to strengthen preventive healthcare systems. By linking medical services and encouraging healthier lifestyles, the government seeks to improve the long-term health of its population. The initiative reflects a broader regional trend toward integrated healthcare systems that prioritize early detection and lifestyle management.

8Future Health Implications

The programme represents a significant step in shifting from reactive treatment to proactive, personalized health management. By combining clinical data with lifestyle coaching, the initiative provides a model for sustainable health improvement. Future outcomes will likely influence how the emirate approaches chronic disease prevention and public health policy on a larger scale.

Original article: Gulf News — Abu Dhabi Launches Lifestyle Improvement Programme for Chronic Disease Prevention