With the approach of the holy month of Ramadan, King Fahd General Hospital in Jeddah launched a field awareness campaign under the slogan “Fast in Good Health,” aiming to reach the largest possible segment of the community in their daily gathering places such as parks and shopping malls. This initiative is part of the hospital’s ongoing efforts to promote public health and spread a culture of preventative healthcare, in line with the strategic objectives of the health sector in the Kingdom.
The campaign saw active participation from specialized medical and volunteer teams, who were present at key locations in Jeddah to provide direct health guidance to the public. Activities focused on key topics of interest to those fasting, such as how to gradually prepare the body for fasting, correcting common unhealthy eating habits during the holy month, and offering practical tips for maintaining health and vitality throughout the fasting period.
General context and importance of health awareness during Ramadan
Such campaigns are particularly important in Saudi Arabia, where Ramadan is a central religious and social occasion that drastically alters daily life patterns, including sleep and wake times and dietary habits. This change can pose health challenges, especially for the elderly and those with chronic conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Therefore, proactive awareness initiatives are a cornerstone of the Ministry of Health's strategy and the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to build a vibrant and healthy society by empowering individuals to make sound health decisions and reducing the burden on healthcare facilities through a focus on prevention.
Expected impact and dimensions of the campaign
Locally, the “Fasting in Good Health” campaign directly contributes to raising health awareness among Jeddah residents, equipping them with the knowledge necessary for a safe and healthy fast, thus reducing the likelihood of emergency health complications. Nationally, the success of such initiatives in a major city like Jeddah serves as a model that can be replicated in other regions, reinforcing the concept of social responsibility for healthcare institutions. These efforts also reflect the Saudi healthcare sector's commitment to providing comprehensive care that extends beyond hospital walls to reach every member of society, further bolstering the Kingdom's positive image as a leader in preventative healthcare.
Integration of field and digital efforts
In parallel with its field activities, the hospital launched digital awareness content across its official platforms, including guidance messages emphasizing the importance of gradually increasing fasting to avoid digestive problems and encouraging light physical activity before or after breaking the fast. Detailed guidelines were also provided for patients with diabetes and high blood pressure to ensure their safe fasting. The hospital's Community Engagement and Health Awareness Department confirmed that the campaign received a significant response, opening direct communication channels between healthcare professionals and the public, thus reinforcing the concept of prevention and making it a conscious daily practice.
