DAMMAM – Filipino expats’ successful completion of computer literacy and health awareness programs was marked during a ceremony held recently at Al Jazeera International School in Dammam
The Computer Society of Filipinos International, Inc. – Eastern Region Chapter (COMSOFIL-ERC) finished its induction of 2012 Board of Directors and the 12th Commencement Exercises during the event.

Philippine Labor Attaché Adam A. Musa praised the enthusiasm and perseverance of the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who were attending classes even on Fridays to quench their thirst for knowledge and self-improvement.

OFWs are not only getting educated about computers, but also about health through the awareness program organized by the Medical Service of the Society.

Screening tests are held during the program for hypertension and diabetes and handouts from Dammam Medical Dispensary are also given out.
Hypertension is quite prevalent among OFWs but most are not aware of it until they are screened because there are generally no specific symptoms to indicate a rise in blood pressure.

Experts say that merely consultation and relying on medication is not enough for patients suffering from diseases, especially hypertension and diabetes.

Doctors say the reason why hypertension and diabetes are not under control is because the patients neither change their lifestyle and eating habits nor do they quit smoking. Patients should eat healthy foods, reduce their intake of salt and fat, and undertake more physical activities.

Patients who adopt a healthy lifestyle and revised eating habits should not get disheartened if results are not seen within a short time, doctors say, as it may take months to bring about the desired effect. –– SG