The Health Center at the American University in Dubai (AUD) organized a No Smoking Campaign, in association with the American Hospital Dubai. The campaign, planned by a group of AUD students as part of a class project and supervised by Nelly Halabi, Director of the Health Center at AUD, was widely attended by students.

Two types of clinical testing took place:  Spirometry, which tests the function of the lungs, and Pulse Oximetry, which tests the oxygen saturation present in the blood. The tests were conducted and performed by Ronn Delfin, Pulmonary Clinical Coordinator and Michelle Balicaco, Respiratory Therapist at the American Hospital Dubai.

Nelly Halabi commented: “Our main aim is to have a smoke-free environment and to raise awareness about the lethal effects of smoking. We hope to help smokers quit and offer advice and guidance on campus."

Dr. Amro Al Astal, Internist, Intensivist, Pulmonologist, and Sleep Medicine Specialist at the American Hospital Dubai, conducted a presentation about the economic, health and other hazards of smoking. The physical and psychological addiction to smoking was discussed and students were given tips on quitting. He noted: “The American Hospital Dubai will continue its commitment to provide smoking cessation awareness to the community and to the country as a whole.  Healthy living is now a global must.”