In a move aimed at establishing a culture of prevention before treatment, the Al-Ula Health Zone launched a unique campaign under the slogan "Check Your Health," which comes as part of ongoing efforts to promote health awareness and encourage all members of the community to adopt a healthy lifestyle through preventive checkups and early detection. The launch took place in the presence of the Deputy Governor of Al-Ula Governorate, Mr. Talal Al-Faqeer, the Director of Prince Abdulmohsen Hospital in Al-Ula Governorate, Dr. Bayan Al-Ahmadi, along with a number of representatives from government agencies and local residents.

A complete package of medical tests

The initiative, targeting a wide segment including residents, visitors, and tourists in the governorate, offers a golden opportunity to check on health through 10 essential preventative tests. These tests are important because of their ability to diagnose chronic diseases in their early stages, facilitating proactive and effective management. The approved list of tests includes:

• Good cholesterol (HDL) test.
• Measuring blood pressure.
• Measuring heart rate.
• Blood oxygen saturation level.
• Calculating Body Mass Index (BMI).
• Fasting blood sugar test.
• Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) test.
• Total fat analysis.
• Testing for harmful cholesterol (LDL).
• Triglyceride test.

Promoting public health and keeping pace with Vision 2030

This campaign aligns with the objectives of the Health Sector Transformation Program, one of the programs under the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which focuses heavily on public health and disease prevention rather than simply treating existing conditions. Chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease are global health challenges, so making these screenings readily available contributes to improving the overall health indicators of Saudi society.

The campaign also gains special importance as it coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, when dietary habits and sleep patterns change, making it an ideal opportunity for beneficiaries to visit primary health care centers and review their vital signs, to ensure a healthy and safe fast.

The modern care model and the role of the family physician

The "Check Your Health" initiative falls under the modern Saudi healthcare model centered on the "family physician" in primary care centers. This model aims to facilitate access to high-quality and efficient healthcare services for beneficiaries and promote continuity of care and follow-up. By connecting individuals with a family physician and well-equipped primary care centers, the prevalence of chronic diseases and their complications is reduced, positively impacting quality of life.

Al-Ula, as a global and historical tourist destination, is an ideal model for implementing such initiatives that serve both visitors and residents, confirming that tourism development goes hand in hand with health and social development.

The National Center for Meteorology issued its daily weather report for Saudi Arabia today (Friday), indicating significant weather changes affecting several regions. The report included forecasts of a drop in temperatures accompanied by active winds that may reduce horizontal visibility, urging caution from citizens, residents, and highway users.

Weather details and affected areas

The center explained in its statement that the drop in temperatures will be concentrated mainly in the northern parts of the Kingdom, specifically in the Tabuk, Al-Jawf, and Northern Borders . These changes are part of the usual weather fluctuations in these areas, which are often the first point of entry for cold air masses coming from the north.

In a related context, the meteorological department highlighted the impact of active winds stirring up dust and sand, which may reduce horizontal visibility in parts of Riyadh, Qassim, and the Eastern Province . These weather phenomena are among the climatic features that require special attention from those with respiratory conditions and drivers in open areas.

Chance of rain and fog in the highlands

The report not only mentioned wind and low temperatures, but also indicated that there is still a chance of light rain in parts of the aforementioned regions, as well as parts of the highlands of Makkah, Al-Baha, Asir, and Jazan . The report also noted the possibility of fog forming in parts of the highlands of these regions, making it even more important to adhere to traffic safety guidelines while driving on slopes and mountain passes.

The geographical and climatic context of the Kingdom

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is characterized by a wide geographical and climatic diversity, with weather patterns varying between coastal, desert, and mountainous regions. The southwestern highlands (Asir, Al-Baha, and Jazan) play a prominent role in receiving rainfall and fog due to their geographical nature and elevation above sea level, while the northern and central regions are directly affected by surface winds and passing low-pressure systems.

The importance of following weather reports

The National Center for Meteorology is the official body authorized to issue weather forecasts and warnings in the Kingdom. These reports are of paramount importance in preserving lives and property, as they guide relevant authorities and the public in taking necessary precautions. Experts always advise following continuous weather updates through official channels, especially during periods of transitional weather fluctuations, to ensure public safety and avoid risks resulting from heavy dust storms, flash floods, or reduced visibility due to fog.