Abstract
Consequent upon rapid development in Abu Dhabi, there has been a rise in chronic disease, the susceptibilities to which are influenced by events occurring in early life. Hence, maternal and infant health are key areas in public health policy. Following a study of maternal and infant health in a cohort of mothers in Abu Dhabi between 2002 and 2004, seven key informant interviews were undertaken to elucidate the study findings through the impressions of Emirati women in positions within the healthcare area—including ministries, hospitals, and universities in Abu Dhabi. Semi-structured interviews were based on five key questions that covered the cultural responsiveness of the maternal health services—breastfeeding, health education, and physical and recreational activity. The responses were analysed using a thematic content technique and indicated that the status of women, cultural beliefs and practices, limited health knowledge, and language differences between the local population, healthcare providers, and health promoting materials were important themes. The study highlighted areas for future research and policy, including the communication gaps between healthcare professionals and women, the influences of advertising and the media on health issues, heath education, and ways to increase women’s participation in physical exercise. It is vital to consider non-medical determinants of health alongside biomedical determinants, to help develop culturally appropriate health strategies for this population.
Highlights
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country undergoing rapid development in both society and infrastructure
This paper reports the responses of a group of key informants who took part in semi-structured interviews to enhance understanding of the findings of a study of Emirati maternal and infant health in the emirate of Abu Dhabi [5,6,7], and to explore policy and
As the interaction between the interviewer and key informant is crucial to the success of the interview, it was important that the interviewer developed a personal rapport with each key informant, so that a sense of trust was generated [12]
Summary
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country undergoing rapid development in both society and infrastructure. The transition from traditional pastoral and fishing communities with rudimentary health services, education or material wealth, to a modern urban lifestyle has occurred mainly over the last fifty years or two generations. Consequent upon this rapid change has been a rise in chronic disease; obesity, heart disease and diabetes [1]. The UAE has an unusual demography, with expatriates and migrant workers constituting approximately 81% of the Abu Dhabi population [4]. The public health system of the country must cater for a diverse population in addition to its own Emirati citizens. The population of Emirati citizens has particular requirements, including higher proportions of women, children and the elderly [4], together with their own particular cultural background
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