WAM Dubai, May 13th, 2012 (WAM) -- Dubai Health Authority (DHA) recently took part in the International Public Health Congress held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The congress, held every three years, is a scientific conference for public health professionals from around the world.

Health and development experts from around the world gathered at the congress to discuss public health issues and best practices.

Laila Al Jassmi, CEO of Health Policy and Strategy Sector said: "Dubai is the 1st Arab state to be accepted as member of World Federation of Public Health Associations (WFPHA). There are many benefits to join this international organization. WFPHA members enjoy opportunities such as collaborating with large international health agencies, forging partnerships with other national public health associations and health agencies, attending international public health meetings and authoring new international health policies." Dr. Aizeldin Ibrahim, Head of Preventive Medicine and the Acting Director of Public Health Department, Health Policy and Strategy Sector at the DHA said that the Public Health Congress was organized by Ethiopian Public Health Association and WFPHA. "The Congress was attended by more than 2000 public health experts, academicians and policy makers. It created an opportunity for concerned organizations and individuals to gain greater understanding of international public health issues, approaches and strategies." The theme of the Congress was "Towards Global Health Equity: Opportunities and Threats" This 13th World Congress in Public Health brought together leaders in health from across the globe to discuss public health issues and harness the synergy and strengths of innovation and experience from developing and developed world.

Dr. Ibrahim added, "The Congress addressed the enormous challenges and opportunities facing public health worldwide in making progress towards collectively attaining global health equity." Dr. Lubna Al Shaali, Public Health Specialist, Department of Public Health said that the DHA team attended meetings with WFPHA officials, other representatives of East Mediterranean Region and experts from Arab countries.

The DHA team held a presentation on public health capacity mapping in the Arab World. It was attended by public health professional and representatives from regional and international organizations. The scientific session was followed by panel discussion and video that showed the development of the Emirate of Dubai over the years.

WAM/AM