Maldives seeks assistance in sports medicine from Arsenal chief doctor

Arsenal's chief doctor Dr Zafar Iqbal has assured that he is ready to provide assistance in the field of sports medicine to Maldives.

Dr Iqbal, Head of Medical Services at Arsenal Football Club yesterday met with Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation Abdulla Rafiu during his ongoing visit to Maldives.

Minister Rafiu said that the Dr Iqbal had also offered to collaborate in creating community wellness awareness campaigns.

Dr Iqbal's assistance is to be sought in five areas:

1. Injury prevention and recovery for athletes

2. Nutrition

3. Training of first aid officials

4. Conducting awareness campaigns promoting wellness within the community

5. Assistance in drafting a long term plan for Maldives' sports

Minister Rafiu said that sports medic officials and athletes will be trained in injury prevention and recovery on Premier League standards.

Minister Rafiu said that Dr Iqbal had strongly emphasized raising awareness in society on avoiding giving excessive sweets and desserts to children.

"To avoid giving sugary foods to children. Because the effects of this can be seen ten years on," Rafiu said.

"For example, it increases the chances of becoming diabetic. [Dr Iqbal] highlighted that it is important to create awareness that this happens after years," Rafiu explained.

Dr Iqbal commended the long term plans for sports drafted by the government, the minister said. He assured collaboration to implement the plans.