Health education and raising awareness play a vital role in promoting overall well-being and preventing diseases. One organization at the forefront of these efforts is the Patient’s Friends Society (PFS) in Jerusalem. Since 1991, PFS has been actively engaged in providing health education, conducting community outreach programs, and offering professional training to individuals in the health sector. Their dedication to empowering both professionals and the community has resulted in a significant positive impact on health awareness and education in the region.

At the core of PFS’s initiatives is their health education program, which aims to raise awareness and educate individuals on various health-related topics. This program began with a lecture on breast health for women in the community and has since expanded to cover a wide range of subjects. These educational sessions are conducted in schools, clubs, organizations, and other community settings throughout the West Bank. Whenever possible, PFS utilizes video conferencing to extend their reach to Gaza.

The health education program addresses several crucial topics. Firstly, breast health is emphasized through a slideshow of educational and illustrative images, encompassing information on different diseases that affect the breast, the significance of breast self-examination, and the distribution of educational materials. Secondly, sexually transmitted diseases are discussed, covering disease definitions, modes of transmission, prevention strategies, and patient care. Another essential area of focus is midlife women’s health, concentrating on the health needs of women aged 40 and above, including premenopause and menopause, as well as the importance of prevention and early detection examinations.

Furthermore, PFS sheds light on osteoporosis, a debilitating disease that affects bone density. The lecture on osteoporosis covers disease definition, risk factors, detection methods, and prevention strategies. Additionally, participants receive guidance on daily calcium requirements, calcium-rich foods, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and tips for preventing fractures. PFS also conducts lectures on preventing unintentional injuries, addressing the causes of accidents, accident prevention, and providing basic first aid information to enhance safety in everyday life.

Another critical area of PFS’s work is in addressing lymphoedema, a condition commonly experienced by women following breast cancer surgery and radiation. PFS has developed a helpful leaflet that provides advice on how to prevent this distressing condition, offering support and guidance to those at risk.

Recognizing the importance of professional development, PFS offers training programs for healthcare professionals. These workshops are conducted in the West Bank and, when possible, via video conferencing to Gaza. Participants from governmental, private, and non-profit sectors benefit from PFS’s expertise in health awareness topics. Areas covered include breast cancer screening, early detection of cancer, psychosocial aspects of cancer, and palliative care. Additionally, PFS provides workshops on home safety, specifically tailored to teachers, health educators, and social workers. These sessions serve as a comprehensive “training of trainers” package, empowering participants to become catalysts for change within their communities. PFS continues to provide support and monitor the impact of their training on the community, ensuring a lasting and positive influence.

If you or anyone you know is interested in attending a training workshop conducted by PFS, reaching out to them is easy. You can contact us at +972 2 6264674 or via email at info@pfsjerusalem.org with the subject line “Request Training Workshop.”

Patient’s Friends Society in Jerusalem is playing a crucial role in empowering individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to enhance health awareness. By conducting informative health education programs and offering professional training, PFS is bridging gaps in knowledge within the health sector and the academic field. Through their tireless efforts, PFS is making a significant difference in the lives of individuals and communities