Ask Your Boots Pharmacist about the a-to-zinc of women's health

The campaign provides Boots customers with professional consultations on specific health issues, in private and at no cost, along with advice on treatments and preventative measures.

This month, Boots is encouraging women to stop by with their concerns about hormone imbalances, menopause, skin and nail health, hair loss and a range of other issues.

Boots has also partnered with Novartis Consumer Health to provide access to a bone density scanner, which can detect the early signs of osteoporosis.

Free scans are available at Deira City Centre Boots from 12 - 26 March.

The scans will be offered at Mall of the Emirates from 27 March - 12 April.

Osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become fragile and more likely to break, affects 50 per cent of post-menopausal women worldwide and is especially prevalent in the Middle East, due to poor diet, lack of exercise and other lifestyle factors.

In addition to providing bone scans, Boots professionals will be on hand to offer advice on how women can minimize the risks of developing the disease.

"With many health issues, there is a sense of uncertainty and, sometimes, fear," said Richard Morgan, Managing Director, Boots, MH Alshaya Co. "What we can offer is the peace of mind that comes with talking to someone knowledgeable and discreet about whatever concerns you have, in an environment that is designed to put you at ease. Certainly, we have received an enthusiastic and grateful response to the initiative from women in the region."

Dr. Yasmin Khodir, a Boots Pharmacist at The Village Mall, points out that the Ask Your Boots Pharmacist consultations can address cosmetic matters as well as health issues. In-store experts can suggest, for instance, vitamin and mineral supplements and other measures to ensure healthy hair, nails and skin.

"Hair loss is quite common among women in this region, due to hormone imbalances, folic acid deficiencies, stress and other factors," said Dr. Khodir. "Many women seek advice on ways to promote hormone balance during menopause and we tend to answer a lot of questions about osteoporosis treatments and prevention. At Boots, we encourage women to ask us about whatever is on their minds. We are happy to help."