Category: Medical

ABU DHABI: Under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan Mabarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and the support of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, the 3rd Mediclinic Abu Dhabi Annual Cancer Conference concluded on 18 May 2024.

Addressing the conference, Sheikh Nahyan said: ‘With President His Highness Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s guidance and support, the UAE is committed to providing the best health care and the best medical services to all. We spare no effort to ensure the health and well-being of our population.”

Sheikh Nahyan stressed the need to promote prevention of the disease. ”We must identify and understand the wide range of risk factors, from environmental toxins to lifestyle decisions involving nutrition, smoking, exercise and other factors. We must form partnerships between hospitals, health workers, colleges of medicine, and community organisations to develop effective public education campaigns. It is a critical challenge for you who work in the field to determine strategie
s to motivate people to learn about cancer and to pursue appropriate preventive behaviors.”

Speaking about new technologies in the fight against cancer, Sheikh Nahyan said nanotechnology, gene therapies, and personalised medicine, are examples of the exciting and promising new technologies in the fight against cancer. ”I am particularly eager to see how supporting individualized medicine with Artificial Intelligence will impact the cost and availability of treatment.”

In regard to the long-term fight against cancer, Sheikh Nahyan stressed the need for ”our region” to craft a focused strategy for fighting cancer that commits to the proper analysis of data and information as a way to inform our way forward.

The conference saw the attendance of more than 300 medical professionals from across the UAE working in the field of oncology. The conference discussed diverse topics presented by 22 different speakers from the UAE and from Hirslanden, Mediclinic’s sister division in Switzerland.

Hein van Eck, Chief
Executive Officer of Mediclinic Middle East, said: ‘Cancer treatment continues to evolve at such a fast pace. It is vital for oncology professionals to stay at the forefront of these developments in order to provide the highest levels of evidence-based care for their patients. ‘

Source: Emirates News Agency

ABU DHABI: On the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the healthcare sector in the emirate, announced that Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, Burjeel Medical City and Paley Middle East Clinic are accredited as specialised centres in Orthopaedic Care in the Emirate.

In the presence of Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansouri, Chairman of DoH, Dr. Noura Khamis Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of DoH, Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings and John Sunil, CEO of Burjeel Holdings, the accreditation agreement was signed by Dr. Rashed Obaid AlSuwaidi, Executive Director of Healthcare Workforce Planning at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi and Aysha Almahri, Deputy CEO of Burjeel Medical City.

Dr. Rashed Obaid Alsuwaidi, the Executive Director of Healthcare Workforce Planning at DoH, said, ‘The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi remains committed to empowering healthcare facilities in the emirate with a world-class healthcare ecosystem to imp
rove health and patient outcomes. We firmly believe in the necessity of collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors, particularly in the provision of specialised healthcare services to community members to continuously enhance the quality and accessibility of services for patients in need.’

John Sunil, Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, said, ‘We are honoured to be accredited as specialized centre in Orthopaedic Care by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi. This recognition highlights our diverse team of specialists, advanced facilities, and extensive clinical and research capabilities. Our facilities have been instrumental in advancing orthopedic services, reinforcing the Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a leading destination for specialized care. With our team of world-class experts, we are dedicated to elevating comprehensive orthopedic services in the region.’

Source: Emirates News Agency

ABU DHABI: In line with the UAE’s ongoing efforts to revolutionise cancer care, the Technology Innovation Institute (TII), a leading global scientific research centre and the applied research pillar of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), today announced that it has joined forces with Burjeel Medical City (BMC), the flagship quaternary care hospital under Burjeel Holdings, to pioneer novel immunotherapy solutions for cancer treatment.

The collaboration is focused on engineering T-cell based therapeutics, including Chimeric Antigen Receptor T (CAR-T) cell therapy and Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte (TIL) therapy – two groundbreaking treatments that help boost the body’s own immune system to fight against cancer.

The partnership, set to run for two years with the possibility of further extension, was signed by Dr. Thomas Launey, Chief Researcher of TII’s Biotechnology Research Center, and Dr. Khaled Musallam, Chief Research Officer of Burjeel Holdings, in the presence of Dr. Ray O. Johnson,
CEO, TII, and Safeer Ahamed, Group COO, Burjeel Holdings, at the Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week.

BMC, known for its complex care offerings in key specialties including oncology, will leverage cutting-edge technologies from TII, such as its state-of-the-art computational framework to identify patient-specific antigens relevant to cancer, and develop personalised cancer therapies.

In Phase 1 of the project, TII will construct an in-silico platform to identify tailored cancer-specific antigens from single-cell transcriptomics data. This platform will facilitate the design of CAR-T cells capable of effectively targeting cancer-specific antigens. During Phase 2, the in-silico platform will undergo rigorous testing through in-vitro and in-vivo experiments.

Dr. Thomas Launey said, “We expect that this collaboration with BMC will yield fast and meaningful impact in cancer therapy. Together, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation to provide hope to those affected by this critical health challeng
e.”

Dr. Khaled Musallam added, ‘We live in times when cancers continue to proliferate with a ruthless and growing frequency, impacting the lives of those affected and their families. This is clearly not a struggle the healthcare sector can overcome alone. Creating partnerships that help supercharge cancer research and treatment are crucial to enhance the pace of discoveries and improve patient outcomes. Our partnership with TII will play a pivotal role in the ongoing fight against cancer.’

With the UAE fast becoming a key leader in innovative cancer care through various strategic initiatives, the TII-Burjeel alliance is a clear indication of the country’s commitment to collaborative progress in oncology, fostering breakthrough solutions that will elevate the healthcare industry to new heights.

Source: Emirates News Agency

ABU DHABI: startAD, the Abu Dhabi-based startup accelerator, which is part of Tamkeen and based at NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), and the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), signed an agreement to launch HealthX, a startup programme that seeks to advance Abu Dhabi as a hub in the biotech and life science industry. HealthX will advance 30 global cutting-edge life science startups into the UAE’s healthcare ecosystem over two years.

The agreement was signed by Dr Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei, Executive Director of Research and Innovation Centre at DoH, and Ramesh Jagannathan, Managing Director of startAD. Taking place at the Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week (ADGHW), the timing of the announcement underscores both parties’ commitment to help boost the UAE’s innovation credentials in the healthcare sector.

Applications are now open for the inaugural cohort on generative AI in healthcare and life sciences. Subsequent cohorts will focus on genomics and precision medicine, neurodegenerative disease, advanced therapeutics, d
rug discovery, mental health, and assistive technology for People of Determination.

The incubator offers six weeks of intensive training, personalised support, and the potential to secure customers in the UAE. It assists global and local entrants to develop a highly customised pilot proposal and a deep understanding of the UAE market. Successful applicants will benefit from access to the DoH regulatory sandbox and UAE de-identified data to help refine their product, along with admittance to labs and opportunities to collaborate on cutting-edge research at leading academic institutes. The business support clinic includes finance, legal, licensing, IP support, ongoing mentorship, and introduction to venture capitalists. Networking prospects include pilot discussions with healthcare partners, licensing opportunities from the DoH, along with an interconnected ecosystem with key players such as DoH, NMC Healthcare, Burjeel Holdings and Harley Street Medical Centre, and onboarding to the startAD alumni programme.

D
r Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei, Executive Director of Research and Innovation Centre at DoH, said: “As the regulator of the healthcare sector in the emirate, DoH continues to spearhead borderless collaborations, research and innovation to enable a healthier future for all, hence positioning Abu Dhabi as a leading destination for healthcare and life sciences on the global stage. We are delighted to be collaborating with startAD, a partnership poised to tackle global healthcare challenges through supporting start-ups and enabling innovation, which is key topic of this year’s Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week.”

Ramesh Jagannathan, Managing Director of startAD, said: “The future of health holds immense possibilities, and Abu Dhabi aims to be a global leader in the field. In partnership with the Department of Health, we are leading the charge to transform the industry and co-create a sustainable operating environment for global healthcare life sciences startups. Our focus is on attracting innovators dedicated to propel
ling the UAE to the forefront of healthcare, life-science research, and innovation. With top-quality services and a commitment to excel in healthtech and biotech, I believe we are setting the stage for something extraordinary.”

The initiative is open to global and local pre-seed to series B startups developing innovative technologies with a clear use case for the Abu Dhabi healthcare industry. A strong team will include at least two members with relevant experience, demonstrated traction through existing pilots and customers, and a willingness to expand into the UAE, if not already established in the country. Startups with a product or minimum viable product (MVP) ready to test and implement with corporate customers and a clear roadmap showcasing scalability potential are encouraged to apply.

Life sciences and biotechnology, combining the power of biology, genetics, and technology, are rapidly developing fields that show great promise in addressing pressing health challenges today and in the future. The tec
hnologies can also be used to develop health products and therapies, from bioengineered tissues to next-generation vaccines, at lower costs than traditional solutions. The Abu Dhabi healthcare market is ripe for advanced technology startups to make a tangible impact with an existing ecosystem of best-in-class healthcare provision, a wealth of data and digital infrastructure, and a globally leading genomics programme. The aim of the programme is to provide a strong platform for startups to address critical challenges in healthcare delivery, improve patient outcomes, and streamline operations across the healthcare value chain.

Source: Emirates News Agency

DUBAI: The Dubai Health Authority (DHA) and Appolonia Dental Group have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance oral and dental health for students in private schools in Dubai.

The agreement aims to improve healthcare services in private schools in Dubai, raise awareness about the importance of oral health in the school community, and align with government directives and international medical standards.

Dr. Ramadan Al Blooshi, Director of Public Health Protection Department at the DHA, and Dr. Yaser Haj Hamed, Chairman and Managing Director of Appolonia and Synergy Dental Group, signed the MoU. The initiative includes regular dental check-up visits, educational programmes for students, faculty, and parents, as well as training programmes for medical staff in private schools in Dubai, following global medical best practices.

Dr. Al Blooshi stated that DHA consistently works to establish fruitful partnerships with relevant stakeholders, including the private healthcare sector in Dubai. This col
laboration aims to enhance healthcare systems’ standards and quality.

He highlighted the capabilities of the private healthcare sector in Dubai and emphasised the importance of leveraging these capabilities through collaboration to benefit the community and promote individuals’ health, especially students who are a priority in healthcare and health protection programmes implemented by the DHA.

Dr. Al Blooshi explained that the MoU signed today with Appolonia Dental Group for children’s dental care is a significant support for the DHA’s efforts to expand the scope and role of the private healthcare sector in the care system, especially in preventive and educational aspects. He commended the sector’s many initiatives aimed at providing the community with high-quality medical services.

Dr. Yaser emphasised the importance of collaborating with the Dubai Health Authority to enhance oral and dental health for students in schools.

He highlighted the need for a rehabilitation and training program for medical staf
f in schools, as well as providing appropriate healthcare services.

Source: Emirates News Agency

ABU DHABI: During Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week (ADGHW), the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the emirate’s healthcare sector, signed an agreement with Abu Dhabi Health Data Services (ADHDS), part of M42 Group and global biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca.

The entities will collaborate to leverage real-world data to develop the UAE’s first Breast Cancer Quality Improvement Programme (QiP) and Research Platform, accelerating progress in the fight against breast cancer.

The Breast Cancer QIP and Research Platform seeks to significantly improve breast cancer diagnosis and treatment strategies through innovative research using clinical analysis.

In the presence of Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of DoH, Michel Demare, Chair of the Board at AstraZeneca, Hasan Jasem Al Nowais, Managing Director, and Group Chief Executive Officer of M42, the agreement was signed by Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of DoH, Kareem Shahin, CEO of ADHDS and Sameh ElFangary, Cluster President –
GCC and Pakistan at AstraZeneca.

Dr. Noura Al Ghaithi, Under-Secretary of DoH, said, “Launching the Breast Cancer Quality Improvement Programme and Research Platform at Abu Dhabi Global Healthcare Week, further solidifies the department’s ongoing efforts to raise public awareness on the most pressing healthcare topics and ensure the population’s health and longevity within the emirate and beyond. This MoU reflects our dedication to implementing comprehensive programmes focused on prevention, early detection, and advanced treatments. Through collaborating with our strategic partners, AstraZeneca and Abu Dhabi Health Data Services, we aim to alleviate the impact of breast cancer and make good health and quality care a universal standard.’

Kareem Shahin, CEO of ADHDS, said, ‘We are excited to join forces with AstraZeneca under the leadership of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi to kick-off this important project that aims to transform breast cancer care globally. The Breast Cancer Research Platform will ena
ble the development of personalised care through innovation in the pursuit of better patient outcomes.’

Sameh ElFangary, AstraZeneca Cluster President – GCC and Pakistan, said, ‘We are proud to work with Abu Dhabi Health Data Services to unlock what the power of science can do. Breast cancer remains the most common cancer in women worldwide and as the burden of disease continues to mount, identifying and treating cancer early remains key to improving patient outcomes. Our ambition, alongside ADHDS is to collaboratively redefine treatment pathways to someday eliminate cancer as a cause of death.’

Through the agreement, DoH and its strategic partners are committed to harnessing clinical research to further improve breast cancer care and research in the UAE. To enhance patient care and research outcomes, the parties will leverage the emirate’s world-leading healthcare infrastructure to consolidate breast cancer data, real-time care quality tracking, and research infrastructure. Additionally, Malaffi, the first
Health Information Exchange (HIE) platform in the MENA region, will play a pivotal role in this initiative through clinical research.

The agreement highlights the demand for collaborative efforts and resource allocation for cancer healthcare in the emirate. The QiP and Research Platform aims to enhance breast cancer care and providing insights for the healthcare community to recognise trends, leading to improved treatment outcomes.

The platform serves as a testament to DoH’s commitment in positioning the emirate as a global life sciences hub and an incubator for responsible healthcare innovation. Through the initiative, Abu Dhabi will be the first in the region to offer a dedicated National Quality Improvement tool for long-term breast cancer care, providing researchers, academia and healthcare professionals the opportunity to generate a comprehensive list of publications in the field.

Source: Emirates News Agency