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ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN CLINICAL PRACTICE: PROGRESS WITH NECESSARY SAFEGUARDS
The rise of artificial intelligence has sparked a true revolution across every sector, but nowhere is its impact more sensitive or more consequential than in the field of medicine. In the Arab world, where technological advancement intersects with ethical, cultural, and regulatory considerations, the conversation around AI becomes even more complex. Two intertwined yet distinct issues stand at the center of this evolving landscape: the transformative benefits of AI in healthcare, and the critical need for oversight, regulation, and responsible use.
Today, AI systems are reshaping clinical workflows by analyzing medical data with unprecedented speed and accuracy. From detecting tumors and lung diseases to identifying neurological disorders, algorithms are achieving diagnostic precision that once seemed unattainable. Many hospitals in the region have already begun integrating these tools to triage emergency cases more rapidly and support clinical decision-making.
Yet, alongside these breakthroughs comes a host of ethical challenges. Trust, privacy, fairness, and accountability remain at the heart of the debate. The risk of sensitive health data being misused or accessed without patient consent looms large, especially in countries still developing robust data-protection frameworks. Moreover, AI models trained primarily on Western datasets may misinterpret cases in Arab populations with different genetic or environmental profiles, raising concerns about diagnostic accuracy and equity in care. These realities underscore an urgent truth: the scientific revolution of AI must be accompanied by equally strong safeguards. When an AI-driven recommendation contributes to a medical error, who bears responsibility; the physician who followed it, the developer who built it, or the hospital that deployed it? This question remains legally and ethically unsettled. Clear legislation, secure national health data systems, and transparent governance structures are essential to protecting patients while enabling clinicians and institutions to use AI confidently and responsibly.
The Publisher
Publisher Arab Health Media Communication
President Simon Chammas schammas@tahmag.com
Executive Vice President Mirna Khairallah mirna@tahmag.com
All rights reserved by the HOSPITALS magazine. No part of this publication can be reproduced in any form without prior permission in writting from the publisher.
Mr. Bassam Chahine, Chief Executive OfficerSMC Healthcare
Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, CEO of Burjeel Cancer Institute
Dr. Emmanouil Nikolousis, Consultant Hematologist, American Hospital Dubai
The Next Generation of Leukemia Treatments
MEDICAL INSTITUTIONS
54 UChicago Medicine surgeons perform 'miraculous' reattachment of 2-year-old's severed spinal cord
60 Burjeel Cancer Institute: Transforming Cancer Care for the Region
68 Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center and St. Luke’s Health–The Woodlands Hospital, members of CommonSpirit Health, Received the 2025 Chest Pain–MI Registry Performance Achievement Award from NCDR
78 UCLA Health: Advanced imaging and targeted therapy help men with prostate cancer safely defer surgery and radiation therapy
88 Multidisciplinary Endometriosis Care, Acıbadem Center of Excellence
94 Advancing Patient Care Through AI: Northwestern Medicine’s Strategic Approach
98 Professor Javad Parvizi, M.D. Awarded Honorary Fellowship By the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
118 Acıbadem Healthcare Group Türkiye, Giovanni Guidetti's Inspiring Patient Story
INTERVIEWS
64 Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, CEO of Burjeel Cancer Institute
74 Dr. Emmanouil Nikolousis, Consultant Hematologist, American Hospital Dubai
The Latest Innovations in Type 1 Diabetes Care
84 Dr. Firas Zahwa, Urologist at Clemenceau Medical Center, Beirut
90 Tomas Kolar, CEO of LINET
100 Dr. Khaled Zahrani, Plastic surgeon specialized in Body Contouring
104 Dr. Mudit Arora, Cosmetic Dermatologist
124 Marie Surae, Film Director and Producer
ARTICLES
96 Stevia... Is It the Right Sweetener?
108 Daily Pills or a Real Fix? Understanding Your Long-Term Options for Acid Reflux
114 Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Are We on the Right Track?
130 "Health Budgets" Don't Add Up: A Forward Agenda for Access, Equity, and Delivery
FEATURES
70 The Next Generation of Leukemia Treatments
A Breakthrough Era Transforming Survival and Quality of Life
80 The Prostate: From Fertility to Cancer Prevention
110 Geriatric Medicine in the Digital Age
How Technology Is Transforming Independence and Personalized Care for Older Adults
120 The Latest Innovations in Type 1 Diabetes Care
Breakthrough Technologies Beyond Traditional Injections
Comprehensive Preventive and Diagnostic Genetic Testing Solutions
Siemens Healthineers & the Saudi Ministry of Health launch the SHIFT Innovation Center Riyadh to drive the Future of Healthcare
In a landmark step toward shaping the future of healthcare in the Kingdom and beyond, Siemens Healthineers, in partnership with the Ministry of Health (MoH), announced the launch of the SHIFT Innovation Center Riyadh – a first-of-its-kind hub designed to accelerate healthcare transformation through innovation, collaboration, and capacity building. The SHIFT Innovation Center Riyadh is part of the global SHIFT ecosystem by Siemens Healthineers, joining established centers in Erlangen, Bangalore, Shanghai, Istanbul, and Madrid. The new center positions Saudi Arabia as a regional leader in healthcare innovation, supporting the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 to enhance healthcare quality, access, and sustainability through advanced technology and knowledge exchange.
“With the launch of the SHIFT Innovation Center in Riyadh, we are creating an ecosystem where innovation meets collaboration,” said Björn Bodenstein, Managing Director Siemens Healthineers, Saudi Arabia. “Together with the Ministry of Health, we aim to empower healthcare professionals, nurture local talent, and accelerate solutions that address both current and future challenges.”
A Hub for Co-Creation and Capacity Building
The Riyadh center will serve as a platform for co-creation, connecting government institutions, universities, hospitals, and startups to develop scalable, tech-enabled healthcare solutions. Through joint projects and open collaboration, the center will tackle real-world healthcare challenges, from improving patient outcomes to enhancing operational efficiency. The SHIFT Innovation Center Riyadh is built on three core pillars:
1. Innovation Infrastructure: Providing access to advanced technologies, federated learning models, and expert advisory services to drive data-driven healthcare transformation.
2. Technology Accelerator: Identifying, validating, and scaling promising healthcare
THROUGH THESE PILLARS, THE CENTER AIMS TO FOSTER PARTNERSHIPS, ACCELERATE LOCAL INNOVATION, AND EQUIP SAUDI HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS WITH THE TOOLS AND SKILLS NEEDED FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF CARE DELIVERY.
startups and solutions with the potential for regional and global impact.
3. Capacity Building Programs: Empowering a highly skilled workforce through hackathons, bootcamps, workshops, and training programs focused on digital innovation and clinical excellence.
Driving Vision 2030 Through Innovation
Aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, the SHIFT Innovation Center Riyadh reinforces the Kingdom’s commitment to transforming its healthcare landscape through technology, innovation, and human capital development. It will serve as a catalyst for digital transformation, knowledge sharing, and sustainable growth within the regional healthcare ecosystem. “Open innovation is about connecting the dots and creating a thriving ecosystem locally and globally. Adding the SHIFT Innovation Center Riyadh to the existing network of innovation centers is an important milestone to further democratize innovation”, said Amira Romani, SVP Global Innovation & Technology at Siemens Healthineers. “Siemens Healthineers and the Ministry of Health are laying through this center the foundation for a healthier, more connected future for all.”
Persivia Launches National Health Intelligence Initiative to Power Saudi Vision 2030’s Healthcare Transformation
Persivia Inc., a U.S.-based leader in AIpowered healthcare intelligence, has announced the launch of its National Health Intelligence Initiative (NHI) during the Global Health Exhibition (GHE) 2025 in Riyadh.
The initiative represents a major leap forward in Saudi Arabia’s drive to harness artificial intelligence, advanced data analytics, and population health insights to power its Vision 2030 healthcare transformation.
Persivia’s newly established presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, licensed by the Ministry of Investment, underscores its longterm commitment to localization, technology transfer, and workforce development. By collaborating closely with Saudi health leaders and national institutions, Persivia aims to accelerate the Kingdom’s transition toward Value-Based Care (VBC) and a sustainable, datadriven healthcare economy.
“Saudi Arabia is building one of the most forward-thinking healthcare systems in the world,” said Dr. Mansoor Khan, CEO of Persivia. “Our goal is to bring not just technology, but also clinical insight, strategic expertise, and years of proven experience in AI-driven healthcare. With the National Public Health Intelligence Initiative, we’re helping create the foundation for smarter decisions, better outcomes, and sustainable growth.”
Built on Persivia’s patented AI Engine, the NHI framework is designed to integrate and analyze health data at scale, giving policymakers and healthcare providers real-time, evidencebased intelligence to improve outcomes, optimize spending, and strengthen economic sustainability. At the heart of the framework is Persivia’s “growth loops” concept, a dynamic feedback cycle where AI learning and healthcare performance continually reinforce each other, enabling smarter models, better policy alignment, and measurable progress across the entire system
At GHE 2025, Persivia showcased how a mature, AI-first digital health platform
can empower national leaders to align care quality, cost, and performance goals. The company’s leadership team, Dr. Mansoor Khan (CEO), Dr. Fauzia Khan (CMO), Waleed Mattar (Partner, Persivia Saudi), Jim Whelan (CRO), Muhammad Kashif (CTO), Dr. Shardul Mehta, and Rehan Tahir, held strategic meetings with major entities including the Ministry of Health (MoH), Health Holding Company (HHC), Saudi Data & Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA), Council of Health Insurance (CHI), and the NEOM Investment Fund. Discussions focused on aligning Persivia’s AI models and analytics frameworks with national priorities around value-based care, AI governance, and population health.
Persivia also sponsored the NextGen Pitch Competition at GHE 2025, highlighting the next generation of Saudi innovators and startups shaping the future of digital health.
“We see tremendous alignment between Vision 2030’s goals and Persivia’s mission,” added Waleed Mattar, Partner at Persivia Saudi. “Our presence here is about partnership, building capabilities that last and empowering the next era of healthcare intelligence.”
PERSIVIA’S NEWLY ESTABLISHED PRESENCE IN THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA, LICENSED BY THE MINISTRY OF INVESTMENT, UNDERSCORES ITS LONG-TERM COMMITMENT TO LOCALIZATION, TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER, AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT.
NUPCO Concludes Its Participation in the Global Health Exhibition 2025 with Agreements to Strengthen Medical Supply Chains
The National Unified Procurement Company (NUPCO) concluded its participation as a foundation partner in the Global Health Exhibition (GHE) 2025. GHE 2025 brought together leaders and stakeholders across the healthcare sector to explore advancements in medical logistics, innovation, investment, and digital health.
Over the course of four days, NUPCO’s booth welcomed visitors, including representatives from government entities, private sector organizations, and international delegations. NUPCO’s presence at GHE 2025 focused on demonstrating its enabling role in strengthening Saudi Arabia’s healthcare supply chain. This includes both its work with public and private sector stakeholders to enhance operational efficiency and its nation-wide logistics and supply network services which include Unified Procurement, Marketplace, Yusur, Mawsool, Wasfaty and Chronic Disease Management Program that are improving patient outcomes across the Kingdom.
A NUPCO spokesperson said: “The Global Health Exhibition 2025 provided a valuable platform for collaboration and insight-sharing across the healthcare ecosystem. Our participation reflects our commitment to forming partnerships with stakeholders across the supply chain to enable robust, efficient, and effective healthcare across the Kingdom. Through
NUPCO HELD OVER 30 SPECIALIZED WORKSHOPS DESIGNED FOR HEALTHCARE PRACTITIONERS, FOCUSING ON KNOWLEDGE TRANSFER AND THE EXCHANGE OF GLOBAL BEST PRACTICES ACROSS CRITICAL AREAS OF THE HEALTH SECTOR. THE COMPANY ALSO BROUGHT TOGETHER DISTINGUISHED INTERNATIONAL EXPERTS AND PRACTITIONERS TO ENRICH THE EXHIBITION’S SCIENTIFIC AND MEDICAL CONTENT, REINFORCING KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE AND ADVANCING INNOVATION AND DEVELOPMENT WITHIN SAUDI ARABIA’S HEALTHCARE ECOSYSTEM.
these collaborations, we are enabling both public and private stakeholders throughout the Saudi healthcare landscape to deliver elevated levels of patient care, contributing to Vision 2030’s ambitions for a healthier society, alongside its economic diversification and localization goals.”
As part of its participation, NUPCO executives took part in high-level discussions and leadership panels:
• CEO Fahad Al Shebel spoke at the Leadership Summit panel “Redefining Excellence: Leaders Driving the Next Era of Global Health,” outlining NUPCO’s contributions to healthcare infrastructure and national supply chain resilience.
• COO Fahad Al Buthi addressed “From Plans to Proof: Tracking the Real Impact of Health Transformation in Saudi Arabia,” focusing on operational outcomes and measurable efficiencies.
• CCO Khaled Al Ghamdi joined the Investor x Venture Forum session: Balancing Innovation and Affordability – Rising Healthcare Costs & Financial Constraints
During the exhibition, NUPCO signed a number of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with public and private sector partners focused on advancing logistics infrastructure, digital procurement, and health sector localization.
Abu Dhabi
Sharjah
Bnoon and Almoosa Health enter strategic partnership to expand fertility care in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province
Bnoon, part of Global Fertility, and Almoosa Health signed a strategic agreement at the Saudi Global Health Exhibition 2025 to expand fertility services across the Eastern Province, starting with a state-of-the-art IVF clinic located in Almoosa Specialist Hospital in Al-Ahsa. The agreement was signed by Majd Abu Zant, CEO & Managing Director of Global Fertility and Dr.Malek Almoosa, CEO of Almoosa Health. This collaboration aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goals to drive innovation in healthcare and deliver services that meet the evolving needs of Saudi Arabia’s communities.
This strategic transaction marks Bnoon’s fourth major milestone in Saudi Arabia this year, following the acquisition of fertility centers in Jeddah and Riyadh.
Under the agreement, Bnoon will operate and manage the existing fertility clinic at Almoosa Specialist Hospital in addition to two new planned facilities in Al Hfouf and Khobar. The new facility at Almoosa Specialist Hospital will be branded as Bnoon and is expected to double the number of IVF treatments in the coming 2 years, becoming the largest fertility provider in Al-Ahsa.
“Access, safety, and outcomes are the pillars of this partnership,” said Majd Abu Zant “The Eastern Province has been one of our priority areas for investment and expansion. By combining Bnoon’s clinical expertise and advanced treatment protocols in fertility care with Almoosa’s hospital infrastructure and legacy, we will shorten time-to-care and raise the bar for fertility and women’s health in the Eastern Province. Studies estimate that up to 19% of couples face infertility in Saudi Arabia — broadly consistent with the ~1 in 6 couples seen globally. With this partnership, we will continue to rapidly expand our network while introducing cutting-edge technologies faster, enhancing clinical outcomes, and making fertility care more accessible across the Kingdom.”
“At Almoosa, we are committed to providing specialized, patient-centred care that meets
the highest international standards. Partnering with Bnoon allows us to integrate worldclass fertility expertise within our ecosystem; enabling patients in the Eastern Province and surrounding communities to access leading reproductive technologies without having to travel outside the region. The partnership is fully aligned with our vision to expand our centres of excellence and strengthen women’s health services. Our model of collaboration will enhance outcomes, accelerate access, and deliver services at the highest standards in reproductive care,” said Dr. Malek Almoosa
With this new transaction, Bnoon has expanded its capacity and reach making it the largest stand-alone provider of assisted reproductive services in the Kingdom. Moreover, a 3,800-square-meter flagship facility is currently under construction in the northern part of Riyadh and is scheduled to open early 2026, offering advanced fertility and reproductive genetics services, as part of its holistic women’s health offering.
A 3,800-SQUAREMETER FLAGSHIP FACILITY IS CURRENTLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION IN THE NORTHERN PART OF RIYADH AND IS SCHEDULED TO OPEN EARLY 2026, OFFERING ADVANCED FERTILITY AND REPRODUCTIVE GENETICS SERVICES, AS PART OF ITS HOLISTIC WOMEN’S HEALTH OFFERING.
Deputizing for HM King Abdullah II and HM Queen Rania Al Abdullah, HRH Prince Talal bin Muhammad Honors Recipients of the 2025 King Hussein Cancer Research Award
Deputizing for His Majesty King Abdullah II and Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah, HRH Prince Talal bin Muhammad, Special Adviser to His Majesty, honored the recipients of the 2025 King Hussein Cancer Research Award during a ceremony held in the presence of HRH Princess Ghida Talal, Chairperson of the King Hussein Cancer Foundation (KHCF) and Center (KHCC), along with several members of the Royal Family. Princess Ghida delivered keynote remarks during the ceremony, stating: “When we launched the King Hussein Cancer Research Award, we dreamed of an Arab world fully engaged in global cancer research. That dream is now a movement, led by brilliant minds shaping the future of science.”
Presented annually, the King Hussein Cancer Research Award recognizes outstanding contributions to cancer research, encourages efforts to improve prevention and treatment, and promotes collaboration at both the regional and international levels. Over the past five years, the Award has reaffirmed its commitment to placing research at the forefront of the regional cancer agenda. It has brought together nearly 900 researchers and scientists from around the world and funded eight innovative research projects led by promising scientists. The 2025 ceremony honored a distinguished group of Arab scientists and researchers, selected from among hundreds of applicants representing more than 26 countries, in recognition of their impact on advancing cancer research and driving scientific progress. This year’s guest of honor was Professor Hagop M. Kantarjian from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, who was recognized as Laureate for Special Distinction in Research, for his lifetime of exceptional contributions to cancer research and to the treatment of leukemia.
The following 2025 King Hussein Awardees were announced during the ceremony:
• Professor Mohamed Kharfan-Dabaja from Mayo Clinic – Florida received the Lifetime Achievement Award in the international track, while the Lifetime Achievement Award in the regional track went to Professor Mohammad Abu Hilal from the University of Jordan.
• The Young Investigator Award in the international track was presented to Dr. Mina Sedrak from the Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, while Dr. Mohamed Jemaa from the University of Tunis El Manar and Dr. Walhan Alshaer from the University of Jordan received the Young Investigator Award in the regional track.
• The Promising Researcher Grant was awarded to Dr. Temidayo Omolaoye from Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences –Dubai Health, and Dr. Larry Bodgi from the American University of Beirut, in recognition of their promising research in the fight against cancer.
• The Professional Development Program for Cancer Care Excellence Award was presented to the Pediatric Oncology East & Mediterranean-King Hussein Cancer Center Regional Pediatric Oncology Training and Capacity-Building Program at KHCC.
THE CEREMONY WAS ATTENDED BY MINISTERS, MEMBERS OF THE AWARD’S BOARD OF DIRECTORS, WHICH INCLUDES LEADING ONCOLOGISTS, PHYSICIANS, AND RESEARCHERS FROM AROUND THE WORLD, AS WELL AS ACADEMICS, MEDIA REPRESENTATIVES, AND PARTNERS AND SUPPORTERS OF THE AWARD.
SMC Healthcare: A Strategic Partner in Advancing the Future of Healthcare under Saudi Vision 2030
Mr. Bassam Chahine, Chief Executive Officer: "Our mission is to establish an integrated healthcare model that places the patient at the heart of every decision"
SMC Healthcare continues to solidify its standing as one of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s foremost providers of comprehensive healthcare services. Through ambitious strategies that seamlessly combine geographic expansion, technological innovation, and clinical excellence, the company is setting new benchmarks in the healthcare industry.
In this exclusive interview, Chief Executive Officer Mr. Bassam Chahine highlights the company’s remarkable journey and achievements over the past few years, its strategic approach to navigating competition and driving sustainable growth, and its forwardlooking vision for building a fully integrated healthcare ecosystem. This vision is firmly aligned with the Kingdom’s aspirations for a more advanced, efficient, and patient-centered healthcare sector, reflecting the transformative goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
MARKET UPDATES
With Saudi Arabia's healthcare system undergoing significant transformation under Vision 2030, what proactive steps is SMC taking to align and thrive within this evolving landscape?
At SMC, we are fully aligned with Vision 2030’s goal of building a world-class, patient-centred healthcare system. Our strategy focuses on providing a fully integrated continuum of care, from acute inpatient services to specialized outpatient clinics, ensuring high-quality, accessible, and efficient healthcare delivery.
We continue to expand our footprint across Riyadh through the development of three major hospitals, SMC 3, SMC 4, and SMC 5, alongside SMC Clinics in Al Malqa, which will house 35 clinics covering a broad range of specialties.
AT SMC, WE ARE FULLY ALIGNED WITH VISION 2030’S GOAL OF BUILDING A WORLD-CLASS, PATIENT-CENTRED HEALTHCARE SYSTEM. OUR STRATEGY FOCUSES ON PROVIDING A FULLY INTEGRATED CONTINUUM OF CARE, FROM ACUTE INPATIENT SERVICES TO SPECIALIZED OUTPATIENT CLINICS, ENSURING HIGHQUALITY, ACCESSIBLE, AND EFFICIENT HEALTHCARE DELIVERY.
In parallel, we are committed to attracting top medical talent, including highly qualified physicians and nurses, to sustain the highest standards of clinical excellence.
These initiatives reflect SMC’s proactive approach to growth, creating a comprehensive, integrated healthcare network that directly supports the Kingdom’s vision for a more sustainable and advanced healthcare sector.
In a competitive market, what is SMC's strategy for achieving financial viability and growth without compromising the high standards of patient care it provides? SMC’s financial sustainability is built on a strategy that combines operational efficiency with clinical excellence. Over the past two years, we have successfully transitioned from government-based long-term care services to insurance-based and cash-based acute and outpatient care, which are more aligned with evolving market demand and offer stronger margins and faster cash cycles.
This transformation has enhanced our revenue quality, improved collection efficiency, and strengthened our financial position, all while maintaining the highest standards of patient care. We’ve achieved this by continuously investing in the best medical professionals and equipment, clinical governance, and advanced medical technologies.
With increasing competition, what are the key elements of SMC's strategy to retain its market position and attract patients?
We are expanding our footprint into highgrowth areas in Riyadh, supported by a welldefined rollout plan for outpatient clinics (60 in 2025 and an additional 35 next year at SMC Clinics) and hospitals designed to meet rising demand for specialized healthcare.
Our focus is on providing a fully integrated healthcare model that combines acute care with advanced outpatient services, supported by the latest medical technology and world-class clinical talent.
OPERATIONS & INNOVATION
What are SMC's three biggest strategic successes from the last year and early 2025?
Successful IPO and listing on the Saudi Exchange, marking a pivotal step in
the Company’s growth journey and enhancing its financial and institutional strength. Strategic shift from long-term care to acute and outpatient services, leading to stronger margins, faster collections, and improved quality of earnings. Geographical expansion in Riyadh, including the launch of a new outpatient clinic centre in Al Malqa and progress on new hospital projects that will significantly increase capacity over the coming years. Importantly, we achieved all of this while delivering strong earnings growth, reflecting disciplined execution and operational excellence.
Could you provide examples of how SMC is implementing technology to deliver superior patient care?
Our in-house developed mobile application allows patients to book appointments, check in, and make payments seamlessly, ensuring an effortless, technology-enabled journey across all our touchpoints. We continue to integrate advanced digital technologies across our facilities, including AI-powered radiology, automated insurance responses, and AI-based clinical recommendations.
What is SMC doing to speed up its digital transformation?
Digital transformation is one of our key strategic priorities. We are accelerating this journey through a combination of technology investments, process automation, and data-driven decisionmaking. We continue to improve and develop
our in-house mobile application to allow more & new features, most powered by AI. In parallel, we continue to expand AIpowered radiology, automated insurance processing, and predictive analytics to enhance clinical outcomes and operational efficiency.
LEADERSHIP & PERSONAL JOURNEY
Beyond its current headcount, what are SMC's key initiatives for empowering and building the capabilities of the national healthcare workforce in line with the Kingdom's objectives?
We have launched several initiatives focused on training, talent development, and career progression, including structured medical residency and fellowship programs, as well as administrative and leadership training tracks to prepare the next generation of healthcare leaders. In addition, we prioritize knowledge
transfer through international partnerships and collaborations with global medical institutions to ensure our teams are exposed to the latest clinical and operational standards. Our goal is not only to attract top national talent, but also to nurture and retain it, ensuring that SMC continues to contribute to the localization of the healthcare sector and to the Kingdom’s broader human capital development agenda.
After more than 25 years with SMC, what initially drew you to the company, and what ongoing factors have sustained your long-term commitment and passion?
The main reason for spending 25 years at SMC was the alignment of my personal values and
OUR FOCUS IS ON PROVIDING A FULLY INTEGRATED HEALTHCARE MODEL THAT COMBINES ACUTE CARE WITH ADVANCED OUTPATIENT SERVICES, SUPPORTED BY THE LATEST MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY AND WORLD-CLASS CLINICAL TALENT.
professional goals to the specific culture and opportunities at SMC and the board strategy & ambition. I’ve never felt stagnant. The company valued me and aspired me to develop my expertise, and I've been fortunate to work on increasingly complex and challenging projects throughout my tenure, which has kept my work engaging and fulfilling.
What's your long-term vision for SMC, and how will it impact the future of Saudi healthcare?
Our long-term vision is to position SMC as one of the leading integrated healthcare providers in the Kingdom, a model for quality, efficiency, and patient-centred care. We aim to play a central role in shaping the future of Saudi healthcare by combining clinical excellence, innovation, and accessibility. In the short to
medium term, our focus remains on executing our growth strategy within Riyadh, including the development of SMC 3, 4, and 5, and expanding our outpatient network.
Once these projects are complete, we plan to extend our presence beyond Riyadh, bringing SMC’s integrated model of care to other highgrowth regions across the Kingdom.
Ultimately, our ambition is to be recognized not only as a healthcare provider but as a key enabler of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 objectives, advancing healthcare quality, access, and sustainability for all communities.
WE AIM TO PLAY A CENTRAL ROLE IN SHAPING THE FUTURE OF SAUDI HEALTHCARE BY COMBINING CLINICAL EXCELLENCE, INNOVATION, AND ACCESSIBILITY.
A n exc e ptio n al g ro u p devote d to
ACIBADEM MOBIL
provides emergency and home care services outside of the hospital.
ACIBADEM APLUS
addresses the hygiene and catering requirements of the hospitals.
ACIBADEM HEALTH POINT ensures continuous support for patients from their arrival at Istanbul Airport until they return home, guiding them through their entire healthcare journey in Türkiye.
ACIBADEM TECHNOLOGY
develops and improves inhouse softwares including Hospital Information System and healthcare command center.
ACIBADEM UNIVERSITY
trains healthcare students to be future healthcare professionals.
ACIBADEM LABMED
offers a wide range of services including pathology, food control, stem cell and cord blood bank within the laboratory framework.
develops turnkey hospital establishment projects.
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10 Years in a Row on the ' Best Hospitals ' Honor Roll in the U.S.
Cedars-Sinai has been named to the Honor Roll for the 10th consecutive year and tied for No. 1 in California and Los Angeles in U.S. News & World Report’s “Best Hospitals 2025-26” rankings.
Every year, thousands of patients from over 100 countries choose Cedars-Sinai for our renowned healthcare. From complex surgeries to rare diagnoses and second opinions, the Cedars-Sinai team ensures a seamless experience - before, during, and after care.
Six Cedars-Sinai specialties were ranked in the top 10 in the U.S.:
Orthopedics
Obstetrics & Gynecology
Diabetes & Endocrinology
Pulmonology & Lung Surgery
Gastroenterology & GI Surgery
Cardiology, Heart & Vascular Surgery
Located in Los Angeles, California, Cedars-Sinai combines world-class care with a vibrant setting, cultural sensitivity, and concierge-level comfort.
KFSHRC CEO, Dr. Majid Alfayyadh: Saudi Arabia’s Health System Shifts Focus to Prevention, Not Treatment
His Excellency Dr. Majid Alfayyadh, Chief Executive Officer of King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC), said Saudi Arabia’s healthcare transformation represents a strategic shift in the philosophy of care, moving the system’s focus from treating illness to preserving health through prevention, home care, and digital connectivity that links patients to healthcare providers across all levels of care.
Dr. Majid Alfayyadh made the remarks during his keynote at the Global Health Exhibition 2025 in Riyadh, where he emphasized that digital integration has become a defining feature of the national transformation, citing the national Virtual Hospital, which connects 130 hospitals and provides more than 400,000 visits annually, as a model for expanding access and continuity of care across the Kingdom. He added that sustainable transformation depends on robust infrastructure combining hospitals, technology, and human capital, supported by more than 80,000 hospital beds and healthcare investments exceeding SAR 32 billion nationwide, a foundation that reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to building a modern and resilient health system.
According to Dr. Alfayyadh, investment in
human capital remains central to advancing healthcare transformation, with universities and professional councils developing specialized programs designed to prepare future leaders for a value-based health system and ensure the sustainability of progress. He noted that integration across research, clinical care, and local manufacturing is strengthening the Kingdom’s health innovation ecosystem, with locally produced CAR-T cell therapies and insulin representing key milestones in advancing medical self-sufficiency and improving patient outcomes.
Highlighting KFSHRC’s leadership in innovation, he pointed to world-first robotic procedures performed at the hospital, including a robotic heart transplant and a neurosurgery that have redefined precision medicine and accelerated patient recovery.
KFSHRC has been ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa and fifteenth globally among the world’s top 250 academic medical centers for 2025. It has also been recognized by Brand Finance as the region’s most valuable healthcare brand and listed among Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals 2025, Best Smart Hospitals 2026, and Best Specialized Hospitals 2026, reaffirming its leadership in innovationdriven healthcare.
ACCORDING TO DR. ALFAYYADH, INVESTMENT IN HUMAN CAPITAL REMAINS CENTRAL TO ADVANCING HEALTHCARE TRANSFORMATION, WITH UNIVERSITIES AND PROFESSIONAL COUNCILS DEVELOPING SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS DESIGNED TO PREPARE FUTURE LEADERS FOR A VALUE-BASED HEALTH SYSTEM AND ENSURE THE SUSTAINABILITY OF PROGRESS.
NEOM and WuXi AppTec sign strategic MoU to advance Saudi Arabia’s biotech sector
NEOM, the sustainable region taking shape in northwest Saudi Arabia, has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with WuXi AppTec, a leading global pharmaceutical contract research, development and manufacturing organization (CRDMO).
Under the terms of the agreement, a collaborative framework will be established between the two entities to explore the localization of pharmaceutical research, development and manufacturing capabilities in Saudi Arabia. The long-term intention of the collaboration is to create world-class CRDMO facilities at Oxagon, NEOM’s advanced and clean manufacturing city, or other locations in Saudi Arabia. In support of Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification and innovation strategies, the MoU represents a significant step forward in advancing the Kingdom’s biotechnology ambitions and reflects a mutual commitment to driving long-term growth in the
pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.
By aligning world-class expertise with national goals, the partnership between NEOM and WuXi AppTec aims to create the conditions for advanced manufacturing and sectoral growth that will serve both regional and global markets. The agreement leverages NEOM’s advanced and clean manufacturing facilities at Oxagon, while also reinforcing WuXi's world-class capabilities to build a thriving biotech ecosystem.
At its core, the partnership represents a meeting of minds, with WuXi AppTec a global leader with decades of experience in enabling biopharmaceutical innovation, and NEOM an essential element of Saudi Vision 2030 and key enabler of its bold National Biotech Strategy. Working together, the two parties aim to redefine business and chart new pathways that not only serve the Kingdom’s long-term targets but also set a new benchmark for global collaboration in pharmaceutical innovation.
IN SUPPORT OF SAUDI ARABIA’S ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION AND INNOVATION STRATEGIES, THE MOU REPRESENTS A SIGNIFICANT STEP FORWARD IN ADVANCING THE KINGDOM’S BIOTECHNOLOGY AMBITIONS AND REFLECTS A MUTUAL COMMITMENT TO DRIVING LONG-TERM GROWTH IN THE PHARMACEUTICAL AND HEALTHCARE SECTORS.
Hope begins with innovation and personalized cancer care.
Henry Ford Health, driving innovative healthcare for over a century.
We are creating more hope for patients around the world. With one unified team of specialists and innovations ranging from precision medicine to advanced radiation therapy, we deliver one-of-a-kind cancer treatments—crafted precisely for you. Henry Ford Health is one of the world’s leading comprehensive, integrated health systems, recognized for our clinical excellence.
The Department of Health launches Future Health A
Global Initiative by Abu Dhabi to transform Abu Dhabi Global Health Week into a year-round global platform
Under the directives of His Highness
Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, Future Health – A Global Initiative by Abu Dhabi (Future Health) has been launched by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), marking the transformation of Abu Dhabi Global Health Week into a year-round platform of international health collaboration, action and innovation.
Representing a shift from an annual convening to a continuous, connected global ecosystem of ideas, investment and action, Future Health will come to life through initiatives including the co-creation of programmes that can test and scale solutions, research programmes to address critical needs, and regular global gatherings and dialogue sessions to build a collaborative, cross-sector approach to health solutions.
Future Health will unite leaders across policy, technology, research, philanthropy and investment to design, fund and scale solutions that shape a future where longer, healthier lives are a reality for all. The platform marks a shift beyond annual gatherings toward a continuous, connected ecosystem of ideas, investment and action, enabling sustained global collaboration and impact. Anchored in Abu Dhabi’s leadership in healthcare innovation and artificial intelligence, Future Health will focus on four main themes: Longevity and Precision Health, Health System Resilience and Sustainability, Digital Health and AI, and Investment in Life Sciences. Future Health will also convene its annual flagship event, the Future Health Summit in Abu Dhabi, from 7-9 April 2026 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. Through its programmes and partnerships, Future Health will drive measurable outcomes by translating commitment into impact. The initiative will cocreate and scale solutions to address pressing health challenges, conduct foresight research
to identify future priorities, and facilitate regular global dialogues that foster cross-sector collaboration. It will also publish impact reports and studies that capture key developments in the global health landscape.
H.E. Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said: “Future Health is a global invitation to collaborate year-round in shaping a healthier future for all. It transforms commitment into action by connecting the brightest minds and strongest partners to deliver meaningful impact for communities worldwide. “With the world facing increasingly complex health issues, this initiative enables borderless collaboration and fosters connections around the technologies, policies and commitments needed to unlock longer, healthier lives for all.”
To translate its vision into tangible outcomes, Future Health will advance pioneering scientific projects and clinical practices in longevity medicine by integrating cutting-edge research in genomics and precision diagnostics, proactively contributing towards enhancing the span of human health.
H.E. Dr Noura Al Ghaithi, Undersecretary of the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said: “Future Health builds on Abu Dhabi’s position as a catalyst for global health progress. With advancements in genomics, AI, life sciences and precision medicine, we are shaping a model of health that is inclusive, innovative and sustainable.”
Building on the success of previous global health gatherings, Abu Dhabi has already convened more than 500 speakers from nearly 100 countries, welcomed more than 25,000 participants and launched the world’s first Declaration on Longevity and Precision Medicine.
FOUNDING PARTNERS OF FUTURE HEALTH INCLUDE M42, MUBADALA BIO, PUREHEALTH, AND THE INSTITUTE FOR HEALTHIER LIVING ABU DHABI (IHLAD), WITH MEDICLINIC JOINING AS A STRATEGIC PARTNER, AND BURJEEL HOLDINGS AS A THEMATIC PARTNER. THESE COMPANIES WILL CONTRIBUTE TO THE PLATFORM’S INCUBATION AND LONG-TERM COMMITMENTS, FORMING THE CORE OF A DIVERSE GLOBAL COALITION DRIVING MEASURABLE HEALTH IMPACT. THROUGH FUTURE HEALTH, ABU DHABI IS SHAPING A MORE CONNECTED AND RESILIENT GLOBAL HEALTH ECOSYSTEM, DRIVING INNOVATION, INVESTMENT AND COLLABORATION TO DELIVER LASTING IMPACT FOR COMMUNITIES WORLDWIDE.
Doc Holding Group, Qatar Set to Revolutionize Healthcare Investment and Innovation with Grand Launch at Qatar Medicare
Doc Holding Group Qatar, a pioneering new force in the healthcare investment sector, announced its official launch at the prestigious Qatar Medicare 2025 exhibition. The inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of H.E. Sheikh Hamad bin Faisal bin Thani Al Thani, as the Chief Guest of Honor.
The launch of Doc Holding Group, Qatar marks a significant milestone in the nation’s journey towards a more robust, diversified, and technologically advanced healthcare ecosystem. The group was established with a strategic vision to identify, invest in, and nurture a portfolio of leading healthcare companies, fostering innovation, operational excellence, and superior patient care standards across the region.
The core mission of Doc Holding Group is to consolidate expertise and resources under a single, dynamic umbrella. Its initial portfolio will focus on sectors including specialized medical centers, advanced diagnostic facilities, cuttingedge telemedicine platforms, and healthcare technology solutions, all aligned with the health and wellness pillars of Qatar National Vision 2030.
A Vision for a Healthier Future: Words from the Leadership
Dr. Emmanuel Tolessa, Founder of Doc Holding Group, Qatar, stated: “Our launch is not merely the start of a company, but the culmination of a vision to create a synergistic network of healthcare services
that sets new benchmarks for quality and accessibility. We are building a foundation where medical expertise meets strategic investments, driving growth and innovation that directly benefits the people of Qatar and the wider region. Our presence at Qatar Medicare 2025 was a declaration of our commitment to be at the forefront of this exciting industry.”
H.E. Sheikh Hamad bin Faisal bin Thani Al Thani commented on the occasion: “The launch of Doc Holding Group, Qatar represents a commendable and strategic addition to our nation’s thriving healthcare and economic sectors. Its vision aligns perfectly with the forwardthinking initiatives that are propelling Qatar’s development. I am confident that under Dr. Tolessa’s leadership, the group will become a catalyst for meaningful advancement in healthcare services, contributing to both the well-being of our citizens and the diversification of our economy. I extend my best wishes for their success at Qatar Medicare 2025 and in their future endeavors.”
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Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE and Dubai Health Care Authority Collaborate to Support Children’s Mental Health
Addressing the Impact of Eye Conditions on Children
Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE is pleased to announce its collaboration with the Dubai Health Care Authority (DHCA) to provide comprehensive support for children with visual challenges. As part of its responsibility to society, Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE is committed to ensuring that children with visual impairments receive not only clinical care but also the guidance and support needed for their overall development. Common eye conditions, including myopia, astigmatism, strabismus, and other visual impairments, can have a profound impact on children’s learning, social experiences, and emotional health. Recognizing these challenges, this partnership focuses on delivering care that addresses both the physical and psychological needs of children.
How Vision Impacts Learning and Emotional Health
Children with untreated visual impairments may face difficulties in reading, writing, and classroom learning, which can affect academic performance. Beyond the classroom, they may also encounter social challenges, including bullying, which can lead to anxiety, low selfesteem, and emotional distress. Recognizing these risks, Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE, in collaboration with DHCA, has developed integrated initiatives that combine early detection, personalized medical treatment, and mental health support to help children thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Parental Support and Engagement
Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE recognizes that parents play a critical role in their children’s development. Families are provided with guidance, educational resources, and counseling to better understand their children’s eye conditions and support their academic progress and social confidence.
Protecting Children Through Regular Eye Check-Up
Through regular eye check-ups and early intervention, children receive the support they need to manage or correct vision problems before they affect daily life. When parents are actively involved alongside specialized care, children gain confidence in school, social activities, and everyday interactions. Addressing vision issues early helps protect them from academic challenges, social difficulties, and the emotional effects of bullying.
Expert Pediatric Care at Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE
Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE’s Pediatric Ophthalmology Department, led by a team of experienced Spanish consultants, delivers world-class, child-focused eye care. This collaboration with DHCA reinforces Barraquer Eye Hospital UAE’s commitment to safeguarding the physical, academic, and emotional health of children across the UAE, ensuring they have every opportunity to learn, grow, and flourish.
BARRAQUER EYE HOSPITAL UAE, IN COLLABORATION WITH DHCA, HAS DEVELOPED INTEGRATED INITIATIVES THAT COMBINE EARLY DETECTION, PERSONALIZED MEDICAL TREATMENT, AND MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT TO HELP CHILDREN THRIVE ACADEMICALLY, SOCIALLY, AND EMOTIONALLY.
Committed to sustainable healthcare
The world of health never stands still. And neither have we. At every moment that counts, we will be there.
Improving safety to protect patients and caregivers and expanding access to quality care, to providing healthcare professionals with personalised and timely support all along the patient journey
Our 125 years of experience has enabled strategic partnerships and a broad manufacturing and distribution scale that uniquely positions us as key actors in providing the right care, at the right place, at the right time.
Healthcare London signs landmark partnership with CF to advance UK–Saudi healthcare collaboration
Healthcare London, a collaboration of the capital’s leading private healthcare providers and NHS teaching hospitals, has signed a landmark partnership with CF (Carnall Farrar) to deepen UK–Saudi healthcare collaboration and expand Saudi patients’ access to London’s world-class medical expertise.
The partnership builds on the longstanding relationship between the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and aligns directly with Saudi Vision 2030, supporting the Kingdom’s ambition to deliver a world-class healthcare system by connecting Saudi patients with cutting-edge treatments and specialist expertise available in London.
The partnership will support Healthcare London’s growing presence in Saudi Arabia to develop clinical alliances, referral pathways, and education initiatives that allow Saudi patients to access advanced and complex medical treatments in London’s centres of excellence, while fostering two-way knowledge exchange and system improvement.
Dr. Joud Abduljawad, Partner and Chief Medical Officer at CF Middle East, said: “This partnership marks an exciting new chapter in UK–Saudi healthcare collaboration. We are very proud of this partnership with Healthcare London. We believe it will not only help achieve the shared objectives of both organisations but also enable many Saudi patients to access world-class healthcare in London when required, further strengthening the strategic and enduring relationship between the UK and Saudi Arabian healthcare systems.”
In the short term, the partnership will formalise clinical links and referral pathways to ensure that appropriate Saudi patients can benefit from London’s most advanced medical care. Over the longer term, it will embed shared protocols, education, and training to build sustainable clinical capability in the Kingdom.
David Hare MBE, speaking on behalf of Healthcare London, added: “This collaboration represents an important milestone for
Healthcare London as we continue to build meaningful, long-term partnerships across Saudi Arabia. Working with CF enables us to strengthen London’s position as a global centre of medical excellence while contributing to the Kingdom’s ambitious healthcare transformation agenda under Vision 2030.”
Launched at the Health Tourism Future Forum in Riyadh in 2024, Healthcare London marked the first time that London’s top private and NHS teaching hospitals exhibited together to promote the city’s exceptional healthcare offer to international audiences.
As part of its international strategy, Healthcare London is deepening partnerships across Saudi Arabia and beyond. Most recently, it participated in a clinically led trade mission to Riyadh to strengthen relationships and expand access to high-quality care for Saudi patients.
Healthcare London partners include:
Circle Health Group • Chelsea and Westminster Hospital Private Care (NHS) • Cleveland Clinic London • Cromwell Hospital • HCA Healthcare UK • King Edward VII’s Hospital • Imperial College Healthcare Private Care (NHS) • Phoenix Hospital Group • The London Clinic • University College London Hospitals Private Healthcare (NHS) • Proton International London • The London Psychiatry Clinic • Priory
Together, these providers represent a unified voice for London’s exceptional healthcare ecosystem.
CF (Carnall Farrar) is a leading consultancy with the purpose of making an enduring impact on health and healthcare. CF works with leaders and frontline teams to improve health, transform healthcare, drive adoption of innovation and create value through investment. Our mission is to be invaluable to our clients, supporting them to innovate and make lasting improvements and to build an exceptional company that attracts, develops, and retains a trusted and uniquely talented team.
OUR CONSULTANCY SERVES THE ENTIRE HEALTHCARE SECTOR, FROM PAYORS AND PROVIDERS OF CARE TO LIFE SCIENCE COMPANIES, HEALTH TECH AND SECTOR SUPPLIERS AND HEALTH INVESTORS. WE PROVIDE END-TOEND SERVICES, FROM STRATEGY THROUGH IMPLEMENTATION, ACCELERATED BY DATA, DIGITAL AND AI. WE SHAPE OPINION THROUGH EVIDENCEBASED THOUGHT LEADERSHIP ON KEY HEALTH ISSUES. WITH UNMATCHED ABILITY TO ACCESS TO HEALTH DATA, OUR CONSULTANTS ARE A DRIVING FORCE FOR DELIVERING POSITIVE AND MEANINGFUL CHANGE.
Liquid biopsy in breast cancer – Less invasion more precision
Plasma-SeqSensei™
Liquid biopsy in breast cancer – Less invasion more precision
Plasma-SeqSensei™
The Plasma-SeqSensei Breast Cancer IVD Kit is an NGSbased liquid biopsy assay that focuses on highly sensitive detection of clinically relevant mutations in TP53, ESR1, PIK3CA, AKT1 and ERBB2 from blood plasma.
Learn more about the unique advantages of Plasma-SeqSensei technology
The Plasma-SeqSensei Breast Cancer IVD Kit is an NGSbased liquid biopsy assay that focuses on highly sensitive detection of clinically relevant mutations in TP53, ESR1, PIK3CA, AKT1 and ERBB2 from blood plasma.
High sensitivity at low MAFs
Learn more about the unique advantages of Plasma-SeqSensei technology
Down to 0.06% - 0.07% Mutant Allele Fractions.
High sensitivity at low MAFs
Down to 0.06% - 0.07% Mutant Allele Fractions.
Absolute quantification
Short and standardised workflow
From cfDNA samples to results in two days.
Short and standardised workflow
From cfDNA samples to results in two days.
Data analysis and reporting made easy
Generate report designed for clinicians with just a few clicks.
Absolute quantification
Meaningful comparison of ctDNA levels per millilitre of plasma.
Expert voices
Meaningful comparison of ctDNA levels per millilitre of plasma.
Data analysis and reporting made easy
Generate report designed for clinicians with just a few clicks.
Expert voices
‘We know that tissue samples cannot be taken regularly, but liquid biopsy is easy to take, it is simply a sample of blood. And it gives you real-time information.’
Dr Bhuwnesh Agrawal Member of The Supervisory Board
‘Even low levels of ctDNA could have given an indication of the coming progression in the follow-up.’
‘There is much more diagnostic power in the absolute quantification.’
‘We know that tissue samples cannot be taken regularly, but liquid biopsy is easy to take, it is simply a sample of blood. And it gives you real-time information.’
Sysmex Inostics and MD, Germany
Dr Bhuwnesh Agrawal Member of The Supervisory Board
Sysmex Inostics and MD, Germany
‘Even low levels of ctDNA could have given an indication of the coming progression in the follow-up.’
‘There is much more diagnostic power in the absolute quantification.’
Prof. Christopher Gebhardt UKE Hamburg, Germany
Prof. Christopher Gebhardt UKE Hamburg, Germany
Prof. Geert A. Martens AZ Delta General Hospital, Belgium
Prof. Geert A. Martens AZ Delta General Hospital, Belgium
Oliver Staub, 2, smiles while recovering from two complex spinal cord surgeries at UChicago Medicine Comer Children's Hospital that reattached his head to his spinal cord
UChicago Medicine surgeons perform 'miraculous' reattachment of 2-year-old's severed spinal cord
With monitors quietly beeping and multiple tubes going into his small body, Oliver Staub lay in a hospital bed as his parents tearfully started saying goodbye. On April 17, an armored car going 70 mph slammed into the family’s minivan during their vacation in Mexico. Everyone in the car was injured, but no one more than Oliver. The impact disconnected the 2-year-old's head from his spine, resulting in a transection of his
spinal cord. Doctors offered a grim prognosis. They told Oliver’s parents, Laura and Stefan, that their son’s neck was broken, he was a quadriplegic, brain dead and would die in a matter of days.
But following a surreal turn of events, which included support from German soccer star Toni Kroos, viral Instagram posts, and traveling more than 2,000 miles for two risky spinal cord surgeries at the University of Chicago Medicine
THE IMPACT DISCONNECTED THE 2-YEAR-OLD'S HEAD FROM HIS SPINE, RESULTING IN A TRANSECTION OF HIS SPINAL CORD.
Comer Children’s Hospital, Oliver is now talking, laughing, smiling, moving his fingers and toes and starting to breathe on his own.
“To see someone survive an injury like this? Nothing like this has ever been reported in neurosurgery or spinal cord injuries,” said Mohamad Bydon, MD, Chair of the Department of Neurological Surgery at UChicago Medicine and health system leader for Neurological Surgery, who performed Oliver’s surgeries in July with a multidisciplinary team of surgeons.
“We didn’t think he’d ever be able to move, and now he’s moving all four limbs,” Bydon said. “This is a unique and special case. It's beyond our wildest expectations."
'We have a reason to fight'
As family members gathered at the Mexico City hospital to say goodbye, something incredible happened: Oliver began to show signs of recovery. His eyes would follow his parents when they were in the room. Stefan and Laura raised the issue with his doctors, who ultimately determined that their son did, in fact, have brain function. They kept his lifesustaining ventilator on.
“It was at that moment that I thought, ‘We have a reason to fight,’” Laura said. “My son was there.”
When doctors could do nothing more for Oliver, they trained his parents on how to care for him and operate his ventilator. Wearing a neck collar and vest to stabilize his head, which, internally, was not connected to his body, Oliver was moved to his grandparents’ home eight hours away, near Morelia, Mexico.
With help from a daily nurse visit, Oliver survived for two months without moving and once having an incident of cardiac arrest. Bydon finds this astounding, given how unlikely it is that someone with an unstable, transected spine could survive at all, much less under the care of his parents.
“If Oliver’s parents and caretakers had made one wrong move in those two months, it could have resulted in death,” Bydon said.
A journey to Chicago
Stefan and Laura researched treatments for
severe spinal cord injuries, hoping to provide a better life for their son. They contacted top spinal cord specialists around the world, including Bydon, whose groundbreaking stem cell therapy research impressed them.
They were repeatedly told that surgery, and the travel involved, would be too risky. But Bydon saw hope, in part because Oliver had survived this long.
“You should never count out a 2-year-old. They can surprise you,” Bydon said. “But it would require a complex multidisciplinary team, which is where the University of Chicago could help.”
The surgery needed to be done as soon and safely as possible, Bydon told them.
But travel to the United States for the surgery would be difficult and expensive. The Staubs received aid from family, friends and charities, but were still far short of what they needed.
Global outreach and support
A friend encouraged them to write to the Toni Kroos Foundation, the soccer player’s charity which helps seriously ill children. Stefan and Laura knew it was a long shot.
Two days later, the phone rang at midnight. It was foundation director Claudia Bartz. She’d seen Oliver’s journey on Instagram and was so moved by his story, she decided the foundation would cover the cost of Oliver’s surgery and transport to Chicago.
“We cried and cried. We couldn’t believe it,” Laura said, adding that they only posted on Instagram to keep their friends and family updated on Oliver. “None of this would have been possible without Toni Kroos.”
Oliver soon became a top-trending news story in Germany and their Instagram account blew up, going from a few hundred followers to more than 100,000. Strangers across the world continue to hold fundraisers and prayer vigils, sending the family encouraging messages and donations for his medical expenses.
“We would gladly trade all of this to go back to our normal life,” said Laura, who still has large scars on her head from the accident. “What I’m seeing here? It’s miraculous. We call it ‘The Oliver Effect.’ This is bigger than us.”
AS FAMILY MEMBERS GATHERED AT THE MEXICO CITY HOSPITAL TO SAY GOODBYE, SOMETHING INCREDIBLE HAPPENED: OLIVER BEGAN TO SHOW SIGNS OF RECOVERY. HIS EYES WOULD FOLLOW HIS PARENTS WHEN THEY WERE IN THE ROOM. STEFAN AND LAURA RAISED THE ISSUE WITH HIS DOCTORS, WHO ULTIMATELY DETERMINED THAT THEIR SON DID, IN FACT, HAVE BRAIN FUNCTION. THEY KEPT HIS LIFE-SUSTAINING VENTILATOR ON.
‘Harrowing’ surgery, major recovery
When Oliver arrived at Comer in July via medical jet, Bydon performed the first surgery, an occipital cervical fusion, with a team of UChicago Medicine surgeons.
This surgery for a 2-year-old is risky, not only because of how long it is, but also because a toddler cannot tolerate blood loss.
The surgery involved reconstructing Oliver’s spine, repairing his spinal cord and stabilizing the back of his head to his cervical spine using titanium rods and screws.
The second surgery, two days later, stabilized the front of his spinal cord and repaired a spinal cord herniation.
“Those first few days after the surgeries were harrowing,” Bydon said. “His heart stopped at one point, and he had swelling in the brain.”
But about five days later, Oliver was making progress and smiled for the first time since the accident. One month later, he was able to grab his mom’s hand, push someone away
and recognize the sensation that he needs to urinate. Most impressively, Bydon said, he can now take breaths on his own.
“We know the spine is communicating with the brain and body again,” Bydon said.
Moving forward with family
Oliver was discharged from Comer Children’s on August 15. The family will permanently move from Germany to Mexico, near Laura’s family, and now have hope for the future.
Oliver will have regular physical therapy and take medications for inflammation. In about six months, he’ll be able to remove his neck brace, Bydon said. Laura and Stefan plan to return to Comer in spring 2026, when Bydon may be able to use novel stem cell therapy clinical trials to improve Oliver’s physical functions, pending special FDA approval.
Stefan and Laura said they’ll always be grateful to Bydon and UChicago Medicine.
“He didn’t promise us a miracle,” Laura said, “but he delivered one.”
Mohamad Bydon, MD
Chair of Neurological Surgery
Stahl Professor of Neuroscience in the Wallman Society of Fellows of Neurological Surgery
Mohamad Bydon, MD, is a compassionate and highly skilled neurosurgeon specializing in complex spinal conditions. International patients from global destinations, as well as national patients from across the United States, seek his expertise in robotic, minimally invasive and endoscopic spine surgery.
KFSHRC and CNHI Sign Agreement to Facilitate Redirection of Overseas Treatment Referrals
King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre (KFSHRC) and the Center of National Health Insurance (CHNI) have signed a cooperation agreement to treat selected cases domestically at KFSHRC that would otherwise be referred abroad.
The framework defines a clear governance model to shift eligible referrals into KFSHRC’s clinical programs, improve patient experience and outcomes, ensure spending efficiency and financial sustainability, and advance national self-sufficiency in highly specialized care, fully aligned with the Health Sector Transformation Program and Vision 2030.
The signing took place at KFSHRC’s pavilion during the Global Health Exhibition 2025, with signatories: Dr. Majid Alfayyadh, Chief Executive Officer, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre; and Yasser bin Mohammed Al-Quhaidan, Chief Executive Officer, Centre for National Health Insurance.
Under the agreement, CNHI will organize and fund treatment for cases redirected from out-of-Kingdom care to KFSHRC, while KFSHRC serves as a national provider for those patients within its designated Centers of Excellence. This initiative will be implemented in coordination with the Medical Referrals Centre (MRC). Services will be delivered across eight centers: oncology, heart, neurosciences, organ transplantation, surgical specialties, medical specialties, women and child health, and genomics, through defined clinical programs that substitute for overseas referrals.
Operationally, KFSHRC will review each referred case, prepare a treatment plan for CNHI and the Medical Referrals Center, and retain the right to accept or decline individual cases based on capacity.
KFSHRC has been ranked first in the Middle East and North Africa and fifteenth globally among the world’s top 250 academic medical centers for 2025 and recognized by Brand Finance as the region’s most valuable healthcare brand. It is also listed among
Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals 2025, Best Smart Hospitals 2026, and Best Specialized Hospitals 2026, reaffirming its leadership in innovation-driven care.
The Center for National Health Insurance (CNHI), the national entity responsible for purchasing, and financing healthcare services on behalf of beneficiaries, plays a vital role in enabling strategic partnerships that enhance access to specialized care, improve efficiency, and ensure the sustainability of healthcare spending across the Kingdom.
THE SIGNING TOOK PLACE AT KFSHRC’S PAVILION DURING THE GLOBAL HEALTH EXHIBITION 2025.
Connecting Care. Building Trust.
For nearly 50 years, Pharmatrade has empowered UAE healthcare with advanced medical devices, lab automation, pharmaceuticals, and nationwide logistics—driving trust, innovation, and excellence in patient care.
Burjeel Cancer Institute: Transforming Cancer Care for the Region
Led by renowned Emirati oncologist Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, whose academic distinction was recently recognized by the UAE President, Burjeel Cancer Institute (BCI) continues to raise the bar for comprehensive cancer care.
Burjeel Cancer Institute (BCI), the largest cancer care network in the GCC, is a hub of complex care where advanced, compassionate, research-driven, and multidisciplinary oncology services converge under one roof. Through its growing network, BCI delivers a care model that brings worldclass care closer to home by uniting prevention, precision diagnostics, complex therapy, and survivorship. Located at Burjeel Holdings' flagship facility Burjeel Medical City (BMC) in Abu Dhabi, BCI now serves patients in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Dhafra, and Oman, aligning subspeciality multidisciplinary teams behind shared protocols so that patients in any emirate enter the same evidence-based pathway as those treated at the flagship.
Under the leadership of renowned Emirati Oncologist Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, BCI’s impact is anchored in scale. The network cares for more than 5,000 oncology patients a year and
delivers over 10,000 radiotherapy sessions annually, volumes that support rapid access, deeper subspecialization, and continuous outcome improvement. At its four-storied space in BMC, more than 70 multidisciplinary specialists coordinate clinics, imaging, infusion, radiation therapy, tumor boards, navigation, and survivorship services, reducing time from suspicion to treatment and ensuring continuity at every step.
Vision powered by leadership
The institute’s growth reflects a clear enterprise vision. Envisioned by Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, BCI was established to democratize complex cancer care in the UAE and the wider region by investing in people, platforms, and programs that measurably improve outcomes where patients live. That vision is now evident in BCI’s cross-Emirate footprint and its new center in
THE INSTITUTE’S GROWTH REFLECTS A CLEAR ENTERPRISE VISION. ENVISIONED BY DR. SHAMSHEER VAYALIL, FOUNDER AND CHAIRMAN OF BURJEEL HOLDINGS, BCI WAS ESTABLISHED TO DEMOCRATIZE COMPLEX CANCER CARE IN THE UAE AND THE WIDER REGION BY INVESTING IN PEOPLE, PLATFORMS, AND PROGRAMS THAT MEASURABLY IMPROVE OUTCOMES WHERE PATIENTS LIVE.
Muscat, which extends unified protocols, shared tumor boards, and seamless referrals to Oman. It reflects the GCC-wide commitment to raising oncology standards and access.
Speed, Precision, and Continuity of Care
BCI’s physical design mirrors a patient-centric model rather than departmental silos. Clinics sit steps from imaging and day-care infusion; radiation therapy is co-located with surgical and medical oncology; and tumor boards and patient navigation are embedded into daily practice, making care more accessible and coordinated. The result is a service that moves decisively from first suspicion to a treatment plan, minimizing repeat visits and delays that can undermine outcomes. This model is underpinned by a modern technology stack.
At the center of women’s cancer services is the Burjeel Breast Center, a womenled, one-stop destination launched in April 2025. It offers same-day appointments and same-day diagnosis, powered by HOLOGIC 3Dimensions digital breast tomosynthesis that improves lesion visibility, particularly in dense breast tissue, and feeds results directly into multidisciplinary planning.
Precision radiotherapy, robotic surgery, and advanced imaging
BCI’s radiation oncology program operates Elekta Versa HD systems delivering imageguided IMRT, VMAT, SRS, and SBRT with sub-millimeter accuracy. BCI is recognized as an Elekta Reference Site and holds Novalis Certified Radiosurgery status, embedding the team in a global peer network for protocol sharing and continuous improvement.
On the surgical front, the da Vinci Xi robotic platform supports minimally invasive procedures that demand precision and fine control, helping reduce recovery time and length of stay when surgery is part of multimodal care. Advanced imaging, including time-of-flight PET-CT and SPECT-CT, improves lesion conspicuity and staging confidence, enabling more accurate planning for curative and palliative pathways alike.
Among its surgical milestones, the BCI team recently performed GCC’s first Hepatic Artery Infusion Pump (HAIP) implantation. The technique delivers high-dose chemotherapy directly into the hepatic artery, the liver’s main blood supply, ensuring more effective doses with fewer side effects. It offers new hope to patients from across the region with colorectal liver metastases who were previously considered inoperable.
Genomics at the point of care
Diagnostics are accelerated by the OncoHelix Co-Lab, a state-of-the-art laboratory inside BMC that brings next-generation sequencing, droplet digital PCR, and total lab automation into the care pathway. Launched in partnership with Canada’s OncoHelix, the Co-Lab delivers highquality molecular and immune profiling on-site so oncologists can act on reliable data without avoidable delays, supporting targeted therapy and immunotherapy decisions in real-time.
In parallel, BCI is evaluating multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood tests available in the UAE so that any adoption complements established, evidence-based screening programs rather than replacing them.
AT THE CENTER OF WOMEN’S CANCER SERVICES IS THE BURJEEL BREAST CENTER, A WOMENLED, ONE-STOP DESTINATION LAUNCHED IN APRIL 2025. IT OFFERS SAMEDAY APPOINTMENTS AND SAME-DAY DIAGNOSIS, POWERED BY HOLOGIC 3DIMENSIONS DIGITAL BREAST TOMOSYNTHESIS THAT IMPROVES LESION VISIBILITY, PARTICULARLY IN DENSE BREAST TISSUE, AND FEEDS RESULTS DIRECTLY INTO MULTIDISCIPLINARY PLANNING.
For instance, the TruCheck test can detect over 70 solid tumors, excluding blood cancers. The institute aims to integrate new tools where they clearly add value and fit into standardized pathways overseen by tumor boards.
Advancing Excellence Through Education and Training
To nurture the next generation of oncology and hematology leaders, in 2025, BCI launched its inaugural accredited fellowship program in oncology, the first of its kind in the UAE, certified by the National Institute of Health Sciences (NIHS). This step aligns with its mission to position the UAE as a regional hub for innovation. This comprehensive program targets physicians seeking advanced subspecialty training in medical oncology, hematology, and integrated care, emphasizing precision medicine, immunotherapy, and survivorship. As part of the program, fellows will engage in hands-on clinical rotations
across BCI's network, including tumor boards, advanced radiotherapy, and genomic profiling via OncoHelix Co-Lab. The curriculum spans research methodologies, ethical trial conduct, and multidisciplinary case management, with dedicated modules on regional challenges like thalassemia and hereditary cancers.
Strategic academic partnerships with Harvard Medical School and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute provide global exposure, enabling fellows to access cutting-edge protocols and collaborative studies. Priority is given to Emirati and MEA professionals to foster local talent through expert mentorship.
Over three years, fellows will contribute to ongoing trials, publish findings, and lead community outreach, ensuring evidence-based care reaches underserved populations.
This initiative not only builds clinical acumen but also empowers participants to drive sustainable improvements in cancer outcomes across the GCC.
TO NURTURE THE NEXT GENERATION OF ONCOLOGY AND HEMATOLOGY LEADERS, IN 2025, BCI LAUNCHED ITS INAUGURAL ACCREDITED FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM IN ONCOLOGY, THE FIRST OF ITS KIND IN THE UAE, CERTIFIED BY THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF HEALTH SCIENCES (NIHS). THIS STEP ALIGNS WITH ITS MISSION TO POSITION THE UAE AS A REGIONAL HUB FOR INNOVATION.
MEDICAL INSTITUTIONS
Pioneering Progress Through Clinical Trials
BCI leads oncology innovation with 7 active clinical trials across breast, colorectal, lung, hepatic, and gynecological cancers, alongside the groundbreaking Phase 3 ENERGIZE and ENERGIZE-T trials at Burjeel Medical City for thalassemia. These FDA-registered, multicenter studies evaluate Mitapivat, a pyruvate kinase activator, to boost hemoglobin in nontransfusion-dependent patients and cut transfusions by ≥50% in transfusion-dependent cases, reducing iron overload risks. Integrated within BCI’s network, Phase I–III oncology studies, overseen by tumor boards, emphasize precision therapies and immunotherapy, leveraging OncoHelix genomics and advanced imaging. Over the past year, BCI enrolled over 150 patients in international protocols with Harvard Medical School, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and AbbVie, accelerating access to novel agents. This framework enhances outcomes, mentors Emirati fellows, and positions the UAE as an oncology and hematology hub. Future plans include basket trials and AI trial matching for equitable access.
Mobile Mammogram unit for breast cancer screening
Beyond tertiary treatment, BCI invests in early detection through community education. During breast cancer awareness activities in October, hospital-based mammography is paired with mobile outreach to take screening to workplaces and neighborhoods, ultimately linking to the Breast Center’s rapid-diagnostic
pathway. The Mobile Mammogram Truck travels to communities across the UAE throughout the year, offering complimentary screenings and educational sessions. The result is a smoother on-ramp to definitive care for women who might otherwise delay screening. Mobile screenings will continue throughout the year.
Recognized leadership and a mandate to grow
The institute's CEO, Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, was recently received by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a gesture that showed the national priority assigned to cancer care and academic excellence. The moment also signaled confidence in BCI’s mission to deliver comprehensive, compassionate, and cuttingedge cancer care that improves outcomes for every patient.
Looking ahead, BCI is expanding clinical research and data partnerships, so that international evidence translates more rapidly into local practice. It will further scale radiation oncology capacity across the network, deepen subspecialty surgical programs in hepatobiliary, thoracic, and pelvic oncology; and formalize education pathways for physicians, nurses, and allied professionals. Each step reinforces a simple proposition: patients should have access to the right care, at the right time, delivered by coordinated teams, without needing to leave their communities.
OVER THE PAST YEAR, BCI ENROLLED OVER 150 PATIENTS IN INTERNATIONAL PROTOCOLS WITH HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL, DANA-FARBER CANCER INSTITUTE AND ABBVIE, ACCELERATING ACCESS TO NOVEL AGENTS. THIS FRAMEWORK ENHANCES OUTCOMES, MENTORS EMIRATI FELLOWS, AND POSITIONS THE UAE AS AN ONCOLOGY AND HEMATOLOGY HUB. FUTURE PLANS INCLUDE BASKET TRIALS AND AI TRIAL MATCHING FOR EQUITABLE ACCESS.
“We are working to change the story of cancer in the MENA region”
Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, CEO of Burjeel
Cancer Institute
In an era where cancer care is rapidly evolving, few voices resonate with as much clarity and purpose as that of Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, CEO of Burjeel Cancer Institute (BCI) and one of the region’s most distinguished oncologists. From his pioneering role in advancing oncology services across the UAE to his groundbreaking academic appointments at Harvard Medical School and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Prof. Al Shamsi embodies the fusion of global excellence and national commitment. In this exclusive conversation with Hospitals Magazine, he reflects on his recent meeting with His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, discusses the UAE’s ambitious vision for healthcare, and shares how Burjeel Cancer Institute is redefining the future of oncology, through innovation, accessibility, and compassion. From precision radiotherapy and cutting-edge liver cancer procedures to women-led breast care initiatives and regional expansion into Oman, Prof. Al Shamsi reveals how his team is reshaping the narrative of cancer in the Middle East and beyond.
IT WAS A PROFOUND HONOR TO BE RECEIVED BY HIS HIGHNESS SHEIKH MOHAMED BIN ZAYED AL NAHYAN, PRESIDENT OF THE UAE.
INTERVIEW
You were recently received by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. What did that meeting mean to you, and what does it signify for healthcare in the UAE?
It was a profound honor to be received by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. The meeting was both a personal and professional milestone that reflected our leadership’s deep commitment to advancing science, education, and healthcare in the country. His Highness graciously congratulated me on my appointment as Visiting Professor at Harvard Medical School and Visiting Scientist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston.
To be the first physician from the Gulf region to receive these academic titles was an emotional moment for me. What made it even more meaningful was sharing it with our leadership, whose vision and trust make such achievements possible.
During our discussion, I expressed my gratitude for His Highness’s continuous support to all citizens and residents of the UAE and shared with him the latest developments in the cancer care sector. His Highness emphasized the importance of continuing to advance this critical field and reaffirmed his guidance to ensure that the UAE upholds the highest international standards of care for all cancer patients. For me, this meeting symbolized not only recognition but also responsibility. It was a reminder that our collective mission is to serve people, raise standards, and build a healthcare system that reflects the UAE’s values of excellence, compassion, and innovation.
How does that national vision shape your mission at Burjeel Cancer Institute?
Our mission at Burjeel Cancer Institute is to make world-class, compassionate cancer care accessible to everyone in the UAE and across the region. We aim to detect cancer early, treat it precisely, and walk with the patient through recovery and survivorship. Achieving that requires an integrated approach where prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and longterm support are all connected. We have built
that ecosystem within BMC and extended it across our network in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Al Ain, Al Dhafra, and now Oman.
Burjeel Cancer Institute has become one of the GCC’s largest dedicated cancer networks. What has driven that growth?
When a patient reaches BCI, they enter a pool of specialists with global expertise. The patient gains from the collective expertise of our multidisciplinary team comprising more than 70 specialists. This allows us to provide more personalized care and faster access to treatment. It also reduces waiting times and ensures every patient benefits from coordinated, evidence-based decisions. We now care for more than 5,000 oncology patients each year across our network and deliver over 10,000 radiotherapy sessions annually.
The Burjeel Breast Center has gained attention for its women-led approach. How has it changed the experience for patients?
The Breast Center is designed as a one-stop destination where women can undergo screening, diagnostics, and consultation all in one visit. We introduced same-day appointments and, when feasible, same-day diagnosis to reduce anxiety and uncertainty. The center uses advanced technology such as the HOLOGIC 3Dimensions system, which improves detection accuracy even in dense breast tissue. Most importantly, the environment is empathetic, patient-friendly, and designed to make every woman feel supported and safe.
Radiation therapy is a cornerstone of modern cancer treatment. How has BCI advanced in this area?
We have invested heavily in precision radiotherapy. Our Elekta Versa HD systems allow us to deliver highly targeted treatment while minimizing exposure to healthy tissue.
THE BREAST CENTER IS DESIGNED AS A ONESTOP DESTINATION WHERE WOMEN CAN UNDERGO SCREENING, DIAGNOSTICS, AND CONSULTATION ALL IN ONE VISIT. WE INTRODUCED SAMEDAY APPOINTMENTS AND, WHEN FEASIBLE, SAME-DAY DIAGNOSIS TO REDUCE ANXIETY AND UNCERTAINTY. THE CENTER USES ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY SUCH AS THE HOLOGIC 3DIMENSIONS SYSTEM, WHICH IMPROVES DETECTION ACCURACY EVEN IN DENSE BREAST TISSUE.
Burjeel Cancer Institute is now an Elekta Reference Site and holds Novalis Certified Radiosurgery status, which places us among the region’s most advanced centers. Our radiation oncologists, physicists, and therapists work closely to tailor every plan to the patient’s specific needs.
BCI recently introduced Hepatic Artery Infusion Pump procedure. What does this innovation mean for patients?
This is a highly specialized treatment for patients with liver-dominant metastatic cancer, especially from colorectal origins. By infusing chemotherapy directly into the hepatic artery through an implanted pump, we can achieve much higher concentrations of the drug where it is needed most, while limiting side effects to the rest of the body. For select patients, it opens new possibilities that were previously unavailable in the region. It reflects our goal of offering every patient the most advanced options available anywhere in the world.
There’s been much discussion about multi-cancer early detection tests. How is BCI approaching these developments?
We are optimistic but careful. Established screening for breast, colorectal, cervical, and lung cancers remains the foundation of early detection. At the same time, we are evaluating emerging tools such as multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood tests through our clinical committees.
TruCheck is a test we introduced recently for cancer screening. Our responsibility is to validate new technology before integrating it into routine care, ensuring that it truly benefits patients and aligns with international evidence.
The breast cancer campaign reached thousands of women across the UAE. Why is community outreach important to you?
Access and awareness are the first steps to saving lives. Our Mobile Mammogram Truck and community initiatives bring mammography and education directly to workplaces and neighborhoods. Many women postpone
screening due to time or travel barriers. When we bring services to them, participation increases and cancers are caught earlier. Beyond detection, these campaigns are about empowering women with knowledge and reassurance. This is an ongoing activity for us, throughout the year.
BCI has now expanded into Oman. How does regional integration enhance patient outcomes?
Cancer doesn’t recognize borders, so our care network shouldn’t either. By opening Burjeel Cancer Institute Muscat, we can share expertise, unify treatment protocols, and provide continuity of care for patients in Oman. The collaboration allows us to deliver consistent quality across the region and supports national efforts to strengthen local oncology capabilities.
What are your priorities for the next five years?
Our focus is on accelerating access, advancing research, and training the next generation of specialists. We’re expanding clinical trials and academic partnerships to make the UAE a hub for oncology innovation.
We also want to grow our education and fellowship programs so more Emirati and regional professionals can lead in this field. Success for me means seeing more patients cured, more families supported, and more hope delivered, right here in the region.
What keeps you personally motivated in this mission?
The patients. Every statistic hides a human story, Someone’s parent, sibling, or child. Seeing them recover, or even seeing their courage in adversity, reminds me why this work matters. Our goal is not only to treat cancer but to change the experience of it, to make every patient feel seen, cared for, and never alone in their journey.
WE ARE OPTIMISTIC BUT CAREFUL. ESTABLISHED SCREENING FOR BREAST, COLORECTAL, CERVICAL, AND LUNG CANCERS REMAINS THE FOUNDATION OF EARLY DETECTION. AT THE SAME TIME, WE ARE EVALUATING EMERGING TOOLS SUCH AS MULTICANCER EARLY DETECTION (MCED) BLOOD TESTS THROUGH OUR CLINICAL COMMITTEES. TRUCHECK IS A TEST WE INTRODUCED RECENTLY FOR CANCER SCREENING. OUR RESPONSIBILITY IS TO VALIDATE NEW TECHNOLOGY BEFORE INTEGRATING IT INTO ROUTINE CARE, ENSURING THAT IT TRULY BENEFITS PATIENTS AND ALIGNS WITH INTERNATIONAL EVIDENCE.
Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center and St. Luke’s Health–The Woodlands Hospital, members of CommonSpirit Health, Received the 2025 Chest Pain–MI Registry Performance Achievement Award from NCDR
When it comes to your heart, you deserve the best care. That's why we're proud to share that Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center and St. Luke's Health-The Woodlands Hospital have been recognized with the 2025 Chest Pain - MI Registry Performance Achievement Award from the National Cardiovascular Data Registry (NCDR).
This award recognizes healthcare organizations that demonstrate sustained, top-level performance in the quality of care for heart attack patients. A part of the American College of Cardiology, NCDR is the largest, most comprehensive, outcomes-based cardiovascular patient data repository in the United States.
This means you can trust us to provide the highest quality, data-driven treatment. Learn more about our cardiac services and how we're dedicated to your heart health:
Why
choose Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center for Heart
Care?
Our network of cardiologists specializes in
heart care, offering a comprehensive range of treatments close to home. They’re committed to helping keep your heart strong and healthy with expert care, confidence and support.
Leaders in heart care
Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center ranks among the top hospitals in the nation for cardiology, heart and vascular surgery. We have led the field in heart care for decades. In 1968, our team performed the first-ever successful heart transplant in the United States, and we later implanted the first total artificial heart. As one of the nation’s top academic institutions, we are dedicated to innovation and research. Clinical trials conducted at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center guide the future of heart care.
Renowned expertise in cardiology and cardiac surgery
The expert physicians in our Heart Care Center provide exemplary care to patients across the heart failure spectrum. Our team has
THE EXPERT PHYSICIANS IN OUR HEART CARE CENTER PROVIDE EXEMPLARY CARE TO PATIENTS ACROSS THE HEART FAILURE SPECTRUM. OUR TEAM HAS THE KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERTISE TO ADDRESS ANY CONDITION AT ANY LEVEL OF COMPLEXITY.
the knowledge and expertise to address any condition at any level of complexity.
Heart-related services we offer
1. Leading-edge Heart Surgery
We have the expertise to treat routine to highrisk heart cases with exceptional outcomes. For every heart surgery, you can trust you're in expert hands. Baylor St. Luke's Medical Center is home to some of the nation’s most acclaimed heart specialists, caring for patients with the most complex and critical conditions.
We are home to the Texas Heart Institute® Center for Cardiovascular Care, one of the country’s leading heart surgery centers, according to U.S. News & World Report. In collaboration with Baylor College of Medicine, we offer the latest minimally invasive cardiac surgery and structural heart procedures. People from all over the world receive lifesaving surgery from the team of renowned aortic, cardiovascular and cardiothoracic surgeons at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center.
2. Vascular Care for healthy blood flow
Blood vessel health and proper blood flow are critical to your overall well-being. You can trust our vascular specialists to diagnose and treat the full range of vascular conditions.
Vascular diseases affect the blood vessels and blood flow in your body. Through our partnership with Baylor College of Medicine, we provide expert care from specialized vascular doctors. They help ensure your cells, tissues and organs get the healthy blood flow they need to function. Conditions that affect your blood flow are often serious and can be scary for you or a loved one to experience. We support you from diagnosis through treatment. You can rely on our network of vein experts to prioritize your safety and well-being, whether you have a common condition or need complex care.
3. Ventricular assist device (VAD)
A ventricular assist device (VAD) helps pump blood from your heart to the rest of your body. It's used when your heart is not able to pump
enough blood on its own. The device consists of a pump, tubes that connect the pump to the heart, a control system, and a power source. A thin cable connects the pump with the control system. This cable, also called a lead or driveline, comes out of your belly through a small cut in your skin called an exit site.Your doctor may recommend that you get a VAD if:
• You are waiting for a heart transplant.
• Your heart needs long-term help to pump blood.
• Your heart is healing from an injury or illness and it needs help until it can pump on its own.
VADs come in different shapes and sizes. You will receive the type of device that works best for your needs.
4. Heart transplant
A heart transplant is a procedure in which a surgeon removes a diseased heart and replaces it with a donor heart. During a heart transplant, a mechanical pump circulates blood through the body while the surgeon removes the diseased heart and replaces it with a healthy heart from a recently deceased donor.
The surgeon connects the donor heart to the major blood vessels and hooks the heart up to wires that temporarily control the heartbeat. The procedure takes several hours.
To prevent the body from rejecting the donor heart, your surgeon will give you powerful drugs (immunosuppressants) right after surgery. You must continue to take them.
5. Robot-assisted surgery
Robot-assisted surgery uses robotic arms and surgical instruments that are controlled by the doctor. It's sometimes used in bowel and reproductive organ surgeries.
Not all hospitals have the tools to do robotassisted surgery or have doctors who are trained to do it. It can lead to fewer problems after surgery. But it can cost more.
BAYLOR ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL CENTER RANKS AMONG THE TOP HOSPITALS IN THE NATION FOR CARDIOLOGY, HEART AND VASCULAR SURGERY. WE HAVE LED THE FIELD IN HEART CARE FOR DECADES. IN 1968, OUR TEAM PERFORMED THE FIRST-EVER SUCCESSFUL HEART TRANSPLANT IN THE UNITED STATES, AND WE LATER IMPLANTED THE FIRST TOTAL ARTIFICIAL HEART. AS ONE OF THE NATION’S TOP ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS, WE ARE DEDICATED TO INNOVATION AND RESEARCH. CLINICAL TRIALS CONDUCTED AT BAYLOR ST. LUKE’S MEDICAL CENTER GUIDE THE FUTURE OF HEART CARE.
The Next Generation of Leukemia Treatments
A Breakthrough Era Transforming Survival and Quality of Life
Over the past few years, the field of blood cancers has entered a transformative new era. What was once a landscape dominated by chemotherapy and radiation has rapidly evolved into a world of precision medicine, targeted therapies, and sophisticated immunotherapies that are redefining survival prospects for patients. Today, innovations once thought impossible are becoming standard clinical practice, ushering in a future where even the most aggressive forms of leukemia can be controlled, treated, or managed as chronic conditions.
These breakthroughs mark one of the most significant revolutions in hematologic oncology. Instead of attacking rapidly dividing cells indiscriminately, modern therapies now focus on blocking specific molecular abnormalities, shutting down the proteins that fuel cancer growth, or harnessing the patient’s own immune system to defeat malignant cells with remarkable accuracy.
The result is unprecedented improvement in outcomes, fewer side effects, and renewed hope for patients who previously had limited treatment options.
CAR T-Cell Therapy: Engineering Immunity for a Safer, More Powerful Response
CAR T-cell therapy, Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell therapy, has reshaped the treatment of blood cancers, especially with the emergence of its new-generation designs. While earlier versions were effective, they were often associated with severe complications such as cytokine release syndrome. The latest generation has overcome these challenges by engineering receptors that reduce excessive immune activation, dramatically lowering the risk of life-threatening toxicities.
The therapy begins by collecting a patient’s own T-cells, which are then genetically modified
in a laboratory to express engineered receptors known as CARs. These receptors enable the T-cells to precisely recognize specific surface markers, such as CD19 or CD20, on cancer cells. After expansion to millions of copies, the modified cells are infused back into the patient, where they aggressively seek out and destroy malignant cells.
This approach has shown striking success in treating acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), mantle cell lymphoma, and follicular lymphoma. For patients with relapsed or refractory disease, often those with the fewest remaining options, CAR T-cell therapy has opened a new therapeutic horizon, offering durable remissions and, in many cases, a second chance at life.
Bispecific Antibodies:
A New Class of Immune-Driven Precision Weapons
Bispecific antibodies represent another major leap forward in leukemia treatment. These innovative molecules act as immunological “bridges,” binding simultaneously to cancer cells and immune cells, usually T-cells or natural killer (NK) cells. One arm of the antibody targets a tumor-specific antigen such as CD19 or CD20, while the other binds to a stimulatory receptor like CD3 on immune cells. By bringing the two into direct proximity, the antibody triggers a focused immune attack against malignant cells.
This dual-targeting mechanism has delivered impressive results, particularly in patients with relapsed or treatment-resistant blood cancers. Bispecific antibodies have been successfully deployed in B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL), various forms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, including DLBCL and follicular lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.
One of their greatest strengths lies in their practicality: many bispecific antibodies, including the BiTE (Bispecific T-cell Engager) class, are
CAR T-CELL THERAPY, CHIMERIC ANTIGEN RECEPTOR T-CELL THERAPY, HAS RESHAPED THE TREATMENT OF BLOOD CANCERS, ESPECIALLY WITH THE EMERGENCE OF ITS NEW-GENERATION DESIGNS. WHILE EARLIER VERSIONS WERE EFFECTIVE, THEY WERE OFTEN ASSOCIATED WITH SEVERE COMPLICATIONS SUCH AS CYTOKINE RELEASE SYNDROME. THE LATEST GENERATION HAS OVERCOME THESE CHALLENGES BY ENGINEERING RECEPTORS THAT REDUCE EXCESSIVE IMMUNE ACTIVATION, DRAMATICALLY LOWERING THE RISK OF LIFE-THREATENING TOXICITIES.
“off-the-shelf” therapies. They do not require individual cell manufacturing, allowing faster treatment initiation and fewer logistical barriers. Their precision also enables potent anticancer activity with fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.
Targeted Therapies: Transforming Chronic Blood Cancers into Manageable Conditions
Targeted therapies, especially tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), have fundamentally changed the prognosis of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and other genetically driven blood cancers. By blocking the BCR-ABL fusion protein caused by the Philadelphia chromosome, firstgeneration TKIs revolutionized survival. Today, newer generations offer even greater potency, improved safety, and effectiveness against resistant mutations.
For many patients, CML has transformed from a life-threatening disease into a manageable condition with long-term, highquality survival. Remarkably, some patients who achieve deep and sustained molecular responses can now safely discontinue therapy under medical supervision, a concept unimaginable two decades ago. Beyond CML, TKIs, including Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors, have
expanded into other malignancies, such as:
• Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL)
• Small lymphocytic lymphoma (SLL)
• Philadelphia chromosome–positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL) (in combination with chemotherapy)
As genomic profiling becomes more widely integrated into clinical practice, targeted therapies continue to broaden their impact across the spectrum of hematologic malignancies.
A New Era of Precision, Personalization, and Possibility
The evolution of leukemia treatment is more than scientific progress, it is a profound shift in how we understand and confront cancer. By moving from broad, cell-killing strategies toward intelligent, immune-guided, and mutation-specific therapies, clinicians can now offer patients safer, more effective, and more personalized care than ever before. What once seemed like distant hope has become a rapidly expanding reality: blood cancers that were once fatal can now be controlled, and in many cases, lives can be restored. As research continues to advance, one thing is clear, this new generation of therapies is not only redefining survival but reshaping the future of cancer care itself.
THE EVOLUTION OF LEUKEMIA TREATMENT IS MORE THAN SCIENTIFIC PROGRESS, IT IS A PROFOUND SHIFT IN HOW WE UNDERSTAND AND CONFRONT CANCER. BY MOVING FROM BROAD, CELL-KILLING STRATEGIES TOWARD INTELLIGENT, IMMUNE-GUIDED, AND MUTATIONSPECIFIC THERAPIES, CLINICIANS CAN NOW OFFER PATIENTS SAFER, MORE EFFECTIVE, AND MORE PERSONALIZED CARE THAN EVER BEFORE.
Transforming Blood Cancer Care in the Middle East: An In-Depth
Dr.
Emmanouil
Nikolousis, Consultant Hematologist, American Hospital Dubai
The fight against blood cancers has entered a new era, one defined by cellular therapies, and a global push toward earlier diagnosis and more effective cures. In the Middle East, where lymphoma and leukemia rank among the top five cancers1, the potential for lifesaving innovation is immense, especially given the region’s relatively young patient population. At the forefront of this transformation is Dr. Emmanouil Nikolousis, a highly respected hematologist with extensive experience across the UK, Greece, Cyprus, and now the UAE. As a pioneer in bone marrow transplantation and cellular therapies, Dr. Nikolousis has seen firsthand how advanced treatments like CAR T-cell therapy can change the prognosis for patients once considered untreatable.
In this interview, Hospitals Magazine speaks with Dr. Nikolousis about his journey, the challenges and opportunities in regional cancer care, and the hope that cutting-edge therapies bring to patients across the Middle East.
Dr. Nikolousis, can you start by telling us about your journey and what first inspired you to specialize in hematology, bone marrow transplantation, and cellular therapies?
When I first chose hematology, it was still a relatively young and rapidly evolving specialty. That was part of the attraction, it combined research opportunities, laboratory diagnostics, and direct patient care in a way that few other fields did. Hematology was also one of the first specialties to adopt targeted treatments and small-molecule therapies, largely because we could analyze the molecular profile of diseases. Over the past 20 years, these advances have transformed the entire treatment landscape. I was drawn to that potential to be in a field where ongoing research, clinical trials, and innovation could directly change patient outcomes.
You have practiced in the UK, Greece, Cyprus, and now the UAE. How has this international experience shaped your approach to patient care?
My years in the UK were incredibly formative. The training was comprehensive, not just in clinical skills but also in management, safety, and governance. I served as head of hematology, bone marrow transplantation, and cellular therapies, which gave me a deep understanding of both patient care and departmental leadership.
FOR DIFFUSE LARGE B-CELL LYMPHOMA, MOST PATIENTS START WITH R-CHOP OR POLA-R-CHP, DEPENDING ON THE LATEST EVIDENCE. IF THEY RELAPSE EARLY OR ARE REFRACTORY, WE NOW MOVE DIRECTLY TO CAR T-CELL THERAPY, WHICH HAS PROVEN SUPERIOR TO AUTOLOGOUS STEM CELL TRANSPLANTATION, THE PREVIOUS STANDARD OF CARE6
INTERVIEWS
Greece was a different environment, and while the structure of care varied, I learned to take the best from each system. Now, in the UAE particularly at American Hospital Dubai, I’m working in the most dynamic environment of my career. Our management has an ambitious vision: to deliver the best cancer care in the region and be recognized internationally. We already treat patients from across the Middle East, and we are beginning cellular therapies, including CAR T-cells, this month.
During your time as Clinical Director at University Hospitals Birmingham, your team won “Team of the Year” in 2019. What lessons did that experience teach you? That award was a testament to the power of teamwork. Hematology is not a one-man show, you need people with different skills, all focused on the patient. It’s like football: if you have 11 Ronaldos, you won’t win. You need clear roles, diverse expertise, and a shared goal. That’s exactly the culture we are building here in Dubai.
How prevalent are blood cancers in the UAE and the wider Middle East?
Lymphomas and leukemias are among the top five cancers in the region1. One important difference compared to Western countries is our younger patient population2. This allows us to offer more intensive, potentially curative treatments. For younger patients, the goal is always cure. In contrast, in the UK, the population is older and has more comorbidities3, which makes some advanced treatments more difficult to implement. In the Middle East, especially the UAE, therapies like CAR T-cells and advanced transplant options can have an even greater impact.
Are diagnoses increasing in the region?
Yes, and that’s concerning, not just because we are seeing more cases, but also because mortality rates are still high4. Access to newer drugs can be delayed. Getting them added to hospital formularies is not always straightforward, and in a region where much of healthcare is insurance-based, obtaining
approval for advanced therapies can require multiple applications.
Another major gap is the absence of clinical trials5. In the UK, US, and Europe, patients often have access to experimental therapies through trials. Here, that access is still extremely limited.
For a patient newly diagnosed with blood cancer, what does the typical journey look like?
At American Hospital Dubai, we are fortunate to have a multidisciplinary team trained in the US, UK, Germany, Scandinavia, Italy, and Spain. Our culture prioritizes early diagnosis. Patients may present to different specialties depending on their symptoms, a neck lump to ENT, weight loss to gastroenterology, night sweats to internal medicine, or persistent fever to infectious diseases. It’s critical for all specialties to recognize potential blood cancer symptoms and refer patients early, because timely diagnosis can make the biggest difference in outcomes.
How do you decide on treatment options?
We use evidence-based medicine, relying heavily on Phase III clinical trials. The treatment landscape has evolved, traditional chemotherapy is still used, but targeted therapies and cellular treatments now offer new possibilities. It’s not just about prescribing the drug. The real challenge is managing potential side effects effectively. With targeted therapies, side effects are different from those of chemotherapy, but they require expertise to handle.
Could you give an example of how treatment may progress for certain patients?
For diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, most patients start with R-CHOP or pola-R-CHP, depending on the latest evidence. If they relapse early or are refractory, we now move directly to CAR T-cell therapy, which has proven superior to autologous stem cell transplantation, the previous standard of care6.
What makes CAR T-cell therapy so promising?
LYMPHOMAS AND LEUKEMIAS ARE AMONG THE TOP FIVE CANCERS IN THE REGION1 ONE IMPORTANT DIFFERENCE COMPARED TO WESTERN COUNTRIES IS OUR YOUNGER PATIENT POPULATION2. THIS ALLOWS US TO OFFER MORE INTENSIVE, POTENTIALLY CURATIVE TREATMENTS. FOR YOUNGER PATIENTS, THE GOAL IS ALWAYS CURE. IN CONTRAST, IN THE UK, THE POPULATION IS OLDER AND HAS MORE COMORBIDITIES3, WHICH MAKES SOME ADVANCED TREATMENTS MORE DIFFICULT TO IMPLEMENT.
INTERVIEWS
CAR T-cell therapy is one of the most powerful tools we have today. Before it, refractory patients had poor prognosis or poor outcomes7. Now, in some clinical trials, we have seen long-term survival and more than 27% relative reduction in mortality compared to refractory patients receiving the previous standard of care8. The process is fascinating: we harvest the patient’s immune cells, send them to an accredited manufacturing lab, and “train” them to recognize and attack cancer cells. After a short course of light chemotherapy, we reinfuse the modified cells. Once inside the body, they actively seek and destroy the cancer9
What progress have you made with advanced therapies at American Hospital Dubai?
In less than a year since we began allogeneic stem cell transplants, we have completed 22 procedures from unrelated donors and haploidentical siblings. That’s a testament to our team’s passion and readiness to move to the next level with CAR T-cell therapy.
What about side effects and complications?
All advanced therapies have risks. The key is to have a multidisciplinary team trained to identify and manage side effects quickly.
Side effects do not mean the treatment won’t work; they are part of the journey, and managing them effectively is critical to achieving the best outcomes.
How do decision-makers in the region support these therapies?
Support varies. Some governments fully fund CAR T-cells, some premium insurance plans cover them, while others send patients abroad, sometimes for non-accredited products, which is risky. Only FDA- and EMA-approved CAR T-cell products have passed the rigorous trials proving safety and efficacy.
If you could make one call to action to decision-makers, what would it be?
Establish a unified national pathway for
complex procedures like CAR T-cells and stem cell transplants regardless of insurance status. A national tumor board could allocate patients to the right centers quickly, preventing delays that can lead to relapse. I have seen cases where patients missed their treatment window because of prolonged insurance approval processes.
You mentioned the lack of clinical trials. How do you see that changing?
We have just established a clinical trials unit at American Hospital Dubai capable of conducting Phase III studies. We hope to partner with pharmaceutical companies and gain government support to bring trials here. The UAE is making great strides, and I believe we will soon be part of the global research network.
Looking ahead, what gives you hope for cancer treatment in the Middle East?
The willingness to adopt new treatments is strong here. The Middle East has the potential to become a healthcare hub, attracting patients from around the world. Twenty years ago, patients traveled to the UK or US; now, the vision is for those countries to send patients here.
What message would you like to give to patients and their families facing blood cancer?
A cancer diagnosis is devastating, but it is no longer a death sentence. We now have treatments with curative potential. Patients should feel empowered to discuss their diagnosis openly, removing the stigma helps them understand their treatment pathway and improves their outcomes. We have many weapons against blood cancer, and cure is possible.
On a personal level, what does it mean to you when patients achieve longterm remission?
It is the most rewarding part of my work, to see patients return to their normal lives, celebrating milestones like “transplant birthdays.” For us, success is not only survival but quality of life. Whatever it takes, we will be there for our patients.
AT AMERICAN HOSPITAL DUBAI, WE ARE FORTUNATE TO HAVE A MULTIDISCIPLINARY TEAM TRAINED IN THE US, UK, GERMANY, SCANDINAVIA, ITALY, AND SPAIN. OUR CULTURE PRIORITIZES EARLY DIAGNOSIS. PATIENTS MAY PRESENT TO DIFFERENT SPECIALTIES DEPENDING ON THEIR SYMPTOMS, A NECK LUMP TO ENT, WEIGHT LOSS TO GASTROENTEROLOGY, NIGHT SWEATS TO INTERNAL MEDICINE, OR PERSISTENT FEVER TO INFECTIOUS DISEASES. IT’S CRITICAL FOR ALL SPECIALTIES TO RECOGNIZE POTENTIAL BLOOD CANCER SYMPTOMS AND REFER PATIENTS EARLY, BECAUSE TIMELY DIAGNOSIS CAN MAKE THE BIGGEST DIFFERENCE IN OUTCOMES.
References
1. Alessy SA, Alqahtani SA, Vignat J, Abuhmaidan A, Basmi AEL, Al Lawati N, Ali A-Nooh A, Shelpai W, Alhomoud S, Al-Zahrani A, Bray F, Znaor A. The current and future cancer burden in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Cancer Med. 2024 Sep;13(17):e70141. doi: 10.1002/cam4.7014.PMID: 39279725; PMCID: PMC11403302. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11403302/#:~:text=3.1.&text=There%20were%20an%20estimated%2019%2C895,%2C%20Tables%20S6%20and%20S7).
2. Al-Shamsi, H.O. and Musallam, K.M. (2024), Not only a Western world issue: Cancer incidence in younger individuals in the United Arab Emirates. CA Cancer J Clin, 74: 227228. https://doi.org/10.3322/caac.21839
3. Fowler H, Belot A, Ellis L, Maringe C, Luque-Fernandez MA, Njagi EN, Navani N, Sarfati D, Rachet B. Comorbidity prevalence among cancer patients: a population-based cohort study of four cancers. BMC Cancer. 2020 Jan 28;20(1):2. doi: 10.1186/s12885-019-6472-9. PMID: 31987032; PMCID: PMC6986047. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih. gov/31987032/
4. Arafa MA, Rabah DM, Farhat KH. Rising cancer rates in the Arab World: now is the time for action. East Mediterr Health J. 2020 Jun 24;26(6):638-640. doi: 10.26719/ emhj.20.073. PMID: 32621496. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32621496/
5. Al-Shamsi HO. Barriers and Facilitators to Conducting Oncology Clinical Trials in the UAE. Clin Pract. 2022 Nov 7;12(6):885-896. doi: 10.3390/clinpract12060093. PMID: 36412672; PMCID: PMC9680222. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9680222/
6. Tian L, Li C, Sun J, Zhai Y, Wang J, Liu S, Jiang Y, Wu W, Xing D, Lv Y, Guo J, Xu H, Sun H, Li Y, Li L, Zhao Z. Efficacy of chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy and autologous stem cell transplant in relapsed or refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: A systematic review. Front Immunol. 2023 Jan 17;13:1041177. doi: 10.3389/ fimmu.2022.1041177. PMID: 36733398; PMCID: PMC9886865. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9886865/
7. Crump M, Neelapu SS, Farooq U, Van Den Neste E, Kuruvilla J, Westin J, Link BK, Hay A, Cerhan JR, Zhu L, Boussetta S, Feng L, Maurer MJ, Navale L, Wiezorek J, Go WY, Gisselbrecht C. Outcomes in refractory diffuse large B-cell lymphoma: results from the international SCHOLAR-1 study. Blood. 2017 Oct 19;130(16):1800-1808. doi: 10.1182/blood-2017-03-769620. Epub 2017 Aug 3. Erratum in: Blood. 2018 Feb 1;131(5):587-588. doi: 10.1182/blood-2017-11-817775. PMID: 28774879; PMCID: PMC5649550. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28774879/
8. Helwick, C. ZUMA-7: Primary Overall Survival Analysis Supports Axicabtagene Ciloleucel as Second-Line Therapy in Advanced Lymphoma. The ASCO Post. 2023 Jul 10. Accessed 1 Sept 2025. https://ascopost.com/issues/july-10-2023/primary-overall-survival-analysis-supports-axicabtagene-ciloleucel-as-second-line-therapy-in-advancedlymphoma/
9. CAR T Cells: Engineering Patients’ Immune Cells to Treat Their Cancers. National Cancer Institute. 2025 Feb 26. Accessed 1 Sept 2025. https://www.cancer.gov/aboutcancer/treatment/research/car-t-cells
Advanced imaging and targeted therapy help men with prostate cancer safely defer surgery and radiation therapy
Anew study led by UCLA Health Jonsson
Comprehensive Cancer Center shows that using advanced MRI imaging and targeted focal therapy can help many men with low- to intermediate-risk prostate cancer safely stay on active surveillance long-term, avoiding followup biopsies and delay, or even avoid, invasive treatments such as surgery or radiation.
Researchers found that a routine follow-up biopsy, previously considered essential, can now be replaced in most instances by MRI. Among men with slightly more aggressive cancer, those who had focal therapy were much more likely to avoid surgery or radiation, 84%, compared to 46% without therapy.
Recently published in the Journal of Urology,
PROSTATE CANCER IS THE MOST COMMON NON-SKIN CANCER AMONG AMERICAN MEN.
the findings add to growing evidence that these tools make active surveillance, close monitoring rather than immediate treatment, safer, more personalized and less stressful for patients.
“This represents a major advancement in the management of prostate cancer,” said Dr. Leonard Marks, professor and deKernion Endowed Chair in Urology at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, and senior author of the study. “By combining MRI-guided diagnosis with selective focal therapy, we can offer men a more personalized approach. This strategy not only helps avoid unnecessary procedures, but also gives us a better way to predict who will benefit from extended surveillance, potentially improving quality of life and reducing side effects without compromising safety.”
Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer among American men, with about one in eight diagnosed during their lifetime. Many are low risk and grow so slowly they may never cause symptoms. Despite growing acceptance of active surveillance, many still choose surgery or radiation out of fear the cancer could become dangerous, risking long-term side effects such as incontinence or sexual dysfunction. To strengthen confidence in active surveillance and reduce overtreatment, the UCLA Health team evaluated whether adding MRI-guided biopsy and focal therapy could make surveillance safer and easier for patients to sustain.
MRI and MRI-guided biopsies offer a clearer view of prostate cancer, enabling better tracking of changes over time. When active surveillance began, these tools weren’t widely available, so physicians relied on ultrasound-guided biopsies, which could miss important tumors or overtreat slow-growing ones.
Focal therapy is a minimally invasive procedure that targets only the tumor instead of the whole prostate, using imaging guidance such as MRI to accurately locate and guide the
treatment. The study analyzed data from 869 men enrolled in UCLA Health’s active surveillance program between 2010 and 2022, the largest long-term study of men with prostate cancer monitored with MRI and MRI-guided biopsy for up to 12 years.
All participants had an MRI-guided biopsy at the start showing low- to intermediaterisk prostate cancer, and they stayed in the program for at least one year. Starting in 2016, some men were offered focal therapy either because they had slightly higher-risk cancer at diagnosis or because their cancer showed signs of progressing. About a quarter, 99 out of 393 eligible men, chose the treatment.
MRI proved highly accurate in identifying stable cancers, correctly predicting nonprogression in 90% to 95% of men with low-risk cancer and 70% with intermediate-risk cancer. Starting surveillance with MRI-guided biopsy allowed doctors to better determine who can safely stay on surveillance. Because MRI is so accurate, many men with favorable results avoided repeat biopsies, reducing physical discomfort and chance of over treatment.
The study also showed fewer patients leaving active surveillance due to anxiety, which researchers link to growing confidence in MRIbased monitoring and surveillance programs.
“Although the numbers for the focal therapy group are small and the follow-up was relatively brief, the near-term advantage of focal therapy in avoiding surgery or radiation is clear,” Dr. Marks said. “This study offers some of the strongest evidence yet that active surveillance, when guided by modern imaging and minimally invasive treatments such as focal therapy, can safely be expanded to more patients.”
For more information, please visit https://www.uclahealth.org/international-services/ or call +1 310-794-8759
MRI PROVED HIGHLY ACCURATE IN IDENTIFYING STABLE CANCERS, CORRECTLY PREDICTING NONPROGRESSION IN 90% TO 95% OF MEN WITH LOW-RISK CANCER AND 70% WITH INTERMEDIATE-RISK CANCER. STARTING SURVEILLANCE WITH MRI-GUIDED BIOPSY ALLOWED DOCTORS TO BETTER DETERMINE WHO CAN SAFELY STAY ON SURVEILLANCE.
The Prostate: From Fertility to Cancer Prevention
The prostate gland plays a central role in men’s health. Although small, about the size of a walnut, this gland located just below the bladder and wrapped around the urethra has a powerful impact on fertility and overall wellbeing. Its primary function is to produce a major portion of seminal fluid, a clear alkaline secretion rich in essential nutrients such as zinc, citrate and enzymes like PSA, which support sperm mobility and protect sperm cells. Keeping the prostate healthy is vital for preventing common conditions, including prostatitis, benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer, one of the most prevalent cancers among men worldwide. Protecting this gland starts with regular screening, especially after the age of 40, along with adopting healthy lifestyle habits. Early detection significantly improves treatment success, safeguards fertility and preserves a man’s quality of life.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Common Condition With Age
Benign prostatic hyperplasia, or BPH, is the most common prostate condition affecting men as they grow older. It is a non-cancerous enlargement of the gland, typically beginning after the age of 40 and becoming increasingly common after 50. This enlargement is largely driven by age-related hormonal changes. As the prostate grows, it compresses the urethra, obstructs urine flow and leads to symptoms that can greatly impact daily life.
Common symptoms include frequent or urgent urination, especially at night, difficulty starting urination, a weak or interrupted urine stream and the feeling that the bladder has not fully emptied. Although BPH is not cancer and does not progress to cancer, it can cause serious complications if left untreated, such as urinary retention, recurrent urinary tract infections and bladder or kidney damage.
Treatment options range from medications that relax prostate and bladder muscles or reduce prostate size, to minimally invasive surgical procedures in severe cases.
Prostatitis: Inflammation or Infection That Can Affect Any Age
Prostatitis is an inflammation or infection of the prostate and can affect men of any age. It exists in several forms, including acute bacterial prostatitis, chronic bacterial prostatitis and chronic non-bacterial prostatitis, also known as chronic pelvic pain syndrome.
Bacterial prostatitis occurs when infection spreads to the prostate from the urinary tract. Acute cases appear suddenly with severe symptoms, while chronic cases develop gradually and fluctuate over time.
Symptoms may include pain or burning during urination, pain in the pelvis, lower back or genital area, pain during ejaculation, fever and chills in acute cases and increased urinary urgency or frequency.
Treatment depends on the type. Bacterial prostatitis requires targeted, long-term antibiotics capable of penetrating prostate tissue, while non-bacterial forms focus on pain management and symptom relief using antiinflammatory medications, alpha-blockers, physical therapy, lifestyle modifications and other supportive measures.
Prostate Cancer: One of the Most Common Cancers in Men
Prostate cancer is a malignant growth arising from prostate tissue and is one of the most common cancers among men globally. The risk increases significantly with age, particularly after 50. In many cases, the cancer grows slowly in its early stages, which is why symptoms may be absent for years. As a result, many cases are detected through routine screening, especially PSA testing.
As the disease progresses, urinary symptoms may appear due to pressure on the urethra. These symptoms often resemble those of benign prostatic hyperplasia, including difficulty initiating urination, a weak stream and increased nighttime urination. However, more concerning signs may include blood in the urine or semen and persistent pain in the back, pelvis
or bones, which may indicate advanced disease or metastasis. Diagnosis is confirmed through a prostate biopsy. Treatment options vary depending on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer and may include active surveillance in early stages, surgical prostate removal, radiation therapy and hormonal therapy.
Protecting Men’s Health Through Awareness and Early Action
The prostate is far more than a small reproductive gland. It influences fertility, urinary
health and long-term wellbeing. The most powerful tools for protecting it are simple but essential: screening, early detection and lifelong care. For men over 40, routine evaluations such as PSA testing and clinical examinations can make the difference between early, highly treatable conditions and late-stage disease. With growing awareness, advances in treatment and a greater focus on preventive health, men today have more opportunities than ever to preserve their reproductive health, avoid complications and maintain a strong quality of life.
THE PROSTATE IS FAR MORE THAN A SMALL REPRODUCTIVE GLAND. IT INFLUENCES FERTILITY, URINARY HEALTH AND LONGTERM WELLBEING.
From MR Fusion Biopsy to Robotic Surgery: CMC Beirut is Shaping the Future of Urology
Dr.
Firas Zahwa, Urologist
at Clemenceau Medical Center, Beirut
At the forefront of modern urological innovation, Dr. Firas Zahwa, Urologist at Clemenceau Medical Center (CMC) in Beirut, shares his insights on the latest advancements transforming prostate cancer diagnostics and men’s health treatments. In this interview, Dr. Zahwa discusses cutting-edge techniques such as MR Fusion Biopsy, robotic-assisted surgery, and nextgeneration lithotripsy, highlighting how these technologies are improving precision, safety, and patient outcomes. He also sheds light on the emerging role of regenerative medicine, AI integration, and advanced imaging in shaping the future of urology and men’s healthcare.
What is the typical duration of the MR Fusion biopsy procedure, and how does the recovery time and postprocedure discomfort compare to a standard biopsy?
The transperineal fusion biopsy procedure for prostate cancer typically lasts about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of biopsies taken. This innovative approach combines Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with ultrasound guidance, allowing for a more precise targeting of suspicious areas in the prostate.
Patients can often resume normal activities within a few hours to a day after the procedure. However, some may prefer to rest for a day or so. Patients may experience mild discomfort, soreness, or bruising in the perineal area (the area between the scrotum and anus). The discomfort is generally mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Many patients report that the transperineal approach can lead to less rectal discomfort compared to the transrectal method, as there
THE TRANSPERINEAL FUSION BIOPSY PROCEDURE FOR PROSTATE CANCER TYPICALLY LASTS ABOUT 30 TO 60 MINUTES, DEPENDING ON THE COMPLEXITY OF THE CASE AND THE NUMBER OF BIOPSIES TAKEN. THIS INNOVATIVE APPROACH COMBINES MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI) WITH ULTRASOUND GUIDANCE, ALLOWING FOR A MORE PRECISE TARGETING OF SUSPICIOUS AREAS IN THE PROSTATE.
is no direct rectal manipulation involved in the transperineal technique. The transperineal biopsy method may also have a lower risk of certain complications such as infection and rectal bleeding, as it avoids the rectal pathway.
When exactly do you recommend the MR Fusion Biopsy? Is it now the standard of care for patients with persistently elevated PSA and a prior negative standard biopsy?
Magnetic Resonance (MR) fusion biopsy is becoming increasingly recognized as a valuable diagnostic tool in the detection of prostate cancer, but whether it is considered the "standard of care" can depend on various factors, including clinical guidelines and institutional practice.
The use of MR fusion biopsy is endorsed by various guidelines (e.g., the European Association of Urology and the American Urological Association) as the preferred approach to diagnose prostate cancer. It is often highlighted as beneficial due to its ability to enhance detection rates of clinically significant prostate cancers while decreasing the number of unnecessary biopsies.
MR fusion biopsy is a recommended approach in various clinical scenarios, particularly for patients with elevated clinical suspicion for prostate cancer and negative prior biopsy results.
What is the sensitivity and accuracy of the MR Fusion Biopsy in detecting clinically significant prostate cancer compared to the traditional systematic biopsy?
MR fusion biopsy shows significantly higher sensitivity and accuracy in detecting clinically
significant prostate cancer compared to traditional systematic biopsy methods.
• Sensitivity: MR fusion biopsies have sensitivity rates of approximately 85% to 95%, while traditional biopsies range from 50 to 60%.
• Accuracy: The accuracy of MR fusion biopsies can be *90% or higher, versus 60 % for traditional approaches.
• Targeting Capability: MR fusion allows for precise targeting of suspicious lesions identified on MRI, enhancing detection rates of higher-grade tumors.
• Reduced Unnecessary Procedures: This method reduces the likelihood of unnecessary biopsies and improves patient outcomes.
What are the most advanced lithotripsy techniques currently used at CMC?
At CMC Beirut, we are excited to introduce our innovative and technologically advanced lithotripsy machine, which offers significant improvements in the treatment of urinary stones. This state-of-the-art system is designed to be effective and significantly less painful than traditional methods, enabling patients to undergo the procedure without the need for anesthesia or hospitalization. One of the standout features of this machine is its ability to precisely detect and localize stones using both ultrasound and X-ray imaging. This precision ensures accurate targeting of urinary stones. The machine utilizes advanced piezoelectric energy to deliver focused shock waves, effectively fragmenting stones while minimizing discomfort. Overall, this new lithotripsy machine enhances patient safety and recovery, providing excellent results in stone treatment while improving the overall patient experience.
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AT CMC BEIRUT, WE ARE EXCITED TO INTRODUCE OUR INNOVATIVE AND TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED LITHOTRIPSY MACHINE, WHICH OFFERS SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENTS IN THE TREATMENT OF URINARY STONES. THIS STATE-OFTHE-ART SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO BE EFFECTIVE AND SIGNIFICANTLY LESS PAINFUL THAN TRADITIONAL METHODS, ENABLING PATIENTS TO UNDERGO THE PROCEDURE WITHOUT THE NEED FOR ANESTHESIA OR HOSPITALIZATION.
What is the current role and primary benefits of Robotic-Assisted Surgery (e.g., Da Vinci Xi system) in urology today?
Robotic-Assisted Surgery (RAS), particularly utilizing systems like the Da Vinci Xi, has become a transformative approach in urology. Its current role involves a variety of procedures including prostatectomies, nephrectomies, and bladder surgeries, allowing for enhanced precision and control.
Primary Benefits:
1. Minimally Invasive: RAS involves smaller incisions, resulting in reduced trauma to surrounding tissues.
3. Lower Pain Levels: The technique generally leads to less postoperative pain, enabling a faster return to daily activities.
4. Decreased Blood Loss and Complications: Robotic surgeries typically result in lower blood loss and fewer complications, enhancing patient safety.
5. Enhanced Visualization: High-definition 3D imaging provides surgeons with excellent detail, improving accuracy.
6. Improved Outcomes: RAS has been associated with better functional results, particularly in urinary continence and erectile function post-prostatectomy.
In your expert opinion, what are the most exciting upcoming breakthroughs in diagnosing or treating urological conditions that specifically impact Men's Health (like new therapies for erectile dysfunction or male infertility)?
In my expert opinion, several exciting breakthroughs are emerging in diagnosing and treating urological conditions impacting men's health, especially in areas like erectile dysfunction (ED) and male infertility.
Here are key advancements:
1. New Pharmacological Therapies: Novel oral medications and topical treatments are being developed, targeting erectile dysfunction with fewer systemic side effects.
2. Microsurgical Techniques for Infertility: Innovative microsurgical approaches for varicocele repair and sperm retrieval are enhancing fertility outcomes with minimally invasive techniques.
3. Artificial Intelligence in Diagnosis: AI integration in analyzing semen parameters is leading to more accurate and earlier diagnoses of male infertility.
4. Advanced Imaging for Prostate Conditions: Multiparametric MRI enhances the differentiation between benign and malignant prostate lesions, reducing unnecessary biopsies.
Is Artificial Intelligence (AI) or advanced software currently being utilized at CMC to improve diagnostic imaging interpretation?
Yes, at CMC Beirut, we have incorporated new software within our radiology system, particularly for prostate MRI. This innovation has allowed us to complete scans in approximately 20 minutes while producing better quality images. We are also committed to staying abreast of emerging technologies to continually enhance our diagnostic capabilities in the future.
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AT CMC BEIRUT, WE HAVE INCORPORATED NEW SOFTWARE WITHIN OUR RADIOLOGY SYSTEM, PARTICULARLY FOR PROSTATE MRI. THIS INNOVATION HAS ALLOWED US TO COMPLETE SCANS IN APPROXIMATELY 20 MINUTES WHILE PRODUCING BETTER QUALITY IMAGES. WE ARE ALSO COMMITTED TO STAYING ABREAST OF EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES TO CONTINUALLY ENHANCE OUR DIAGNOSTIC CAPABILITIES IN THE FUTURE.
NEWTOM 7G Wide.Vision Cutting-edge cbct
NEWTOM CBCT IMAGING NOW DRAWS ON FRESH ENERGY
As of today NEWTOM 7G incorporates the Dual Energy (DE) system, elevating performance to new heights and revolutionising the way your practice operates.
Dual Energy: patented NEWTOM technology
The result of a continuous quest for patient well-being and ever-greater diagnostic precision, Dual Energy uses two different radiant energies to identify any pathologies with greater clarity and precision.
Virtual Monochromatic Images
Dual Energy technology mitigates beam-hardening artifacts. What’s more, being able to reconstruct monochromatic virtual images at different keVs improves soft tissue imaging quality and reduces metal artifacts. Lastly, Dual Energy CBCT provides a basis for tissue characterisation.
Colour-coded images
NEWTOM Dual Energy software enables users to perform semi-automatic tissue segmentation and apply colour codes, streamlining the differentiation of materials within the scanned area. This allows rapid and straightforward detection of potential pathologies.
Blended image
The new features enable weighted blending of high- and low-energy imaging. The resulting images combine the low noise, typical of high-energy acquisition, with the high contrast resolution of the low-energy image set.
Featuring a large gantry aperture, the NEWTOM 7G is the most advanced CBCT device on the market. From in-depth detail to the big picture.
Multidisciplinary Endometriosis Care
Acıbadem Center of Excellence
At Acıbadem, we provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment services for all gynecologic conditions, each requiring dedicated care. That’s why we established a specialized Endometriosis Center focused exclusively on the diagnosis and treatment of women affected by this condition. Today, the center holds international accreditation and performs more than 100 endometriosis surgeries every year.
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, often on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other pelvic organs. In some cases, the immune system can clear these tissues. However, when it cannot, inflammation,
fibrosis, and cysts may develop. Nearly 1 in 10 women are affected by endometriosis, which can range from mild to severe. One common type is the ovarian cyst known as a chocolate cyst. When endometriosis involves organs such as the bowel or bladder, it is called deep endometriosis. Symptoms may vary from mild to severe and often include:
• Pain, which is most common symptom and it usually worsens during the menstrual cycle.
• Pain during bowel movements or urination, often more intense during menstruation.
• Heavy and/or irregular menstrual bleeding.
• Infertility, fatigue, bloating, nausea, and chronic pelvic or lower back pain.
How We Treat Endometriosis
Endometriosis can be managed in two main ways: through medical treatment or surgery. Medical treatment often involves medications that mimic pregnancy or menopause to help control hormone levels. These are usually taken as pills and can be very effective for relieving pain in many women.
Surgery may be required when lesions are large, when medications do not provide adequate relief, or in complex cases such as bowel or ureter blockage caused by cysts. The extent of surgery depends on each individual case. For example, a single chocolate cyst in the ovary may be drained, while multiple cysts require removal. In some cases, lesions can also develop on the bladder, bowel, or peritoneum (the lining of the abdomen), and these abnormal tissues need to be excised. Because of this, endometriosis treatment sometimes requires a multidisciplinary team, with gynecologists working together with general surgeons and urologists. When all abnormal tissues are meticulously and completely removed, women usually experience relief from pain and other complaints.
At Acıbadem Endometriosis Center, women have access to the most advanced
ENDOMETRIOSIS IS A CONDITION IN WHICH TISSUE SIMILAR TO THE LINING OF THE UTERUS GROWS OUTSIDE THE UTERUS, OFTEN ON THE OVARIES, FALLOPIAN TUBES, OR OTHER PELVIC ORGANS. IN SOME CASES, THE IMMUNE SYSTEM CAN CLEAR THESE TISSUES. HOWEVER, WHEN IT CANNOT, INFLAMMATION, FIBROSIS, AND CYSTS MAY DEVELOP. NEARLY 1 IN 10 WOMEN ARE AFFECTED BY ENDOMETRIOSIS, WHICH CAN RANGE FROM MILD TO SEVERE. ONE COMMON TYPE IS THE OVARIAN CYST KNOWN AS A CHOCOLATE CYST. WHEN ENDOMETRIOSIS INVOLVES ORGANS SUCH AS THE BOWEL OR BLADDER, IT IS CALLED DEEP ENDOMETRIOSIS.
Professor Taner Usta
and effective treatments. Our specialists’ extensive experience and refined expertise make a significant difference in achieving successful outcomes.
Prioritizing Minimally Invasive Surgeries at Acıbadem
At Acıbadem, all endometriosis surgeries are performed using minimally invasive techniques such as laparoscopy and robotic surgery. These approaches offer greater surgical precision along with faster recovery, fewer complications, and improved outcomes. Our experts are pioneers in these advanced methods and have successfully carried out thousands of procedures with exceptional expertise.
Multidisciplinary Endometriosis Center of Excellence
At Acıbadem, our goal in every field of medicine is to deliver the highest quality of care through expert physicians, advanced technology, and guided by international standards.
Acıbadem Endometriosis Center is accredited by the Surgical Review Corporation (SRC), a nonprofit patient safety organization in the United States that works to improve healthcare quality by accrediting surgical facilities and medical professionals.
SRC evaluates clinics and surgeons on case volume, surgical outcomes, and complication rates. To earn this accreditation, a clinic must perform at least 100 endometriosis surgeries annually, achieve high success rates with
minimal complications, and provide thorough documentation of outcomes.
Acıbadem Altunizade Hospital is proud to be Türkiye’s first, Europe’s second, and the world’s sixth Multidisciplinary Endometriosis Center of Excellence. The center’s director, Prof. Taner Usta, MD, has also been recognized by SRC as an Endometriosis Master Surgeon. After Acıbadem first earned this accreditation for the period 2022–2025, it was renewed again for 2025–2028. This demonstrates our dedication to continuous excellence.
Multidisciplinary Endometriosis Center Team
• Gynecology
• Algology
• Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation (PTR)
• Colorectal / Hepatic / General Surgery
• Urology
• Gastroenterology
• Thoracic Surgery
• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Neurology
• Psychiatry
• Radiology
• Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Center Case Specialist Nurse
• Operating Room Nurse
ACIBADEM ALTUNIZADE HOSPITAL IS PROUD TO BE TÜRKIYE’S FIRST, EUROPE’S SECOND, AND THE WORLD’S SIXTH MULTIDISCIPLINARY ENDOMETRIOSIS CENTER OF EXCELLENCE. THE CENTER’S DIRECTOR, PROF. TANER USTA, MD, IS ALSO ACCREDITED BY SRC AS A SURGEON OF EXCELLENCE IN ENDOMETRIOSIS CARE. AFTER ACIBADEM FIRST EARNED THIS ACCREDITATION FOR THE PERIOD 2022–2025, IT WAS RENEWED AGAIN FOR 2025–2028. THIS DEMONSTRATES OUR DEDICATION TO CONTINUOUS EXCELLENCE.
LINET’s Expansion and Vision in Saudi Arabia
Tomas Kolar, CEO of LINET
LINET has long been recognized as one of the world’s leading manufacturers of hospital and nursing beds, redefining standards in patient comfort, safety, and healthcare innovation. During the Global Health Exhibition in Riyadh, the company’s presence stands as a testament to its growing commitment to the Saudi market, a region witnessing rapid transformation under Vision 2030.
LINET’S GLOBAL AND REGIONAL STRATEGY
LINET has established itself as a leader in hospital bed technology and patient
care solutions. How would you describe the company’s current global positioning, and what role does the Middle East play in your growth strategy?
LINET ranks among the top three global manufacturers of hospital beds and suppliers of in-bed patient care solutions. When it comes to innovation and design, we can call LINET a world leader. Every year, we launch new products that significantly advance the level of patient care, particularly in terms of safety, comfort, and support for therapy and recovery.
LINET is a global company, and alongside its home market of the EU and the dynamic US
LINET RANKS AMONG THE TOP THREE GLOBAL MANUFACTURERS OF HOSPITAL BEDS AND SUPPLIERS OF IN-BED PATIENT CARE SOLUTIONS. WHEN IT COMES TO INNOVATION AND DESIGN, WE CAN CALL LINET A WORLD LEADER.
market, the Middle East is one of the key pillars that contribute steadily to the growth of the entire group.
Why did LINET choose Saudi Arabia as a focus market at this stage?
We have traditionally had strong ties with Saudi Arabia. LINET has been operating there for over 2 decades, and we have managed to build a solid product base there. Now, as part of Vision 2030, our ambition is to be a reliable associate for patient-centered healthcare development.
PARTNERSHIP AND MARKET EXPANSION
We’ve seen LINET signing several agreements with major Saudi hospitals recently. Could you tell us more about these partnerships and their significance for LINET’s long-term plans in the Kingdom?
We currently cooperate with and supply solutions to the largest public and private chains, and we want to further develop and expand this cooperation. Our clients include Al Hayat Hospitals, Mouwassat Medical Services, Fakeeh Hospitals, and prestigious facilities established by the MOH and the Ministry of Defense.
How do these collaborations reflect the growing demand for high-quality medical equipment and patient care innovation in Saudi healthcare institutions?
Here, I would like to give the example of the newly established Jeddah Park Hospital. This hospital is designed as a ”Smart Health Tower” powered by a single IT Platform with advanced technologies and services all centered around patient care, rehabilitation and well-being. It also provides advanced clinical research and further education in the field of PM&R. We supply complete in-bed care solutions with integrated detection of patient movement in bed and other parameters that hospital staff need to monitor.
INNOVATION AND PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
LINET is known for combining engineering precision with patientcentered design. What are the latest innovations or product launches that you’re showcasing at the Global Health Exhibition this year?
We are currently expanding our range of stretchers, and we brought the new SPRINT 400 to the Global Health Exhibition in Saudi Arabia as the first country in the GCC region. The SPRINT series was originally designed for transport, but now serves in emergencies and provides support to multidisciplinary teams in critical situations. They are equipped with scales and electric and manual positioning for quick response. They have many practical accessories and extensions, such as those supporting rapid labour. These multipurpose beds are also used in one-day surgery, which accounts for up to 30% of all surgical procedures in the US, and this trend is spreading to other countries, including the Middle East and Saudi Arabia.
How does LINET ensure that its solutions meet the unique needs of hospitals in the Middle East, especially considering climate, patient demographics, and healthcare infrastructure?
In terms of trends and development, the most successful hospitals in the GCC region today are comparable to prestigious facilities in other parts of the world. The requirements for tenders are almost identical. We certainly see the aesthetic requirements for integration into sophisticated hospital design across the GCC region as an advantage. We offer products designed by leading European designers, offering customization using advanced manufacturing technologies, such as laser printing of bed parts with virtually any color and motif. The Middle East region is diverse and has different approaches, including the economic stability of particular countries. Thanks to its wide and well-configured
OUR STRATEGY IS TO BE AS CLOSE AS POSSIBLE TO OUR CUSTOMERS – HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS AND PATIENTS. THAT IS WHY WE HAVE NOW OFFICIALLY OPENED LINET SAUDI ARABIA FOR DIRECT REPRESENTATION IN THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA. WE BELIEVE THAT OUR PERMANENT PRESENCE ON THE MARKET WILL ENABLE US TO BETTER RESPOND TO THE CURRENT NEEDS OF THE MARKET AND INDIVIDUAL CLIENTS.
portfolio, LINET can offer products ranging from top-notch solutions for ICU/CCU, acute and long-term care, birthing, and even home care, as well as robust products with a long service life and resistance to demanding conditions. Speaking about the countries in need, we are a proud partner of the EU and the Czech Republic‘s aid projects in the Levant, Africa, and in other regions across the world.
ALIGNMENT WITH SAUDI VISION 2030
Vision 2030 aims to transform Saudi Arabia into a regional hub for world-class healthcare. How does LINET’s mission and innovation strategy align with this national vision?
Our strategy is to be as close as possible to
our customers – healthcare professionals and patients. That is why we have now officially opened LINET Saudi Arabia for direct representation in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. We believe that our permanent presence on the market will enable us to better respond to the current needs of the market and individual clients. Our goal is not only to offer advanced products, but also to provide quality services, including maintenance and training. This includes both high-quality staff training and advanced clinical education, enabling maximum clinical benefits from our products for better and safer patient recovery.
In what ways do you see LINET contributing to the Kingdom’s goals of improving hospital efficiency, digital transformation, and patient experience?
OUR CLIENTS INCLUDE AL HAYAT HOSPITALS, MOUWASSAT MEDICAL SERVICES, FAKEEH HOSPITALS, AND PRESTIGIOUS FACILITIES ESTABLISHED BY THE MOH AND THE MINISTRY OF DEFENSE.
Today, medical beds are no longer just a piece of furniture, but a platform that fits into the overall design of the hospital environment, including sensors that evaluate important parameters during a patient's stay in bed –the patient's weight, movement in bed, and the prevalence of pressure injuries. All of this is alerted to the staff and reported in the patient's records. The focus is also on the patient's comfort and feel-good parameters, with ergonomic controls available for adjusting the bed, including support for mobilization and getting up. A USB port for charging phones or other electronic devices is also integrated. We also supply extensions for patient rooms focused on patient well-being. Compatible servers are available for serving meals or working with a computer in bed, as well as ergonomic chairs that allow for the comfortable and dignified presence of loved ones during hospitalization, especially for young patients.
SUSTAINABILITY AND FUTURE OUTLOOK
Sustainability is becoming a core value in healthcare infrastructure. How does LINET integrate sustainability and smart technology into its manufacturing and design philosophy?
LINET is a manufacturer based in the EU environment; we must comply with some of the strictest sustainability parameters for product development and manufacturing, but our philosophy goes further. We offer sustainable solutions where investment in quality products ensures a return on costs and provides longevity products with benefits through professional support, such as staff training and a professionally accredited service.
Looking ahead, how do you envision LINET’s role in the evolving Saudi and regional healthcare ecosystem over the next five years?
As already mentioned, we are cooperating on key Saudi projects to build new hospital complexes in line with the latest trends. Our
goal is to expand into the next projects, while also engaging in in-depth cooperation on treatment programs and integrating hardware, such as hospital beds, into hospital digital care structures.
Finally, what message would you like to share with Saudi healthcare leaders and decision-makers who are shaping the future of healthcare delivery in the Kingdom?
We recognize the ambitious Vision 2030 and the transformative goals set forth for Saudi Arabia's healthcare landscape, and we are committed to being a trustworthy partner in this journey. We are a brand that has been bringing innovation, patents, and quality to the medical bed segment for 35 years, while remaining, in a sense, an energetic start-up that responds to current market needs and can deliver both large, complex projects and respond to ad hoc requests and provide tailor-made solutions.
WE OFFER SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS WHERE INVESTMENT IN QUALITY PRODUCTS ENSURES A RETURN ON COSTS AND PROVIDES LONGEVITY PRODUCTS WITH BENEFITS THROUGH PROFESSIONAL SUPPORT, SUCH AS STAFF TRAINING AND A PROFESSIONALLY ACCREDITED SERVICE.
Advancing Patient Care Through AI: Northwestern Medicine’s Strategic Approach
Northwestern Medicine, Chicago’s premier integrated academic health system, is redefining the future of healthcare by thoughtfully integrating artificial intelligence (AI) into clinical and operational workflows. With a strategic, purpose-driven approach, the organization is leveraging AI to enhance diagnostic accuracy, streamline operations, and improve patient outcomes across multiple specialties.
A Purpose-Driven AI Strategy
Northwestern Medicine’s AI initiatives begin with a clear goal: to identify where technology can meaningfully improve care. Internal teams assess existing tools and, when necessary, evaluate external solutions for fit, integration, and compliance. Cross-functional collaboration ensures that every AI solution aligns with clinical workflows and organizational goals, reinforcing the system’s commitment to evidence-based innovation.
ARIES: Transforming Radiology Efficiency
One of the health system’s most impactful innovations is the Automated Radiology Interpretation Evaluation System (ARIES), developed and patented in-house. ARIES uses advanced AI to generate full draft reports for X-rays and CT scans in seconds, delivering:
• Improved patient safety through identification of incidental findings such as lung nodules or collapsed lungs.
• Faster diagnoses that enable quicker clinical decision-making.
• Efficiency gains of over 50% for X-rays and 30% for CT volumes.
ARIES maintains the clinical accuracy and textual quality of traditional reports while enabling quality improvement and worklist prioritization. In FY26, Northwestern Medicine will expand ARIES to support MRI and ultrasound imaging.
AI-Assisted Colonoscopies: Enhancing GI Outcomes
In Gastroenterology, Northwestern Medicine has adopted the GI Genius™ AI system to assist with colonoscopies. This FDA-approved technology identifies colorectal polyps in real time, resulting in:
• A 13% increase in polyp detection and removal.
• A potential 39% reduction in future colorectal cancer diagnoses.
Over a six-month study involving nearly 5,000 colonoscopies, physicians using GI Genius consistently outperformed peers in identifying adenomas.
“There’s nothing better than telling a patient that their decision to have a screening colonoscopy may have saved their life,” said Rajesh Keswani, MD, interventional gastroenterology at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago.
AI and Aging: The Human Longevity Clinic
At the new Human Longevity Clinic, Northwestern Medicine is pioneering AI to better understand the aging process. In collaboration with the Potocsnak Longevity Institute at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, the clinic uses AI-based analytics to assess biological age, an individual’s physiological and overall health Innovations include:
• AI-driven analysis of multi-organ assessments.
• Molecular profiling of epigenetics to identify aging biomarkers
• Predictive models guiding personalized interventions to improve health span – the number of years lived in good health.
The clinic blends cutting-edge research with clinical care, offering patients tailored strategies to help you live a healthier life for longer.
NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE’S AI INITIATIVES BEGIN WITH A CLEAR GOAL: TO IDENTIFY WHERE TECHNOLOGY CAN MEANINGFULLY IMPROVE CARE. INTERNAL TEAMS ASSESS EXISTING TOOLS AND, WHEN NECESSARY, EVALUATE EXTERNAL SOLUTIONS FOR FIT, INTEGRATION, AND COMPLIANCE. CROSS-FUNCTIONAL COLLABORATION ENSURES THAT EVERY AI SOLUTION ALIGNS WITH CLINICAL WORKFLOWS AND ORGANIZATIONAL GOALS, REINFORCING THE SYSTEM’S COMMITMENT TO EVIDENCE-BASED INNOVATION.
A Model That Supports Better Care
Northwestern Medicine’s AI strategy reflects a broader commitment to continuous improvement. By embedding AI into workflows in a way that complements care delivery, clinicians can make faster, more informed decisions while maintaining high standards of safety and quality. For referring providers, this means patients benefit from timely diagnoses, reduced delays, and improved risk detection.
“It’s like any project, you need to involve users early, understand their workflows, and clearly articulate how the technology will benefit them,” said Hannah Koczka, vice president, Innovations and Ventures, Northwestern Medicine. “That’s how you build trust, adoption, and ultimately, better outcomes.”
About Northwestern Medicine
As Chicago’s premier integrated academic health system, Northwestern Medicine offers patients access to world-class, compassionate care at 11 hospitals and more than 200 diagnostic and ambulatory sites. The health system is anchored by Northwestern Memorial Hospital. For 14 consecutive years, Northwestern Memorial Hospital has been named to the Best Hospital Honor Roll by U.S. News and World Report. Additionally, Northwestern Memorial Hospital is the only Illinois hospital to have eight nationally ranked specialties in the Top 10.
BY EMBEDDING AI INTO WORKFLOWS IN A WAY THAT COMPLEMENTS CARE DELIVERY, CLINICIANS CAN MAKE FASTER, MORE INFORMED DECISIONS WHILE MAINTAINING HIGH STANDARDS OF SAFETY AND QUALITY.
Stevia... Is It the Right Sweetener?
Dr. Fathi Abdelkader, Consultant in Internal Medicine at Al-Ahli Hospital/Qatar
Stevia has gained global recognition as a natural, zero-calorie sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia rebaudiana plant. Known for its intense sweetness without contributing to caloric intake, Stevia has become an increasingly popular alternative to sugar, especially among individuals aiming to manage obesity, diabetes, and other metabolic conditions.
STEVIA IS AMONG THE MOST COMMONLY USED NATURAL SUGAR ALTERNATIVES ACROSS THE GLOBE.
The Science Behind Sweetness
It is well established that sweet foods evoke feelings of pleasure and satisfaction, which explains why desserts are often associated with joy and comfort. However, the rising prevalence of obesity, overweight, diabetes, and hyperlipidemia worldwide has encouraged consumers and industries alike to search for healthier, low-calorie substitutes for sugar.
Stevia is among the most commonly used natural sugar alternatives across the globe. Its sweetness comes from steviol glycosides, natural compounds extracted from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, native to South America. Indigenous communities have used Stevia leaves as a sweetener for centuries.
Steviol glycosides are known for several beneficial properties:
• They are heat stable, making them suitable for cooking and baking.
• They are non-fermentable and not metabolized in the body.
• They have a longer-lasting sweet effect than regular sugar.
• They may, however, leave a slightly bitter aftertaste in some preparations.
A Brief History of Stevia
The world became acquainted with Stevia through South American natives.
• In 1899, a Swiss botanist first provided a complete description of the plant.
• In 1931, French chemists isolated the sweet compounds known as steviol glycosides.
• Japan has used Stevia safely for several decades.
• In Europe, Stevia faced initial regulatory hesitation in the 1990s but was officially approved as safe for consumption in 2011.
• In the United States, the FDA issued a “no objection” notice for Stevia-derived sweeteners in 2008 and granted full approval for highly purified Stevia extracts in 2017.
How Stevia Is Made
Home Preparation:
1. Crushed Leaves: Harvest the leaves, crush them, and simmer gently for about 40 minutes. After cooling, the liquid extract can be stored and used for up to two weeks.
2. Powder Form: Harvest and wash the leaves, allow them to dry until crisp, then grind into a fine powder. The powder can be sifted and stored in a dry place for later use.
Industrial Production:
The process is similar to the powder preparation but involves additional steps of purification. The powdered Stevia is treated with hot water or food-grade ethanol, followed by filtration and crystallization. The final product is then packaged in various forms for commercial use.
How It Works
Chemically, steviol glycosides consist of glucose molecules bound to a non-sugar component called aglycone. When consumed, these compounds stimulate the sweet taste receptors on the tongue, creating a sensation of sweetness. However, they can also trigger bitter taste receptors, resulting in a mild aftertaste for some users. In the body, Stevia compounds are broken down by intestinal microflora, and the resulting metabolites are excreted by the kidneys, without contributing to caloric intake.
Safety and Recommended Use
Animal studies have investigated Stevia’s potential for mutagenicity, but extensive clinical trials in humans have found no such risks. Regulatory authorities, including the FDA and EFSA, have deemed Stevia safe for human consumption when used within recommended limits. The acceptable daily intake (ADI) for Stevia is 4 mg per kilogram of body weight. Considering that most commercial sachets contain between 1.6 and 2.5 grams, it is advisable not to exceed two sachets or one teaspoon of Stevia powder per day.
Conclusion
Stevia offers a safe and natural alternative to sugar for individuals seeking to manage their caloric intake or control blood glucose levels. While it provides sweetness without the guilt, moderation remains essential. Used wisely, Stevia can support healthier dietary habits and contribute to improved metabolic well-being.
CHEMICALLY, STEVIOL GLYCOSIDES CONSIST OF GLUCOSE MOLECULES BOUND TO A NON-SUGAR COMPONENT CALLED AGLYCONE. WHEN CONSUMED, THESE COMPOUNDS STIMULATE THE SWEET TASTE RECEPTORS ON THE TONGUE, CREATING A SENSATION OF SWEETNESS. HOWEVER, THEY CAN ALSO TRIGGER BITTER TASTE RECEPTORS, RESULTING IN A MILD AFTERTASTE FOR SOME USERS. IN THE BODY, STEVIA COMPOUNDS ARE BROKEN DOWN BY INTESTINAL MICROFLORA, AND THE RESULTING METABOLITES ARE EXCRETED BY THE KIDNEYS, WITHOUT CONTRIBUTING TO CALORIC INTAKE.
Professor Javad Parvizi, M.D. Awarded Honorary Fellowship
By the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland
Prof. Dr. Javad Parvizi, one of the world's most respected names in orthopedics and a faculty member in the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology at Acıbadem University, has received a new honor from the international medical community. Parvizi was awarded the Honorary Fellowship by the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI). This award is given only to distinguished individuals who have achieved extraordinary success in their field and contributed to the development of surgical education.
Founded in 1784, the RCSI is a pioneering health sciences institution in Ireland and worldwide. The institution proved its global impact once again by ranking first in the world in the “Good Health and Well-Being” category in the 2025 Times Higher Education Rankings. RCSI Honorary Membership is the highest honor offered by the college. This award is presented to individuals who exemplify scientific achievement and contributions to humanity. Previous recipients include Nelson Mandela, Louis Pasteur, Mother Teresa, and Jimmy Carter.
This year's recipient, Prof. Dr. Javad Parvizi, is considered one of the most important figures in modern orthopedics. Born in Iran, Parvizi completed his medical education at the University of Sheffield Medical School in England and then specialized in orthopedic surgery at the Mayo Clinic. His research on cartilage and bone regeneration, hip joint disorder treatment, infection prevention, and joint surgery has shaped the global literature on these topics. Having published over 700 scientific articles and authored 18 medical books, Parvizi is also recognized as an educational leader who pioneers the training of young surgeons and has won numerous international awards.
Since 2003, Prof. Parvizi has worked at the Rothman Orthopedic Institute, one of the leading orthopedic centers in the United States. He also serves as a professor in the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology at Acıbadem University. He is a globally recognized authority in the management of periprosthetic joint infections, minimally invasive hip and knee replacement surgeries, joint preservation treatments, and complex reconstructions. He has performed over 10,000 joint replacement surgeries and more than 2,000 joint preservation procedures and has published over 1,000 peer-reviewed articles. Parvizi has also served as president or a member of numerous scientific organizations.
This prestigious award is not only an individual achievement but also reflects
Acıbadem Healthcare Group's vision of scientific excellence. Acıbadem aims to continuously raise international healthcare standards by combining medical education, clinical excellence, and research activities. Pioneering academics like Prof. Parvizi further strengthen the group's global scientific influence.
The RCSI honorary membership ceremony will take place on December 8, 2025, at the historic St. Stephen's Green campus in Dublin. During the ceremony, Professor Parvizi will receive his award from RCSI President Professor Deborah McNamara. In her invitation letter, McNamara stated that the award is given with great pleasure in recognition of Parvizi's extraordinary contributions to orthopedic surgery and his support of Irish surgical education. Acıbadem Healthcare Group celebrates Prof. Dr. Javad Parvizi's international honor while continuing to uphold its healthcare philosophy based on scientific knowledge and ethical values. Parvizi's success story continues to inspire young physicians and all healthcare professionals.
THIS PRESTIGIOUS AWARD IS NOT ONLY AN INDIVIDUAL ACHIEVEMENT BUT ALSO REFLECTS ACIBADEM HEALTHCARE GROUP'S VISION OF SCIENTIFIC EXCELLENCE. ACIBADEM AIMS TO CONTINUOUSLY RAISE INTERNATIONAL HEALTHCARE STANDARDS BY COMBINING MEDICAL EDUCATION, CLINICAL EXCELLENCE, AND RESEARCH ACTIVITIES. PIONEERING ACADEMICS LIKE PROF. PARVIZI FURTHER STRENGTHEN THE GROUP'S GLOBAL SCIENTIFIC INFLUENCE.
The Power of PAL Liposuction: Precision Body Sculpting
Dr. Khaled Zahrani, Plastic surgeon specialized in Body Contouring
Power-Assisted Liposuction (PAL) is a technique that has redefined standards in body sculpting by combining power and precision. PAL offers a modern solution to eliminate those stubborn fat pockets that resist diet and exercise. Dr. Khaled Zahrani is joining us to shed light on this advanced technology. Dr. Zahrani will share his deep clinical insight and experience, walking us through why PAL is frequently his preferred tool for achieving smoother, more defined body contours.
What is PAL, and how does it differ from traditional liposuction?
PAL (Power-Assisted Liposuction) uses a vibrating cannula to gently remove fat, making the procedure more precise and less traumatic than traditional liposuction.
What are the main benefits of PAL for
patients undergoing body contouring?
Patients experience smoother contours, less bruising, reduced swelling, and faster recovery.
How long is the recovery period after a PAL-assisted procedure?
Most patients resume light activities within a few days, with full recovery typically in 1–2 weeks, depending on the treatment area.
Is the procedure painful, and how is patient comfort managed?
Discomfort is minimal and managed with local or general anesthesia, along with postprocedure pain control.
Which areas of the body can be treated effectively with PAL?
PAL is indicated for the abdomen, flanks, thighs, arms, neck, back, and other localized fat deposits.
PAL (POWER-ASSISTED LIPOSUCTION)
USES A VIBRATING CANNULA TO GENTLY REMOVE FAT, MAKING THE PROCEDURE MORE PRECISE AND LESS TRAUMATIC THAN TRADITIONAL LIPOSUCTION.
Who is an ideal candidate for a PAL procedure?
Ideal candidates are near their target weight, in good health, and have areas of stubborn fat that do not respond to diet or exercise.
Are the results permanent, and what can patients do to maintain them?
Yes, results are long-lasting if patients maintain a stable weight and a healthy lifestyle.
Can you share your experience, and can PAL be combined with other treatments for better results, such as skin tightening procedures?
Yes, PAL can be combined with treatments like
BodyTite or radiofrequency skin tightening, such as Legacy, to achieve enhanced contouring and firmer skin. + Dr. Zahrani’s Experience
Are there risks or side effects patients should be aware of?
As with any procedure, mild bruising, swelling, or temporary numbness may occur, but serious complications are rare with experienced surgeons.
What advice would you give to someone considering body contouring with PAL for the first time?
Choose a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon, discuss your goals, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to optimize and preserve results.
IDEAL CANDIDATES ARE NEAR THEIR TARGET WEIGHT, IN GOOD HEALTH, AND HAVE AREAS OF STUBBORN FAT THAT DO NOT RESPOND TO DIET OR EXERCISE.
INTERVIEWS
Venus Bliss Max: The Non-Surgical "3-in-1" Body Contouring Solution
Dr. Mudit Arora, Cosmetic Dermatologist
Venus Bliss Max is a state-of-the-art, non-surgical body-contouring treatment that uniquely combines three powerful technologies in a single device: Diode Laser Lipolysis, Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS), and Multi-Polar Radiofrequency (RF) with Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMF).
This all-in-one approach allows the treatment to sculpt, tone, and "shrink-wrap" the skin with minimal to no downtime. It is ideal for individuals near their target weight who want to address localized fat pockets, improve muscle definition, reduce mild skin laxity, or minimize cellulite dimpling in areas such as the abdomen, thighs, flanks, and arms.
Dr. Mudit Arora, a cosmetic dermatologist and leader in wellness and aesthetic medicine, was quoted in an interview with “Hospitals” magazine, asserting that Venus Bliss Max offers a comprehensive and efficient solution for achieving optimal body composition.
What is Venus Bliss Max?
Venus Bliss Max is a non-surgical bodycontouring treatment that combines three technologies in one: diode laser lipolysis for permanent fat reduction, electrical muscle stimulation (EMS) for real muscle strengthening and toning, and multi-polar radiofrequency with pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) for skin tightening and collagen building. It sculpts, tones, and “shrink-wraps” skin without surgery or downtime.
What areas can be treated with Venus Bliss Max?
Abdomen, flanks, thighs, buttocks, arms, virtually any area with stubborn fat or mild laxity. At Arora MD Longevity & Aesthetics, we often offer a “360 Body Treatment” that
combines the diode laser to target fat, EMS to build and define muscle, and RF/PEMF to tighten skin in a single visit. Multiple muscle groups can even be stimulated at once, for example, abs and biceps or glutes and hamstrings.
Who is Venus Bliss Max suitable for?
Anyone close to their target weight who wants help with stubborn subcutaneous fat, toned and strengthened muscle, cellulite dimpling, or skin laxity. It is excellent for women after pregnancy to improve skin elasticity, address mild rectus diastasis, and smooth lingering fat pockets. And I’ll admit, it’s great for physicians like me who would rather skip endless ab workouts - this might be my favorite machine in the clinic for that very reason.
Is the treatment safe?
Yes. Venus Bliss Max is FDA-cleared and extensively tested. The diode laser uses sapphire cooling pads to protect the skin while destroying fat cells. EMS delivers a controlled electrical current directly into muscle fibers, so it strengthens without stressing surrounding tissue. The RF/PEMF handpiece continuously monitors surface temperature to stay in the ideal therapeutic range and prevent overheating. These built-in safeguards make the procedure safe for all skin types.
How many sessions do I need to see results?
Typically, three diode laser sessions (once weekly) for fat reduction. Muscle stimulation and skin tightening can be done one to two times a week for three to six weeks. Many patients notice visible improvement, even muscle definition, after the first visit.
VENUS BLISS MAX IS FDA-CLEARED AND EXTENSIVELY TESTED. THE DIODE LASER USES SAPPHIRE COOLING PADS TO PROTECT THE SKIN WHILE DESTROYING FAT CELLS. EMS DELIVERS A CONTROLLED ELECTRICAL CURRENT DIRECTLY INTO MUSCLE FIBERS, SO IT STRENGTHENS WITHOUT STRESSING SURROUNDING TISSUE.
INTERVIEWS
What is the recommended treatment protocol?
For motivated patients, we often complete a full 360 Body Treatment in about three weeks: weekly diode laser lipolysis plus twice-weekly EMS and RF/PEMF sessions. This packaged approach reduces fat, builds functional muscle, and tightens skin in a single, physician-guided program.
What does a session feel like?
The diode laser produces gentle warmth while cooling keeps the skin comfortable. EMS moves from light contractions to deep, super-maximal pulses that feel like an intense but painless workout. RF/PEMF adds soothing heat as collagen production ramps up. Many patients relax with Netflix while it works.
Is there any downtime after treatment?
Minimal. You can return to work or social activities immediately. We simply advise avoiding heavy workouts, saunas, or hot tubs on the treated area for 24 hours and encourage excellent hydration to aid lymphatic drainage.
When will I see results?
Some tightening and muscle activation appear within weeks, with the most dramatic changes over 8–12 weeks as fat cells clear and collagen builds. At Arora MD, we track progress with a 3-D body scanner that maps volumetric fat loss and muscle growth in real time.
How long do the results last?
Fat cells destroyed by the diode laser are gone permanently. Collagen remodeling and muscle tone last months and improve with occasional maintenance, similar to keeping a regular workout routine.
Can I treat more than one area in the same session?
Absolutely. We can laser the abdomen and flanks while stimulating two muscle groups, such as the abs and biceps, then finish with focused skin tightening.
This multi-area flexibility is one of Venus Bliss Max’s biggest advantages.
Can Venus Bliss Max be used on the arms?
Yes. We often pair muscle stimulation to build triceps and biceps with skin tightening to address “bat wings” or laxity, giving the arms a lean, sculpted look.
Can it be used over tattoos?
The diode laser is not applied directly over tattoo pigment, but we can safely work around tattoos for both muscle and skin treatments.
Is Venus Bliss Max a replacement for diet and exercise?
No. It is a precision tool that complements a healthy lifestyle. At our clinic, we combine physician-guided nutrition, hydration, and exercise plans to help patients achieve and maintain their optimal body composition.
Why should I choose Venus Bliss Max over other treatments?
Most devices target only fat, muscle, or skin. Venus Bliss Max does all three, offering the largest treatment spot size, advanced cooling for comfort, and EMS that is strong enough for true muscle hypertrophy. For my patients and for myself, it is the most comprehensive, efficient, and comfortable non-surgical body solution available.
FAT CELLS DESTROYED BY THE DIODE LASER ARE GONE PERMANENTLY. COLLAGEN REMODELING AND MUSCLE TONE LAST MONTHS AND IMPROVE WITH OCCASIONAL MAINTENANCE, SIMILAR TO KEEPING A REGULAR WORKOUT ROUTINE.
Daily Pills or a Real Fix?
Understanding Your Long-Term Options for Acid Reflux
For many, the burning sensation of heartburn after a rich meal is an occasional annoyance. But for millions of Americans, acid reflux, or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), is a daily battle. If you’re constantly reaching for antacids or daily prescription pills, you might be wondering: is this truly the best long-term solution?
The answer, increasingly, is no. While medications offer relief, they often mask the underlying problem rather than fixing it.
The Problem with the Pill: Why Long-Term Medication Isn’t Always the Answer
For decades, the go-to solution for GERD has been medication, primarily proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole or lansoprazole. These drugs work by reducing the amount of acid your stomach produces. And for many, they provide welcome relief from symptoms.
“Historically, the approach has been to use antacids, medications that reduce the
amount of acid in the stomach,” explained Dr. Kalpesh Patel, a gastroenterologist at St. Luke’s Health – Sugar Land Hospital. “Those were never designed to be used long term, but that became sort of the practice out of convenience.”
The convenience of a daily pill overshadowed a crucial question: at what cost? Our bodies produce stomach acid for important reasons. “Using a medication to suppress acid, you’re turning off a natural part of the body, a natural function of the body,” Dr. Patel said. “Acid is actually normal to have. You need it for absorbing minerals and vitamins, and it’s a natural antibiotic in our system.”
Over time, suppressing this natural function can lead to unintended consequences. “By stopping the acid for many, many years, now we’re starting to see side effects,” Dr. Patel noted. These can include issues with nutrient absorption, bone effects (especially concerning for women), and altered gut microbiome balance.
FOR DECADES, THE GO-TO SOLUTION FOR GERD HAS BEEN MEDICATION, PRIMARILY PROTON PUMP INHIBITORS (PPIS) LIKE OMEPRAZOLE OR LANSOPRAZOLE. THESE DRUGS WORK BY REDUCING THE AMOUNT OF ACID YOUR STOMACH PRODUCES. AND FOR MANY, THEY PROVIDE WELCOME RELIEF FROM SYMPTOMS.
The Real Root of the Problem: An Anatomical Issue
For many suffering from severe or persistent GERD, the issue isn’t just “too much acid.” It’s often an anatomical one, specifically a hiatal hernia. This occurs when a portion of the stomach pushes up through an opening in the diaphragm, disrupting the natural anti-reflux mechanisms of the body.
“The reason people may have severe or more persistent acid reflux is actually due to an anatomical issue having to do with the orientation of the stomach and how it attaches to the esophagus,” Dr. Patel explained. “The body naturally is designed to kind of have its own anti-acid reflux mechanism, but this is what fails in patients who have daily or severe symptoms.” The more familiar term for this, he added, is having a hiatal hernia.
Beyond Medication: A Restorative Approach to Reflux
At St. Luke’s Health in Sugar Land, our specialists offer a more comprehensive, restorative approach for patients whose GERD is tied to a hiatal hernia. “Instead of merely suppressing symptoms, we address the root cause and restore the body’s natural function,” said general and bariatric surgeon Dr. Brandon Fadner.
“The best thing about this approach is that it is collaborative,” said gastroenterologist Dr. Fares Ayoub. “Instead of one doctor, you have two experts thinking about you and formulating a joint plan of care personalized to your own body and anatomy.”
This unique, collaborative approach utilizes modern, minimally invasive surgical techniques that lead to relief from GERD and discontinuation of acid suppressive therapy for up to 94% of patients, according to a study published in opens in a new tabSurgical Endoscopy, co-authored by Drs. Ayoub and Patel among other collaborators. The innovative strategy, called a cTIF procedure (concomitant hiatal hernia repair and transoral incisionless fundoplication) includes two key components performed in the same session by experts at St. Luke’s – Sugar Land, including Dr. Fadner, Dr. Patel, and Dr. Fares Ayoub:
1. Laparoscopic Hernia Repair: A minimally invasive surgical repair to fix the hiatal hernia, tightening the diaphragm where it has loosened.
2. Transoral Incisionless Fundoplication (TIF): Following the hernia repair, an endoscopic device (inserted through the mouth) is used to reshape the stomach from within, reinforcing the weakened valve between the esophagus and stomach.
“By combining the two approaches, you actually get the best long term result,” Dr. Fadner explained. This combined procedure, performed at St. Luke’s Health Sugar Land at a higher volume than anywhere else in Houston, is about restoration of health and well-being.
The benefits are significant:
• Dramatic Symptom Relief: Most patients are able to discontinue daily medications soon after the procedure.
• Restored Normal Function: Patients can swallow and belch naturally and avoid the constant feeling of fullness often associated with older surgical procedures.
• Long-Term Efficacy: While not a “cure-all,” studies show excellent long-term results, with a vast majority of patients medicationfree and symptom-free at five years.
Is a “Real Fix” Right for You?
If you’ve been battling GERD for years, relying on daily pills, and suspect there might be a better way, it’s time to explore your options. Don’t settle for lifelong medication that only manages symptoms. Discover if a restorative solution can bring you lasting relief and a better quality of life. Ready to explore your long-term options for GERD? Contact the General & Bariatric Surgery Clinic at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Group in Sugar Land, Texas, at (281) 637-9000 or find a doctor near you to schedule a consultation with our experienced gastroenterology and surgical team.
AT ST. LUKE’S HEALTH IN SUGAR LAND, OUR SPECIALISTS OFFER A MORE COMPREHENSIVE, RESTORATIVE APPROACH FOR PATIENTS WHOSE GERD IS TIED TO A HIATAL HERNIA. “INSTEAD OF MERELY SUPPRESSING SYMPTOMS, WE ADDRESS THE ROOT CAUSE AND RESTORE THE BODY’S NATURAL FUNCTION,” SAID GENERAL AND BARIATRIC SURGEON DR. BRANDON FADNER.
Geriatric Medicine in the Digital Age
How Technology Is Transforming Independence and Personalized Care for Older Adults
Geriatric care is undergoing a profound transformation driven by the rapid growth of the global elderly population and the rise of digital technologies. Today, innovations in artificial intelligence, robotics and new care models aim to achieve three essential goals: strengthening independence, improving quality of life and delivering highly specialized, efficient care for older adults.
Technology has shifted the approach to aging from reactive treatment to proactive monitoring, early intervention and supportive care delivered directly in the home environment. This marks a new era where older adults can live longer, healthier and more autonomous lives.
Technological Advances in Senior Care
Remote healthcare services and real-time monitoring systems now allow older adults to avoid unnecessary travel to clinics. Wearable health devices and in-home sensor networks continuously track vital signs such as blood pressure and heart rate, along with behavioral patterns. These systems use predictive artificial intelligence to detect early warning signs of medical problems, including fall risk or sudden deterioration, and send immediate alerts to caregivers or medical teams.
Smart home technologies, including voice assistants and automated lighting systems, further enhance independence. Even more importantly, fall-detection sensors and personal emergency response systems provide essential safety for seniors who prefer to remain in their homes. Robotics is also moving from hospitals into home care. Social companion robots help combat loneliness and isolation by offering interaction, reminders and emotional support. Assistive technologies, such as exoskeletons and mobility-support robots, are being developed to help seniors perform physically demanding tasks or move safely, reducing caregiver burden and enabling aging in place.
Artificial Intelligence and Personalized Medicine
Artificial intelligence and machine learning are redefining clinical decision-making in geriatric medicine. These tools improve diagnostic accuracy and risk assessment by analyzing large volumes of medical data to recognize subtle patterns that may indicate critical conditions at their earliest stages, including very early Alzheimer’s disease. AI tools can predict the likelihood of common geriatric syndromes such as frailty and medication-related complications, including polypharmacy. This gives physicians powerful insights for proactive care planning and tailored interventions. In medication management, AI-supported systems can compare multiple prescriptions and instantly detect harmful drug interactions, a major risk among older adults. These systems can also recommend optimal dosages based on a patient’s kidney and liver function or other individualized health parameters. This significantly reduces medication errors and enhances both safety and treatment effectiveness.
AI is also helping to create highly personalized care plans. Using machine learning models, healthcare teams can design dynamic, evolving care strategies that adapt to the patient’s changing needs. These plans can include very specific dietary recommendations, customized physical therapy programs for strength and balance or targeted cognitive training activities. Each intervention is crafted to support functional ability, preserve independence and improve overall wellbeing.
Innovative Care Models for an Aging Population
The evolution of senior care extends beyond technology. It also includes groundbreaking changes in care delivery models built around integration, continuity and holistic support. New systems prioritize addressing the complex, multidimensional needs of older adults,
REMOTE HEALTHCARE SERVICES AND REALTIME MONITORING SYSTEMS NOW ALLOW OLDER ADULTS TO AVOID UNNECESSARY TRAVEL TO CLINICS. WEARABLE HEALTH DEVICES AND INHOME SENSOR NETWORKS CONTINUOUSLY TRACK VITAL SIGNS SUCH AS BLOOD PRESSURE AND HEART RATE, ALONG WITH BEHAVIORAL PATTERNS. THESE SYSTEMS USE PREDICTIVE ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE TO DETECT EARLY WARNING SIGNS OF MEDICAL PROBLEMS, INCLUDING FALL RISK OR SUDDEN DETERIORATION, AND SEND IMMEDIATE ALERTS TO CAREGIVERS OR MEDICAL TEAMS.
moving away from fragmented care toward coordinated, patient-centered services.
Integrated care models have become essential. They create structured coordination between the many healthcare professionals involved in a senior’s wellbeing, including geriatricians, specialists, psychologists, social workers and rehabilitation therapists. By aligning services, these models help manage chronic diseases more effectively, reduce avoidable hospital readmissions and improve health outcomes across the continuum of care.
Modern rehabilitation and stimulation techniques also play a key role. Virtual reality is being used increasingly for therapeutic and preventive purposes. Immersive VR programs provide cognitive training to support memory and attention, and remote physical rehabilitation sessions help improve strength, mobility and balance for seniors who have difficulty accessing in-person therapy. These technologies make rehabilitation more engaging, personalized and accessible within the home. Equally important are innovations that support primary caregivers, whether family members or professional caregivers. Digital platforms and AI-powered tools are now
available to simplify administrative tasks such as appointment scheduling and medication tracking. They also offer educational resources that strengthen caregivers’ skills and reduce the risk of burnout and emotional fatigue. Supporting caregivers ultimately ensures better continuity and quality of care for older adults.
Empowering Seniors Through Smart, Personalized and Connected Care
The digital era is reshaping geriatric medicine with unprecedented speed. Technology, automation and integrated care models are creating a future in which seniors can remain independent, safe and socially connected while receiving highly personalized medical support. With continued innovation in artificial intelligence, robotics, virtual care and predictive analytics, aging is being redefined. Older adults are gaining more control over their health, caregivers are receiving better support and healthcare systems are becoming more efficient and responsive. This new vision of geriatric care does more than extend life. It elevates the experience of aging, ensuring that independence, dignity and wellbeing remain at the center of every stage of care.
MODERN REHABILITATION AND STIMULATION TECHNIQUES ALSO PLAY A KEY ROLE. VIRTUAL REALITY IS BEING USED INCREASINGLY FOR THERAPEUTIC AND PREVENTIVE PURPOSES. IMMERSIVE VR PROGRAMS PROVIDE COGNITIVE TRAINING TO SUPPORT MEMORY AND ATTENTION, AND REMOTE PHYSICAL REHABILITATION SESSIONS HELP IMPROVE STRENGTH, MOBILITY AND BALANCE FOR SENIORS WHO HAVE DIFFICULTY ACCESSING IN-PERSON THERAPY.
Shaping the Future of MedTech in the Middle East & Africa
Mecomed is the Medical Technology Association of the Middle East & Africa, uniting leading manufacturers and their partners to:
• Advance patient access to innovative healthcare solutions.
• Foster ethical business practices and compliance.
• Build strong partnerships with regulators and other stakeholders.
• Support digital transformation and healthcare innovation.
• Enhance MedTech industry and healthcare professionals’ expertise in regulations, ethics, compliance, market access, and digital health.
Together, we are driving a sustainable health ecosystem that empowers better patient outcomes across the region.
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: Are We on the Right Track?
Dr. Asmaa Abdulsalam, Consultant of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Al-Ahli Hospital/Qatar
Abstract
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a condition characterized by elevated blood glucose levels first time detected during pregnancy. Despite global advancements in screening and management, its incidence continues to rise. This review explores the causes behind this trend, outlines current diagnostic and management approaches,
(GDM) REFERS TO GLUCOSE INTOLERANCE FIRST RECOGNIZED DURING PREGNANCY.
and emphasizes the importance of lifestyle modification, public health awareness, and coordinated care in preventing GDM and its complications.
Introduction
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) refers to glucose intolerance first recognized during pregnancy, typically resulting from hormonal
changes that cause insulin resistance. This condition differs from pre-existing diabetes mellitus (type I or II), where elevated glucose levels are present prior to conception.
The incidence of GDM has risen significantly worldwide over the past decades. Understanding the underlying causes and reinforcing effective prevention strategies are essential to reduce its impact on both maternal and fetal health.
Why Is GDM Increasing?
Several factors contribute to the global rise in GDM cases:
1. Dietary Shifts and Obesity: The growing consumption of ultra-processed foods rich in refined carbohydrates and fats, combined with sedentary lifestyles, has led to higher rates of obesity and insulin resistance among women during childbearing age.
2. Delayed Motherhood: More women are choosing to conceive after the age of 35, a demographic group naturally predisposed to insulin resistance and metabolic disturbances.
3. Improved Detection and Screening: Enhanced antenatal care programs, better diagnostic tools, and increased awareness among healthcare providers have led to higher detection rates, though the underlying incidence also continues to climb.
Despite improved screening and management, prevention strategies have not yet effectively curbed the rising trend. One of the reasons of this failure is the rising Food Industry, which becomes one of the biggest industries all over the world in the 21st century, providing cheap attractive unhealthy frozen meals wrapped in plastic containers with many conservatives. What makes things worse is the huge number of cheerful advertisements made by celebrities encouraging consumption of unhealthy food without any warning about its harmful effects on our health. This kind
of advertisements establish in our brains that such food is the source of happiness and rewards to our stress.
Again, the wide spread food delivery systems and networks to distribute food very fast while we are sitting at home playing games and watching social media is a very big challenge to any initiative to improve our physical fitness.
Diagnosis
Early screening during the first antenatal visit is crucial. Women with risk factors such as a family history of diabetes, previous GDM, or delivery of a large baby should receive close monitoring.
Normal fasting blood glucose in early pregnancy should be below 92 mg/dL. Between 24–28 weeks, a 75g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) is performed with the following diagnostic thresholds:
• Fasting: <92 mg/dL
• 1 hour: <180 mg/dL
• 2 hours: <153 mg/dL
While HbA1C has limited diagnostic value in pregnancy, it is useful for monitoring longterm glucose control. And reflects the average blood glucose over the past 2-3 months
HBA1C equals to or more than 6.5 reflects pre-existing DM, while value between 5.7-6.4 indicates prediabetic status and an indicator of increased risk to develop DM.
Why GDM Matters
Uncontrolled GDM poses significant risks for both mother and baby. Elevated maternal glucose can lead to fetal macrosomia (large baby), which increases the likelihood of difficult labor, cesarean delivery, and birth trauma. For the newborn, risks include hypoglycemia, respiratory distress, and higher chances of developing obesity or type
ONE OF THE REASONS OF THIS FAILURE IS THE RISING FOOD INDUSTRY, WHICH BECOMES ONE OF THE BIGGEST INDUSTRIES ALL OVER THE WORLD IN THE 21ST CENTURY, PROVIDING CHEAP ATTRACTIVE UNHEALTHY FROZEN MEALS WRAPPED IN PLASTIC CONTAINERS WITH MANY CONSERVATIVES. WHAT MAKES THINGS WORSE IS THE HUGE NUMBER OF CHEERFUL ADVERTISEMENTS MADE BY CELEBRITIES ENCOURAGING CONSUMPTION OF UNHEALTHY FOOD WITHOUT ANY WARNING ABOUT ITS HARMFUL EFFECTS ON OUR HEALTH. THIS KIND OF ADVERTISEMENTS ESTABLISH IN OUR BRAINS THAT SUCH FOOD IS THE SOURCE OF HAPPINESS AND REWARDS TO OUR STRESS.
II diabetes later in life. For mothers, GDM increases the risk of preeclampsia, cesarean section, and long-term diabetes.
Management and Prevention
Effective management of GDM relies on a multidisciplinary approach, involving obstetricians, endocrinologists, dietitians, and health educators.
Respect, Confidentiality Informed consent Shared decision making, disclosure of medical errors and ensuring continuity of care and proper health education are key considerations for patient Preferences when dealing with pregnant woman with GDM.
1. Lifestyle Modification
The cornerstone of prevention and treatment is dietary control and physical activity. Replace refined carbohydrates and sugary foods with complex carbohydrates, whole grains, and vegetables. Include lean proteins and healthy fats in balanced portions.
Maintain a calorie-controlled diet guided by body mass index (BMI) and supervised by a dietitian. Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week, such as walking or swimming.
2. Monitoring
Regular self-monitoring of blood glucose helps maintain:
• Fasting glucose <95 mg/dL
• 1-hour post-meal <140 mg/dL
• 2-hour post-meal <120 mg/dL
3. Medical Therapy
If lifestyle interventions are insufficient, Metformin is the first-line oral medication. It is generally safe during pregnancy, although it crosses the placenta.
Insulin therapy may be initiated if optimal glucose control cannot be achieved through diet and oral medication.
4. Fetal Surveillance
Ultrasound monitoring from 28–32 weeks is essential to track fetal growth and detect
complications such as macrosomia or polyhydramnios. Blood pressure and maternal well-being must be closely observed.
Timing and Mode of
Delivery
Women with well-controlled GDM and no complications may deliver up to 40 weeks + 6 days. Induction of labor is considered at 37 weeks for poor glycemic control or abnormal growth scans.
Cesarean section is reserved for cases with estimated fetal weight ≥4500 g or other obstetric indications. During labor, Metformin should be withheld, and insulin therapy adjusted as needed under close supervision.
Postpartum Care
Newborns require immediate monitoring for hypoglycemia. For mothers, glucose testing is recommended 4–12 weeks postpartum using a 75g OGTT, followed by annual screening with HbA1C or fasting glucose.
Women with prior GDM have a 35–50% chance of recurrence in future pregnancies and an increased risk of developing type II diabetes.
Breastfeeding is strongly encouraged as it benefits both mother and infant by improving glucose metabolism and reducing obesity risk.
Conclusion
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus remains a major public health challenge despite advances in care. While early diagnosis and effective management reduce complications, true progress depends on preventive strategies, promoting healthy diets, physical activity, and public awareness.
Healthcare systems must work collectively to educate women, regulate food marketing, and foster environments that support healthy lifestyles before and during pregnancy. Ultimately, addressing GDM requires not only medical treatment but also social and cultural shifts toward better nutrition and active living.
NEWBORNS REQUIRE IMMEDIATE MONITORING FOR HYPOGLYCEMIA. FOR MOTHERS, GLUCOSE TESTING IS RECOMMENDED 4–12 WEEKS POSTPARTUM USING A 75G OGTT, FOLLOWED BY ANNUAL SCREENING WITH HBA1C OR FASTING GLUCOSE. WOMEN WITH PRIOR GDM HAVE A 35–50% CHANCE OF RECURRENCE IN FUTURE PREGNANCIES AND AN INCREASED RISK OF DEVELOPING TYPE II DIABETES.
Acıbadem Healthcare Group Türkiye
Giovanni Guidetti's Inspiring Patient Story
Considered one of the most successful figures in international volleyball, Guidetti inspires millions with his leadership on the court and his outlook on life. Recognized as one of the most respected volleyball coaches of the modern era, he has played a critical role in the rise of women's volleyball at the international level. He is known today not only for his trophies and successes but also for his determination, discipline, and vision. However, years of hardship lay behind all these successes. Guidetti lived with long-term hip pain. The pain affected his ability to play sports and perform simple daily activities. The situation negatively affected many areas of his life, from his sleep pattern to his quality of life, and eventually necessitated serious surgery. Giovanni Guidetti chose the right place for this difficult process: Acıbadem Healthcare Group.
Years of Pain and the Decision Process
The hip pain he had experienced for over five
years was increasingly limiting his life. He could not exercise, had difficulty walking, and could not sleep at night due to intense pain. For an active athlete, this situation was exhausting both physically and psychologically. Guidetti began searching for a solution and conducted extensive research. During this process, he examined methods used in many different centers around the world. His goal was to find the most reliable doctor and the most advanced healthcare center for surgery. His research led him to Prof. Dr. Javad Parvizi, a world-renowned hip surgeon. Dr. Parvizi's experience and achievements, combined with the fact that Acıbadem Healthcare Group's infrastructure meets international standards, made it the right choice for Guidetti.
What is a hip replacement?
A hip replacement is a treatment method used for patients with advanced joint calcification (arthrosis), congenital hip dislocation, or post-
GIOVANNI GUIDETTI'S SURGERY WAS A HUGE SUCCESS. JUST 24 HOURS AFTER THE OPERATION, HE STARTED WALKING WITH A SINGLE CANE. HIS PAIN WAS MINIMAL, AND HIS LIMP WAS BARELY NOTICEABLE. AS HE STATED, WAKING UP PAIN-FREE THE DAY AFTER SURGERY AND BEING ABLE TO WALK WITH JUST A CANE MARKED A NEW TURNING POINT IN HIS LIFE.
traumatic joint damage. Wear and tear on joint surfaces can cause pain, limited mobility, and a significant decrease in quality of life. During prosthetic surgery, the damaged joint is replaced with an artificial one, allowing patients to return to an active, pain-free life.
Acıbadem Healthcare Group uses the most modern hip replacement techniques worldwide and has a high success rate for these operations. The right surgical technique offers young and active individuals the opportunity to return to sports and work in a short time.
Modern Method: Direct Anterior Approach
Giovanni Guidetti's surgery was performed by Prof. Dr. Javad Parvizi using the direct anterior approach. Unlike traditional hip replacement surgeries, this technique does not require cutting the muscles. This makes the postoperative recovery process quite fast. Thanks to this method, patients:
• Heal with less pain.
• Get back on their feet faster.
• They can return to sports and daily life quickly.
• They also have shorter hospital stays.
Acıbadem Healthcare Group's advanced technological infrastructure and multidisciplinary healthcare services make it possible to successfully implement such modern approaches.
Successful Surgery and Rapid Recovery
Giovanni Guidetti's surgery was a huge success. Just 24 hours after the operation, he started walking with a single cane. His pain was minimal, and his limp was barely noticeable. As he stated, waking up pain-free the day after surgery and being able to walk with just a cane marked a new turning point in his life.
He expressed his great satisfaction with the attentive care, empathy, and professionalism provided by the Acıbadem Healthcare Group. The success of the surgery and the support of the entire team, from nurses to physical
therapists, made his recovery journey much easier.
Trust Between Patient and Doctor
Giovanni Guidetti emphasized that the explanations and assurances given to him by Prof. Dr. Javad Parvizi were invaluable. "Everything my doctor said came true," he said, emphasizing how important it was to trust his doctor during the treatment process.
Prof. Dr. Parvizi stated that he was honored to contribute to the recovery of a worldrenowned figure like Guidetti. He added that he was delighted to see his patient return to his former life in such a short period of time.
The Acıbadem Healthcare Group Difference
Giovanni Guidetti's story is not just about a successful surgery. It reflects the Acıbadem Healthcare Group's international-standard medical infrastructure, experienced staff, and personalized treatment approach.
The Group offers its patients a fast, safe, and comfortable recovery process by applying the most advanced methods in orthopedic surgery and joint replacement operations. Guidetti's return to an active, pain-free life is the most concrete demonstration of this.
An Inspiring Journey
Giovanni Guidetti's story is one of the most inspiring examples of overcoming long-term pain and rediscovering life with the right treatment. Guidetti has set an example for millions with his athletic achievements, and he is now living a healthy, energetic, and active life thanks to the expertise of the Acıbadem Healthcare Group. His experience is a beacon of hope for athletes and all patients facing similar challenges. With such success stories, Acıbadem Healthcare Group continues to be the trusted address for success in healthcare.
GUIDETTI BEGAN SEARCHING FOR A SOLUTION AND CONDUCTED EXTENSIVE RESEARCH. DURING THIS PROCESS, HE EXAMINED METHODS USED IN MANY DIFFERENT CENTERS AROUND THE WORLD. HIS GOAL WAS TO FIND THE MOST RELIABLE DOCTOR AND THE MOST ADVANCED HEALTHCARE CENTER FOR SURGERY. HIS RESEARCH LED HIM TO PROF. DR. JAVAD PARVIZI, A WORLD-RENOWNED HIP SURGEON. DR. PARVIZI'S EXPERIENCE AND ACHIEVEMENTS, COMBINED WITH THE FACT THAT ACIBADEM HEALTHCARE GROUP'S INFRASTRUCTURE MEETS INTERNATIONAL STANDARDS, MADE IT THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR GUIDETTI.
The Latest Innovations in Type 1 Diabetes Care
Breakthrough Technologies Beyond Traditional Injections
Type 1 diabetes treatment has progressed far beyond the era of traditional insulin injections. Today, a new new generation of technologies, ranging from automated insulin delivery systems to smart devices, cell-based therapies, and immunomodulatory research, is reshaping the way patients manage their condition. These innovations not only improve blood glucose stability, but also bring us closer to the long-term goal of curative therapies. While insulin therapy and healthy lifestyle habits remain the foundation of type 1 diabetes management, advanced digital tools and biotechnology solutions are elevating the standard of care. They offer patients tighter glucose control, greater flexibility, and a higher quality of life. This marks a true turning point in diabetes care.
Insulin Pumps: A Smarter Alternative to Daily Injections
Among the most transformative tools are insulin pumps. These compact, wearable devices deliver precise, continuous insulin through a small catheter inserted under the skin. They mimic the natural rhythm of a healthy pancreas by providing a steady “basal” rate of rapid-acting insulin throughout the day and night, while allowing users to administer additional “bolus” doses to cover meals or correct high glucose levels. An insulin pump system typically includes three key components.
1. The pump unit. A small, programmable device containing an insulin reservoir, battery, and controls that allow easy adjustment of the basal rate over 24 hours.
2. The infusion set. A thin tube and soft cannula placed under the skin and changed every few days.
3. Rapid-acting insulin. Used exclusively to ensure quick, predictable responses to glucose changes.
This method reduces the need for repeated injections, offers exceptional dosing flexibility, and gives patients greater freedom in their daily activities, diet, and exercise routines.
The Artificial Pancreas: A Major Leap Toward Automated Diabetes Management
The artificial pancreas, also known as a hybrid closed-loop system, represents one of the most advanced breakthroughs in diabetes technology. It integrates three components, an insulin pump, a continuous glucose monitoring sensor, and an intelligent control algorithm, into a single automated system. Here is how it works.
• The CGM sensor continuously measures glucose levels in the interstitial fluid and sends real-time readings every few minutes.
• An advanced algorithm analyzes these readings and predicts glucose trends.
• The insulin pump automatically adjusts insulin delivery in response. It increases, decreases, or pauses insulin depending on the patient’s glucose levels.
This constant feedback loop significantly reduces dangerous highs and lows, improves time in range, and relieves patients of much of the daily burden of glucose management. It brings treatment closer to replicating the function of a healthy pancreas.
Smart Insulin Pens: Connecting Daily Injections to Intelligent Data
Smart insulin pens bridge traditional injection therapy with modern digital health tools.
AMONG THE MOST TRANSFORMATIVE TOOLS ARE INSULIN PUMPS. THESE COMPACT, WEARABLE DEVICES DELIVER PRECISE, CONTINUOUS INSULIN THROUGH A SMALL CATHETER INSERTED UNDER THE SKIN. THEY MIMIC THE NATURAL RHYTHM OF A HEALTHY PANCREAS BY PROVIDING A STEADY “BASAL” RATE OF RAPIDACTING INSULIN THROUGHOUT THE DAY AND NIGHT, WHILE ALLOWING USERS TO ADMINISTER ADDITIONAL “BOLUS” DOSES TO COVER MEALS OR CORRECT HIGH GLUCOSE LEVELS.
Equipped with wireless connectivity, usually via Bluetooth, they automatically record each insulin dose, including the exact time and amount, and sync the data with a smartphone app. These connected systems offer the following benefits.
• Automatic dose tracking
• Clear visual dashboards and glucose patterns
• Integration with continuous glucose monitoring data
• Reminders to avoid missed or duplicate doses
• Data sharing with healthcare providers for more accurate treatment adjustments
For patients who prefer injections over pumps, smart pens bring a new level of safety, precision, and convenience to daily diabetes management.
Continuous Glucose Monitoring
(CGM): A Revolution in Real-Time Glucose Insight
Continuous glucose monitoring has transformed diabetes care by shifting from occasional finger-prick tests to a system that provides a complete picture of glucose levels throughout the day. A CGM system consists of the following components:
1. A small sensor placed under the skin, usually on the arm or abdomen, that measures glucose in interstitial fluid.
2. A transmitter that sits above the sensor and sends glucose data wirelessly.
3. A receiver or smartphone app that displays real-time glucose readings, trends, and alerts.
CGM offers important advantages:
• Up to 288 glucose readings per day
• Predictive alerts for high or low blood sugar
• Graphs showing how food, exercise, stress, and medications affect glucose
• Less need for finger-stick testing
• More accurate decision-making for both patients and clinicians
These systems provide continuous, comprehensive data that help optimize treatment, prevent emergencies, and improve overall metabolic stability.
Adjunctive Medications:
Enhancing Insulin Therapy
In addition to insulin, certain adjunctive medications can significantly improve glucose control in type 1 diabetes. Among the most promising are SGLT2 inhibitors, such as dapagliflozin. These medications work by blocking glucose reabsorption in the kidneys and increasing glucose excretion in the urine. As a result, blood glucose decreases in a way that does not depend on insulin.
Beyond glucose control, SGLT2 inhibitors offer added benefits, including weight reduction, cardiovascular protection, and improved metabolic outcomes. This makes them valuable complementary treatments for selected patients under medical supervision.
A Future Driven by Innovation and Precision
The treatment of type 1 diabetes is rapidly evolving from manual injection routines to intelligent, automated, and highly personalized technologies. With insulin pumps, closedloop systems, smart pens, continuous glucose monitoring devices, and supportive medications, patients today can achieve better stability and a far higher quality of life.
With advancing research in immunotherapy, beta-cell replacement, and stem-cell science, the future holds even more promise. Each breakthrough brings us closer to the ultimate goal, restoring natural insulin production and potentially curing type 1 diabetes.
THE TREATMENT OF TYPE 1 DIABETES IS RAPIDLY EVOLVING FROM MANUAL INJECTION ROUTINES TO INTELLIGENT, AUTOMATED, AND HIGHLY PERSONALIZED TECHNOLOGIES. WITH INSULIN PUMPS, CLOSED-LOOP SYSTEMS, SMART PENS, CONTINUOUS GLUCOSE MONITORING DEVICES, AND SUPPORTIVE MEDICATIONS, PATIENTS TODAY CAN ACHIEVE BETTER STABILITY AND A FAR HIGHER QUALITY OF LIFE.
"Take My Sun With You": A Message of Love, Support, and Inclusivity
Marie Surae, Film Director and Producer
TFeature-length Fiction film
Take my sun with you
he feature film, "Take My Sun With You," is a deeply personal project born from the filmmaker, Marie Surae's, experience raising her 17-year-old daughter, Taisia Todua, who lives with a rare spontaneous genetic mutation in the CDKL5 gene, causing autism, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy. Taisia is not just the inspiration; she is a unique cast member in the film.
What inspired the idea of creating a feature film about children with autism and cerebral palsy? What was the purpose?
My daughter, Taisia Todua, is 17 years old. She has a rare spontaneous genetic mutation in the CDKL5 gene, which causes autism, cerebral palsy, and epilepsy. Her first epileptic seizure happened when she was only two months old. At the time, we were unaware of the cause. We sent a video of the seizure to Professor Hans Holthausen in Germany, who suspected it might be a CDKL5 mutation, and he was correct. Knowing the cause of a child’s condition is incredibly important for parents. Many families live for years without answers, and
that uncertainty is excruciating. I immediately began searching for other families around the world whose children had the same mutation. Back in 2008, there were very few. Not because the mutation was rarer then, but because so few people knew it even existed. Now, there are hundreds of thousands of such families worldwide. And when you realize you’re not alone, it becomes easier to carry on. I raised my daughter on my own. Her father didn’t help. Looking back, I see that having no one to rely on but myself shaped me into who I am today.
I am a filmmaker. I became a film producer at a very young age, 22. I graduated with a degree in journalism and started my career in television before moving on to producing films for major TV channels. In 2014, I directed my first short feature film, which was selected for the main competition at the Cannes Film Festival. I love co-producing with other countries, and since 2016, I have been based in Lebanon, making films and organising festivals. I decided to make «Take My Sun With You» in Georgia, because Taisia is half Georgian.
In a way, I had been preparing this film
«TAKE MY SUN WITH YOU» IS A FEATURE FILM, WHICH MAKES IT UNIQUE BECAUSE TAISIA TAKES PART IN IT AS AN ACTRESS. AND IT’S TRULY EXTRAORDINARY, BECAUSE THE SHOOT WASN’T EASY. SOMETIMES WE BEGAN FILMING AT 3 A.M., UNDER THE SCORCHING 35°C HEAT, TRAVELLING FOR OVER AN HOUR AND A HALF TO THE LOCATION. AND TAISIA ENDURED IT ALL. SHE IS STRONG, ONE OF A KIND, AND TRULY REMARKABLE. I’M IMMENSELY PROUD OF HER.
Written and directed by Marie Surae Georgia – Lebanon, 2025
Starring Taisia Todua
for 17 years. I wrote the script very quickly and went straight into production. I was lucky to work with a brilliant cinematographer, Mikho Kvirikadze, and an excellent crew led by producer Lasha Khalvashi.
I always knew I would one day make a film about my daughter. About her world and her inner universe. Taisia doesn’t speak with words; she speaks through sounds. But her world is much deeper than that of a neurotypical person. She feels and understands everything, just differently. «Take My Sun With You» is a feature film, which makes it unique because Taisia takes part in it as an actress. And it’s truly extraordinary, because the shoot wasn’t easy. Sometimes we began filming at 3 a.m., under the scorching 35°C heat, travelling for over an hour and a half to the location. And Taisia endured it all. She is strong, one of a kind, and truly remarkable. I’m immensely proud of her.
What message does the film aim to deliver to families and society about children living with these conditions? What do you think about the mission? This film is more than just cinema; it’s a message to society. It’s a reminder that children and adults with special needs live among us, that they are part of our communities and deserve to be seen, loved, and supported. Each of them is unique, valuable, and worthy of love. I want to tell the world: love people with differences, they make the world kinder.
When the world is drowning in war and hatred, there is only one hope left, kindness and love. People like Taisia make us reflect on what truly matters in life.
For families raising children with special needs, this film is meant as support and encouragement. It says: Don’t give up. There’s always a way forward, and there are always people who will help you. Most often, it’s other families who share similar experiences that understand and can offer real support.
Right now, our goal is to show the film to as many people as possible. We’re submitting it to festivals and looking for a distributor or sales agent. We’re reaching out to different foundations for support, hoping that Take My Sun With You will find the right hands. We’re
confident that the right sales agent will see both the importance and the potential of this project and help bring it to a wide audience.
As for the festivals, I would be thrilled to bring Taisia to the premiere. It would be the first time ever, a girl with developmental differences, playing a leading role in a feature film, presenting her mother’s work at an international film festival.
What has this experience personally taught you about strength, resilience, and empathy?
My daughter gives me so much. Every time I look at her, I remember why I work, live, feel, and breathe. She’s my guardian angel, and she inspired me to make one of the most important films of my life.
Taisia is incredibly beautiful and cinematic; as we say in filmmaking, the camera loves her. Our cinematographer fell in love with her presence, and we filmed many scenes with two cameras to capture every subtle expression. She has a magnetic kind of beauty, delicate yet powerful. When you look into her eyes, you can see her inner world: profound, fragile, and deeply moving. Taisia is very delicate, like a crystal vase. I help her grow, develop, and feel safe. She has many specialists supporting her: ABA therapy, sports, swimming, physiotherapy, rollerblading, skiing, and she attends a special school. I’ve built a world around her where she feels protected and comfortable, surrounded only by people who truly wish her well. That’s very important for children like her, because they sense people’s energy deeply.
I learn strength and resilience from Taisia. She is a fighter. Despite her many diagnoses, epilepsy, autism, cerebral palsy, and severe scoliosis, she keeps going and smiles a lot. That smile is the most precious and moving thing I have ever seen in my life.
What do you hope the audience feels when they leave the cinema after watching this film?
I truly hope that even if just one person in the audience leaves the cinema thinking about what truly matters in life and decides to make a change, that will already be my victory.
TAISIA IS INCREDIBLY BEAUTIFUL AND CINEMATIC; AS WE SAY IN FILMMAKING, THE CAMERA LOVES HER. OUR CINEMATOGRAPHER FELL IN LOVE WITH HER PRESENCE, AND WE FILMED MANY SCENES WITH TWO CAMERAS TO CAPTURE EVERY SUBTLE EXPRESSION. SHE HAS A MAGNETIC KIND OF BEAUTY, DELICATE YET POWERFUL. WHEN YOU LOOK INTO HER EYES, YOU CAN SEE HER INNER WORLD: PROFOUND, FRAGILE, AND DEEPLY MOVING. TAISIA IS VERY DELICATE, LIKE A CRYSTAL VASE. I HELP HER GROW, DEVELOP, AND FEEL SAFE. SHE HAS MANY SPECIALISTS SUPPORTING HER: ABA THERAPY, SPORTS, SWIMMING, PHYSIOTHERAPY, ROLLERBLADING, SKIING, AND SHE ATTENDS A SPECIAL SCHOOL.
Philips Unveils Cutting-Edge Healthcare Tech at Global Health to Support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 Healthcare Excellence Goals
Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) unveiled new artificial intelligence (AI) - powered healthcare innovations at Global Health 2025 specifically aligned to accelerate the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 healthcare ambitions.
“Saudi Arabia’s Healthcare Sector Transformation Program is one of the world’s most ambitious initiatives, showcasing unprecedented commitment to medical infrastructure, innovation, and leadership,” Vincenzo Ventricelli, CEO, Philips Middle East, Türkiye and Africa (META). “Our portfolio, including new innovations, directly supports this vision by demonstrating how intelligent technology can enhance care for more people while advancing medical excellence across the region.”
Philips’ innovations at Global Health align with the Kingdom’s goals of serving a growing population and establishing Saudi Arabia as a premier healthcare destination. Each solution integrates advanced AI to boost clinical efficiency and patient outcomes.
Intelligence Reimagined
The flexible Philips CT 5300 system enhances diagnostic confidence, streamlines workflows, and maximizes uptime, improving patient outcomes and department productivity across Saudi Arabia’s expanding healthcare system. Its AI-powered CT Smart Workflow optimizes dose, speed, and image quality across various applications, while an AI-enabled patient positioning camera saves time and helps manage increased patient volumes efficiently.
Nanopanel Precise, the industry’s first AI-optimized detector, combined with Philips’ Precise Image reconstruction software, delivers high-quality images at lower radiation doses. “We designed the CT 5300 based on radiologists’ needs to free them from timeconsuming tasks, allowing them to focus on patients,” said Akram Sirafy, General Manager, Philips Saudi Arabia.
Enhanced Point of Care
To meet the demands of Saudi Arabia’s expanding healthcare network, Philips offers advanced point-of-care solutions that deliver diagnostics directly to patients.
The Philips Radiography 7000 M, a premium mobile X-ray system, uses smart automation and AI to reduce physical strain on staff and increase patient throughput by up to 37%,1, 2 supporting the Kingdom’s goals for healthcare access and efficiency. The new Flash 5100 Point of Care Ultrasound combines exceptional image clarity, smart automation, and a portable vertical design with intuitive touchscreen controls. It allows clinicians to perform and document exams in real-time, ideal for high-pressure environments. Collaboration Live enables instant remote connection with colleagues, while cross-platform transducer compatibility ensures consistent performance across different clinical settings.
“These solutions address real workflow
THE PHILIPS RADIOGRAPHY 7000 M, A PREMIUM MOBILE X-RAY SYSTEM, USES SMART AUTOMATION AND AI TO REDUCE PHYSICAL STRAIN ON STAFF AND INCREASE PATIENT THROUGHPUT BY UP TO 37%,1, 2 SUPPORTING THE KINGDOM’S GOALS FOR HEALTHCARE ACCESS AND EFFICIENCY.
challenges faced by healthcare teams,” Akram Sirafy adds. “Patients benefit from shorter wait times and more comfortable imaging experiences while clinicians can have accessible, high-quality care across all settings.”
Advanced AI-Powered Echocardiography
The Philips Transcend Plus marks a major leap in echocardiography, designed to meet the growing cardiac care challenges across Saudi Arabia’s healthcare system. Building on the Transcend platform, it integrates AI and intelligent automation into EPIQ CVx and Affiniti CVx cardiovascular ultrasound systems, delivering fast, reproducible results with high image quality and enhanced decision support.
Notably, Philips 3D Auto CFQ uses AI to quickly quantify mitral regurgitation from 3D color Doppler, boosting clinical confidence in valvular assessments beyond traditional methods. The system streamlines workflows and improves diagnostic accuracy across settings, from echo labs to outpatient clinics and longterm care, helping cardiology teams work more efficiently without compromising quality.
“The Future Health Index 2025: Cardiology Snapshot revealed that globally, 79% of providers believe AI can reduce cardiovascular disease burden,” says Akram Sirafy. “Transcend Plus turns this belief into action, supporting Saudi Arabia’s goals for comprehensive cardiac care.”
With the Kingdom’s focus on preventive care and early intervention, Transcend Plus empowers healthcare teams to deliver consistent, high-quality cardiovascular diagnostics for immediate and long-term patient health.
Advancing MRI Excellence with AIPowered SmartSpeed Precise
MRI advancements are crucial in broadening access to accurate diagnostics within Saudi Arabia’s evolving healthcare system.
Philips’ new SmartSpeed Precise3, the industry’s first integrated dual AI solution, marks a major advance in autonomous, personalized MRI. This deep learning software
enables scans up to three times faster4 with images up to 80% sharper5, all in a single click. Combining Philips’ Compressed SENSE acceleration with AI-powered denoising and sharpening engines, SmartSpeed Precise delivers exceptional image clarity and diagnostic quality. By providing care teams with faster, clearer MR scans, it makes high-quality imaging more accessible and efficient than ever.
Comprehensive Healthcare Ecosystem for Total System Innovation
Complementing these flagship innovations, Philips is showcasing its comprehensive solutions portfolio designed to support coordinated care pathways across Saudi Arabia's diverse healthcare ecosystem. The showcase includes:
• The Azurion Release 3.0 that reduces patient preparation time and delivers 17% faster minimally invasive procedures6, while transforming stroke care through directto-angio-suite treatment to shorten critical time-to-treatment in these emergency settings where every second counts.
• The award-winning7 IntelliVue Patient Monitor 6500, for flexible monitoring across multiple care settings.
• Integrated Healthcare Informatics platforms that transform clinical data into actionable patient care insights.
• The transformational eICU critical care telehealth program that supports scarce clinical resources while reducing mortality, lengths of stay and cost of care.8, 9
• Digital Pathology solutions that streamline workflow and increase productivity while enabling remote collaboration.
• And comprehensive Sleep and Respiratory care solutions.
“The integrated ecosystem represents more than advanced technology; it embodies Philips’ 90-year commitment to Saudi Arabia’s healthcare journey,” concludes Vincenzo Ventricelli. “By ensuring consistent quality and fostering regional leadership, we support the Kingdom’s vision of healthcare excellence for both Saudi citizens and the wider region.”
THE PHILIPS TRANSCEND PLUS MARKS A MAJOR LEAP IN ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, DESIGNED TO MEET THE GROWING CARDIAC CARE CHALLENGES ACROSS SAUDI ARABIA’S HEALTHCARE SYSTEM.
References
1. As compared to Radiography 5700 M — MobileDiagnost wDR
2. Validated by 15 out of 15 technologists in a test environment
3. SmartSpeed Precise is not yet CE marked and not available for sale.
4. Compared to Philips SENSE imaging
5. Compared to Philips SENSE/ C-SENSE imaging.
6. Results from study conducted at St. Antonius Hospital. Results verified by NAMSA, independent third-party expert on study design and analytics. Results are specific to the institution where they were obtained and may not reflect the results achievable at other institutions.
7. The Patient Monitor 6000 Series has been recognized with the prestigious iF Design Award, Red Dot Design Award, and Australian Good Design Award
8. Lilly CM, et al. A Multi-center Study of ICU Telemedicine Reengineering of Adult Critical Care. CHEST. 2014 Mar; 145(3): 500-7.
9. Lilly CM, et al. Critical Care Telemedicine: Evolution and State of the Art. Crit Care Med. 2014 Nov; 42(11): 2429-36.
With Over 180 Years of Expertise... King’s College Hospital London is The First British Hospital in Saudi Arabia
The first British hospital in the Kingdom, with a legacy of over 180 years of medical excellence, has commenced its operations to deliver the renowned British model of healthcare at international standards within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s healthcare sector. This inauguration marks a significant milestone in the ongoing medical collaboration between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom, reflecting the hospital’s commitment to transferring British expertise and standards to the national healthcare system. It aligns with Saudi Vision 2030 and the Health Sector Transformation Program, which aims to enhance healthcare infrastructure, improve service efficiency, and embrace digital and medical innovations. The full operational launch of King’s College Hospital London – Jeddah represents a strategic step within Saudi Arabia’s healthcare ecosystem. The hospital comprises a wide range of specialized medical centers, including cardiology, orthopedics, women’s health,
oncology, pediatrics, and general surgery. The hospital’s services are supported by state-ofthe-art medical technologies that keep pace with global medical advancements, providing advanced diagnostic and therapeutic services aimed at improving health outcomes for citizens and residents alike.
Global Expertise and Trusted Medical Legacy
The hospital operates under the King’s College Hospital London Group, one of the United Kingdom’s oldest and most prestigious medical, educational, and research institutions. This partnership represents the fusion of outstanding British medical expertise with Saudi Arabia’s healthcare vision, aiming to transfer knowledge and localize medical skills within the Kingdom.
Focus on Patient Experience
The hospital’s care model integrates modern
THE FULL OPERATIONAL LAUNCH OF KING’S COLLEGE HOSPITAL LONDON – JEDDAH REPRESENTS A STRATEGIC STEP WITHIN SAUDI ARABIA’S HEALTHCARE ECOSYSTEM. THE HOSPITAL COMPRISES A WIDE RANGE OF SPECIALIZED MEDICAL CENTERS, INCLUDING CARDIOLOGY, ORTHOPEDICS, WOMEN’S HEALTH, ONCOLOGY, PEDIATRICS, AND GENERAL SURGERY. THE HOSPITAL’S SERVICES ARE SUPPORTED BY STATEOF-THE-ART MEDICAL TECHNOLOGIES THAT KEEP PACE WITH GLOBAL MEDICAL ADVANCEMENTS, PROVIDING ADVANCED DIAGNOSTIC AND THERAPEUTIC SERVICES AIMED AT IMPROVING HEALTH OUTCOMES FOR CITIZENS AND RESIDENTS ALIKE.
Dr. Emad R. Sagr
Ms. Claire Smith
technology with human compassion through a comprehensive digital system that simplifies appointment booking, service access, and continuous post-treatment follow-up. The facility also provides a therapeutic environment featuring architectural designs that ensure privacy and comfort, along with premium hospitality services that create a reassuring atmosphere for patients.
The hospital is staffed by an internationally qualified medical team, including consultants and specialists trained at renowned British and global hospitals, working alongside highly experienced Saudi professionals. The hospital aims to serve as a hub for knowledge exchange and professional development, focusing on empowering Saudi talent and enhancing their capabilities to take leadership roles in the Kingdom’s healthcare future.
Excellence in Care
Dr. Emad R. Sagr, Chief Medical Officer of King’s College Hospital London – Jeddah, emphasized that the hospital aims to establish global standards in medical practice through highly qualified teams and advanced technologies, stating: “We are committed to delivering medical care built on precision
and expertise, guided by British standards in diagnosis and treatment. We also strive to make the patient experience at King’s College Jeddah a model of integrated care that reflects a balance between quality and compassion. Our focus is on developing an exceptional treatment experience that enables patients in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to receive safe, high-quality healthcare, contributing to the objectives of the National Health Transformation and Vision 2030.”
Sustainable Healthcare
Ms. Claire Smith, CEO of King’s College Hospital London – Jeddah, affirmed that the full-scale launch of the hospital reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to developing an integrated and sustainable healthcare model, stating: “The hospital delivers a world-class medical experience within the Kingdom. We strive to harness innovation and medical intelligence to provide care rooted in quality and compassion, in line with Vision 2030’s objectives of improving quality of life.” She added: “The presence of King’s College Hospital London in Jeddah serves as a knowledge bridge linking British expertise with Saudi aspirations to build a world-class healthcare system within the Kingdom.”
THE HOSPITAL IS STAFFED BY AN INTERNATIONALLY QUALIFIED MEDICAL TEAM, INCLUDING CONSULTANTS AND SPECIALISTS TRAINED AT RENOWNED BRITISH AND GLOBAL HOSPITALS, WORKING ALONGSIDE HIGHLY EXPERIENCED SAUDI PROFESSIONALS. THE HOSPITAL AIMS TO SERVE AS A HUB FOR KNOWLEDGE EXCHANGE AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, FOCUSING ON EMPOWERING SAUDI TALENT AND ENHANCING THEIR CAPABILITIES TO TAKE LEADERSHIP ROLES IN THE KINGDOM’S HEALTHCARE FUTURE.
"Health Budgets"
Don't Add Up: A Forward Agenda for Access, Equity, and Delivery
Ali Elhaj, LLM., Ph. D. Healthcare CEO, Board Member. Risk Governance, Forecast. Implementation. Advisor and Strategist.
Every year, health budgets are announced with promise, yet the reality remains: waiting lists grow, emergency rooms overcrowd, and families face crippling bills. This persistent gap exists because we fund systems of the past, not the needs of presentday patients. To achieve different outcomes by 2026, we must budget for a different health system now. Current challenges are stark. Prices for medicines and technologies outpace general inflation, while supply disruptions and unequal access to advanced therapies widen treatment gaps.
Donor funds often remain fragmented, failing to strengthen primary care or community health. Consequently, many governments have extended paper coverage faster than groundlevel capacity, creating queues instead of access. Out-of-pocket costs stay high for the most vulnerable, primary and mental health care are chronically underfunded, and workforce burnout is endemic. To close this budget-needs gap, we must enact three fundamental shifts:
Pool purchasing across regions for essential medicines and vaccines to secure better prices and steadier supplies. Expand voluntary licensing and tiered pricing to speed up access to innovations for safety-net populations. Direct a fixed share of development funding to health system foundations, data standards, community health platforms, and climate-resilient facilities, rather than solely disease-specific programs.
Nationally: Fund What Works and Protect Households
Move from incremental to needs-based budgets tied to disease burden and deprivation. Fence annual growth for primary care and enforce mental-health parity. Reform payment models with blended capitation for primary care and bundled payments for high-volume pathways like diabetes and maternal care. Cap out-ofpocket costs for the poorest and automate
enrollment in support programs. Build a real workforce strategy with training pipelines, tasksharing, and rural incentives to grow capacity where patients live.
Locally: Redesign Access and Standardize Care
Make same-day primary and behavioral health appointments the default. Establish nurse-led chronic clinics, virtual wards, and hospital-athome services. Implement integrated care pathways with navigators for vulnerable groups. Fund practical equity enablers like transport vouchers, translation services, and community health workers. Fix digital basics with one patient ID and interoperable records to drive targeted recalls for immunizations and chronic disease management. Before approving any program, we must demand answers to:
• Who benefits first, and who is left behind?
• Which barrier (distance, language, stigma, cost) is removed?
• How much does this reduce out-of-pocket costs for the poorest households?
• Which metric improves by when, and who is accountable?
We must earmark taxes for prevention and use blended finance for infrastructure. Sign outcomes-based contracts and create regional reinsurance pools for catastrophic cases.
The minimum required budget growth must cover population demand, disease burden, health-specific inflation, and a dedicated equity catch-up for underserved areas and primary care. Anything less consciously chooses longer waits, worse outcomes, and deeper inequity.
This is not about spending more everywhere, but spending smarter where it counts: primary care and mental health upfront, pooled purchasing and smart payments in the middle, and rigorous transparency at the end.
Next year’s budgets can repeat the ritual or rewrite the results. The difference is whether we fund yesterday’s line items or tomorrow’s health system.
