- Country-specific genome programmes, such as the Emirati Genome Programme, offer crucial insights into Middle Eastern patient mutations.
- Genomic data and personalised medicine, along with AI, can enhance life quality and longevity.
- The NextGen Medicine Zone and Conference is a new addition to Medlab Middle East 2024, highlighting a crucial sector in healthcare.
Insights from country-specific genome programs, such as the Emirati Genome Programme, play a pivotal role in understanding mutations in Middle Eastern patients. The recently published Global Healthspan Report highlights that cardiovascular disease, cancer, and obesity collectively contribute to one-third of the disease burden in the Middle East and Africa (MENA) region. In Saudi Arabia, non-communicable diseases account for 32.15% prevalence, leading to 73% of all deaths.
Addressing these health challenges at the NextGen Medicine Conference, part of Medlab Middle East 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), Dr. Karolina Kobus, Head of Molecular Genomics and Precision Medicine Laboratory and Technology and Innovation Advisor at EXPRESSMED Diagnostics & Research, emphasized the role of genomic data, personalized medicine, and artificial intelligence (AI) in improving preventative strategies and enhancing both the length and quality of life.
Dr. Kobus stressed the importance of local genomics initiatives like the Emirati Genome Programme and the Qatar Genome Programme, emphasizing the need for tailored preventative and diagnostic strategies based on the genetic makeup of the local population.
Chaired by Dr. Kobus, the NextGen Medicine Conference explores the intersection of medicine and AI, discussing cutting-edge applications in diagnostics, treatment development, personalized medicine, and healthcare delivery. Topics at the conference include recent Arab Genome initiatives, precision oncology, pharmacogenetics, breast cancer genomics, personalized oncology, and AI in pathology.
Part of the newly introduced NextGen Medicine feature at Medlab Middle East, hosted in partnership with ExpressMed Diagnostics and Research, the conference showcases over 100 exhibitors and focuses on customizing healthcare for individuals using advanced technologies and developments in medical science.
Tom Coleman, Senior Exhibition Director, Medlab Series, Informa Markets, highlighted the significance of the UAE’s 10-year genome strategy and advanced technologies like AI in addressing genetic disorders in the Arab world. Medlab Middle East, with over 30,000 visitors and 900 exhibitors from 180 countries, covers diverse tracks such as Laboratory Management, Haematology, Quality Management, Clinical Microbiology, Histopathology, Clinical Chemistry, Clinical Genomic Interpretation, Future of the Lab, Immunology, Blood Transfusion Medicine, and Sustainability in the Lab. The Medlab Middle East Congress, attracting over 5,000 delegates, provides education and solutions to advance laboratory skills.
The NextGen Medicine Conference continues on 6 February 2024 at Medlab Middle East at the Dubai World Trade Centre.
