Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, opened on Saturday the MENA Organisation for Rare Diseases Annual Meeting 2023 in Dubai.
Co-organised by the MENA Organisation for Rare Diseases and UAE Genetic Diseases Association, the three-day medical gathering is assembling 500 specialists and 100 speakers from 18 countries who will deliver the most updated knowledge in presentations, symposiums, and workshops related to rare diseases in various clinical fields including cardiology, pulmonary, neurology, oncology, metabolic, endocrine, pediatrics, and genetics.
The largest event for rare disease in the region will also emphasise on research, achievements, and latest advancements in diagnostics and therapeutics in rare diseases. The meeting will present awards to the best submitted abstracts, and several other awards.
Organisers say their goal is to bring all parties involved in rare diseases in one place to connect and exchange knowledge under one umbrella aiming to increase awareness, advance research, and provide better care for individuals with rare diseases.
The conference crowned by the launch of the Alnodra Award to honor the pioneers in the care of rare diseases from diagnosis to treatment and support for community members. Dr. Tawfeg Bin-Omran from Qatar was honored for his achievements in diagnosing and treating genetic diseases, Professor Maha Zaki from Egypt for her achievements in the National Center for Genetic Diseases, Professor Siham Elalaoui from Morocco for her achievements in the early detection program for breast and ovarian cancer, Dr. Maryam Al-Shehhi from Oman for her support for families affected by rare diseases, and the Word Duchenne Organization from the Netherlands.
People of determination heroes were also honored, including Mr. Abdullah Alsoori Alzaabi, who has muscular dystrophy and he obtained, with his ambition and passion, a master’s degree with distinction from the British University; and also the Mahra, who was treated for thalassemia with stem cells. Professor Eman Gaad, the pioneer in supporting people with special needs in all its spectrums, and Dr. Ayesha Alfalasi, the pioneer in volunteer work, were also honored. The Loulou Foundation was also honored for its support of research related to rare diseases. Sheikh Dr. Salem Bin Rakkad Al-Ameri was also honored for his continuous support for people with special needs, especially rare diseases.
News Source: Emirates News Agency