Tribune News Network
Doha
The University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST) hosted the 3rd Diabetes Care Symposium under the theme ‘Empowering Person-Centred Diabetes Care and Innovation’, in collaboration with the National Diabetes Committee, Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), and Novo Nordisk, a leading global healthcare company.
The symposium marked another milestone in Qatar’s commitment to enhancing diabetes care and education.
Present at the symposium were Sheikh Dr. Mohamed bin Hamad Al Thani, director of Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Programs (MoPH); Prof. Abdul-Badi Abou-Samra, co-chair, National Diabetes Committee (MoPH) and director, Qatar Metabolic Institute (HMC); Dr. Rayana Ahmed Bou Haka, official representative of the World Health Organization (WHO) office in Qatar; researchers, distinguished guests, faculty, and students.
The event attracted a diverse audience of healthcare professionals and students, both locally and internationally. The symposium featured a dynamic program, including presentations, panel discussions, and an exhibition showcasing innovative advancements in diabetes care.
This year’s theme, ‘Empowering Person-Centred Diabetes Care and Innovation’, aligns with the International Diabetes Federation’s vision for 2024–2026, aiming to improve the quality of life for diabetes patients by empowering healthcare professionals and students with the necessary knowledge and skills.
Dr. Salem Al-Naemi, president of University of Doha for Science and Technology, commented: "This symposium serves as a vital scientific forum for healthcare professionals, where they exchange ideas and concepts on the latest trends in diabetes care. Through this symposium, we aim to empower healthcare providers to apply the latest strategies that contribute to improving the quality of life and health outcomes for diabetes patients. Diabetes represents a major global health challenge, and this symposium highlights the importance of collaboration and innovation in addressing this challenge.”
Prof Abdul Badi Abou-Samra, co-chair of the National Diabetes Committee at the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and director of the Qatar Metabolic Institute (QMI) at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), emphasised the importance of the forthcoming Action Plan on Obesity, Diabetes and Modifiable Risk Factors for ASCVDs (2024-2030) which will be officially launched at the World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH) 2024 on November 14 coinciding with World Diabetes Day.
"As we advance toward implementing the Action Plan, we are focussing on comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of obesity and diabetes in Qatar. Our approach aims to empower individuals, families and communities with the knowledge and resources to make healthier choices while strengthening preventive healthcare services and enabling Primary Care to deliver care closer to home. The 3rd Diabetes Care Symposium, held in collaboration with the University of Doha for Science and Technology (UDST), is a vital platform to share innovative practices and engage with healthcare professionals who play a crucial role in transforming patient care. Together, we strive to create a healthier future by tackling these challenges directly, inspiring change, and enhancing the quality of life for all.”
Venkat Kalyan, vice-president and general manager of Novo Nordisk Gulf, commented: "Novo Nordisk is grateful to be a part of today’s event and collaborate with University of Doha for Science and Technology to organise this symposium on diabetes care.”
Kalyan underscored the critical need to raise awareness about diabetes as a severe, chronic, and recurrent condition that has reached high prevalence levels in Qatar. Novo Nordisk continues its commitment to drive change in diabetes and the transformative progress in diabetes care through collaborative partnerships with key stakeholders and healthcare organisations.
Kalyan said, "We are committed to enhancing the quality of life for individuals living with diabetes by reshaping the preventive measures, and treatment approaches for diabetes.”
A vibrant exhibition took place alongside the symposium, featuring participation from several prominent healthcare institutions and private sector organizations, including the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), the National Obesity Treatment Centre (NoTC), the National Diabetes Research Centre (NDRC), and the Diabetes Education team of the Qatar Metabolic Institute (QMI), Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC), Sidra Medicine, The View Hospital, Qatar Diabetes Association (QDA), Ali bin Ali Medical, Wellcare Group, and Gateway Technology Healthcare. Additionally, UDST’s Master of Science in Diabetes Care and Patient Education Program (MScDCPE) was highlighted during the event.