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health

MoHAP hosts ‘Innovation… for Sustainable Health’ event

by Madaline Dunn 1 year ago

written by Madaline Dunn

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) recently hosted the “Innovation…for Sustainable Health” event at its Dubai headquarters, featuring a series of interactive workshops and sessions aimed at showcasing the health sector’s developments, services, and role in promoting healthy living habits.

Held in conjunction with the UAE Innovation Month under the theme of “UAE Innovates 2024,” the event featured a number of sessions and workshops on everything from the future of the sector in the UAE and Emiratisation to the ideal health model and global health sector trends.

HE Dr. Mohammed Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), commented: “Guided by the wise leadership’s directives, MoHAP is committed to developing a strategic national framework for innovation while also nurturing an institutional culture that actively promotes innovation, research, and development.”

Adding: “This framework can serve as a guiding light towards delivering premier health services supported by cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and smart systems.”

“The Ministry strives to achieve its vision by delivering comprehensive and innovative health services, coupled with its regulatory and supervisory functions via a sophisticated health legislative framework.”

1 year ago 0 comments

Organon and Flat6Labs launch second edition of Women’s Health Accelerator Program

by Madaline Dunn 1 year ago

written by Madaline Dunn

Global healthcare company Organon, in partnership with seed and early-stage venture capital firm Flat6Labs, has announced the launch of the second edition of the Women’s Health Accelerator Program.

The accelerator initiative was launched to address specific health challenges faced by women in the region, with the aim of finding sustainable and long-term solutions.

The initiative also aims to empower digital health startups with solutions to enhance women’s health across the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey (MENAT) region.

The inaugural Accelerator Program saw three female-founded digital health start-ups in MENA selected as winners, including UAE-founded ‘Maternally,’ a platform supporting women’s mental health needs.

The second edition of the program focuses on innovation across three areas:

Family planning,
Fertility and
Women’s wellness.

Further, it spotlights digital solutions that can help improve accessibility, empower individuals, and enhance overall quality of well-being.

Commenting on the launch, Ramy Koussa – Associate Vice President for Middle East, North Africa & Turkey (MENAT) at Organon, said: “Launching the second edition of the Women’s Health Accelerator Program marks a significant milestone in our ongoing commitment to advancing women’s health in the MENAT region. Investing in improving women’s health not only improves women’s quality of life but also enables them to thrive in the workforce. Therefore, we want to support entrepreneurs to drive forward the next wave of innovations and solutions.”

Yehia Houry, Chief Programs Officer at Flat6Labs, added: “As we embark on the second edition of the Women’s Health Accelerator Program, we are thrilled to amplify our support for entrepreneurs shaping the future of women’s healthcare. This initiative is not just about innovation; it’s about empowering visionary minds to create lasting impact. Our ongoing partnership with Organon and the evolving focus of this edition reaffirm our commitment to fostering a dynamic ecosystem for women-led startups. Together, we aim to revolutionize the healthcare landscape, ensuring it reflects the diverse and nuanced needs of women across the MENAT region.”

The program will also include community events, such as specialised training sessions and seminars.

1 year ago 0 comments

CTC launches second health and wellness program for automotive technicians

by Madaline Dunn 1 year ago

written by Madaline Dunn

Back in January, the Central Trading Company (CTC) launched its second annual health and wellness program for automotive technicians across the Emirates. Wrapping up on February 15, the public initiative aimed to reach over 10,000 automotive technicians in various workshops throughout the Emirates.

Powered by Castrol Lubricants, a part of the BP group, the program deployed four medical vans across all the emirates, staffed with Aster Clinic medical professionals and testing equipment, to provide essential health services.

A variety of medical tests were offered for free, including blood sugar and blood pressure tests.

Automotive technicians then received a privilege card after their test results, entitling them to a 30% discount on all non-insurance covered procedures at Aster Clinics and a 25% discount at Aster Hospitals, valid until March 2025 upon presentation of the card provided by the CTC and Castrol.

Further, the program also included various interactive activities, such as football challenges and strength competitions.

Speaking about the initiative, Mohammed Aqel, General Manager of CTC, said: “At the heart of the automotive aftermarket industry are the dedicated technicians who ensure our customers’ vehicles run smoothly. This program is our way of acknowledging their hard work and commitment.”

Adding: “This is our second year championing their health and happiness in partnership with Castrol. Our aim is to give back to the community by taking care of the overall well-being of our workforce.”

Sri Kumar, an automotive technician, said: “It is tough to find time to get these necessary health checks when you are working all day. Having the medical team come right to our workplace is a huge help and makes things so much easier for us.”

1 year ago 0 comments

Governance Innovation & Education Latest News

Moza Omar Al Futtaim appointed as Al-Futtaim Group Chief AI Officer

by Madaline Dunn 1 year ago

written by Madaline Dunn

Al-Futtaim Group has announced the appointment of Moza Omar Al Futtaim as its Chief AI Officer.

In this role, Al Futtaim will manage the adoption of AI across the Group’s various divisions – including Automotive, Financial Services, Retail, Real Estate, Health, and “Blue” the Group’s reward programme.

Commenting on the new role, Moza Al Futtaim said: “I am thrilled to embark on this exciting journey as Al-Futtaim Group’s Chief AI Officer. The potential of AI to transform our business operations and customer experiences is immense. In the present highly competitive market, adopting AI enables companies to stay ahead of the curve as well as accelerate the pace of change.”

Adding: “In this new capacity, I aim to foster a culture of innovation and learning, ensuring that AI becomes a cornerstone of our growth strategy. Together, we will unlock new opportunities, drive efficiency, and create unparalleled value for our customers, employees, and stakeholders.”

The company shared that establishing the role of Chief AI Officer aligns with the Group’s vision for the future, where AI-driven solutions are an integral part of growth and development.

In the wider UAE context, the UAE government has implemented a comprehensive artificial intelligence strategy with the aim of becoming a world leader in AI by 2031.

This strategy, known as the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, focuses on leveraging AI across various key sectors to enhance economic growth, sustainability, and quality of life.

1 year ago 0 comments

Innovation & Education Intelligence Latest News

UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention, Emirates Health Services and AI71 partner on health innovation

by Madaline Dunn 1 year ago

written by Madaline Dunn

The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) and Emirates Health Services (EHS) have announced a strategic partnership with AI company AI71, created by Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC) and VentureOne.

The partnership is aimed at driving AI innovation in healthcare and will see AI technology via AI71’s medical large language model (LLM), RAZI71, integrated into the healthcare infrastructure of the UAE.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by HE Dr Mohammed Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary of MoHAP, HE Dr Yousif Mohammed Al-Serkal, Director General of the Emirates Health Services (EHS), and Shahab Issa Abu Shahab, Director General of ATRC on day 3 at the World Governments Summit (WGS) 2024.

RAZI71 is powered by Falcon LLM, the UAE’s series of open-source AI models, and is designed to transform healthcare delivery. It was shared that it offers advanced care solutions that aim to enhance patient outcomes while also bolstering the capabilities of healthcare professionals.

The agreement, it was noted, will help in advancing proactive health management strategies, integrating advanced analytics, refining clinical decision support systems, and enhancing patient monitoring.

Speaking about the partnership, HE Dr. Mohammed Salim Al Olama, said: “The signing of the MoU with AI71, aligns with the Ministry’s commitment to advancing the use of generative artificial intelligence as a sustainable approach in the evolution of future healthcare and health data management. It also supports proactive health management, integrates advanced analytics, improves decision support systems, and facilitates comprehensive healthcare. This initiative is in line with the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, aimed at solidifying the nation’s position and leadership in artificial intelligence and fostering a knowledge-based economy.”

1 year ago 0 comments

Energy Environment Innovation & Education Special Reports

Dubai Future Foundation report reveals ten megatrends shaping the world

by Madaline Dunn 1 year ago

written by Madaline Dunn

The second edition of Dubai Future Foundation’s annual report, “Navigating Megatrends Shaping Our Future in 2024”, published today during WGS, has highlighted ten megatrends shaping the world.

The report examines the indicators shaping these megatrends, supported by evidence from today and future expectations.

One of these trends is the materials revolution, where new types of materials will create a shift in industry with solutions based on artificial intelligence (AI), such as biopolymers, biorefineries, and chemical recycling, facilitating the development of new biological and novel materials that could rival plastics.

Secondly, it is highlighted that the availability of raw data will vastly increase, which it said will be enabled by developments such as 5G and 6G in addition to advanced connectivity.

The Internet of Things (IoT) will continue being deployed in healthcare, agriculture, and smart cities, especially in the Middle East, it is noted.

Meanwhile, the cybersecurity sector will boom amid a sharp rise in smart home devices and wearable tech, and, the debate on the future of decentralised finance will continue.

Advances in tech and growing energy demand are also set to drive the pursuit of alternative sources of energy, with novel materials and machine intelligence enhancing current sources of energy, including their distribution around the world and in space.

Approaches to conservation will be more interdisciplinary and future-focused, it was shared, and environmental impact management will become increasingly holistic.

Advances in communications, computing, and advanced machine intelligence are also set to accelerate the creation of a borderless world that will change how we work, live, and connect.

The spread of 5G and 6G networks, the report notes, will also enhance the applications of autonomous technologies and IoT. As quantum technologies become scalable and reliable, immersive experiences will become even more realistic.

Robotics and automation will also increasingly be deployed across industries beyond automotive, manufacturing and supply chain logistics. However, alongside opportunities for efficiency and innovation, the report highlights that there will also be ethical challenges to address.

Elsewhere, new workplace norms will emerge, with people needing to adapt to non-traditional skill sets in digital literacy, communications, culture and sustainability.

Accelerated progress in advanced machine intelligence, nano- and biotechnology, additive manufacturing, and IoT will also transform health and nutrition.

Further, it forecasts that technology will reduce, if not eradicate, some communicable and non-communicable diseases and enhance the sustainable use of and access to water and food.

Speaking about the report, His Excellency Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of Dubai Future Foundation, said: “This report has been launched in line with DFF’s efforts to identify and communicate those trends with most potential to shape opportunities and strengthen local and international partnerships to overcome current and future challenges.”

“The challenges that face us on our journey to the future require that we are agile enough to be able to adapt to rapid change. It is vital we pay attention to the signals we detect – only then can we be prepared to overcome challenges and seize opportunities. The World Governments Summit provides a platform for discussing these challenges and exploring the opportunities.”

Read the full report here.

1 year ago 0 comments

Innovation & Education Latest News

M42 announces Microbiome Wellness Program

by Madaline Dunn 1 year ago

written by Madaline Dunn

M42, the global tech-enabled health company based in Abu Dhabi, has announced the launch of the M42 Microbiome Wellness Program.

Exclusively at M42, this initiative combines advanced DNA sequencing technology with personalised consultations.

The program is available at Mubadala Health Dubai and is set to be launched at other M42 assets, including Healthpoint in the future.

Speaking about the importance of the microbiome, Dr Pranab Gyawali, said: “It’s truly a new, exciting frontier that not many people are aware of. In a nutshell, the microbiome comprises the diverse community of bacteria, viruses and fungi residing within the intestine. These microorganisms, along with the metabolites they produce, play a crucial role in various bodily functions such as immunity, digestion and brain functioning. We now recognize the significance of these products in contributing to and enhancing the overall well-being of the body.”

The program, featuring the advanced shotgun metagenomic sequencing technology, provides quick turnaround times and is licensed by the Ministry of Health and Prevention, with the test generating a comprehensive 60-page report, providing insights for personalised recommendations by healthcare professionals.

It offers tailored solutions for diverse health goals, from addressing gut issues to enhancing sports performance, weight management and diabetes management.

It was noted that the program also has potential in sports performance by targeting specific gut bacteria that enhance athletic abilities through lactic acid metabolism and muscle recovery promotion.

Further, M42 shared that beyond digestion and immunity, ongoing research explores links between the microbiome and conditions like autoimmune diseases and neurodegenerative disorders.

1 year ago 0 comments

Landmark Group calls for participation in annual Beat Diabetes walk

by Madaline Dunn 1 year ago

written by Madaline Dunn

Retail and hospitality conglomerate Landmark Group has called for participation in the 14th edition of the annual Beat Diabetes walk.

Set to take place at Za’abeel Park, Dubai, on Sunday, February 18, the event is a collaborative effort between the private sector, government entities, and not-for-profit organisations.

The event will feature an optional 2km walk beginning at 8 AM, alongside sports and edutainment activities for participants and their children until 1 PM.

Landmark Group noted that the UAE currently has one of the world’s highest rates of diabetes, with rates expected to increase to 21.4 percent by 2030.

Further, it is projected that one billion people globally may be affected by diabetes by 2050.

As such, the event serves as a platform for proactive health initiatives in response to escalating diabetes rates.

It was noted that over the years, organising 13 Beat Diabetes Walks has seen walks attended by over 150,000 participants and 550,000 free blood glucose tests conducted. Further, it has reached 30,000 children through various programs and established over 100 partnerships with private and public sector organisations.

All proceeds from the charity event will be directed towards the treatment of diabetes through the Al Jalila Foundation, a UAE-based not-for-profit organisation established by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, it was shared.

Speaking about the event’s mission, Nisha Jagtiani, Group Director, Landmark Group, said: “By embracing healthy lifestyle choices as families and communities, we not just act to prevent diabetes but also foster overall well-being. ‘Step Into a Healthier Tomorrow’ is the key focus that we would like to promote through the 14th edition of Beat Diabetes to emphasise the vital role of instilling healthy habits in empowering the next generation.”

“We are grateful to all our partners Dubai Sports Council, Dubai Municipality, Al Jalila Foundation, Lions Clubs International, Aster DM Healthcare, Eucerin, Mashreq, PWC, Allied Transport Company and Dubai Insurance for their unwavering support and belief in this initiative.”

Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO of Aster DM Healthcare GCC, commented: “It is an incredible initiative and aligns with our overall vision to encourage a healthy lifestyle and adopt necessary preventative measures against lifestyle diseases like diabetes. With Aster joining as the health and wellness partner, we want to educate people to take measures that are easily accessible today. Diabetes is a silent killer and we want people to not let the disease hamper their life. The power of awareness, the power of knowledge, the power of modification and the power of support is our pledge to you. Individuals attending the event would have an opportunity to undertake a free diabetes test at the Aster zone.”

1 year ago 0 comments

Innovation & Education Latest News

Philips showcases healthcare innovations at Arab Health 2024

by Madaline Dunn 1 year ago

written by Madaline Dunn

Royal Philips has announced the unveiling of a range of next-generation innovations and solutions at Arab Health 2024, running from January 29 – February 1 in Dubai, UAE.

These innovations include next-generation ultrasound systems that increase diagnostic confidence and workflow efficiency, workflow optimisation through AI-powered innovations in MR (SmartSpeed), and new AI-enabled cloud solutions aimed at enhancing healthcare efficiency and clinical confidence.

Other solutions on display include the Philips’ Visual Patient Avatar; the MR 5300 and the IntelliSite Pathology Solution, among others.

It is also showcasing the interoperability of Philips MDIP (Medical Device Information Platform) Integration with Philips Patient Information Center iX (PIC iX), providing hospitals with a first-of-its-kind, comprehensive patient overview.

Commenting on Philips’ participation, Vincenzo Ventricelli, CEO, Philips Middle East, Türkiye and Africa (META), said: “Philips’ showcase at Arab Health 2024 is centered on our commitment to redesign healthcare around patients and caregivers, enabled by the latest technological innovations and purposeful partnerships. We are unlocking new opportunities and co-creating solutions that are crucial for tomorrow, while staying committed to enabling healthcare to work better for patients, caregivers, and the planet, today.”

Adding: “Philips’ long history of collaboration and innovation ideally positions us to help care providers identify new future-ready opportunities and solutions designed to make healthcare work better. While we have the experience, expertise and end-to-end solutions, we know we cannot do it alone, which is why we are excited to engage with our customers and stakeholders to co-create patient and planet-centric care that realizes a healthier future across the region – right here at Arab Health 2024.”

1 year ago 0 comments

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