Burjeel Holdings Unveils Genetics and Rare Disease Centre in Abu Dhabi: A New Era of Care for Rare Conditions
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD) – In a significant stride towards enhancing patient care for those afflicted with rare and genetic diseases, Burjeel Holdings has launched the Genetics and Rare Disease Centre at Burjeel Medical City in Abu Dhabi. This state-of-the-art facility aims to address a critical gap in the healthcare system by providing specialized care tailored to the complexities associated with these often-overlooked conditions.
Rare diseases, defined as illnesses that affect fewer than one in 2,000 individuals, pose a substantial challenge to global healthcare, impacting an estimated 5% to 10% of the population worldwide. In the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region alone, over 40 million individuals are believed to be affected, with a staggering 70% of these conditions being genetic in nature. The multifaceted challenges associated with rare diseases include limited public awareness, insufficient access to genetic testing, and the pervasive systemic implications of these conditions, which can involve multiple organ systems and necessitate coordinated care across specialties.
At the helm of the new centre is Professor Ayman El-Hattab, a distinguished expert in genetics who also serves as the Founder of the MENA Organization for Rare Diseases. His leadership is complemented by a team of leading specialists, including Professor Khaled Musallam and Professor Faisal Khan, all of whom bring a wealth of expertise to the centre’s multidisciplinary approach.
The Genetics and Rare Disease Centre operates through three core units, each designed to cater to the diverse needs of patients and their families:
1. Clinical Care Unit: This unit provides comprehensive diagnosis and management services across various subspecialties, including Cancer Genetics, Prenatal and Reproductive Genetics, Neurogenetics, Clinical Genetics, and Metabolic Clinics. By integrating these disciplines, the centre streamlines patient care, ensuring that individuals receive a holistic evaluation and tailored treatment plans that address their unique genetic profiles.
2. Innovative Trials Unit: Here, the focus shifts to advancing the field of genetics through cutting-edge research and clinical trials. This unit engages in observational cohort studies and facilitates patient access to global clinical trials for emerging therapies. It underscores a commitment to pioneering innovative treatments that may offer hope to patients with rare conditions, often in situations where traditional therapies have proven inadequate.
3. Social Integration and Education Unit: Recognizing the importance of community awareness, this unit is dedicated to raising public consciousness about rare diseases and genetic testing. It conducts seminars and outreach programs targeting healthcare professionals and the broader community. By fostering education and dialogue, the centre aims to dismantle stigma and generate support for affected individuals.
As Professor Musallam remarked, the establishment of the centre represents a pivotal moment in the landscape of healthcare, particularly concerning clinical trials. It provides an invaluable opportunity for patients to gain early access to advanced therapies that could significantly improve their quality of life.
John Sunil, the Group CEO of Burjeel Holdings, emphasized the importance of this initiative, describing it as a critical milestone in bridging the divide between high-quality healthcare and the patients who desperately need it. By integrating clinical excellence with research and educational components, the Genetics and Rare Disease Centre stands poised to transform the experience of individuals dealing with rare and genetic conditions, ensuring they receive not only the medical attention required but also the support necessary for holistic well-being.
In summary, the launch of the Genetics and Rare Disease Centre at Burjeel Medical City marks a monumental advancement in healthcare provision for rare diseases in the MENA region. With its multidisciplinary approach and commitment to education and research, the centre sets a new standard for patient care and underscores Burjeel Holdings’ role as a leader in the fight against rare diseases. As these efforts take shape, it is anticipated that the centre will not only enhance clinical outcomes for patients but also foster a broader understanding and acceptance of rare diseases within the community at large.
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