The Gulf Association of Endocrinology and Diabetes concluded its annual conference in Dubai yesterday under the leadership of Dr Wiam Hussein, president of the association and senior consultant endocrinologist at Royal Bahrain Hospital.
The two-day event brought together more than 1,000 physicians and specialists from across the GCC, the Middle East, and around the world.
Recognised as one of the region’s leading scientific gatherings, the conference addressed key challenges related to diabetes, obesity, osteoporosis and hormonal disorders, serving as a premier platform for medical collaboration and knowledge exchange.
It took place amid a sharp rise in diabetes and obesity rates across the Gulf where up to 20 per cent of adults live with diabetes and nearly 40pc are obese, according to the International Diabetes Federation.
Experts warned that without stronger prevention and early detection measures, the number of diabetes patients could exceed 15 million in the GCC by 2040.
A major highlight of the conference was the signing of two landmark international co-operation agreements between the Gulf Association and both The Endocrine Society (US) and the European Society of Endocrinology – the first partnerships of their kind in the region. These agreements aim to enhance scientific collaboration, support joint research and expand professional training opportunities to improve healthcare standards across the GCC.
The conference featured around 50 international speakers and received 120 scientific abstracts from GCC researchers. Outstanding contributions in research and community service were recognised through several awards.
In his closing remarks, Dr Wiam Hussein announced the launch of the GCC’s first specialised medical journal dedicated to endocrinology and diabetes research, an initiative that reflects the association’s commitment to promoting innovation, education and healthcare excellence throughout the region.
Founded to advance research, education and awareness, the Gulf Association of Endocrinology and Diabetes continues to lead initiatives that address chronic diseases and elevate diagnostic and treatment standards in the Gulf region, its members say.
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