KUWAIT, Jan 19 (KUNA) -- The Health Ministry inaugurated on Monday the Fifth Conference on Stem Cell Transplantation and Gene Therapy for Children, a two-day event held under the patronage of Health Minister Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi and attended by leading international and regional experts.
Assistant Undersecretary for Medical Support Services, Dr. Abdullah Al-Fares, speaking on behalf of the conference patron, said the event reflects Kuwait's steadfast commitment to advancing its healthcare system and placing children's welfare at the forefront of national priorities.
He noted that the field of cellular and gene therapies is witnessing rapid global scientific progress and has become a cornerstone of modern medicine, particularly in treating hereditary blood disorders, immunodeficiency diseases, and refractory cancers in children.
Dr. Al-Fares highlighted Kuwait's achievements in pediatric stem cell transplantation, reporting nearly 97 successful cases carried out with national expertise and international standards, reflecting the competence of medical, nursing, and technical staff alongside the Ministry's continuous institutional support.
He emphasized that gene therapy is a strategic priority, with intensive efforts underway to make it available in Kuwait, applying scientific and regulatory standards to ensure the highest safety and quality levels for pediatric patients.
The conference chair and head of the Pediatric Hematology, Oncology, and Stem Cell Transplantation Department, Dr. Sundus Al-Shareeda, described the conference as a leading regional scientific platform, bringing together top experts to exchange the latest research in stem cell transplantation.
The scientific program features more than 40 specialized lectures over two days, delivered by over 35 international and regional speakers from leading reference hospitals and centers in Europe, the United States, the United Kingdom, and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
The conference also includes specialized practical workshops aimed at developing hands-on skills, transferring expertise, and enhancing rapid diagnostics and pediatric medical simulations. (end) ae.aa