KUWAIT CITY, April 19: Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi affirmed that the annual conference of the Kuwait Association of Rheumatologists serves as a distinguished scientific platform for exchanging expertise and discussing advancements that contribute to enhancing the quality of healthcare for patients with rheumatic diseases, both locally and regionally.

In his opening remarks—delivered on his behalf by Dr. Abdullah Al-Fars, Assistant Undersecretary for Medical Support Services—at the Association’s third annual conference, which began on Friday under the Minister’s patronage, Dr. Al-Awadhi stated that the event brings together leading rheumatology experts from around the world to review the latest developments in rheumatic and autoimmune diseases, with participation at both regional and international levels.

He noted that as part of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to enhance rheumatology services, national medical registries have been established for rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and lupus, along with a dedicated registry for pediatric rheumatism. These registries serve as vital scientific databases that help improve the quality of care, support the development of treatment plans, and advance medical research.

Dr. Al-Awadhi stressed the Ministry’s commitment to building national capacities by prioritizing specialized training. In collaboration with international experts, the Ministry has organized workshops and training sessions aimed at equipping Kuwaiti medical personnel with the skills to utilize advanced ultrasound technologies in diagnosing joint and musculoskeletal diseases, as well as managing cases of autoimmune vasculitis.

To further improve diagnostic and therapeutic services, the Ministry has introduced musculoskeletal ultrasound and peripheral capillary microscopy for patients with Raynaud’s disease across hospitals in Kuwait. He also highlighted the opening of a vascular ultrasound clinic at Mubarak Al-Kabeer Hospital to diagnose giant cell arteritis, marking a significant addition to the country’s treatment capabilities.

Recognizing the importance of integrated healthcare, the Minister noted the establishment of multidisciplinary clinics that bring together rheumatologists with specialists in dermatology, nephrology, obstetrics and gynecology, and respiratory medicine, aiming to provide comprehensive care to patients with complex conditions.

Among the Ministry’s notable initiatives, Dr. Al-Awadhi cited the creation of a fibromyalgia clinic at Al-Sabah Hospital, developed in cooperation with rheumatologists and mental health professionals to meet the needs of patients suffering from this chronic and often misunderstood disease.

He also announced the launch of a transition clinic at Al-Adan Hospital to support patients moving from pediatric to adult care, ensuring continuity and efficiency in medical follow-up.

On the regional and international front, Dr. Al-Awadhi noted that Kuwait had the honor of hosting the ASAS International Conference, dedicated to the latest scientific developments in the diagnosis and treatment of ankylosing spondylitis. This event, he said, marks a significant achievement for the country. Kuwait also hosted the Arab Rheumatology Associations Conference and the first unified Gulf Conference for Gulf Rheumatology Associations, reinforcing Kuwait’s status as a regional leader in medical collaboration and innovation.

Dr. Al-Awadhi praised the contributions of Kuwaiti medical professionals at Gulf and international conferences, where their research papers and scientific posters have received wide recognition. He also highlighted the development of updated national treatment guidelines for rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and preventive vaccinations—efforts that help standardize medical practice in line with global standards.

He concluded by emphasizing the dedication of rheumatology departments across the Ministry’s hospitals to promoting public health awareness through annual events such as World Rheumatism Day and Lupus Day, aimed at educating patients and their families.

Speaking at the conference, Dr. Heba Al-Hajri, Chair of the Third Annual Conference of the Kuwait Association of Rheumatologists, said the event gathers a distinguished group of experts and speakers from Kuwait and abroad, offering a unique opportunity to exchange knowledge and explore recent advancements in rheumatology at both Gulf and international levels.

This year’s conference, she explained, features six international speakers, two regional speakers, and 25 local experts, enriching the scientific program and fostering a multidisciplinary dialogue. The event includes focused discussion sessions under the theme “Meet the Experts,” which address key conditions such as lupus, vasculitis, and ankylosing spondylitis. It also offers specialized workshops for internists and primary care physicians, along with sessions tailored for pediatric rheumatology specialists.

In a significant scientific development, Dr. Al-Hajri announced a collaborative initiative with international experts to develop a unified Kuwaiti treatment protocol for autoimmune vasculitis. She also revealed the upcoming launch of the Kuwaiti Rheumatology Fellowship Program at the Kuwait Institute for Medical Specialties, with the full support of the Ministry of Health.