DOHA, Qatar, Oct 15: On Monday, Kuwaiti Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi awarded the 2024 Kuwait Prize for the Control of Cancer, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Diabetes to Dr. Asem Hamza from Jordan and Professor Davoud Khalili from Iran. This award is part of Kuwait's ongoing global efforts to combat chronic diseases and enhance public health.

The award ceremony took place during the 71st session of the World Health Organization's Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, which commenced in Doha on Monday and will conclude on October 17. In his speech, Minister Al-Awadhi emphasized that "this award reflects Kuwait's firm commitment to supporting scientific research and pioneering initiatives aimed at improving the health of people in our region and the world." He highlighted Kuwait's decades-long efforts to promote public health through a comprehensive approach to tackling chronic diseases, particularly those that threaten millions, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes.

He also noted that combating these diseases is a key priority within Kuwait's national development plan and the government and Ministry of Health work program. Al-Awadhi stressed the launch of numerous ambitious programs and initiatives focusing on prevention and early diagnosis to mitigate the health, social, and economic burdens associated with these diseases. These initiatives include extensive awareness campaigns designed to educate society about the risk factors linked to these illnesses.

Al-Awadhi underscored the importance of enhancing regional and international cooperation to address these health challenges, expressing pride that Kuwait is at the forefront of countries supporting research and innovation in health. He highlighted Kuwait's commitment to building strong partnerships with various nations and international organizations to tackle these challenges.

The Minister congratulated this year’s award winners, praising their scientific and research accomplishments. He specifically commended Dr. Asem Hamza for his outstanding contributions to cancer control and his tireless efforts to improve patient health and advance medical research, describing his work as a model to be emulated in the medical field. He also recognized Professor Davoud Khalili for his distinguished efforts in combating cardiovascular diseases, noting that his scientific contributions significantly impact the fight against chronic diseases affecting millions in the region. Al-Awadhi wished him continued success in his scientific career.

Additionally, the Kuwaiti Minister of Health expressed sincere gratitude to Dr. Hanan Balkhi, the Regional Director of the World Health Organization for the Eastern Mediterranean, for her exceptional leadership and ongoing support for health initiatives in the region. He also thanked the World Health Organization Secretariat for organizing the award and recognizing innovators in public health, as well as Dr. Hanan Al Kuwari, the Minister of Public Health in Qatar, for her warm hospitality and the successful organization of this session.

In conclusion, Al-Awadhi stressed that "this honor is not limited to the winners only, but extends to all those who work diligently and sincerely in combating chronic diseases and improving societal health." He reaffirmed that Kuwait will continue to support scientific research and enhance international and regional cooperation to build sustainable, healthy societies, emphasizing the importance of ongoing joint efforts to achieve common health goals.

It is noteworthy that the Kuwait Prize for the Control of Cancer, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Diabetes is an international award established in 2003 to honor individuals and institutions that contribute significantly to improving public health through scientific research and innovative health programs.

The Kuwaiti delegation participating in the 71st session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean includes, in addition to the Minister of Health, Dr. Hisham Kalander, Assistant Undersecretary for External Health Services; Dr. Nadia Al-Juma, Assistant Undersecretary for Health Care; Dr. Abdullah Al-Sanad, the Ministry's official spokesperson; Dr. Sondos Al-Qabandi, Head of the National Center for the Implementation of International Health Regulations; and Dr. Mohammed Al-Saeedan, Public Health Consultant at the Ministry.