
Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi honours 600+ caregivers for decade of dedication
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)Continuing its 10-year anniversary celebrations, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi hosted a special event to honour more than 600 founding caregivers who have completed over 10 years of service at the organisation.The recognition ceremony was held to honour their dedication and commitment, which helped bring the hospital's vision to life: being the best place to receive care and the best place to work in healthcare. Since opening its doors in 2015, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has grown into a thriving community of over 5,700 caregivers from over 80 nationalities. The hospital's team includes over 590 physicians, 1,700 nurses, and 590 allied health professionals.Over its first decade, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has recorded over 6.8 million patient encounters and performed more than 174,000 complex surgeries, redefining healthcare in the UAE and the wider region by delivering world-class expertise, advanced treatments, and compassionate care, all closer to home. Dr. Georges-Pascal Haber, CEO of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, said: "Our caregivers have been central to our tripartite mission of providing compassionate, complex care, research for health, and educating those who serve. Together, they have helped build a hospital trusted by thousands of patients in Abu Dhabi, and beyond."As we celebrate our achievements over the years, we also celebrate the caregivers who have been with us from the very beginning. Their unwavering commitment to our patients and the community has pushed boundaries in innovation and shaped the care we deliver today. Looking ahead, we remain steadfast in delivering world-class care, expanding our impact, and setting new benchmarks in healthcare for Abu Dhabi and the world."By offering patients in the UAE access to the highest levels of specialised care, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi has significantly reduced the need for outbound medical travel over the past decade. This remarkable transformation has raised the standard of care locally and firmly positioned Abu Dhabi as a global healthcare hub, welcoming more than 10,000 international patients, he added.Mariam Al Mujaini, manager of patient experience, at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and one of the celebrated caregivers, commented: "In 2014, I embarked on my journey at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, and being part of this remarkable organization from the beginning has been an incredible, rewarding experience. As an Emirati woman, leading patient experience, I am proud to have contributed to creating a compassionate, world-class healthcare environment that not only enhances lives but also gives back to my country by raising healthcare standards across the UAE and beyond.'Zeina Kassem, nursing director for the Oncology and Organ Transplant programmes, said: "Working at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi for the past 10 years has been an incredible journey, both professionally and personally. This hospital truly stands out for its unwavering commitment to patient care and teamwork.As a leader, I witnessed the life-changing impact we've had on patients and their families.
"Transforming this place from just an idea into a fully functional hospital with all its centers of excellence, like the cancer center, transplant programme, and all the others, has been so rewarding. I am incredibly proud to be part of an institution that not only heals patients but nurtures its people. It's been a privilege to grow and contribute to this journey.''
Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi
Hashtags

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles


Al Etihad
10 hours ago
- Al Etihad
'Forever Chemicals' linked to higher risk of Type 2 diabetes
23 July 2025 13:36 NEW YORK (ALETIHAD) Exposure to a class of synthetic chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—often called 'forever chemicals'—may increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to a new study led by Mount Sinai researchers. The findings were published on Tuesday in eBioMedicine. The team conducted a nested case-control study - an observational study that is conducted within a larger cohort study - within BioMe, a large, electronic health record-linked research database comprising records of more than 70,000 study participants who have sought care at The Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City since 2007. Based on available data, the study analysed 180 people recently diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and compared them to 180 similar individuals without diabetes. Researchers used blood samples to analyse PFAS levels—a group of chemicals used in everything from nonstick cookware to stain-resistant furniture to waterproof clothing—and found that higher levels of PFAS were associated with a significantly greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the each increase in range of PFAS exposure was linked to a 31 percent increase in risk. The team also found that these associations could be due to metabolic irregularities in amino acid biosynthesis and drug metabolism, which may help explain how PFAS affect the body's ability to regulate blood sugar.'PFAS are synthetic chemicals that resist heat, oil, water, and stains, and are found in countless everyday consumer products,' said Vishal Midya, PhD, MStat, corresponding author and Assistant Professor, Environmental Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai.'Because they don't break down easily, PFAS accumulate in the environment—and in human bodies. Our study is one of the first to examine how these chemicals may disrupt the body's metabolism in ways that increase diabetes risk—particularly in diverse US populations.' Findings from this study underscore the importance of preventing PFAS exposures to promote public health and of advancing knowledge about potential mechanisms underlying the PFAS impacts on human metabolism. The researchers called for further research studies, integrating environmental with genetic data to better understand how environmental exposures interact with human metabolism and contribute to chronic disease. They also call for larger study populations, expanding over the life course, from preconception to elderly, to understand environmental health impacts across the lifespan and at vulnerable life periods. Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi


Al Etihad
a day ago
- Al Etihad
UAE's sugar tax amendment lauded as key move against obesity, diabetes
MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI) The UAE's updated sugar tax is a step in the right direction toward curbing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and improving public health, according to healthcare professionals. The Ministry of Finance and the Federal Tax Authority (FTA) recently announced a significant amendment to the excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs). Starting 2026, a new tiered volumetric model will link the tax directly to a drink's sugar content per 100ml, marking a shift from the previous system based solely on product classification. The policy could have a significant impact on public health, given the recorded obesity data in the country, said Archana Baju, Head of Department and Dietitian at Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi. In a recent interview with Aletihad, she cited data from the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP), which showed that 27.8% of UAE adults were classified as obese in 2024. She pointed to sugar-sweetened beverages as a key factor behind this statistic. 'These drinks are frequent contributors to excess calorie intake, weight gain, insulin resistance, cardiovascular risk, and dental decay,' she said. 'Evidence states that a price increase typically reduces consumption, particularly among youth and low-income groups. Over time, decreased intake of SSBs contributes to lower obesity rates, reduced diabetes prevalence, and lowers cardiovascular disease burden.' Dr. Mervat Hussin, Endocrinology Consultant at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, explained how regularly consuming high-sugar beverages directly contributes to metabolic disorders such as diabetes and obesity. 'These beverages deliver large amounts of simple sugars, especially fructose and glucose, which are quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. The result is a rapid rise in blood sugar and insulin levels, followed by a crash — creating a cycle of cravings and overeating,' she told Aletihad. 'Since liquid sugar doesn't promote a sense of fullness the way solid food does, it's easy to overconsume calories without realising it.' Dr. Hussin highlighted that fructose adds a unique burden because it's mainly processed in the liver, where it promotes fat buildup (leading to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease); raises blood triglycerides levels; and hampers insulin's effectiveness. Over time, these effects drive insulin resistance, which is a key factor in the development of Type 2 diabetes, according to Dr. Hussin. She agreed that taxing sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) is a proven public health approach to discourage consumption by making these drinks less appealing. 'Countries that have implemented these measures have already reported a drop in sugary drink consumption. Over time, this helps reduce obesity rates and lowers the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.' Guide to Cutting Sugar On managing Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance, Dr. Hussin noted the power of small, consistent lifestyle changes. 'Reducing added sugar, even without full dietary overhauls, often results in better blood sugar control, weight loss, and improved energy,' she explained. 'Patients with Type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance often experience lower fasting glucose levels and HbA1c readings within just a few months of adjusting their sugar intake.' However, Dr. Hussin advised that reducing sugar intake should be done gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms —such as cravings, fatigue, headaches, and irritability — linked to sugar's impact on the brain's reward system. To support patients through the transition of reducing sugar intake, Dr. Hussin recommended staying hydrated; eating balanced meals rich in protein, healthy fats, and fibre; and phasing sugar out slowly rather than stopping abruptly. She also advised replacing refined sugars with natural options such as berries, dates, or apples, and encourages regular physical activity, which helps improve both mood and insulin sensitivity. 'These strategies help reduce withdrawal symptoms and increase the likelihood of long-term success. Patients often report feeling more energetic and more in control of their health,' Dr. Hussin said. The World Health Organization (WHO) and American Heart Association (AHA) recommend limiting added sugars to no more than six teaspoons (25g) per day for women and nine teaspoons (36g) per day for men. Baju explained that a typical 330ml can of cola contains about 35g of sugar (equivalent to nine teaspoons), which means that one serving nearly meets or exceeds the recommended daily limit. She suggested healthier alternatives, such as infused water, sparkling water with fruit, tender coconut water, fresh fruit and vegetable juices without added sugar, low-fat milk, laban, yoghurt, or plant-based drinks. 'These choices support hydration without contributing to excess energy intake, metabolic stress or long-term disease risk.'


Al Etihad
2 days ago
- Al Etihad
AI, advanced technology accelerate stroke diagnosis, treatment at CCAD
22 July 2025 00:16 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Artificial intelligence and advanced technology are redefining stroke care. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi (CCAD), one of the emirate's centres of excellence for stroke, is leveraging the latest innovations to accelerate diagnosis and its rapid brain scans, cutting-edge platforms, and a highly coordinated team, CCAD is setting the 'gold standard' when it comes to handling cases of stroke, according to Dr. Victoria Ann Mifsud, a staff physician at the Neurology Department of CCAD's Neurological Institute. One of the institute's most transformative tool is RapidAI, 'an artificial intelligence system that processes brain scans with extraordinary speed and accuracy', Dr. Mifsud told Aletihad . 'It helps our physicians quickly determine which patients are candidates for life-saving interventions such as thrombolysis or thrombectomy.'This tool is particularly significant given that, in cases of stroke, 'every second truly counts'.The hospital also uses the Artis Icono system, a sophisticated neuro-interventional platform that ensures precision in procedures such as clot removal.'Our entire stroke pathway - from ambulance arrival to emergency imaging, treatment, and recovery planning - is built for integration and speed. This model of care is unique in the region and is increasingly becoming the gold standard,' she added. Dr. Seby John, another staff physician at the Neurology Department, told Aletihad that the hospital's success also lies in its highly coordinated team. 'From the moment a patient arrives at the emergency department, a highly trained multidisciplinary team activates stroke-specific protocols. This includes emergency physicians, neurologists, neurointerventionalists, radiologists, anesthetists, and stroke-trained nurses - all working together in real time,' Dr. John stabilised, patients transition into an integrated rehabilitation phase.'A second team, including rehabilitation physicians, therapists, nurses, and case managers, develops an individualised care plan,' he is a life-saving approach, the specialist said. 'It improves recovery, reduces complications, and helps patients regain independence with confidence and dignity.' Supporting Abu Dhabi's Healthcare VisionAdvancing its capabilities and keeping pace with healthcare innovations are part of CCAD's broader strategy in support of Abu Dhabi's long-term goals. 'Our designation (as a Stroke Centre of Excellence) is a testament to our rigorous standards across clinical outcomes, patient safety, experience, innovation, and caregiver competency,' said Dr. goal is to ensure not only a patient's survival but meaningful recovery, she said.'This long-term perspective – of reducing risk, restoring function, and supporting quality of life – is at the heart of Abu Dhabi's patient-first healthcare vision.'In the Year of Community, CCAD is prioritising stroke awareness, highlighting that once it strikes, every second counts – and any delay 'could make the difference between recovery and long-term disability'.CCAD treats approximately 1,100 stroke cases annually and nearly 40% of these patients are under the age of 50, Dr. Misfud said.'This statistic underscores the increasing impact of stroke on younger populations in the UAE,' she of the common risk factors are largely preventable with a shift to healthier lifestyles, she added.'Among the most critical are uncontrolled high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, obesity, high cholesterol, atrial fibrillation, and a sedentary lifestyle. Many of these factors are lifestyle-driven and, with awareness and regular medical follow-up, can be effectively controlled or reversed.'When a stroke occurs, immediate action is critical; hence, CCAD has been reaching out to the community with a clear goal: To help the public recognise the early signs of hospital has presented the BE FAST acronym, a simple guide to help people identify symptoms: Balance issues, Eye or vision changes, Facial drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulties, and Time to call emergency services.'We have partnered with Ma'an and the Department of Community Development to reach people where they are: schools, malls, and workplaces,' said Dr. John. 'We support the UAE's national strategy for neurological care and stroke prevention through advanced care, national data efforts, medical education, and public campaigns. These combined efforts help shape a more proactive and coordinated approach to stroke care across the country.' Source: Aletihad - Abu Dhabi