Latest news with #KingSaudUniversity
Saudi Gazette
4 days ago
- Health
- Saudi Gazette
How groundbreaking innovations and early detection are redefining diabetes care in KSA
The body's immune system provides protection against harmful viruses, bacteria, and other foreign bodies. However, in some individuals, this protective mechanism can turn on the body itself. Such is the case with type 1 diabetes, a chronic autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly targets the very cells responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. According to Dr Mohammed Al-Sofiani, Associate Professor of Endocrinology, Diabetes, & Metabolism at King Saud University, many patients with type 1 diabetes usually present to the emergency room with symptoms like severe fatigue, weight loss, excessive urination, and excessive thirst. He explains that in people with type 1 diabetes, the immune system produces antibodies that attack the beta cells in the pancreas, which are responsible for producing insulin - the hormone that controls blood glucose. However, even after the antibodies form, there is a long asymptomatic phase, and the clinical onset of type 1 diabetes happens only after significant beta cell destruction has already occurred. This period presents a critical window of opportunity for early intervention and diagnosis. Dr Al-Sofiani further notes that the challenge lies in identifying the disease before it reaches its final stage when insulin therapy becomes a medical necessity. One particularly dangerous complication of this disease is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a condition in which the blood becomes acidic due to an accumulation of ketones. Often the first sign of type 1 diabetes in children, DKA can be life-threatening. In Saudi Arabia, the mortality rate for diabetic ketoacidosis is estimated at 2 to 3.5 per cent, underscoring the urgent need for early diagnosis and preventive care. Professor Dr Bassam Saleh Bin Abbas, Consultant, Head Section of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Pediatric Department, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center emphasises the difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes. While type 1 diabetes is caused by autoimmune attacks which lead to partial or complete deficiency of insulin, type 2 diabetes stems from a resistance to insulin's effects. Therefore, type 2 diabetes can be treated with drugs that increase the function of these receptors, while type 1 diabetes requires insulin therapy instead. He also remarks that preventive drugs approved by the American and Saudi FDA are now available in Saudi Arabia. These are particularly helpful for the relatives of those with type 1 diabetes as they typically have a genetic predisposition for this disease. It is also beneficial for those who have already developed the antibodies, even without any symptoms. Notably, preventive drugs can help delay the onset of the disease in such individuals by a median of 2 to 2.7 years. In Saudi Arabia, Sanofi is redefining diabetes treatment practices through its trailblazing innovations, further catalysing the shift from reactive to proactive, patient-centric healthcare. Furthermore, through these advancements, the company aims to provide families with what they desire the most, which is to delay disease onset and the need for lifelong insulin therapy. While type 1 diabetes can often feel too sudden and overwhelming, its detrimental impact can be minimised through early detection and preventing disease progression. In addition to being a key scientific milestone, such medical breakthroughs lay the foundation for a robust national healthcare system, built on the tenets of prevention, early action and better outcomes.
Arab News
22-05-2025
- Science
- Arab News
Aseer's nature-sculpted basalt columns tell ancient volcanic tales
RIYADH: Deep within the mountains and plains of Aseer, nature unveils one of its most magnificent geological masterpieces in the form of the region's basalt columns. Meticulously shaped, they stand tall as timeless witnesses, narrating chapters of the province's rich volcanic history. These formations are not just rigid rock structures, but natural sculptures, shaped over millions of years, embodying a harmonious blend of natural beauty and scientific depth. The basalt columns of Aseer are among the most remarkable and rarest geological phenomena in the Kingdom, captivating the attention of visitors and science enthusiasts. Composed of volcanic rock formed from slowly cooled lava flows, these columns have shrunk and cracked over time, creating stunning geometric shapes, often hexagonal, pentagonal, or quadrilateral, with astonishing natural precision. King Saud University Seismic Studies Center director and Saudi Society for Geosciences president Prof. Abdullah Al-Amri shared exciting insights. He highlighted the Aseer region's rich geological formations, which can be found in several captivating locations, including Muhayil Aseer, Jabal Mishrif in Al-Harajah, Qarn Mujal east of Tendha, Wadi Al-Asran, and the coastal area between Al-Qahma and Al-Barak, nestled within the Black Mountain range. Al-Amri noted that these formations have been recognized since ancient times. Renowned geographer Abu Muhammad Al-Hasan Al-Hamdani described them in his book 'Sifat Jazirat Al-Arab' as part of the Sarat Janb range, stretching from the north of Dhahran Al-Janub to the north of Sarat Ubaida, now known as Harrat Al-Sarat. A Cenozoic volcanic field, Harrat Al-Sarat covers around 700 square km and boasts towering mountains like Jabal Ferwa, which rises 3,004 meters above sea level, and Jabal Zalm, standing at 2,575 meters. Saudi Geological Survey spokesperson Tariq Aba Al-Khail elaborated on the fascinating formation of basalt columns. The unique structures arise from thermal contraction when lava cools and solidifies, resulting in vertical cracks at right angles to the cooling surface. While the columns typically appear vertical, they may bend or tilt depending on the cooling conditions. Aba Al-Khail likened the formations to the cracking of clay as it dries, but instead, they occur in igneous rocks, particularly basalt, and can also be found in andesite, trachyte, and rhyolite. He explained that the remarkable formations date back around 30 million years and have been discovered in the southwestern volcanic lava fields, such as Harrat Al-Barak. The phenomenon holds significant scientific value, offering researchers the opportunity to explore ancient volcanic activity in the Arabian Peninsula.
Zawya
21-05-2025
- Health
- Zawya
The 7th Annual Saudi International Vaccination forum concludes
Under the patronage of Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: Under the patronage of Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, and King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, and in collaboration with the Public Health Authority (PHA), the 7th Annual Saudi International Vaccination Forum concluded in Riyadh by reaffirming the essential role of collective and unwavering commitment to advancing public health through innovation, collaboration, and science-driven vaccination strategies. The leading event marked a pivotal moment in the region's immunization journey, under the theme, 'Vaccination for Healthier Communities: Protecting Lives, Promoting Wellbeing. This landmark three-day event brought together a distinguished assembly of global and regional experts, policymakers, researchers, and international organizations. It served as a dynamic platform for sharing insights, reviewing emerging data, and aligning on strategic priorities to enhance immunization systems and protect population health. The experts participated in the 7th Annual Saudi International Vaccination Forum emphasized several key recommendations, included: Strengthening disease surveillance systems to ensure rapid response and early detection. Promoting vaccine uptake through behavioral and community engagement strategies. Investing in research and development to drive innovation and address evolving threats. Reinforcing national and regional immunization strategies, particularly for vulnerable and high-risk populations. Speakers and stakeholders echoed the critical need for multidisciplinary partnerships involving government bodies, academic institutions, public health authorities, and international organizations and societies. There was a strong consensus on the importance of technical advisory leadership, digital health integration, and the preservation of public trust—all essential pillars of resilient and future-ready vaccination programs. The outcomes of this forum transcend discussion. They pave the way for practical implementation, cross-border alignment, and long-term impact. As we move forward, we do so united in a shared vision: to protect lives, promote wellbeing, and foster healthier communities through proactive, inclusive, and equitable immunization efforts. For more information about The 7th Annual Saudi International Vaccination Forum, please visit:
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Saudi Arabia's head of human rights dispels Western misconceptions around school segregation
There's a lot of noise around gender-segregated education in Saudi Arabia. But the Kingdom's head of human rights says that if it wasn't for the system in place, many young girls would miss out on being educated—herself included. 'I can tell you that we received a lot of harsh criticism on segregating schools,' H.E. Dr. Hala bint Mazyad Al-Tuwaij said on stage in Riyadh at Fortune's Most Powerful Women International Summit. 'But actually, those of us who come from this part of the world know that if schools were mixed, many conservative families would not have sent their girls to school in the first place,' she added. Al-Tuwaijri has been president of the Saudi Arabia Human Rights Commission, with the rank of minister, since September 2022. It's a job that, if it weren't for same-sex classes, she may not have been able to work up to. 'Many of the educated women you see today, including myself, would not be sitting here because our families back then would not have accepted the fact that we'll be sitting next to boys in high schools.' Before joining the world of work, Al-Tuwaijri earned a bachelor's degree in English literature in 1998, a master's degree in English literature and drama in 2004, and, in 2011, a Ph.D. in American literature and drama all from King Saud University. Looking back, she says the qualifications prepared her for her current role. 'For people who know a bit about studying literature, it's not about reading stories,' Al-Tuwaijri said. 'Actually, behind every story, there is a culture, history, philosophy, ideas …' 'My focus has always been on the issue of identity,' she said. 'What shapes people's identity and what actually informs the literature they write, whether it's theater, or performance, or art in general—and that, of course, took me to study the sociopolitical context of these areas, and the ideas, and the philosophical background to where all of this is coming from and where it's taking.' 'So, without knowing, I was actually preparing myself for looking into a more global platform of issues pertaining to identity, rights, stories, and all of that.' After graduating, Al-Tuwaijri joined KSU's staff as a lecturer and also worked as an assistant professor of English literature at the university. She worked her way up to vice chair of the English language department. Before becoming president of the Saudi Human Rights Commission, with the rank of minister, she was secretary-general of the Family Affairs Council. 'My career has been crowned and honored by this great country and our wise leadership, who celebrated women, elevated their status, and paved the way for their advancement,' she told Arab News soon after the appointment. Of her new role, Al-Tuwaijri said: 'Saudi Arabia has made great and honorable strides in the field of human rights, and the testimony of just countries and organizations is the best proof.' This story was originally featured on
The National
19-05-2025
- Health
- The National
Osteoarthritis pain could be treated with camel placenta, scientists say
Camel placenta could be the latest biomaterial used in medicine to regenerate damaged tissue, as scientists in Saudi Arabia explore how effective it may be in treating osteoarthritis. Cartilage is a critical component in healthy joints but damage caused by old age, obesity and injury can result in painful, life-limiting conditions. Most existing therapies focus on management of symptoms and pain. But scientists hope new research into the use of camel placenta extract in animals with osteoarthritis − the most common chronic joint condition in Saudi Arabia − could help regenerate damaged human tissue. Regenerative therapies using stem cells or platelet-rich plasma extracted from human fat are currently used to treat chronic patients, but this can cost up to Dh30,000 ($8,160). The process involves removing stomach fat through liposuction, spinning the material to extract stem cells, then injecting it back into the patient's damaged joint. Using, camel placenta − material discarded after birth as waste but loaded with essential amino acids − could be a more affordable alternative, scientists believe. 'Camels are highly valued in our culture here in the kingdom, and that deep interest helped spark a new idea for us,' Nouf bin Awad, a health policy specialist and pharmacist at the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, who led the research at King Saud University, told The National. 'The benefits of camel milk have been researched, but the placenta was a completely different idea. It offered a great alternative to human placenta, which often comes with ethical concerns when used in medical or cosmetic products. Potentially, this is a good option for those patients who can't go for surgery, which can be a costly approach.' A recent cross-sectional study of adults over 50 in the country found between 30 and 40 per cent were affected by knee arthritis, significantly more than elsewhere. The World Health Organisation estimates that worldwide, around 10 per cent of men and 18 per cent of women over 60 have the condition. According to the kingdom's Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, there are 1.8 million camels in the country − providing plenty scope to utilise natural biowaste for research and potential medical treatments. Researchers found an injectable treatment using camel placenta reduced inflammation and swelling in rats, while promoting cartilage regeneration. It was also seen to suppress enzymes that break down joint tissue and had a similar effect on pain management as diclofenac − a commonly prescribed arthritis medication − but without the side effects of gastrointestinal problems. The treatment was presented at the Geneva International Exhibition of Inventions 2025 in April, and was awarded a gold innovation award. 'At this early stage, the initial cost is low as the camel placenta is the primary component, and a natural by-product that is disposed with after the camel gives birth,' said Ms Awad. 'This gives us access to a natural rich resource that in the future we can manage and study further to develop.' Clinical trials with humans are now planned in partnership with the Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia, to further develop the novel treatment as a commercially available injectable. Dr Hesham Al Khateeb, an orthopaedic surgeon at Fakeeh University Hospital in Dubai, said the research had potential for wide use. 'Placentas have a lot of growth factors and stem cells, while from an abundance perspective you've got a lot of camels in this region, so this should be explored,' he said. 'Stem cells are used a lot in arthritis, but usually we take the stem cells from the individual, then inject them. Current treatments for arthritis vary, it's an extensive field. You can start very basic with cortisone injections, which is the gold standard. But it's not a one size fits all category, as it depends on the degree of arthritis. If it's early stages, this is where this regenerative, biological treatment can be very effective.' The cartilage regeneration market is a significant growth area of medical research, and investment. Globally, the market accounted for $1.16 billion in 2023 and is forecast to be worth $5,62 billion by 2034, analysts at Fortune Business Insights predict. Rising rates of joint disorders and sporting injuries, as well as more people living longer into old age make it an area of healthcare primed for growth. 'Osteoarthritis is basically wear and tear of joint cartilage,' said Dr Amrut Borade, an orthopaedic surgeon at International Modern Hospital, Dubai. 'The most common factor is old age and other contributing factors like obesity and muscle inactivity. The first line of treatment is lifestyle modification and weight reduction.' While some patients in early stages of osteoarthritis may benefit from supplements, such as fish oils, calcium, glucosamine and chondroitin, doctors can also inject damaged areas with a cortisone steroid or hyaluronic acid to lubricate the joint. 'It's actually quite difficult to regenerate completely damaged cartilage, but we want to focus in early stages of osteoarthritis to prevent the progression and protect the cartilage,' said Dr Borade. 'Placenta treatments are clearly in experimental stages but do have some promise. There still needs a lot of research, especially when being used in the human body.' The Ministry of Health in Saudi Arabia is exploring the potential solution to directly address the need for accessible, regenerative osteoarthritis therapies. 'We have these promising results and we hope to see this treatment in reality and used by the Ministry of Health and also, by the world,' said Dr Meznah Alturaiki, project and international relations manager at the innovation centre, at the Saudi Ministry of Health.
