Latest news with #LailaAbdelWareth
Gulf News
17-04-2025
- Health
- Gulf News
UAE: Worried about Alzheimer's risks? Early detection through a blood test offers hope
Abu Dhabi: In a major step towards reducing Alzheimer's cases in the UAE and beyond, a new world-class diagnostic facility dedicated to early detection through a simple blood test will soon be established in Abu Dhabi. Announced on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Global Health Week, the National Reference Laboratory (NRL) – part of the M42 Group – will open the region's first Center for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics in partnership with Neurocode International, a global leader of neurology diagnostic solutions. Alzheimer's disease, a progressive brain disorder, gradually affects memory, thinking, learning and organisational skills. It is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-70 per cent of cases. Early detection of Alzheimer's is crucial for managing symptoms and slowing the disease's progression. However, traditional diagnostic methods are often invasive, typically involving spinal cord needle extraction, which results in low early detection rates. Screening from age 40 Equipped with top-notch laboratory equipment and staffed by renowned neurologists and pathologists, the centre will offer blood-based testing for patients as young as 40, ensuring timely intervention and significantly improving patient outcomes. Hasan Jasem Al Nowais, Managing Director and Group CEO of M42, said: 'This centre will revolutionise the early, proactive detection of Alzheimer's, underscoring our dedication to and the importance of preventive health. By focusing on early intervention, we aim to reduce the impact of Alzheimer's and improve the quality of life for patients in the UAE and beyond.' Expert-led research The centre aims to establish the world's most advanced clinical diagnostic laboratory for brain disorders, guiding global clinicians in precision detection and ushering in a new era of neurological diagnostics. Its research will be published in top scientific journals, sharing findings with the wider medical community. The laboratory will offer world-class technology and clinical infrastructure, ensuring standardised test levels and cut-offs across leading laboratories for consistent, high-quality care. Dr Laila AbdelWareth, CEO, NRL, said the centre sets a 'new benchmark' in neurological diagnostics worldwide. It will accelerate early and accurate diagnostics of Alzheimer's, significantly improving patient outcomes. Expert-led research into neurological diagnostics will be a cornerstone of the centre with a full-time lab-based professor of neurology. Prof Henrik Zetterberg, an expert in the development of biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease and its diagnosis, and Prof Kaj Blennow, recognised for his instrumental role in developing early diagnostic tools for the disease, will be off-site expert consultants for the centre. Dr Hans Frykman, CEO, Neurocode International, added: 'With a team of the most experienced and renowned scientists in the field, we are poised to guide physicians in the Middle East and globally towards early and accurate diagnoses of Alzheimer's and other brain disorders.'
Al Etihad
16-04-2025
- Health
- Al Etihad
M42 launches MENA's first Centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics
16 Apr 2025 19:53 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)The National Reference Laboratory (NRL), part of the M42 Group, is establishing the MENA region's first Centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics dedicated to early detection, in partnership with Neurocode International, a global leader of neurology diagnostic on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Global Health Week, the centre, based in Abu Dhabi, is a pioneering step toward reducing Alzheimer's cases in the UAE and wider region, and toward transforming neurological diagnostics disease is a major health issue, affecting over 57 million people globally as of 2021. It is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-70 per cent of cases, and this figure is on the detection of Alzheimer's is crucial for managing symptoms and slowing disease progression. However, traditional diagnostic methods are often invasive, typically involving spinal cord needle extraction, which results in low early detection Centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics aims to revolutionise Alzheimer's diagnosis, by offering screening as early as age 40, through cutting-edge blood-based tests, ensuring timely intervention and significantly improving patient Jasem Al Nowais, Managing Director and Group CEO of M42, said, "This centre will revolutionise the early, proactive detection of Alzheimer's, underscoring our dedication to and the importance of preventive health. By focusing on early intervention, we aim to reduce the impact of Alzheimer's and improve the quality of life for patients in the UAE and beyond."The centre aims to establish the world's most advanced clinical diagnostic laboratory for brain disorders, guiding global clinicians in precision detection and ushering in a new era of neurological diagnostics. Its research will be published in top scientific journals, sharing findings with the wider medical laboratory will also offer world-class technology and clinical infrastructure, ensuring standardised test levels and cut-offs across leading laboratories for consistent, high-quality Laila AbdelWareth, CEO of NRL, said, "The establishment of the Centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics marks a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer's and other neurological disorders, with a sharp focus on advancing preventive health through precision detection."Expert-led research into neurological diagnostics will be a cornerstone of the Centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics, with a full-time lab-based professor of neurology with dementia training from Gothenburg University. Prof. Henrik Zetterberg, MD, PhD, expert in the development of biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease and its diagnosis, and Prof. Kaj Blennow, MD, PhD, who is recognised for his instrumental role in developing early diagnostic tools for the disease, will both be off-site expert consultants for the Hans Frykman, CEO of Neurocode International, said, "We are delighted to announce the partnership with the visionary NRL to establish the world's leading clinical laboratory for brain disorders. With a team of the most experienced and renowned scientists in the field, we are poised to guide physicians in the Middle East and globally towards early and accurate diagnoses of Alzheimer's and other brain disorders." The launch marks not only a first for the MENA region but also a new era in global Alzheimer's research. By emphasising proactive prevention, the Centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics aims to redefine the standard of care and significantly reduce the prevalence of Alzheimer's in the UAE and beyond.
The National
16-04-2025
- Health
- The National
Abu Dhabi to open first centre to detect Alzheimer's as early as 40
The UAE is to open the region's first centre to detect Alzheimer's as early as the age of 40 through a simple blood test. In the race to detect the disease early, the new centre in Abu Dhabi - which will open within the next two months - will offer blood tests that can identify the risk of the condition before symptoms appear. The tests are set to replace older, more invasive methods that required spinal fluid collection. The National Reference Laboratory (NRL), part of the M42 Group, has teamed up with Neurocode International to establish the Middle East and North Africa region's first Centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics, it was announced at Abu Dhabi Global Health Week. 'There have been great advancements in the detection of molecules that are associated with Alzheimer's disease in the blood,' Dr Laila Abdel Wareth, chief executive of NRL, told The National. 'We used to go by a needle at the back of the patient to get a sample of the fluid surrounding the brain. This is obviously a very invasive procedure, and a lot of patients, even when they have symptoms, decline this procedure. Because of advances in technology and voluntary medicine techniques, we are now able to measure those biomarkers in the blood. So that really helps early detection of this disease.' Blood markers can reveal a person's predisposition to Alzheimer's years before the first symptoms. Alzheimer's is known to progress slowly and often goes unnoticed for many years. The changes in the brain, particularly the build-up of amyloid proteins, begin long before cognitive problems appear. 'They can go to work. They can drive their car. They seem like a perfectly normal individual. There is no way you can tell that this individual is going to develop the disease [other than with this test],' Dr Abdel Wareth said. If a patient's biomarkers do indicate the early stages of Alzheimer's following the test, visible symptoms usually begin about five to eight years after that point - a stage referred to as mild cognitive impairment. 'The patient is aware that there is something wrong," Dr Abdel Wareth said. "He or she is no longer at 100 per cent of their capacity - maybe 80 or 70 per cent. Some people call it brain fog. If you don't do anything about this mild cognitive stage, then the disease will progress. More neurons, more brain cells will die. Eventually, the patient will develop Alzheimer's disease." From that point, people often lose their ability to live independently. 'By the age of 65, these symptoms become very apparent. With every passing year, there is a progressive cost,' Dr Abdel Wareth said. 'But the problem here is, once you reach that state, already the train has started. So really, the key thing is to intervene early on, when the individual starts thinking there's something wrong.' While there is still no cure for Alzheimer's, the hope is that early intervention can delay or slow its progression. 'There are studies now that demonstrate simple lifestyle changes such as weight loss and exercise are very important,' Dr Abdel Wareth said. 'Some studies have demonstrated that the markers will actually go down. The lifestyle intervention actually does help, and the memory improves in such patients.' Dr Abdel Wareth also referred to a new class of drugs that target amyloid build-up in the brain. These are typically administered through infusions and monitored over the course of 18 months to two years. 'Even in stage one, you can still do something. But the only thing is, you cannot go back. The only thing you can do is prevent rapid progression to stage four, when the patient is unable to walk. This is what makes this test so important - why wait for somebody to develop symptoms?' Beyond Alzheimer's, the new centre will also develop diagnostic tools for neurological conditions, including Parkinson's disease and the chronic autoimmune disorder myasthenia gravis. It aims to establish the world's most advanced clinical diagnostic laboratory for brain disorders, guiding global clinicians in precision detection. Discussions are also under way with the Department of Health to determine when and how the tests should be covered by insurance. The centre's exact location is yet to be confirmed. 'This centre will revolutionise the early, proactive detection of Alzheimer's, underscoring our dedication to and the importance of preventive health. By focusing on early intervention, we aim to reduce the impact of Alzheimer's and improve the quality of life for patients in the UAE and beyond,' said Hasan Al Nowais, managing director and group chief executive of M42.
Khaleej Times
16-04-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
Abu Dhabi launches first Alzheimer's early detection centre with advanced blood tests
Abu Dhabi will now see a new Alzheimer's disease centre dedicated to its early detection. This region's first centre, which is one-of-its-kind, will offer novel blood-based screening starting at age 40, enabling early intervention and significantly enhancing patient outcomes. The National Reference Laboratory (NRL), part of the M42 Group, will be the first centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics dedicated to early detection, in partnership with Neurocode International, global leader of neurology diagnostic solutions. Announced on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Global Health Week, this Centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics, is a step toward reducing Alzheimer's cases in the UAE and wider region and transforming neurological diagnostics worldwide. Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels. Alzheimer's disease is a major health issue, affecting over 57 million people globally as of 2021. It is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-70 per cent of cases, and this number is on the rise. Medics highlighted that by emphasising prevention and early detection of Alzheimer's, it becomes possible to manage symptoms and slow disease progression. However, doctors also explained that traditional diagnostic methods are often invasive, typically involving spinal cord needle extraction, which results in low early detection rates. Why is early detection key? Changes in mood and behaviour sometimes occur even before memory problems start surfacing. Symptoms only get worse over time. Eventually, most people with this disease require others to help with daily activities. Dr Laila AbdelWareth, Chief Executive Officer, NRL, said, 'The establishment of the Centre for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics marks a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer's and other neurological disorders, with a sharp focus on advancing preventive health through precision detection.' She added, 'By collaborating with Neurocode International, we are setting a new benchmark in neurological diagnostics worldwide that will accelerate early and accurate diagnostics of Alzheimer's, significantly improving patient outcomes. The centre will have a full-time lab-based professor of neurology, with dementia training from Gothenburg University in Sweden. Prof Henrik Zetterberg, an expert in the development of biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease and its diagnosis, and Prof Kaj Blennow, who is recognised for his key role in developing early diagnostic tools for the disease, will both be off-site expert consultants for the Centre. Dr Hans Frykman, Chief Executive Officer, Neurocode International, said, 'We are delighted to announce the partnership with the visionary NRL to establish the world's leading clinical laboratory for brain disorders. With a team of the most experienced and renowned scientists in the field, we are poised to guide physicians in the Middle East and globally towards early and accurate diagnoses of Alzheimer's and other brain disorders. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in advancing neurological diagnostics and patient care." AI-powered projects Meanwhile, the Emirates Health Services (EHS) and the Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Government Innovation (MBRCGI) earlier collaborated to develop and launch the 'Synthetic Memories' initiative—an innovative, AI-powered project designed to enhance the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's and memory impairments. Unveiled at Arab Health 2025, this groundbreaking initiative underscored the UAE's global leadership in ethical, human-centred AI solutions that address major healthcare challenges. 'Synthetic Memories' leverages generative AI to recreate fragmented memories through lifelike visual and auditory simulations of past experiences. By combining artificial intelligence with neuropsychological insights, the project aims to slow cognitive decline, boost emotional well-being, and help patients reconnect with cherished memories.
Zawya
16-04-2025
- Health
- Zawya
M42's NRL and Neurocode International launch region-first Center for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics
Equipped with world-class laboratory equipment and staffed by renowned neurologists and pathologists, the Center for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics will offer non-invasive testing for patients as young as 40, enabling early detection and helping reduce Alzheimer's cases in the UAE and the wider region Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates: Setting a new regional benchmark in the fight against Alzheimer's disease, the National Reference Laboratory (NRL), part of the M42 Group, is establishing the MENA region's first Center for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics dedicated to early detection, in partnership with Neurocode International, global leader of neurology diagnostic solutions. Announced on the sidelines of Abu Dhabi Global Health Week, this Center for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics, based in Abu Dhabi, is a pioneering step toward reducing Alzheimer's cases in the UAE and wider region and transforming neurological diagnostics worldwide. Alzheimer's disease is a major health issue, affecting over 57 million people globally as of 2021. It is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-70 per cent of cases, and this number is on the rise [1]. Early detection of Alzheimer's is crucial for managing symptoms and slowing disease progression. However, traditional diagnostic methods are often invasive, typically involving spinal cord needle extraction, which results in low early detection rates. The Center for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics aims to revolutionize Alzheimer's diagnosis by offering screening as early as age 40 through cutting-edge blood-based tests, ensuring timely intervention and significantly improving patient outcomes. Hasan Jasem Al Nowais, Managing Director and Group CEO of M42, said: 'Launching the region's first Center for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics marks a significant milestone in our commitment to advancing healthcare. This center will revolutionize the early, proactive detection of Alzheimer's, underscoring our dedication to and the importance of preventive health. By focusing on early intervention, we aim to reduce the impact of Alzheimer's and improve the quality of life for patients in the UAE and beyond.' The center aims to establish the world's most advanced clinical diagnostic laboratory for brain disorders, guiding global clinicians in precision detection and ushering in a new era of neurological diagnostics. Its research will be published in top scientific journals, sharing findings with the wider medical community. The laboratory will also offer world-class technology and clinical infrastructure, ensuring standardized test levels and cut-offs across leading laboratories for consistent, high-quality care. Dr. Laila AbdelWareth, Chief Executive Officer, NRL, said: 'The establishment of the Center for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics marks a pivotal moment in the fight against Alzheimer's and other neurological disorders, with a sharp focus on advancing preventive health through precision detection. By collaborating with Neurocode International, we are setting a new benchmark in neurological diagnostics worldwide that will accelerate early and accurate diagnostics of Alzheimer's, significantly improving patient outcomes.' Expert-led research into neurological diagnostics will be a cornerstone of the Center for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics, with a full-time lab-based professor of neurology, with dementia training from Gothenburg University. Prof, Henrik Zetterberg, MD, PhD, expert in the development of biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease and its diagnosis, and Prof. Kaj Blennow, MD, PhD, who is recognized for his instrumental role in developing early diagnostic tools for the disease, will both be off-site expert consultants for the Center. Dr. Hans Frykman, Chief Executive Officer, Neurocode International, added: 'We are delighted to announce the partnership with the visionary NRL to establish the world's leading clinical laboratory for brain disorders. With a team of the most experienced and renowned scientists in the field, we are poised to guide physicians in the Middle East and globally towards early and accurate diagnoses of Alzheimer's and other brain disorders. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in advancing neurological diagnostics and patient care." The launch marks not only a first for the MENA region but also a new era in global Alzheimer's research. By emphasizing proactive prevention, the Center for Advanced Neuro Biochemical Diagnostics aims to redefine the standard of care and significantly reduce the prevalence of Alzheimer's in the UAE and beyond. About National Reference Laboratory National Reference Laboratory (NRL), an M42 company, is focused on increasing the spectrum, coverage and overall efficiency of laboratory testing in the UAE. It implements international best practice reference laboratory processes and aims to set the benchmark for quality standards in the region. Relying on its extensive expertise in pathology, NRL offers a comprehensive menu of tests relevant to the UAE and the wider region, with 98% of these performed inhouse. It therefore offers a complete solution for all clinical testing needs in an efficient and high-quality environment that reduces both turnaround time and logistics-related costs, compared with other laboratories. NRL has one of the largest CAP-accredited (College of American Pathologists) laboratory networks in the Middle East, which includes three owned laboratories – one in Abu Dhabi and two in Dubai – and the management of all of Mubadala Health partners onsite laboratories, such as those of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Imperial College London Diabetes Centre and Healthpoint. NRL also fully manages the laboratories of several large private hospitals in the UAE. For more information, please visit About M42 M42 is a global health champion powered by artificial intelligence (AI), technology and genomics to advance innovation in health for people and the planet. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, M42 combines its specialized, state-of-the-art facilities with integrated health solutions like genomics and biobanks, and harnesses advanced technologies to deliver precise, preventive and predictive care, to impactfully disrupt traditional healthcare models and positively impact lives globally. Established in 2022, following the coming together of G42 Healthcare and Mubadala Health, M42 has more than 480 facilities in 26 countries and over 20,000 employees. M42 includes renowned healthcare providers including Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, Danat Al Emarat, Diaverum, Imperial College London Diabetes Centre, Sheikh Sultan bin Zayed Hospital, and Moorfields Eye Hospital Abu Dhabi. As well as operating the Emirati Genome Programme, M42 runs Abu Dhabi BioBank and Abu Dhabi Health Data Services (ADHDS), a global tech-enabled healthcare company operating Malaffi. For media inquiries or interview opportunities, please contact: Mazar Masud Senior Director, Global Corporate Communications, M42 E: mmasud@ Asala Fadda Senior Manager, Group Marketing & Communications, M42 E: afadda@ About Abu Dhabi Global Health Week (ADGHW) ADGHW is a major government initiative from DoH and serves as a platform for innovation and collaboration under the theme 'Towards Longevity: Redefining Health and Well-being.' It places a strong emphasis on community-driven health and well-being, with a proactive approach centred around preventive, personalised, and holistic care. Four core themes will guide discussions and initiatives: Longevity and Precision Health; Health System Resilience & Sustainability; Digital Health & AI; and Investment in Life Sciences. By convening diverse stakeholders from around the world, ADGHW is a community without borders that seeks to advance the future of health and well-being. ADGHW 2025 offers complimentary visitor passes that grant access to the event's Start Up Zone, live stage sessions and exhibition hall featuring 150 global leaders in health. For more information, visit [1]
