Latest news with #NMCRoyalHospital
Gulf Today
5 days ago
- Health
- Gulf Today
NMC Healthcare hosts 3-day educational series to support Ministry of Health and Prevention's Hayat initiative to mark World Organ Donation Day
NMC Healthcare ('NMC') is proud to host three days of educational sessions on organ donation, starting today, 13 August 2025, in observance of World Organ Donation Day. This initiative aims to raise public awareness about the critical importance of organ donation and encourage organ donor registrations in the UAE. The educational sessions are open to the public and will take place at five of NMC Healthcare's major hospitals in Sharjah, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. The campaign is organised in collaboration with Hayat - the UAE's National Program for Donation and Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues, led by the UAE's Ministry of Health & Prevention ('MOHAP'), which encourages UAE residents over the age of 18 to register as organ donors. Hayat follows international standards and best practices to promote safe and effective organ donation. Dr. Zaka ullah Khan, Chief Clinical Officer at NMC Healthcare said, 'We are honoured to join forces with Hayat to bring attention to organ donation and share information about how organ donation transforms lives – from patients with chronic kidney failure, to those awaiting liver, heart, or lung transplants. We hope to help inspire more people to contribute to this life-saving cause.' NMC hospitals across the country will host a series of educational sessions which explain: How the UAE's organ donor registry worksThe process of organ donation and transplantationOpportunities for eligible adults to register as organ donors onsite NMC Healthcare encourages eligible individuals to learn more about organ donation and consider registering as donors through this life-saving campaign. For more information and to register as an organ donor, please visit the organ donation booths from 13-15 August, 2025, between 8:00am – 5:00pm at: . NMC Royal Hospital – Sharjah - Block A, Ground Floor . NMC Specialty Hospital – Al Nahda – Block A Ground Floor – next to reception . NMC Royal Hospital – Dubai Investment Park - Block B, Lobby waiting area . NMC Specialty Hospital – Al Ain – Outpatient Department Entrance, Near Pharmacy . NMC Royal Hospital – Khalifa City – Ground Floor - Outpatient Department Entrance
Khaleej Times
17-07-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
When pneumonia doesn't heal: A hidden diagnosis and a life turned around at NMC Royal Hospital, DIP
When weeks of antibiotics failed to help a Dubai resident's chronic cough, doctors at NMC Royal Hospital, DIP, uncovered the real culprit — fragments of cashew nuts lodged in his lung A 43-year-old man living with poorly controlled diabetes was admitted to NMC Royal Hospital, Dubai Investment Park (DIP), with a persistent cough and shortness of breath that had lingered for weeks despite multiple courses of antibiotics. Initially diagnosed with pneumonia, his condition showed minimal improvement, prompting the hospital's medical team to investigate further. A detailed CT scan of the chest revealed a partial lung collapse in the lower lobe of his right lung, raising concerns about a possible blockage in the airway. He was promptly referred to Dr Gopal Chawla, specialist pulmonologist at NMC Royal Hospital, DIP, for further evaluation. Dr Chawla performed a flexible bronchoscopy – a simple, minimally invasive procedure that involves passing a thin, flexible camera through the mouth into the lungs to identify any internal obstructions. To the team's surprise, the bronchoscopy revealed two cream-colored foreign bodies lodged deep in the patient's airways. Surrounded by inflamed tissue and granulation, the fragments were identified as cashew nuts likely inhaled unknowingly during a meal. The patient had no memory of choking or difficulty swallowing, yet the nuts had somehow entered the lungs instead of the digestive tract. Over time, this led to irritation, inflammation, and repeated infections that mimicked pneumonia and did not respond to conventional treatment. Due to their deep location and the delicate condition of the surrounding tissue, removing the nuts required expert precision. Dr Chawla, supported by Dr Surjya Upadhyay from the anaesthesia team and experienced endoscopy staff, carried out the procedure under general anaesthesia. Using a Fogarty balloon catheter - a thin tube with an inflatable tip used to gently dislodge blockages along with specialised forceps designed for foreign body removal, the team was able to carefully extract both fragments. Despite several attempts due to the fragility of the material, the procedure was completed safely and without complications. The patient's recovery was swift. Within days, his breathing had improved, his energy levels returned, and follow-up imaging confirmed that the collapsed portion of his lung had reopened. 'A cough that lingers for more than two weeks is your body's way of asking for help,' said Dr Chawla. 'This case reminds us that not all pneumonias are caused by infections. Sometimes, the real problem is something hidden, like a foreign body in the airway. With tools like bronchoscopy and EBUS (Endobronchial Ultrasound), we can diagnose and treat these issues quickly and safely, often without the need for surgery.' While food aspiration is more commonly seen in children, it can also occur in adults, particularly those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, dental issues, or neurological problems. In many cases, the symptoms are subtle and often mistaken for chronic infection. Persistent chest infections that don't respond to antibiotics, repeated infections in the same area of the lung, unexplained breathlessness, or findings of partial lung collapse on scans should all raise concern. At NMC Royal Hospital, DIP, patients have access to a comprehensive range of advanced respiratory diagnostic tools, including bronchoscopy and EBUS. These modern, minimally invasive techniques allow physicians to diagnose and treat airway problems with precision, often avoiding the need for surgical intervention. When it comes to lung health, early diagnosis and timely action can make all the difference. If you or someone you know is living with a persistent cough or recurring chest infection, expert care is just a consultation away. To learn more or book an appointment with our pulmonology team, visit or call us at 800 313.
Khaleej Times
12-07-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
Dubai doctor on tea break saves man from fatal heart attack after collapsing near Metro
Sameer (name changed upon request) had just stepped out from work and had barely taken a few steps toward the metro station when his vision blurred, his legs buckled, and he collapsed on the pavement. Unconscious and barely breathing, he was completely unaware that he was moments away from death due to a cardiac arrest. Fate, however, intervened in the form of Dr Niraj Gupta — a specialist in interventional cardiology at NMC Royal Hospital in Dubai Investment Park (DIP) who happened to be across the street taking a quick karak break. He hadn't eaten all day and was grabbing a quick snack when he noticed a crowd gathering. 'I saw people standing around someone on the ground. When I reached him, I realised he was sweating heavily and breathing just four times a minute,' Dr Niraj recalled. 'It was a cardiac arrest and we had to act quickly.' The hospital was nearby. Without wasting a moment, the doctor alerted the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS) and began CPR. Two shocks were delivered even before reaching the hospital, and a third one was administered inside the emergency department. A full Code Blue was activated at the hospital and the patient was given priority. Emergency, ICU, and cardiology teams sprang into action. Sameer was diagnosed with a critical cardiac condition — acute inferior wall ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) and ventricular fibrillation (VF). After being rushed to a laboratory, an angiography revealed a 100 percent blockage in the right coronary artery and a 90 percent blockage in the left. Four drug-eluting stents were placed to restore blood flow. Thanks to the swift medical intervention, he was able to walk again within just two days. 'I didn't even know I had diabetes,' Sameer said after recovering. 'I thought I was healthy. If the doctor hadn't been there that moment, I wouldn't be alive today. I am just so thankful.' Dr Niraj, who hadn't eaten all day and performed the entire procedure without pause, said poor lifestyle habits are one of the biggest contributors to heart attacks in young adults. 'People in their 30s shouldn't be experiencing this. But stress, poor diet, smoking, processed food, and high cholesterol are major risk factors,' he noted. He urged residents to take regular checkups seriously and recommended basic heart screenings, including: Sameer said the experience has changed his life. 'I've cut down on junk food," he said. I started walking every day, and I'm making health my top priority. I got a second chance, I won't take it for granted.'
Khaleej Times
03-07-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Excessive screen time in summer causing rise in childhood obesity, warn doctors
As summer temperatures soar across the UAE and schools remain closed, doctors are warning that excessive screen time is contributing to a noticeable spike in childhood obesity. With many working parents struggling to monitor their children's activities during the long break, health experts emphasized that sedentary routines are becoming more prevalent in the country leading to increased health risks. Dr Ana Maria Velasco, Specialist Paediatrics & Paediatric Intensivist at NMC Royal Hospital, DIP, noted a clear pattern during the summer months. She said, "There is a clear rise in childhood obesity during summer breaks both globally and in the UAE. Obesity cases are strongly tied to: increase of screen time, less physical activity and unstructured days." "In the UAE, approximately 75 per cent of children exceed two hours per day of recreational screen time, and among those, physical activity plummets — 68.8 per cent report no physical activity. That same high screen group shows a strong BMI correlation, with screen time linked to higher overweight and obesity rates," she continued. "Expat adolescent data from Al-Ain indicated that each extra hour of screen raised metabolic syndrome risk by 21 per cent; more than or equivalent to two hours per day doubled the risk, compared to under two hours," Velasco added. Reduced outdoor activities, increased screen time With temperatures reaching extremes, outdoor activity becomes nearly impossible for much of the day, prompting families to turn to indoor pastimes. However, doctors say this often leads to increased reliance on digital devices like television, tablets, smartphones, and gaming consoles. Dr Amr El Zawahry, Consultant Pediatrician and Head of Pediatrics at Medcare Royal Speciality Hospital, echoed similar concerns. 'There is a documented pattern of increased childhood obesity risk during the school breaks. The combination of unstructured time, increased access to screens, irregular meal patterns, and reduced physical activity is the cause for weight gain and childhood obesity during the summer holidays,' he explained. Zawahry added, 'Childhood obesity is the most prominent long-term health concern of excessive screen time. This, in turn, causes issues like cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, musculoskeletal problems, vision issues, and mental health challenges for children. With the summer holidays (and the heat) in full swing, working parents here are finding it challenging to control screen time for their children." Short-term consequences of excessive screen time Specialists warn that the short-term consequences of excessive screen exposure are also concerning. These include eye strain, headaches, neck and back pain from poor posture, disrupted sleep, and loss of appetite control. "Children can also have behavioural issues when they are exposed to excessive screen time which include heightened levels of aggression, anxiety, irritability, reduced social interaction and trouble concentrating, which can manifest within days of increased exposure. In very rare cases, some children could even depict withdrawal symptoms, too,' added Zawahry. To counter these issues, health professionals urge families to establish consistent routines and offer creative indoor alternatives to screens. Other tips include scheduling short video check-ins during work breaks to monitor children's activities, assigning playful "missions" like creating dance routines or building LEGO structures, and ensuring daily movement is part of the plan. Dr Ayman Fahmy, Specialist Pediatrics at Medeor Hospital, Abu Dhabi, suggested simple, structured strategies to keep children active and healthy. "Maintaining a routine is key. Set consistent wake-up and sleep times. Limit screen use as much as possible. Keep healthy snacks readily available at home. Encourage physical activity through indoor games or local summer camps. Most importantly, children follow by example, stay active, and involve them whenever you can," he said.
Khaleej Times
11-06-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
NMC Royal Hospital DIP revolutionising breast cancer surgery in the UAE with Sentimag system
The Sentimag system offers a breakthrough alternative by replacing radioactive tracers and blue dye with a safe, non-radioactive technique In a significant advancement for breast cancer treatment in the UAE, NMC Royal Hospital DIP has successfully performed its first breast cancer surgery using the Sentimag system, a cutting-edge, radiation-free technology for sentinel lymph node localisation, marking a major milestone in surgical innovation in the country. The procedure, a first across the entire NMC Healthcare network, was performed at the hospital's dedicated Breast Cancer Clinic by Dr Afaf Sahraoui, specialist in breast, thyroid, and parathyroid surgery, and certified by the Norwegian Health Board. The Sentimag system replaces the conventional use of radioactive tracers and blue dye with a safe, magnetic alternative, enhancing both patient safety and surgical precision. In modern surgical breast cancer surgery, sentinel lymph node biopsy is a crucial step used to determine whether cancer has spread beyond the tumour. Traditionally, this process involves the use of radioactive isotopes and blue dye to locate sentinel lymph nodes which are methods that can pose risks such as radiation exposure, potential allergic reactions and complex logistical challenges due to strict timing of tracer injections. The Sentimag system offers a breakthrough alternative by replacing radioactive tracers and blue dye with a safe, non-radioactive technique. It uses Magtrace, a liquid solution containing magnetic nanoparticles administered before surgery. During the procedure, a handheld probe is used to detect magnetic signals and accurately locate and remove the sentinel lymph node. The same system can also deploy Magseed, a tiny magnetic marker used to localise nonpalpable breast tumours (those not detectable by touch), eliminating the need for traditional guidewires. The first patient to undergo surgery using Sentimag at NMC Royal Hospital DIP was a 47-year-old woman diagnosed with a 26mm invasive breast carcinoma, a malignant tumour that had spread beyond the breast tissue. Following evaluation by a multidisciplinary tumour board, she was recommended for breast-conserving surgery with sentinel lymph node biopsy using the Sentimag system. As the tumour was palpable, Magtrace alone was sufficient, and the procedure was successfully completed through a minimally invasive incision, with the sentinel nodes accurately identified and removed without complications. The technique significantly reduced recovery time, with the patient experiencing minimal discomfort and was discharged just six hours after surgery. She also showed excellent recovery at her one-week postoperative follow-up with no signs of infection. "This technology offers a safer, more convenient, and patient-friendly advancement in breast cancer surgery," said Dr Afaf Sahraoui. "By eliminating the use of radiation and blue dye, we're not only reducing risks but also simplifying the surgical process without compromising diagnostic accuracy. It's a significant step forward for women's health in the UAE." "Sentimag revolutionises sentinel lymph node surgery with a precise, radiation-free alternative,' added Dr Shaista Meraj, consultant radiologist. 'It expands patient access particularly in units like ours, without on-site radioisotopes. This ensures breast clinic efficiency by providing a sustainable and patient friendly alternative to radioactive tracer." The introduction of the Sentimag system reinforces NMC Royal Hospital DIP's commitment to innovation and patient-centred care, making it one of the first hospitals in Dubai to offer this advanced, radiation-free solution for breast cancer surgery. This breakthrough strengthens the hospital's Breast Cancer Clinic offering and reflects NMC Healthcare's ongoing dedication to providing world-class evidence-based treatments to patients across the country.
