Latest news with #QoL


Medscape
22-07-2025
- Health
- Medscape
QoL Deserves More Than a Footnote in Cancer Trials
In a review published in New England Journal of Medicine Evidence , Massimo Di Maio, MD, from the Department of Oncology at the University of Turin in Turin, Italy, and president-elect of the Italian Association of Medical Oncology, offers a detailed analysis of how patient-reported outcomes are used in clinical trials and explains the best practices for interpreting quality-of-life (QoL) data. 'QoL data are increasingly being included in oncology trials,' Di Maio told Univadis Italy, a Medscape Network platform. 'However, the scientific community is less familiar with interpreting — or critically assessing — this type of data compared with more traditional endpoints like progression-free survival or overall survival.' With growing support from scientific societies and regulatory agencies, QoL has become a standard endpoint in many studies. Yet practical guidance on its interpretation remains limited. Di Maio, who also served as lead author of the European Society For Medical Oncology guidelines on the use of patient-reported outcome measures in oncology, views this as a significant gap in the field. 'We must not forget that for many patients — especially those in advanced stages of disease — living well can be just as important, if not more so, than living longer,' he emphasized. He also cautioned that statistical significance does not always translate into meaningful clinical benefit. From Trial Design... To accurately assess QoL and maximize the value of the data, clinical trials must be appropriately designed from the outset. As outlined in the article, phase 3 randomized trials offer the ideal framework for QoL measurement. They allow investigators to compare results between treatment and control groups, tracking changes from baseline and over time. Di Maio explains in the review that randomized trial designs help ensure that any differences observed between study arms are directly linked to the treatment itself. Speaking with Univadis Italy , he also addressed the potential for bias in QoL data collection. 'Some researchers argue that simply knowing they are receiving the experimental treatment may lead patients — perhaps even subconsciously — to perceive a benefit, which could influence patient-reported outcomes like QoL,' he said. Still, Di Maio noted the difficulty in rigorously proving the existence or magnitude of such bias. Ideally, this would be tested by comparing blinded and open-label trials, but these studies are uncommon and logistically challenging. One coordinated analysis, led by Fabio Efficace, PhD, of the Italian Group for Adult Hematologic Diseases, found that trial blinding was not an independent predictor of QoL benefit. While the potential for bias cannot be dismissed, Di Maio believes its real-world impact is likely modest — and that open-label studies can still yield valid and meaningful QoL data. ...To Data Interpretation Few oncology trials designate QoL as a primary endpoint, but this isn't inherently a limitation, Di Maio noted. QoL can still be a valuable secondary endpoint — provided the results are interpreted carefully and in the proper context. One of the central challenges is patient compliance with QoL questionnaires, which tends to be inconsistent. Factors contributing to low completion rates include limited time for clinicians to communicate the importance of QoL data, patient dropout due to disease progression or adverse outcomes, and technical issues such as failures in electronic data capture or patients' unfamiliarity with digital tools. In such cases, Di Maio suggested that having a paper-based backup system can improve data reliability. Ultimately, QoL should not be viewed as an optional or secondary concern, but as a fundamental part of assessing the true value of cancer therapies. Patient-reported outcome measures, while designed to capture quality of life, also offer critical insights into the broader effectiveness and utility of treatments. 'QoL data alone aren't sufficient,' Di Maio emphasized, 'but they are indispensable for understanding the value of a therapy — and for communicating that value clearly to patients.' He concluded that interpreting QoL data accurately is not just a scientific imperative but also an ethical obligation to patients navigating serious and often life-limiting conditions.


Business Upturn
04-06-2025
- Business
- Business Upturn
Saudi Arabia's Quality of Life Program Powers Investment Through Vision 2030 Reforms
Riyadh, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — As Saudi Arabia advances toward its Vision 2030 goals, the Quality of Life Program (QoL) is emerging as a central driver of both national well-being and global investment momentum. Launched in 2018, the program is one of 11 Vision Realization Programs and is led by CEO Khalid Albaker. It focuses on enhancing livability while positioning sectors such as tourism, culture, and sports as strategic economic assets. 'We don't view quality of life as an abstract ideal,' Albaker said. 'It's a measurable, investment-ready platform that's already delivering real returns—for our citizens and for our partners around the world.' In 2024, the Kingdom reported a 3.9% increase in non-oil gross domestic product, driven significantly by lifestyle sectors historically seen as non-core. Foreign direct investment surged to $20.69 billion in Q4 2024, underscoring growing global confidence in the Saudi economy. 'We've always seen arts, culture, and sports not as luxuries, but as industries. They are engines of economic diversification, talent retention, and global perception,' Albaker said. The Quality of Life Program delivered 173 initiatives in 2024 alone, with 85 percent of its key performance indicators achieved or on track. Notable developments include: The number of hotel rooms rising from 280,800 in 2023 to 475,900 in 2024. The planting of 1.12 million trees and the establishment of 149 new parks. Public space increasing to 6.53 square meters per capita—130% above initial targets. Tourism growth has been robust, with international visits climbing from 41 million in 2018 to 115.9 million in 2024. The Kingdom is also preparing to host global events including the AFC Asian Cup in 2027, Expo 2030, and the FIFA World Cup in 2034. 'Whether it's 100 million annual tourists, a 390% increase in Public Investment Fund assets since 2016, or our leap in global happiness rankings, our progress is tangible,' said Albaker. QoL is also contributing to Saudi Arabia's innovation-based economic shift. Private sector GDP contribution has increased from 40% in 2016 to 47% in 2024. Public-private collaborations are accelerating innovation and unlocking opportunities across creative sectors. 'Our reforms have empowered entrepreneurs, opened new doors for creatives, and created environments where global and local ideas can thrive together,' Albaker said. Saudi Arabia currently ranks first among G20 countries in safety perception and has raised life expectancy to 78.8 years. These achievements reflect wider investments in public health, infrastructure, mobility, and urban livability. 'The real measure of success is when quality of life becomes self-sustaining,' Albaker added. 'When cities organically support wellness, creativity, and community—that's when you know you've created a thriving ecosystem.' With major international platforms on the horizon, including Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034, the Quality of Life Program is positioned to expand its influence. The program will continue to direct investment into sustainable development, cultural infrastructure, and next-generation entertainment technologies. 'We're building a lifestyle economy at scale,' Albaker said. 'For investors, this is an invitation not only to witness transformation—but to be a part of it.' Saudi Arabia's evolving national landscape offers measurable impact, long-term economic vision, and cultural ambition—framing a new regional benchmark for livability and investment potential. Attachments The Quality of Life Program delivered 173 initiatives in 2024 alone, Quality of life as an abstract ideal Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same.
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Saudi Arabia's Quality of Life Program Showcased During Trump Visit Amid National Transformation
U.S. President Donald Trump was introduced to a new chapter in Saudi Arabia's national narrative Tourism increasing from 41 million visits in 2018 to over 115.9 million in 2024 National festivals drawing global interest Riyadh, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Saudi Arabia — During a recent high-profile visit to the Kingdom, U.S. President Donald Trump was introduced to a new chapter in Saudi Arabia's national narrative—one defined by social transformation, economic diversification and cultural renaissance. Central to this engagement was the Media Oasis, an activation curated by the Ministry of Media to coincide with the presidential visit and highlight progress under Vision 2030. The immersive platform, hosted in Riyadh, spotlighted Saudi Arabia's transition across public life, culture, and entertainment, with a special focus on the Quality of Life Program (QoL). The Media Oasis included digital installations and interactive exhibits offering policymakers, diplomats, and media representatives a detailed view of how the Kingdom is reshaping its identity and economy to align with global benchmarks. President Trump's presence reaffirmed the long-standing U.S.–Saudi partnership, while drawing international attention to the nation's modernization initiatives. Vision 2030—spearheaded by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman—was prominently featured. The national strategy aims to establish a diversified, knowledge-based economy and to attract global investment and innovation. At the center of the activation was the Quality of Life Program, which illustrates how cultural and lifestyle reforms contribute to broader economic goals. Attendees explored new developments including public parks, modern stadiums, art and music festivals, and the return of cinema—each marking a shift in how daily life is experienced across the Kingdom. 'Quality of life is not a luxury. It is a measurable driver of economic growth, productivity, and investment attractiveness,' said Khalid Albaker, CEO of the Quality of Life Program. Since Vision 2030's launch, more than 674 initiatives have been completed. Of these, 173 were concluded by the Quality of Life Program during 2024. This includes major investments in recreational infrastructure, cultural programming, and livability standards. Key outcomes reported by the program include: Tourism increasing from 41 million visits in 2018 to over 115.9 million in 2024. Foreign direct investment reaching $20.69 billion in the fourth quarter of 2024. A 3.9% year-over-year increase in non-oil gross domestic product, driven in part by entertainment, wellness and cultural sectors. National festivals such as Riyadh Season and art initiatives like the Diriyah Biennale are drawing global interest. New sports academies, concert venues and public spaces are also contributing to a reshaped image of the Kingdom—one that aligns modern leisure with economic opportunity. 'Saudi Arabia's transformation is attracting not only capital but also global talent. These sectors are no longer peripheral—they are essential to the future of our economy,' said Albaker. Looking ahead, major global events such as AFC 2027, Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034 are set to extend international engagement with the Kingdom. These milestones will provide further platforms to showcase national reform. 'We welcome the world to witness the transformation,' said Albaker. 'The invitation is clear: explore the new Saudi Arabia, invest in it, and be part of its growth.' As the Media Oasis closed, its message remained clear: Saudi Arabia's transformation is not aspirational—it is actively underway and open to the world. Attachments Tourism increasing from 41 million visits in 2018 to over 115.9 million in 2024 National festivals drawing global interest CONTACT: Badr Al-Rashed Media & Communications – Quality of Life Program Center balrashed@ | +966 553 472 559 Naif Al-Shahrani Media Relations – Edelman Saudi Arabia | +966 530 633 777Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
04-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Saudi Arabia's Quality of Life Program Powers Investment Through Vision 2030 Reforms
Saudi Arabia advances toward its Vision 2030 goals, the Quality of Life Program (QoL) is emerging as a central driver of both national well-being and global investment momentum. The Quality of Life Program delivered 173 initiatives in 2024 alone, Quality of life as an abstract ideal Riyadh, June 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RIYADH, Saudi Arabia — As Saudi Arabia advances toward its Vision 2030 goals, the Quality of Life Program (QoL) is emerging as a central driver of both national well-being and global investment momentum. Launched in 2018, the program is one of 11 Vision Realization Programs and is led by CEO Khalid Albaker. It focuses on enhancing livability while positioning sectors such as tourism, culture, and sports as strategic economic assets. "We don't view quality of life as an abstract ideal," Albaker said. "It's a measurable, investment-ready platform that's already delivering real returns—for our citizens and for our partners around the world." In 2024, the Kingdom reported a 3.9% increase in non-oil gross domestic product, driven significantly by lifestyle sectors historically seen as non-core. Foreign direct investment surged to $20.69 billion in Q4 2024, underscoring growing global confidence in the Saudi economy. "We've always seen arts, culture, and sports not as luxuries, but as industries. They are engines of economic diversification, talent retention, and global perception," Albaker said. The Quality of Life Program delivered 173 initiatives in 2024 alone, with 85 percent of its key performance indicators achieved or on track. Notable developments include: The number of hotel rooms rising from 280,800 in 2023 to 475,900 in 2024. The planting of 1.12 million trees and the establishment of 149 new parks. Public space increasing to 6.53 square meters per capita—130% above initial targets. Tourism growth has been robust, with international visits climbing from 41 million in 2018 to 115.9 million in 2024. The Kingdom is also preparing to host global events including the AFC Asian Cup in 2027, Expo 2030, and the FIFA World Cup in 2034. "Whether it's 100 million annual tourists, a 390% increase in Public Investment Fund assets since 2016, or our leap in global happiness rankings, our progress is tangible," said Albaker. QoL is also contributing to Saudi Arabia's innovation-based economic shift. Private sector GDP contribution has increased from 40% in 2016 to 47% in 2024. Public-private collaborations are accelerating innovation and unlocking opportunities across creative sectors. "Our reforms have empowered entrepreneurs, opened new doors for creatives, and created environments where global and local ideas can thrive together," Albaker said. Saudi Arabia currently ranks first among G20 countries in safety perception and has raised life expectancy to 78.8 years. These achievements reflect wider investments in public health, infrastructure, mobility, and urban livability. "The real measure of success is when quality of life becomes self-sustaining," Albaker added. "When cities organically support wellness, creativity, and community—that's when you know you've created a thriving ecosystem." With major international platforms on the horizon, including Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034, the Quality of Life Program is positioned to expand its influence. The program will continue to direct investment into sustainable development, cultural infrastructure, and next-generation entertainment technologies. "We're building a lifestyle economy at scale," Albaker said. "For investors, this is an invitation not only to witness transformation—but to be a part of it." Saudi Arabia's evolving national landscape offers measurable impact, long-term economic vision, and cultural ambition—framing a new regional benchmark for livability and investment potential. Attachments The Quality of Life Program delivered 173 initiatives in 2024 alone, Quality of life as an abstract ideal CONTACT: Badr Al-Rashed Media & Communications – Quality of Life Program Center balrashed@ | +966 553 472 559 Naif Al-Shahrani Media Relations – Edelman Saudi Arabia | +966 530 633 777