Latest news with #SameerOtoom
Biz Bahrain
6 days ago
- Health
- Biz Bahrain
RCSI Medical University of Bahrain Expands Research and Clinical Training Partnerships with Leading Academic and Healthcare Institutions in Thailand
The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) – Medical University of Bahrain has taken a significant step in advancing its international outlook by formalising a new partnership with the Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University in Bangkok, Kingdom of Thailand, as part of its ongoing commitment to expanding international academic and clinical collaboration. On May 23rd, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, and Clinical Professor Artit Ungkanont, M.D., Dean of the Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital. The agreement facilitates our students' participation in clinical and research electives across a broad range of medical specialities at Ramathibodi Hospital and opens the door to future collaboration in academia, exchange and joint initiatives. Professor Ungkanont, commented on the agreement: 'We believe that through this collaboration, both institutions will grow stronger—by learning from each other, sharing resources and supporting one another in the pursuit of global health equity and the development of future healthcare leaders.'This landmark agreement was part of a wider strategic visit to the Kingdom of Thailand, during which the University delegation also held high-level discussions with Associate Professor Dr Taveesin Tanprayoon, Chief Medical Officer, and Ms Artirat Charukitpipat, Chief Executive Officer of Bumrungrad International Hospital in Bangkok. Discussions focused on establishing clinical elective opportunities in cardiology and exploring avenues for collaborative research in key areas such as diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases and genomics. Commenting on the significance of the partnership, Professor Otoom stated: 'The MoU with Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, and our productive discussion with leading healthcare institutions in Thailand represent an important milestone in our mission to provide world-class clinical and research opportunities for our students. These efforts reflect RCSI Medical University of Bahrain's commitment to academic excellence, global health engagement, and the advancement of medical education through strategic international alliances. These developments follow the recent visit of His Excellency Sumate Chulajata, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the Kingdom of Bahrain, to the University campus. During that meeting, held earlier in May, the University outlined its intention to strengthen ties with Thai institutions through formal partnerships and mutual engagement. Further reinforcing this strategic direction, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain participated in the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) World Diabetes Congress 2025 in Thailand in April. A group of faculty and students contributed actively to scientific discussions and presented impactful research findings, highlighting the importance of regular ophthalmologic screening for pre-diabetic patients. Their research revealed that signs of diabetic retinopathy may be evident at HbA1c levels between 5.7% and 6.4%, a lower threshold than previously assumed. As RCSI Medical University of Bahrain continues to strengthen its network of global partners, the University remains focused on enhancing the academic experience and clinical training of its students, while fostering impactful research that addresses global health challenges.
Biz Bahrain
12-05-2025
- Health
- Biz Bahrain
RCSI Medical University of Bahrain Advocates for Increased Colorectal Cancer Awareness
The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland – Medical University of Bahrain organised a public campaign to raise awareness about Colorectal – related to Colon and Rectum- Cancer (CRC) with the support of 150 medical and nursing students. Held in collaboration with the King Hamad University Hospital and the King Hamad American Mission Hospital, this campaign led by Professor Hussain Nasaif, Associate Professor in Nursing and Director of the MSc in Nursing Programme at RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, with the support of the Community Engagement Office, aimed at raising awareness about the early symptoms and risk factors of Colorectal Cancer. As part of this initiative, over 250 individuals who visited both hospitals over the course of four days were demonstrated how CRC develops within the colon by our student volunteers using an inflatable colon model as an effective educational tool. Colorectal – related to Colon and Rectum- Cancer (CRC) continues to pose a significant public health challenge in the Kingdom of Bahrain, with data highlighting the increase in new cases and the need for improved awareness, early detection and preventive measures. According to the latest statistics from the World Health Organization's International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), Colorectal Cancer emerged in 2022 as the most commonly diagnosed cancer among men in the Kingdom of Bahrain, with an incidence rate of 14.8%. Among women, it is the second most common cancer, following breast cancer, with an incidence rate of 8.2%. When compared with figures from the wider West Asia region—9.7% among men and 8.7% among women—CRC appears more prevalent among Bahraini men, while the rate among women remains broadly similar. Negative lifestyle factors, including smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity, a diet high in processed foods, fatty food, low fibre diet, and physical inactivity significantly contribute to the risk of developing Colorectal Cancer. Conversely, a balanced diet combined with regular physical activity can lower the risk and improve overall health outcomes. Common symptoms of CRC include blood in the stool, incomplete bowel emptying, lower abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, loss of appetite, fatigue and anaemia. Individuals experiencing these symptoms are advised to consult their family doctor to review their personal and family medical history and explore available CRC screening options. Regular CRC screening is recommended from the age of 45 for both men and women. Early detection dramatically increases the likelihood of successful treatment and patients' survival rate. Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, commented: 'We are grateful to our partner hospitals for hosting and supporting our Colorectal Cancer awareness initiative. Our collaborative effort in engaging the public and extending the relevant healthcare services is critical in tackling this prevalent disease for the benefit of all people in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Such partnerships strengthen our mission to enhance community health through education, research, and service.' RCSI Medical University of Bahrain remains committed to empowering the public with the knowledge and resources necessary to reduce the impact of Colorectal Cancer, as well as other prevalent diseases and health conditions. By fostering a culture of education, early detection, and prevention, we continue to play an active role in supporting the health and wellbeing of individuals and communities across the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Daily Tribune
23-04-2025
- Health
- Daily Tribune
RCSI Bahrain president honoured by Royal College of Physicians of London
TDT | Manama Professor Sameer Otoom, President of the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) – Medical University of Bahrain has been awarded the prestigious Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians of London. The Fellowship of the Royal College of Physicians of London (RCP) is an accolade held by some of the most inspirational, innovative and distinguished individuals, whose contributions to medicine are recognised to shape the future of healthcare. This esteemed recognition highlights Professor Otoom's outstanding contributions to medical and health sciences education, healthcare and institutional leadership. With a distinguished career spanning academia and international health, Professor Otoom has served as President of RCSI Medical University Bahrain since 2014, playing a central role in shaping the University into a regional hub for medical and health sciences education and research. On accepting this prestigious recognition, Professor Otoom stated: 'I am sincerely grateful to the Royal College of Physicians of London for this distinction, and I remain committed to advancing healthcare, medical and health sciences education, as well as health policies and programmes for the benefit of patients and communities.' Professor Otoom also emphasised that this recognition would not have been achieved without the great efforts made by all University members and the continuous support of our stakeholders and partners in the public and private sectors. In addition to this latest honour, Professor Otoom also holds Fellowships from the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland and the Royal Society of Medicine in London, where his name is inscribed on its prestigious Wall of Honour. Stephen Harrison-Mirfield, Managing Director of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, commenting on this recognition: 'On behalf of the University, I extend my sincere congratulations to Professor Otoom for his distinguished professional career. Under his leadership, we have had an incredible opportunity to enhance and develop the profile of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain.'
Daily Tribune
29-03-2025
- Health
- Daily Tribune
RCSI Medical University of Bahrain publishes book documenting its journey
RCSI Medical University of Bahrain announced the release of a commemorative book titled 'From Dublin to Dilmun', which chronicles the institution's remarkable journey since its establishment in 2004. This book co-authored by Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, and Professor Joe McMenamin, Professor Emeritus of RCSI in Dublin and former Head of School of Medicine and Vice President for Academic Affairs of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, provides an in-depth account of the University's founding, mission and ethos, highlighting its evolution as a centre of excellence in medical education and its enduring impact on healthcare in the Kingdom of Bahrain, paying tribute to all organisations and individuals, who participated in establishing the University. The book traces the origins of RCSI's presence in the Kingdom of Bahrain over half a century ago, as rooted in a long-standing partnership between Ireland and the Kingdom of Bahrain in medical and nursing education. This collaboration was formally strengthened in 1980 when the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) and the Bahrain Ministry of Health signed an agreement to support postgraduate medical and nursing training. As a result, the Bahrain Family Medicine Programme was established, and in 1982, the Kingdom of Bahrain became home to the first RCSI Overseas Centre for Basic Surgical Training. Building upon this legacy, discussions between RCSI and the Government of the Kingdom of Bahrain culminated in the decision to establish a new medical university that would deliver an Irish -International curriculum and confer both Irish and Bahraini medical degrees, aligning with the Kingdom of Bahrain's vision for a knowledge-based economy. This vision was realised in October 2003 with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, paving the way for the creation of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain in Busaiteen. From Dublin to Dilmun explores key milestones in the University's journey, including the implementation of its pioneering transnational education model, the development of its clinical programme, and the expansion of its academic portfolio to include the Schools of Nursing and Midwifery, as well as Postgraduate Studies and Research. The book also provides insights into the student experience, the University's growing alumni community, and the challenges and opportunities encountered along the way. This achievement has been made possible under the wise leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the guidance of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. RCSI Medical University of Bahrain extends its deepest gratitude to all stakeholders and partners whose unwavering support has played a pivotal role in the University's continued success and advancement.
Daily Tribune
18-03-2025
- Health
- Daily Tribune
RCSI Medical University of Bahrain hosts delegation from Sultan Qaboos University's College of Medicine and Health Sciences
The Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) – Medical University of Bahrain welcomed on campus a delegation from Sultan Qaboos University's College of Medicine and Health Sciences. Professor Sameer Otoom, President of RCSI Medical University of Bahrain, in collaboration with Professor Alfred Nicholson, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Head of the School of Medicine hosted a high-level meeting with the Omani delegation led by Professor Rashid Al Abri, Dean of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, alongside Professor Musbah Tanira, Professor Emeritus at Sultan Qaboos University. The discussions were centred on fostering strategic collaboration, particularly in the realms of student exchange programmes and research initiatives. The dialogue underscored a shared commitment to advancing medical education and research excellence within the region. Professor Sameer Otoom, commented after the meeting: 'We are delighted to welcome Professor Al Abri and we wish him continued success in his new role as Dean of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences at Sultan Qaboos University. Our discussions reinforced a mutual dedication to enhancing medical training and fostering research collaborations to benefit students and faculty alike. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration.' As part of their visit, the delegation received a comprehensive presentation outlining the University's academic programmes, advanced facilities, and student experience. The visit also included a guided tour of the University campus and a briefing on the New Academic Building, currently under construction, which stands as a testament to RCSI Medical University of Bahrain's continuous development and dedication to providing world-class medical and health sciences education. Commenting on the visit, Professor Rashid Al Abri, highlighted: 'Through a holistic educational model which prioritises graduates' employability and professionalism, RCSI Medical University of Bahrain provides students with the comprehensive skills and competencies necessary to seamlessly transition from academic study to professional practice.'
