KUWAIT: A World Health Organization (WHO) official on Thursday praised the Kuwait Prize for Combating Cancer, Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes as a leading example in encouraging scientific research, highlighting Kuwait’s pivotal role in supporting medical advancements. Dr Adham Rashad, Director of Program Management for the Eastern Mediterranean Region at WHO, told KUNA that the prize exemplifies an initiative that stimulates scientific and medical research at both regional and international levels. He commended Kuwait’s ongoing commitment to advancing medical research and public health.

Speaking during the 72nd session of the WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean in Cairo, Rashad said the prize reflects Kuwait’s humanitarian and scientific dedication to enhancing researchers’ capacities in tackling chronic health challenges. Launched in 2003, the award is presented annually for the best research addressing cancer, heart diseases, and diabetes—three of the most widespread and impactful conditions on human health.

Rashad noted that over the past 12 years, the Kuwait Prize has significantly enriched Arab and international medical research by highlighting exceptional work and fostering collaboration between scientific and medical institutions. He described it as a model partnership between national institutions and international organizations, positively contributing to medical science and quality of life.

Addressing challenges facing WHO in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, Rashad highlighted financial constraints as a key concern. He said discussions at the current session focused on the organization’s financial situation and restructuring to align with contemporary health priorities, especially in anticipation of the United States’ planned withdrawal from WHO in January 2026. He added that the region faces complex emergencies, with nearly half of its 22 countries in a state of emergency for various reasons, underscoring the urgent need for adequate financial and technical resources for rapid response. Member states have pledged to work collectively to address these gaps.

The conference also tackled issues such as the persistence of polio in Pakistan and Afghanistan, with Gulf Cooperation Council countries—including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar—pledging additional financial and technical support to bolster eradication efforts. Other discussions included climate change and its health impact, chronic diseases, laboratory safety standards, emergency response, and strengthening healthcare systems across the region.

Rashad praised the call by Egyptian Deputy Prime Minister and Health Minister Dr Khaled Abdel Ghaffar to launch the “Cairo Call for Health Response,” noting it as a key step toward coordinated regional health action. The 72nd session, concluding tomorrow, is attended by health ministers and officials from 22 countries, including Kuwait, as well as representatives from international and regional health organizations. During the session, Kuwaiti Minister of Health Dr Ahmad Al-Awadhi presented the Kuwait Prize to Dr Noor Al-Busaidi from Oman and Dr Majid Mobarhan from Iran. — KUNA

KUWAIT: Ambassador of Italy to Kuwait, Lorenzo Morini reaffirmed the strong and growing ties between Italy and Kuwait, noting that both countries are preparing for high-level visits and meetings in the coming months. During a press briefing to announce the “Italy Design Festival”, the ambassador stated “We enjoy an excellent bilateral relationship, and we are working to enhance cooperation in various sectors from defense and investment to science, education, and health.”

He announced that Italy and Kuwait maintain close defense cooperation, including the Eurofighter program, which is nearing completion with full delivery expected by early 2026. The Ambassador also highlighted ongoing partnerships between Kuwait’s National Guard and Italy’s Carabinieri, as well as joint initiatives on counterterrorism and security training.

He added that Italian companies, such as Pizzarotti, continue to contribute to Kuwait’s infrastructure, having built major projects like the new Maternity Hospital. Several Italian brands and contractors maintain an active presence in Kuwait across various sectors. The Ambassador praised Kuwait’s strong investment presence in Italy through entities such as Kuwait Petroleum International (Kuwait Petroleum) and the Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA). Italian companies are also investing in Kuwait, with joint ventures and technology transfer initiatives underway.

Regarding Tourism, he noted that it continues to grow, with increasing numbers of Kuwaitis traveling to Italy and Italian visitors discovering Kuwait, adding “We have noticed a rise in visa requests and growing enthusiasm for Italian destinations.” In education, the ambassador pointed out that there has been a significant increase in Kuwaiti students enrolling in Italian universities, many of which offer English-language programs. The two countries are also enhancing health cooperation, particularly in home care and elderly healthcare services, with discussions underway for a memorandum of understanding in this sector.

Meanwhile, Italy’s archaeological missions in Kuwait continue to uncover important historical findings, particularly on Failaka Island and along the Doha coast. The Ambassador revealed that discoveries are being documented for publication in an upcoming book supported by the Italian government. During the conference, the Italian ambassador announced the launch of “Italian Design Festival” a series of events celebrating Italian Design Day, highlighting Italy’s creativity and cultural excellence across multiple sectors. The celebration, organized in collaboration with Kuwaiti institutions, will take place between October 19 and October 25, offering a rich program of exhibitions, concerts, and performances.

Ambassador of Italy to Kuwait, Lorenzo Morini

The Ambassador emphasized Italy’s longstanding tradition of promoting design, creativity, and culture worldwide, saying “Italian Design Day showcases the very essence of our creativity – from furniture, fashion, and jewelry to art, music, and cuisine. Here in Kuwait, Italian products and culture are highly appreciated, and this year we wanted to do something different, more inclusive and engaging.”

The festivities will begin on Sunday, October 19, with the opening of an Italian exhibition, featuring Italian brands from various sectors, including fashion, food, furniture, medical equipment, perfumes, and automobiles. Also, displays of iconic Italian vehicles such as Maserati, Ferrari, and Vespa throughout the mall, with special sections dedicated to Italian jewelry and design.

During the weekend, The Avenues will host the renowned Sbandieratori di Gubbio, a traditional Italian flag-waving group that will perform on October 24 and 25. The performance, rooted in medieval Italian heritage, will feature colorful flags, historical costumes, and live traditional music. On October 21, the Contemporary Art Platform (CAP) will open an art exhibition by Italian artist Fiorentini, featuring portraits of landscapes, animals, and cars. The opening ceremony will include a live jazz concert.

Additionally, Italian designers will deliver lectures at Kuwait University and CAP, engaging with Kuwaiti architects and design students to strengthen creative collaboration. The festivities will also include a concert at the Americani Museum on October 19, featuring Italian and Kuwaiti musicians performing iconic film scores by composers such as Ennio Morricone. “This collaboration between Italian and Kuwaiti artists represents a beautiful symbol of unity and friendship between our two countries,” said the Ambassador. The Ambassador concluded by expressing his hope that the Italian Design Week will further strengthen the cultural and creative bonds between Italy and Kuwait.

KUWAIT: With the rapid acceleration of the digital era, children’s use of smart devices has become a double-edged sword, offering pathways to knowledge and skill development while posing risks of isolation and addiction. Specialists in psychology, education and healthcare have highlighted the potential negative effects of prolonged screen time on children’s physical, cognitive and social development.

Head of the Ophthalmology Departments Council at the Ministry of Health, Dr Ahmed Al-Foudari, told Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on Thursday that excessive use of smart devices can lead to eye strain, dryness, and vision problems, in addition to neck and back issues caused by prolonged sitting and poor posture. He advised that children under two years of age should avoid device use, except for family video calls, while children aged 5 to 17 should be limited to two hours daily in addition to schoolwork. Al-Foudari emphasized avoiding device use one hour before bedtime, keeping devices out of sleeping areas, and refraining from using them during meals to foster family interaction.

“Excessive screen time can contribute to anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal, negatively affecting communication skills and family relationships,” he said. He also urged parents to conduct regular eye examinations to detect potential problems early and safeguard their children’s visual health. Psychotherapist Alia Lari, from the Kuwait Center for Mental Health, warned of multiple psychological and physiological harms associated with excessive smart device use. “Children exposed to prolonged screen time are at risk of poor social communication, delayed language development, isolation, aggression, reduced attention spans, insomnia, and muscle atrophy,” Lari said. She noted that exposure to inappropriate or violent content can leave lasting effects on a child’s conscience and behavior.

Lari stressed that direct social interaction is essential for developing communication and empathy skills. Educational specialists advocate parental supervision, setting screen time limits, and guiding children toward content that fosters cognitive and skill development. A recent study conducted by Lari indicated that prolonged device use significantly diminishes children’s attention spans, affecting academic performance, particularly in early education.

“Controlling screen time and encouraging alternative real-world activities are vital to preventing digital addiction,” Lari said. She highlighted the importance of parental involvement in selecting age-appropriate games and applications, implementing usage controls, and gradually teaching children self-monitoring to cultivate responsible digital habits. She referred to World Health Organization guidelines, which advise no screen use for children under two, a maximum of one hour daily for ages two to five, and supervised usage for older children, ensuring it does not interfere with sleep or schoolwork.

Regarding digital safety, the Anti-Cybercrime Department at the Ministry of Interior cautioned that unsupervised device use exposes children to risks including inappropriate content, communication with strangers, cyberbullying and exploitation of personal data. The department warned against untrusted apps or games that may collect sensitive information and urged parents to educate children on safe practices, including not sharing passwords or private photos, avoiding unknown links, and using official app sources.

“To balance the benefits of technology with security, parents should moderate usage time, activate parental controls, and engage children in positive digital activities,” the department said. It emphasized that conscious supervision and proper guidance are the first line of defense in protecting children from online risks, ensuring their safe and healthy engagement with smart devices. — KUNA