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
