CAIRO, Oct 16: The World Health Organization (WHO) has praised Kuwait's longstanding commitment to advancing medical research, particularly through its prestigious prize for combating cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. The WHO’s Director of Program Management for the Eastern Mediterranean Region, Dr. Adham Rashad, hailed the award as a "shining example" in promoting scientific innovation.

Speaking to KUNA at the WHO's 72nd Eastern Mediterranean Region session in Cairo, Dr. Rashad underscored Kuwait's crucial role in encouraging groundbreaking research. He noted that the Kuwait Prize, which was launched in 2003, not only boosts regional and global scientific collaboration but also highlights the importance of addressing chronic health challenges that impact millions worldwide.

Dr. Rashad pointed out that the prize, awarded annually, is a pivotal initiative aimed at spurring new research on chronic diseases like cancer, cardiovascular issues, and diabetes. Over the past 12 years, it has enriched the Arab and international medical research landscape, fostering cooperation between health institutions.

In addition, Dr. Rashad acknowledged that the prize is emblematic of a robust partnership between national and international health organizations, reflecting Kuwait’s humanitarian and scientific commitment to public health advancement.

During the WHO session, Kuwait’s Minister of Health, Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi, presented the 2024 Kuwait Prize to Dr. Noor Al-Busaidi from Oman and Dr. Majid Mobarhan from Iran. The ceremony, held on the sidelines of the ongoing regional session, recognized their exceptional contributions in the fight against chronic diseases.

Dr. Rashad further discussed the challenges facing the WHO in the Eastern Mediterranean region, citing financial constraints as one of the most pressing issues. With a growing number of health emergencies, he stressed the importance of enhancing both financial and technical resources to better address regional health crises.

The ongoing WHO session also addressed several key health concerns, including the continued presence of polio in Pakistan and Afghanistan, the impact of climate change on health, and the need to strengthen regional healthcare systems. Dr. Rashad commended the Egyptian Minister of Health, Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, for launching the "Cairo Call for Health Response," which aims to coordinate regional efforts in tackling emerging health challenges.

The 72nd WHO session, which concludes tomorrow, has gathered health ministers and officials from 22 countries, including Kuwait, as well as representatives from global health organizations.