KUWAIT: Kuwait is reinforcing its commitment to advancing healthcare through research, innovation and international collaboration, Health Minister Dr Ahmad Al-Awadhi said Thursday. Al-Awadhi was speaking at the opening of the Second Dasman International Diabetes Conference (IDDS 2026), organized by the Dasman Diabetes Institute under the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences.
“The conference builds on the success of the first edition, highlighting its credibility and its role as a global platform for understanding diabetes, promoting prevention, and reviewing innovative treatments,” he said.
He told reporters that bringing doctors and scientists from around the world to share expertise and discuss patient cases significantly improves healthcare services. He also highlighted Kuwait’s vision for a more efficient and sustainable health system, driven by emerging research and technological advancements. Al-Awadhi praised the Dasman Diabetes Institute as a national leader in research, education, and training, noting its role in improving scientific knowledge, healthcare workforce skills, and service quality in diabetes care.
Dr Faisal Al-Refaei
Dr Faisal Al-Refaei, Acting Director General of the Dasman Diabetes Institute, said last year’s conference not only sparked high-quality scientific discussions but also fostered professional relationships and valuable partnerships. “It created new opportunities for researchers and allowed doctors to exchange practical experiences, surpassing our early expectations,” he said.
Al-Rifai added that this year’s program builds on those foundations, featuring specialized workshops, in-depth scientific sessions, and contributions from experts worldwide. He said the focus remains on research with practical applications, advanced medical practices, and direct improvements in healthcare quality. He also stressed the importance of local partnerships, particularly with the Ministry of Health, as a model for integrating research, education and medical practice to enhance national healthcare outcomes.
This year’s conference features a comprehensive program addressing the growing challenges of diabetes. Sessions cover advanced therapies, specialized workshops and lectures exploring the global burden of the disease, early intervention strategies and the use of modern technologies, including artificial intelligence and smart medicine, to enhance care quality and sustainability. A key focus is managing complex diabetes complications, particularly diabetic foot, which remains a major health challenge affecting patients’ quality of life. — KUNA
