Doha: Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development (QF) held a panel discussion on key initiatives in precision healthcare in the country during the official launch of QF's Qatar Precision Health Institute (QPHI). At the formal launch event, the panel discussion explored how genomic data from samples collected by QPHI's Qatar Biobank has revealed prominent mutations that cause heart diseases in Qatari citizens, and how access to this information is helping healthcare professionals treat patients who are suffering from cardiovascular diseases in an effective and targeted way. Senior Director of QPHI's Qatar Genome Programme Dr. Wadha Al Muftah chaired the session and spoke about how, over the past decade, Qatar's efforts in sequencing Arabi genomes have put the country on the global precision health map. "We've now surpassed 40,000 whole genomes being sequenced, and we've launched dozens of cutting-edge initiatives that allowed us to take our spot within the Champions League' of major g lobal precision health projects," she said. Director of QPHI's Qatar Biobank Dr. Fatima Qafoud spoke about the findings derived from vital genomic data that the biobank has collected over the years by Qatar Biobank, saying that several Qatari participants were identified as carriers of genetic mutations associated with heart diseases which could result in conditions such as strokes and irregular heart rhythms. Emphasizing the importance of preventive measures grounded in precision medicine, Qafoud said that regular patient monitoring can effectively mitigate deaths caused by these ailments. "In our ongoing battle against heart disease, Qatar Biobank remains committed to engaging with participants and furnishing them with essential support," she said. "This includes guiding them to specialized cardiac care centers for necessary medical follow-ups and the implementation of tailored preventive strategies." Deputy Chair of Medical Genetics at Hamad Medical Corporation Panel member Dr. Reem Al-Sulaiman explored the significance of precision health in uncovering genetic mutations linked to cancer. She highlighted the findings of studies conducted at Hamad Medical Corporation which unveiled genetic mutations associated with diseases such as breast cancer, and emphasized that, through personalized preventive programs, early intervention and enhanced healthcare could be extended to those at risk of developing such conditions. "Precision health plays a pivotal role in delivering comprehensive and forward-thinking healthcare solutions," she said. "It strengthens our efforts in combating cancer while improving treatment outcomes and recovery prospects, thereby advancing overall health and wellbeing for all." Speakers in the panel discussion also included Dr. Kholoud Al Shafai, staff scientist at Qatar Foundation's (QF's) Sidra Medicine, and Dr. Lotfi Chouchane, Professor of Genetic Medicine at QF partner university Weill Cornell Medicine-Qatar. Discussions during the session focused on Qatar's unique and leading position in the field of precision healthcare, and the key role that QPHI will play in genomics and clinical applications. Source: Qatar News Agency