SEHA’s International Pediatric Conference Explores the Best in Pediatric Research and Clinical Practice

 Abu Dhabi Health Services Company (SEHA), the largest healthcare network in the UAE, virtually hosted its 15th International Pediatric Conference on March 18-20, 2021. As one of the largest forums in the region presenting the latest innovations and developments in pediatric research and clinical practice, the three-day conference gathered 55 world-leading experts from top medical institutions in the USA, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The eminent speakers were also joined by 50 young researchers from the UAE as they virtually connected with more than 2,000 participants from across 25 countries to engage in state-of-the-art lectures, interactive sessions, case studies, demonstrations, practical workshops, and presentations, encouraging the exchange of knowledge, experience and best practices.

The online scientific assembly was chaired by Dr. Anwar Sallam, Group Chief Medical Officer, SEHA; and co-chaired by Dr. Jamal Al-Jubeh, Chair of Department-Pediatrics & Medical Affairs, SKMC; and Dr. Walid Kaplan, Chairman of the Department of Pediatrics Tawam Hospital.

Dr. Anwar Sallam, Group Chief Medical Officer, SEHA, commented, “As a global community of pediatricians, nurses and allied health workers, we must recognize that safeguarding our future is safeguarding our children. There is no greater need than ever before for the industry to come together to prioritize the wellbeing of children in light of the pandemic – to share evidence-based guidance and best practices, to inspire research and innovation, and to engage in learning. Reflecting SEHA’s mission of transforming the healthcare system in Abu Dhabi to meet and exceed international standards, we are delighted to have welcomed global experts and participants to the 15th SEHA International Pediatric Conference as we take a significant step forward in encouraging continuous medical education and knowledge development.”

This year’s edition focused on the recent advancements and emerging trends in the diagnosis and management of common problems in general pediatrics, such as obesity, and all pediatric sub-specialties such as hematology/oncology, endocrinology, gastroenterology, cardiology, and many more. A dedicated session also reviewed the latest information relating to the effect of COVID-19 on children, the best treatments for children who develop complications from the virus, as well as the psychological effects of the infections and vaccines.

Dr. Jamal Al-Jubeh, Chairman of SEHA Pediatrics Council, Consultant Pediatric Endocrinologist, SKMC said, “While children are resilient, we cannot underestimate the impact the pandemic is having on their mental wellbeing and overall health. There have been many sudden changes to their lives, which require us to be ever more vigilant and do everything possible to limit the impact on young minds. Forums like the 15th SEHA International Pediatric Conference are integral in helping us collaborate as a community, and better understand how we can all transform this unprecedented challenge into a new opportunity to prioritize and invest in children’s health and wellbeing as part of our collective response to the pandemic.”

The Conference was held in association with the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP); Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital, London; Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Ohio; Nationwide Children's Hospital Columbus, Ohio; Children’s National Hospital, Washington DC; Children's Hospital, Los Angeles; University of Minnesota Medical School; and Boston Children’s Hospital.