Qatar Biobank screens 15,000 participants to reach an important new milestone
Qatar Biobank, supported by Qatar Foundation (QF), is an important initiative the country is wholeheartedly promoting.
It recently reached an important new milestone when it screened its 15,0000th participant as part of its medical health research initiative.
The results of the research will be used to improve health of the local population through personalised medicine, reported Gulf Times.
The screened volunteers, by providing biological samples and information, has been aiding Qatar Biobank in helping medical researchers and healthcare professionals to form a clearer picture of prevalent health-related issues in the region.
“We’re delighted to celebrate the screening of our 15,000th participant — a milestone that represents the local population’s eagerness to contribute to their improved health. Qatar Biobank is an important initiative that’ll play a pivotal role in contributing to a healthier local population for generations to come,” Dr Asmaa Al Thani, Chairperson of the Qatar Genome Programme (QGP) Committee and Board Vice Chairperson of Qatar Biobank, was quoted as saying by The Peninsula.
Researchers at QGP, another member of QF, are already using Qatar Biobank’s samples to gain important insights into the health of the local population, including the prevalence of diabetes, obesity and vitamin D deficiency.
“Qatar Biobank serves as a large-scale biomedical research initiative that’s based on population in the Arab world, thus ensuring far more accurate and effective targeted medical treatments. We encourage Qatar’s people to participate in this vital initiative,” Dr Nahla Maher Afifi, Education and Scientific Manager and Acting Director of Qatar Biobank, told Qatar Tribune.
A regular visit to the Qatar Biobank includes standard medical tests such as blood pressure and lung function.
Qatar Biobank is calling Qataris over the age of 18 and adult expatriates who have lived in Qatar for at least 15 years to take part in this pioneering medical research endeavour.
While all participants receive feedback in approximately two weeks after their initial visit, Qatar Biobank immediately notifies participants who are found to have serious or life-threatening conditions.
