The three-day Duphat Conference and Exhibition in Dubai has addressed the issues of new drugs, access, affordability and accountability.  

 

In her insightful presentation, Prof Amany Tawfik, Associate Prof Eye Research from USA delved into the multifaceted landscape of healthcare, specifically addressing retinal diseases and the role of vitamins in their management. 

 

Additionally, she focused on the pressing issue of obesity, shedding light on a new weight loss drug and its potential as a solution to combat obesity as a disease. The discourse touched upon the importance of ensuring accessibility and affordability of such medications, emphasising the need for a holistic approach that encompasses not only the development of innovative drugs but also the establishment of mechanisms to make them widely available to those in need. 

 

Crucial contribution

Prof Tawfik's exploration of this intricate confluence between new drugs, access, affordability, and accountability serves as a crucial contribution to the ongoing dialogue surrounding comprehensive healthcare solutions.

 

Dr Marwan Al Mulla, CEO of the Health Regulation Sector at the Dubai Health Authority, discussed the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and technological advancements in healthcare. His insights provided a nuanced understanding of how these innovations are shaping the landscape of medical practices and patient care. 

 

Dr Al Mulla delved into a critical aspect of pharmaceuticals by sharing a scientific note on the safety gaps between brand and generic medicines. This topic is of paramount importance, as it touches upon issues of efficacy, quality, and patient safety. Dr Al Mulla's expertise in healthcare regulation and his emphasis on the safety of medications underscore the significance of addressing these concerns within the broader context of advancing medical technologies.

 

95 countries

About 95 countries are present at Duphat this year, fostering cross-collaboration among companies and agents. Türkiye, Poland, China, and India stand out with dedicated country pavilions, strategically introducing their esteemed products to the market. 

 

Hosted at the World Trade Centre, this annual event stands as the largest pharmaceutical gathering in the Middle East and Africa, serving as a pivotal gateway for Western and European entities to tap into the thriving regional market driven by top-notch healthcare and accessible over-the-counter medicine.

 

The UAE has topped the Middle East and Africa in terms of the number of approved medications containing novel active substances and the speed at which drug regulatory dossiers are evaluated and approved. This accomplishment was made possible by the ministry shortening the time needed to assess new medication dossiers, enabling it to approve 187 new medicines containing active ingredients throughout the study period.--TradeArabia News Service