GITEX GLOBAL 2023: DOH, M42 partner to further precision medicine in Abu Dhabi

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) and Abu Dhabi Health Data Services (ADHDS), a M42 company, have partnered to advance precision medicine in the UAE’s capital.

The collaboration will help physicians access pharmacogenomic reports (PGx) for consenting participants of the Emirati Genome Program through Malaffi, the health information exchange platform, operated by ADHDS.

The Malaffi platform connects the entire healthcare sector with more than 2,700 healthcare facilities in the emirate, empowering over 47,000 clinical users with access to two billion unique clinical records.

Based on the insights from the Emirati Genome Program (EGP), one of the largest population genomic initiatives ever undertaken, PGx reports will provide doctors with vital information regarding their genetic profile and its influence and response to specific medications.

The report will support the physicians in prescribing medication to each patient to enhance treatment outcomes and minimise the occurrence of adverse drug events.

The integration of genetic data into clinical decision-making is a significant milestone for personalised medicine and improved healthcare.

DOH and M42 to harness the power of data

Dr Rashed Obaid Al Suwaidi, ED of Healthcare Workforce Planning Sector at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) said: “It is a proud moment for Abu Dhabi to be one of the first places in the world to implement comprehensive pharmacogenomic reports for its citizens, securely available to their physicians to outline personalised treatment plans to patients.

“By harnessing the power of data, we will be able to accelerate the integration of breakthrough solutions that meet the distinct health requirements of Emiratis – reinforcing the Emirate’s position as a leading destination for innovation in healthcare.”

The PGx reports offer insights into the compatibility of various medications, aiding physicians in avoiding potentially harmful drug-to-drug interactions.  The reports will help reduce healthcare expenses, by initiating treatment with the correct medication and dosage upfront.

Kareem Shahin, acting CEO of Abu Dhabi Health Data Services, an M42 company said: “M42 is working to transform traditional healthcare and the robust connected healthcare infrastructure that we have established in Abu Dhabi will play a big role in this. Through the synergy of Malaffi Health Information Exchange and the integration of cutting-edge AI technology and genomic data, we are now enabling the practice of precision medicine at scale, crafting a blueprint for global success. This endeavour not only serves the best interests of our residents but also sets a remarkable precedent for global healthcare initiatives.”

On a broader scale, integrating this comprehensive genomic data within Malaffi sets the stage for extensive research and advanced population health analytics.

This will enable breakthroughs in personalised medicine and intensify the understanding of how genetics intricately shape drug responses, ensuring greater efficacy and safety.

The EGP uses the latest whole sequencing and artificial intelligence technologies to generate high-quality data that enables scientific research and discovery, leading to personalised and preventive healthcare for the UAE’s citizens and a comprehensive understanding of rare genetic disorders and new treatments.