The Third Dubai Stem Cell Conference, organised by the First Stem Cell and Genomics Laboratory, concluded with a strong call to raise awareness about the significance of umbilical cord blood storage.
The two-day event gathered 500 doctors, technicians, and specialists, featuring 25 international speakers from countries including the United States, Japan, Germany, and the UAE.
Dr. Fatima Al Hashemi, President of the Dubai Stem Cell Conference and Director of the First Stem Cell and Genomics Laboratory, highlighted that stem cells are the future of medicine, offering effective treatment for 80 blood-related diseases such as thalassemia, leukemia, and immune disorders. However, she noted that clinical trials are still ongoing for diseases like diabetes and autism.
Emphasising the importance of cord blood storage, Dr. Al Hashemi urged families with a history of genetic diseases to preserve umbilical cord blood, which can be stored for up to 30 years if its viability is confirmed. The conference also hosted four workshops, educating participants on the latest developments in stem cell research and regenerative medicine.
A special networking session allowed attendees to engage with experts and explore recent breakthroughs. Additionally, 20 medical research studies on stem cells conducted by students were presented, with the best research awarded for its contribution to the field.
Participants received 14 credit hours from the Dubai Health Authority, further highlighting the conference’s role in advancing knowledge and innovation in stem cell science.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
