Kuwaiti researcher Laila Bastaki wins WHO prize

GENEVA: Kuwaiti researcher Dr Laila Bastaki won the World Health Organization (WHO) prize, granted by the United Arab Emirates Health Foundation 2013, which constitutes a significant source of pride to Kuwait, stressed Kuwait’s Minister of Health, Dr Mohammad AlHaifi here yesterday.

In a statement to KUNA, the minister praised Dr Bastaki’s efforts and her leading role in scientific researching in genetic diseases that have a great impact on several aspects, especially the social sphere.

Bastaki’s achievement reflects the State of Kuwait’s interest in scientific researching that is fostered by the constitution as it is significant in all natural and human sciences, said Dr. Al-Haifi. “Dr. Bastaki’s choice stems from her belief in contributing to the genetic research and disorders as well as expanding the provision of such services in Kuwait,” said Mahmoud Fekri, Assistant Undersecretary for Health Policies at the Health Ministry, in a speech during the award ceremony Thursday evening. He pointed out the multi-achievements of Dr. Bastaki, which include reestablishing newborn screening program to detect genetic disorders, establishing registration units for metabolic, genetic and neurological muscle disorders in Kuwait, in addition to the discovery of three new genes.

He explained, before the Director-General of WHO, Margaret Chan, that Bastaki’s choices were not only limited to that achievement, but her cooperation with genetic research centers in the US and Europe has a major role in the development of these programs in Kuwait.—KUNA