KFSH&RC hosts virtual awareness seminar on hemophilia
A regional online seminar organized by King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center (KFSH&RC) in Riyadh brought together 19 experts and specialists in hematology. The virtual event’s main goal was to create awareness on the challenges that affect bleeding disorder patients during the current coronavirus pandemic. It also showcased the solutions that could allow patients to maintain their health while demonstrating preventive methods that could help protect them from the virus. The seminar took place on the occasion of the Arab world’s celebration of International Hemophilia Day, in cooperation with several partners including World Federation of Hemophilia, Saudi Society of Hemophilia, and UAE Genetic Disease Association. The event was sponsored by Sobi Middle East.
The seminar saw a large audience of close to 600 participants, which included hemophilia patients and their families. The speakers that spoke during the event gave the audience information and health tips that can help patients deal with their illness in a better way. This included daily practices that help keep patients vibrant, assist in conserving their general health, and allow them to stay in shape. The speakers included: Dr. Mohamad Al-Shahrani, president of Saudi Society of Hemophilia; and several doctors from KFSH&RC in Riyadh — Dr. Hazazz Azahrani, consultant adult hematology/ HSCT, and adult hematology section head; Dr. Mahasen Alsaleh, consultant pediatric hematology/ oncology and pediatric hematology section head; Dr. Zikra Al
participants, including hemophilia patients and their families, attended the online seminar.
Khayal, consultant pediatric dentist; Mahmoud Abu-Riash, senior clinical specialist; Hala Abu Aish, physical therapist; and Hanan AlMutairi, senior dietitian.
Dr. Alsaleh said: “This awareness seminar presented an important opportunity to educate patients and their families about measures to prevent bleeding and reduce exposure to the virus, and thus avoid frequent visits to emergencies.”