The institute at Burjeel Medical City in collaboration with IFEM Endo marks a significant milestone in advancing women’s healthcare in the region.

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, 23 May 2023: Burjeel Holdings (“Burjeel” or “the Group”), a leading ADX-listed Healthcare Services Provider in the UAE and MENA, today announced the launch of the Advanced Gynecology Institute, fostering the provision of complex care solutions for women’s healthcare in the region.
Located at Burjeel’s flagship 1.2 million square feet hospital, Burjeel Medical City, the Advanced Gynecology Institute is designed to offer timely, sophisticated, and multidisciplinary healthcare solutions to women of all ages. The launch of the institute comes just months after the hospital joined hands with the globally renowned Franco-European Multidisciplinary Institute of Endometriosis Academy (IFEM Endo).
The institute was inaugurated by H.E. Dr. Maitha Bint Salem Al Shamsi, Minister of State, UAE Government, during a ceremony held at Burjeel Medical City. The inaugural ceremony was also attended by Dr. Ghuwaya Al Neyadi, Non-Executive Director at Burjeel Holdings, H.E. Nora Al Mareikhi, Chairwoman of Hemmah, and Professor Dr. Sherine Farouk, Associate Provost of Academic Projects, Abu Dhabi University, along with senior management officials from Burjeel Holdings.
Three specialized clinics of the hospital – Gynecological Oncology, IFEM Endo Middle East Clinic, and Complex Gynecology Care – will come under the newly formed institute. It will offer advanced and comprehensive care including gynecological surgeries, minimally invasive procedures, and complex gynecology care for a wide range of conditions, including menorrhagia, fibroids, and benign ovarian masses. One of the key specialties of the institute is its cutting-edge offerings for endometriosis, which, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), affects roughly 10% of reproductive-age women and girls globally.
The expert team will also be involved in clinical research and training, which will broaden the horizons of the region’s complex gynecology and gynecologic cancer care.
Professor Horace Roman, a renowned endometriosis surgeon and founding member of IFEM Endo, will lead the institute, supported by a team of highly qualified gynecologists, obstetricians, oncologists, and other healthcare professionals. Dr. Benjamin Merlot, Consultant – Obstetrics and Gynecology and founding member of IFEM Endo, along with Dr. Sandesh Kade Specialist – Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dr. Monica Chauhan, Specialist – Obstetrics & Gynecology, and Dr. Jafaru Abu, Consultant Gynecological Oncology Surgery, all from Burjeel Medical City’s existing highly experienced team, are other members of the institute’s leadership team.
Advanced Surgical Care
The institute’s primary focus will be on advanced surgical procedures – in line with Burjeel Holdings focus on investing in complex and super-specialized capability in the UAE. It will operate state-of-the-art surgical suites equipped with the latest technology, allowing for advanced procedures such as laparoscopic and robotic surgeries. These minimally invasive procedures may enable shorter hospital stays, faster recovery times, and less scarring compared to traditional open surgeries. Gynecological cancers are another focus area at the institute, where, in addition to treating cancer, there is also an emphasis on preserving reproductive function in young patients, managing the side effects of treatment, and improving the quality of life for patients with advanced or recurrent gynecological malignancies. Additionally, the institute will offer highly advanced minimally invasive surgeries for endometriosis.
John Sunil, Burjeel Holdings CEO, said: “The launch of the Advanced Gynecology Institute showcases our commitment to excellence and cements our position as a leader in complex care. With a focus on advanced surgical procedures, specialized clinics, and personalized care, the institute is poised to make a significant impact on the healthcare sector and the health of women in the UAE and beyond.”
Professor Horace Roman added: “The launch of the institute is a significant milestone in women’s healthcare in the region. Women’s health needs are diverse and complex, requiring a holistic approach to ensure that each patient receives utmost care that meets her specific needs.
Dr. Sandesh Kade added: “We are committed to ensuring that each patient receives advanced care in a compassionate and supportive environment. We will work diligently to create a personalized treatment plan that achieves the best possible outcomes.”
The launch of the institute follows several recent milestones for Burjeel Holdings, including the launch of The Paley Middle East Clinic, the Kypros Nicolaides Fetal Medicine & Therapy Center and the pending commencement of operations in KSA, through its joint-venture with Leejam Sports. Through its JV with Leejam, Burjeel Holdings intends to open more than 60 dedicated sports medicine and rehabilitation clinics across KSA, with the first clinics scheduled to open in mid-2023.

—Ends—

About Burjeel Holdings
Founded in 2007, Burjeel Holdings is one of the leading private healthcare services providers in the MENA region. With a network of 62 assets, including 16 hospitals and 24 medical centers, as well as pharmacies and other allied services, the group provides the highest standard of patient care in the region. Burjeel Holdings’ brands include Burjeel Hospitals, Medeor Hospitals, LLH Hospitals, Lifecare Hospitals, and Tajmeel. It has 12 JCI-accredited facilities, with a total 1,660 patient beds across its operations in UAE and Oman, and holds a leading position in the UAE. The Group has comprehensive cancer care facilities in the UAE, and is the country’s leading mother and childcare provider.

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Leonardo McGeehan, who had an undiagnosed defect, collapsed while swimming

A quick-thinking mother says she feels “exceptionally lucky” after she helped save her son’s life when his heart stopped while he was swimming in a community pool in Abu Dhabi. Martina McGeehan, 45, who lives in the capital and is from Scotland, raced to the aid of Leonardo, 11, when he collapsed in the water during a family outing. Ms McGeehan pulled her son out of the pool and began to administer CPR, in which she had previous experience. Other community members rallied around and an ambulance was quickly on the scene. Doctors later discovered he had a heart defect called Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome, which affects between one and three in every 1,000 people and can be fatal. The case has prompted doctors to sound the alarm over the crucial need to undergo check-ups if showing symptoms of the condition, characterised by a pounding heartbeat.

“He was gone,” said Ms McGeehan, a mother of two who was also with her daughter when the incident happened in February.

“This has been one of the most traumatic experiences of my life. It was awful — absolutely horrendous.

“It is a bizarre thing to say but we were lucky. We were lucky that this happened outside where I was surrounded by people to help. Imagine if this happened while he was at home.

“We were lucky because of all the amazing help we got from everyone.”

Heart condition can be a silent killer

Leonardo had a second cardiac arrest at the hospital but has since recovered. He was discharged from hospital two months ago.

“This could have been a completely different story,” Ms McGeechan said.

WPW syndrome causes the heart to suddenly beat abnormally fast for durations which can vary from a matter of seconds to hours or days in exceptional cases. In rare cases, a sufferer’s heart rate can increase at such a rate that it can be life-threatening. Leonardo received further treatment at Burjeel Medical City in Abu Dhabi. Consultant paediatric cardiologist Dr Christopher Duke said it was only the second case of WPW syndrome he had seen which had led to cardiac arrest in his 20-year career.

“Children with this syndrome usually present with palpitations and it is very rare for such patients to suffer a cardiac arrest,” he said.

“We decided to perform a paediatric radiofrequency ablation to treat the condition.”

The procedure uses radiofrequency waves to remove extra tissue in the heart which can cause it to short-circuit.

“Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome could be the reason why a few adults and children have died of sudden death,” said Dr Duke.

“The electrical abnormality present in those with it can’t be seen after they are dead.”

As well as medical procedures, medication is used to regulate a patient’s heartbeat. The doctor said the condition can be difficult to detect if patients only suffer fleeting and infrequent palpitations. But he urged anyone with concerns to see a doctor, particularly if experiencing more regular symptoms.

“If you have a fast heartbeat that lasts for one second once a year, you are unlikely to go to the doctor,” he said.

“But if you have fast heartbeats for one hour every day, then you will go to the doctor more quickly.”

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A trilateral memorandum of understanding was signed between the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, the Mothers of Determination Association (Hemmah), and Burjeel Group Holding, the leading provider of healthcare services in the Middle East and North Africa region. The memorandum aims to provide high-quality, cost-effective healthcare services for all uninsured services to members of the Mothers of Determination Association (Hemmah) and their children.

The signing ceremony was attended by Her Excellency Rym bint Abdullah Al Falasi, Secretary-General of the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood, Ms. Nora Al Mareikhi, Chairwoman of  Hemmah, officials, and mothers of determination. Also present were Mr. Imran Al Khouri, a member of the board of directors of Burjeel Holdings, and Professor Omar Abdulrahman, CEO of Burjeel Hospital in Abu Dhabi.

The MoU, signed at the Council’s headquarters in Abu Dhabi, aims to provide the best therapeutic, medical, and rehabilitation services to mothers of determination and their children in accordance with the highest international standards through the issuance of the distinguished service cards (Elite). These cards are one of the qualitative services for people of determination to expedite their procedures and provide them with comprehensive, top-notch care within Burjeel Holding hospitals, which are equipped with the best technologies and capabilities. The memorandum also aims to organize workshops and awareness campaigns by specialists from all parties.

On this occasion, Al Falasi stated that the MoU is in line with the Council’s vision and its commitment to providing all means of support and care for people of determination and their families, ensuring their quality of life, and working with partners to preserve their basic rights and improve services targeted towards this group, particularly healthcare and rehabilitation services in accordance with the highest international standards. She emphasized that cooperation with Burjeel Holding, as the best provider of medical and therapeutic services, will lead to achieving the desired goals that we look forward to with Hemmah.

For her part, Noura Al Meriekhi affirmed that this partnership is in line with the Association’s plan to improve services targeted towards people of determination and support their families, preserve their basic rights, empower them, and enhance their integration into society in collaboration with the government and private sectors. This is to be an effective and active contributor to the efforts of the UAE government in line with the directives of the wise leadership and a comprehensive and integrated visionary plan to make the UAE one of the makers of the future and a leader in the healthcare sector to enhance the country’s competitiveness with confidence and strength to preserve its achievements and protect its national resources, in harmony with the state’s strategy of preparedness and proactive plans, and employ innovative solutions and advanced infrastructure to achieve one of the most important indicators of the “UAE Vision 2031” strategy and to be among the top 10 countries in the world in terms of the quality of healthcare.

Al Meriekhi expressed her gratitude and appreciation to Burjeel Holdings for this partnership and constructive cooperation, and added that the association looks forward to close and continuous cooperation with Burjeel hospitals to ensure that our children with various disabilities enjoy the best treatments available from research and studies, especially for rare diseases.

Imran Al Khouri, a member of the board of directors of Burjeel Holding and head of business development in the group, said: “We are proud to sign the memorandum of understanding with the Supreme Council for Motherhood and Childhood and the Mothers of Determination Association, which confirms the importance of enhancing the right of children and mothers in the UAE to receive comprehensive healthcare and make a positive difference in the lives of people of determination and meet their needs and those of their families. It is part of our commitment to creating an environment of equality, diversity, and inclusion for everyone. This cooperation will enable us to provide them with access to world-class specialized women’s and children’s sub-specialties through our facilities designed specifically to meet their needs. We look forward to continuing to develop this relationship and create more opportunities to serve this community.”

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ABU DHABI, 4th April, 2023 (WAM) — The Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) and Burjeel Holdings recently organised Burjeel Games 2023 with the participation of 1,100 employees from more than 15 nationalities working in the health sector. The 10-day-long event was conducted at Al Hudayriat Island, here.

Aref Al Awani, General Secretary, ADSC; and Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, were among those who participated in the event’s closing ceremony.

Al Awani said, “In recognition of the immense contributions made by healthcare workers to our communities, ADSC is delighted to support this endeavor that enables them to come together and engage in friendly competitions.”

Dr. Shamsheer extended his appreciation to ADSC for its support and cooperation in ensuring a seamless tournament. “The tournament is part of our ongoing efforts to support and appreciate the dedication of our healthcare professionals.”

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The children belonged to 10 different nationalities

When she was diagnosed with Sickle Cell Disease, little Jordana’s life had turned upside down until she was able to receive an allogeneic bone marrow transplant (BMT) in 2022. Recalling the difficult journey, her mother Florence highlighted the emotional trauma the entire family had undergone until the child received life-saving treatment in the UAE. Today, the five-year-old Ugandan national is a happy, bubbly child who gets to lead a normal life like others her age. Florence is full of praise for the UAE that has extended support to children like Jordana. They were among the 18 patients and their families who had come together at Abu Dhabi’s Burjeel Medical City to mark the anniversary of the first pediatric BMT performed in the country.

“My child has a new lease on life because of the unmatched care provided by the UAE. It was indeed a challenging time for us, but we were able to overcome it thanks to the steadfast support we received. We are indebted to the authorities and doctors who have extended their assistance and made this treatment affordable for us. We are proud to call the UAE our second home,” recalled an emotional Florence. Like Jordana and Florence, families from 10 countries including Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, Afghanistan, Morocco, Syria, Sudan, Uganda, India, and Pakistan shared similar heartwarming experiences. All these children had undergone transplants at Burjeel Medical City following the success of Jordana’s procedure last March. 11-year-old Nahl was diagnosed with leukemia in 2022. She recalled her initial shock upon learning about her disease but said she later drew strength from the encouragement of her family and doctors including, Dr. Mansi Sachdev, Consultant Pediatric Hematology, Oncology & Bone Marrow Transplant, Burjeel Medical City. Nahl’s father was brimming with happiness as he addressed the gathering. “If Nahl is with us today, it is only because of the Almighty and the exceptional care she received. Words cannot express my gratitude to the doctors and the authorities who facilitated this treatment for her,” said Mr. Khalid Fayyaz. Medical experts, officials, and representatives of the top charitable organizations, including Emirates Red Crescent and The Rahma Cancer Patient Care Society, were present during the occasion. The attendees discussed the requirements of children awaiting BMTs and explored ways to streamline offerings. Ali Al Shamsi, Director General of The Rahma Cancer Patient Care Society, assured an increased focus on pediatric BMTs. Dr. Hawaa Althahak Almansoori, a member of the UAE’s Federal National Council, said such gatherings would help enhance the processes of assisting cancer patients. “Thanks to our wise leadership, the UAE is, and will always be, a beacon of shared humanity and global fraternity. Each and every day we continue to strive as individuals and as teams, like you here today, to bring to bear the resources and expertise that we have been blessed with in order to better the lives of our brothers and sisters around the world,” said Dr. Almansoori, who thanked the patients’ families for keeping hope alive in the fight against cancer.

Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, Founder and Chairman of Burjeel Holdings, John Sunil, CEO, Burjeel Holdings, Prof. Humaid Al Shamsi, Consultant & Director of Oncology, Burjeel Holdings, interacted with the families and officials who attended the gathering. The hospital management and the children’s families thanked the UAE authorities and charitable organizations for extending year-long support to BMT patients.

“In the last year, we have performed allogenic and autologous transplants in patients with Leukemia, Thalassemia, Sickle Cell Disease, Primary Immunodeficiency, and HLH. This year, we look forward to offering 50 pediatric BMTs. We are thankful to the authorities and our partners for their continued support,” said Dr. Zainul Aabideen, HoD, Pediatric Hematology, Oncology & BMT, Burjeel Medical City.

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Abu Dhabi Sports Council to manage the largest Healthcare Sporting event in the UAE

As part of its strategy to promote sports activities across communities, the Abu Dhabi Sports Council (ADSC) is joining hands with Burjeel Holdings, one of the largest healthcare service providers in the MENA region, to organise a sports tournament for its employees. ADSC will manage and conduct the fourth edition of Burjeel Games 2023, an annual sports event designed to promote physical activity and sportsmanship among the Group’s employees. The tournament will be held at Al Hudairiyat Island from March 24 to April 2. It will include a variety of sporting categories such as football, volleyball, basketball, badminton, athletics, padel, and Burjeel Holdings fitness. The 10-day-long tournament will provide an opportunity for employees to form teams and compete against each other in a friendly atmosphere. Touted to be the biggest sporting event in the UAE’s healthcare sector, the event will see the participation of more than 1,100 healthcare workers. In accordance with the fasting and religious observances during the holy month of Ramadan, the events are scheduled at night.

“The Abu Dhabi Sports Council is delighted to collaborate with Burjeel Holdings to conduct Burjeel Games 2023 for its employees,” said Suhail Abdulla Al Areefi, Executive Director, Sports Event Sector at ADSC.

“This is an excellent opportunity for the employees to stay active and healthy and build a team spirit within the organization. We are happy to provide our support and guidance to ensure a successful tournament. ADSC looks forward to continuing our partnership with Burjeel Holdings and working together to promote a culture of sports and fitness in the UAE,”

Burjeel Holdings’ employees from different facilities are split into teams for the competition with separate events for men and women.

“On behalf of Burjeel Holdings, I would like to thank ADSC for partnering with us,” Safeer Ahamed, COO of Burjeel Holdings, said.

“We are committed to providing our employees with an engaging work environment.

“Burjeel Games will help us achieve this goal by creating a sense of belonging and enabling our employees to connect with each other. The event will be a platform to discover the hidden talents of our employees and help them develop new skills.

“I am certain these games will bring out the best in our colleagues and help them become more productive and efficient,”

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The MOU facilitates the process of obtaining information for children with critical illnesses to grant their wishes

Abu Dhabi: Make-A-Wish® UAE signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Burjeel Medical City in its efforts to spread the foundation’s lofty message that is based on its noble humanitarian strategy. The MOU facilitates the process of obtaining information for children with critical illnesses to grant their wishes. It also aims to enhance the cooperation between the two parties to raise awareness of their community’s goals and activities.

The MOU was signed by Hani Alzubaidi, CEO of the Foundation, and Dr. Mandeep Singh, CEO, Burjeel Farha & Consultant Maternal & Fetal Medicine, Burjeel Medical City.

On this occasion, Hani Alzubaidi, CEO of “Make a Wish” Foundation, said: “We are pleased to sign this agreement with Burjeel Medical City, which has emerged as a center of medical excellence across the UAE. The hospital is well-known for providing world-class and specialized healthcare services that utilize the latest advanced technologies rounded with a friendly human touch available to all members of society without discrimination. It embraces a team of world-renowned doctors who have high-level skills and experience.”

“Through the MoU, we look forward to this cooperation, as we have one goal in common, which is spreading happiness in the hearts of the community members.  We both aim to grant the wishes of children with critical illnesses to light the candle of hope and optimism for a better life in Zayed’s homeland,” he concluded.

“Providing high-quality care to the community is a top priority for us. Offering patients and their families support throughout their healing process can contribute to improved outcomes. We are thrilled to associate with Make-A-Wish Foundation to make a meaningful difference to children with critical illnesses. We look forward to cooperating on this noble venture to spread happiness among children and their families and offer them renewed strength in their fight against diseases,” said Dr. Singh.

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Suggests ways to mitigate health challenges.

Experts have opined that musculoskeletal conditions continue to be one of the top reasons for temporary loss of medical license among pilots in the region, followed by other medical and surgical conditions. Speaking at the third edition of the Burjeel Medical Aviation Congress organized by Burjeel Hospital, Dubai, experts urged that creating awareness and developing effective solutions to address such issues affecting the physical ability of pilots is the need of the hour. The congress, held under the patronage of the General Civil Aviation Authority of the UAE, is a forum for healthcare professionals and experts to discuss the latest developments in aviation medicine.

According to Dr. Erik Hohmann, Chairman of the Congress, and Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon and Sports Physician, Burjeel Hospital, Dubai, a total of 1,233 incapacitations were reported between 2018 and 2021 in the UAE alone.

“Musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis, back pain, joint pain, and injuries can cause pain, stiffness, and restricted mobility, affecting a pilot’s ability to perform their duties safely,” said Dr. Erik, adding that in such situations, the regulator temporarily suspends the pilot’s license to prioritize the safety of the passengers.

Mental health in focus

The increasing demands of the profession, the stress of flying and the ever-changing safety protocols can take a toll on the mental health of the pilots and cabin crew. The medical experts highlighted the importance of creating awareness among aviation professionals on taking better care of themselves through self-care strategies such as maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and seeking professional help when needed.

Dr. John Chalkley, Specialist Doctor – Aeromedical, Qatar Airways, said, “It is important to ensure the safety of pilots and other aviation professionals in the ever-evolving aviation sector. Regular screenings and awareness can help identify potential issues promptly. Aviation professionals should have access to resources to assist them in managing their mental health. This conference provides a valuable platform to discuss emerging issues and potential solutions.”

The Burjeel Medical Aviation Congress is an annual event in Dubai that brings aviation medical experts and professionals together to discuss and debate issues related to the aviation industry, particularly aviation medicine. This year’s highlights included a talk by Dr. Chalkley on the role of the airline medical department during the 2022 FIFA World Cup and by Dr. Andrew Foggitt, Consultant Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon, Burjeel Hospital, Dubai, on the common foot and ankle problems faced by aviation professionals.

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Proud to announce that Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil, our Founder and Chairman, is listed as one of the top 10 among the Middle East’s top 100 healthcare leaders. The list by Forbes Middle East recognizes his influential role within the region’s healthcare ecosystem. We are privileged to serve the community under his visionary leadership that aims to transform the healthcare landscape in the region.

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Maria Theresa Coronel is recovering in hospital and will be discharged in a couple of days In a true love story, a woman’s life has been saved by her husband’s kidney donation. Maria Theresa Coronel, 37, underwent painful dialysis for six years, before her husband Frederick Valiente, 38, discovered he was the match she needed for the life-saving operation. They have been married for nine years and have a son, five, and a daughter, seven. Ms Coronel, from the Philippines, who works as a sales executive, developed pre-eclampsia when she was pregnant. The condition can cause high blood pressure, protein in urine and can also affect the kidneys, which happened in Ms Coronel’s case. She received twice-weekly dialysis but a kidney transplant was the only permanent solution. Dialysis treatment involves a tube being attached to the patient’s arm via a needle that extracts blood into a filtration machine, which replicates the job of a healthy, fully functioning kidney.

“I wanted my wife to be well,” said Mr Valiente. “I couldn’t bear to see her suffering and what dialysis was doing to her body.”

As well as Mr Valiente, Ms Coronel’s niece was checked for compatibility — but her husband was found to be a good match.

“There was no question about it,” he said.

“I love my wife and would do anything for her. I’m glad I was able to help her in some way to bring our family back to normal life again by donating one of my kidneys.”

Ms Coronel said their love story started in the Philippines in 2010 and they moved together to UAE in 2015.

“He used to be my boyfriend many years ago and then I came to the UAE and we each went our own way,” she said.

“Only when I started work I found out that he was working at the same place where I was and we picked it up from there and have been together since then.

“He is the love of my life. I had his heart and now I have his kidney.”

The transplant took place at Burjeel Medical City in the capital on March 2.

“Maria’s family members were informed that a blood-group compatible donor from the family who wished to donate voluntarily could come for medical evaluation,” said Dr Venkat Vellanki, director of transplant nephrology at Burjeel.

“Maria’s niece and husband volunteered for initial evaluation and her husband, who had a compatible blood group with her, was found to be a suitable match.”

Transplant surgeon Dr Rehan Saif said: “Both surgeries took place simultaneously in a staggered fashion to keep the ischemia time — time that the kidney remains outside the body between removal and transplant — to a minimum.”

He said the operation involved a “minimally invasive method”, a kind of keyhole surgery using a 3D technology camera. Doctors say the husband has been discharged and the wife is recovering well in the hospital. Ms Coronel was moved out of the intensive care unit to the ward and will be able to go home in a couple of days.

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