All articles by Schattopadhaya
Schattopadhaya
Taking the wheel on medication dosage
A system called right-dose medication could save healthcare systems across the world millions and improve patient care, experts say. Now, 21 of the world’s leading pharmacologists have joined forces to urge drugs companies and governments to help change medication dosing by signing up to a ‘roadmap for change’. Professor Amin Rostami from the University of Manchester, who led the move, and Certara’s Ellen Leinfuss discuss these developments.
The future of prostate testing
Prostate cancer is one of the world’s most common cancers, but treatment is hamstrung by imprecise testing. Andrea Valentino talks to Dr Sabine Mai from the University of Manitoba, Dr Kevin Little from 3D Signatures and Ann Jeffers-Brown from True Health, about how doctors and scientists are improving prostate cancer tests and fighting the stigma around the disease.
Combat influenza
With influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) putting a major strain on healthcare providers worldwide, doctors are hunting for methods to tackle outbreaks effectively. Laboratory director at Hong Kong Adventist Hospital – Tseun Wan, Dr Stanley Leung Wai-ming, discusses the capabilities of molecular testing to provide quick and accurate diagnoses.
Superbug central: unauthorised antibiotics
A recent study has found that 87 out of 88 pharmacies in Saudi Arabia sell non-prescription antibiotics without a doctor’s knowledge, even though this is illegal throughout the Gulf states. James Quentin explores how the unauthorised sale of antibiotics puts infection control at risk in the region.
Hope in a cell: stem cell therapy
Two patients at Burjeel Hospital in the UAE have benefitted from autologous stem cell therapy, in which stem cells from their bone marrow are reinjected into their body, repairing damaged tissue. It is thought that this treatment could spell hope for a wide range of conditions, including diabetic wounds and coronary heart disease, but what lies behind the hype? Dr Norbert W Dreier, consultant in oncology and haematology at Burjeel Hospital, tells Abi Millar how the procedure might improve patient care.
Striking a blow against diabetes
Diabetes is a huge issue in the Middle East and new ideas are constantly required to combat its effects. Dave Callaghan looks at a proposed new register for patients in Dubai that aims to deal with the issue.
Hidden costs of diabetes take a toll
People with diabetes can face financial stress, and often have to sacrifice healthcare and food, regardless of their country’s healthcare system, according to data from sources across the globe. We look into the risks of perceived financial stress in diabetes care and speaks to Dr Minal Patel about how innovative policies can help to alleviate patients’ suffering.
Health smart
Smartphone apps now allow patients to do everything from comparing health insurance plans to diagnosing minor health conditions. Elly Earls speaks to Talal Bayaa of Bayzat, Mina Abdulla Hamoodi from the Abu Dhabi Telemedicine Centre, and Arthur Dell from Citrix to find out how mobile technologies are making a big impact on patient care in the UAE.
Clean sweep
Keeping operating rooms clean and sterile is a vital process, and one that is constantly being tweaked. Trevor Garcia, MIDSc, director of education at the UK Institute of Decontamination Sciences, speaks to Kerry Taylor-Smith about how to ensure proper storage in an operating theatre that will enable a smooth flow of surgical instruments. He explains why balancing innovative methods in storage, rotation and packaging, with the long-standing traditional methods, are the best way to ensure a successful operating room theatre for patients and staff.
Change of heart
Routine mammograms for breast cancer may also be an effective tool for catching heart disease early. Dr Laurie Margolies, chief of breast imaging at the Dubin Breast Center, explains the technique’s potential new role in female cardiovascular care.