NewsDetail
The Department of Surgery at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) recently held the 4th Colorectal Symposium with more than 300 local and international experts in colorectal surgery taking part in the three-day event.
Among the visiting experts were UK-based Dr. David Jean, Dr. Peter Segar and Dr. Amjad Parvez along with Dr. Ayman Agha from Rheinsberg University in Germany. Experts from Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates also participated.
Dr. Mohamed Abunada, Lead Colorectal Surgeon at HMC and Chairman of the symposium, said the main aim of the conference was to share updates about surgical techniques, best practices and the latest developments in the management of colorectal cancer. He added that the symposium also focused on promoting related medical research at HMC, aiming to provide quality healthcare to patients affected by the disease.
According to Dr. Abunada, colorectal disease can be caused by an array of factors, including environmental conditions, family history and dietary factors. “Consumption of high protein and fat-rich foods, alcohol and smoking can lead to colorectal cancer. To reduce the risk of developing the disease, one should include vegetables, fruit and other fiber rich foods in their diet,” he advised.
He added that symptoms of colorectal disease should be taken seriously and emphasized the importance of early detection through regular screening and laparoscopic procedures, which he said will soon be available at HMC clinics.
Dr. Salwa Sayed Ahmad, General and Colorectal Surgeon at HMC, said a total of 180 cases of colorectal cancer were managed at HMC last year.
"Despite an increase in the number of colorectal cancer patients, fueled by the increase in Qatar’s population, there has also been a significant increase in the rates of survival amongst these patients, thanks to public awareness and screening programs," said Dr. Ahmad. “Colorectal disease is treatable if detected early; therefore, regular screening for the disease is essential.”
Dr. Alaa Abdul Jabbar, Consultant Colorectal Surgeon and Deputy Chairman at the Department of Surgery, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Saudi Arabia, said he was participating in the conference for the second year in a row in order to learn more about improved healthcare services available to patients at HMC.
