Qatar participated in an event titled ‘MASLD and MASH: Prioritising a Global Public Health Threat’ in New York, with Minister of Public Health H E Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari representing the country. The event brought together global experts to discuss strategies to address Metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MASLD) and Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). The Minister emphasized the importance of intensifying efforts to tackle these diseases, calling for further studies to determine their prevalence and impacts worldwide.
Dr Al Kuwari highlighted effective national policies for the early detection and treatment of MASLD, stating that screening for the disease is incorporated into healthcare protocols in Qatar. She emphasized the integrated care provided to patients across primary and secondary care services, as well as the specialized care available at the Qatar Metabolic Institute at Hamad Medical Corporation. The Minister also stressed the role of awareness campaigns in promoting health and preventing obesity, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases.
MASLD is characterized by fat accumulation in the liver due to metabolic issues such as obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and high cholesterol, while MASH is a more severe form of MASLD that can lead to liver damage and serious complications if left untreated. In Qatar, efforts to tackle obesity have been successful, with a target to reduce obesity prevalence by seven percent and decrease non-communicable disease-related deaths by 36 percent by 2030, as outlined in the National Health Strategy 2024-2030.
The event in New York underscored the importance of global collaboration in addressing MASLD and MASH, as well as the need for research to understand the prevalence and impacts of these diseases. Minister Al Kuwari’s participation highlighted Qatar’s commitment to promoting public health and implementing effective policies to address metabolic diseases. By focusing on early detection, integrated care, and awareness campaigns, Qatar aims to reduce the burden of obesity-related diseases and improve the overall health of its population.
In conclusion, the event in New York provided a platform for discussion and collaboration on tackling MASLD and MASH, highlighting the importance of a multi-sectoral approach and global efforts to address these public health threats. Minister of Public Health H E Dr Hanan Mohamed Al Kuwari’s participation showcased Qatar’s commitment to implementing effective policies and strategies to prevent and manage metabolic diseases, underscoring the country’s efforts to improve the health and well-being of its population. By prioritizing early detection, integrated care, and health promotion, Qatar aims to reduce the prevalence of obesity and related diseases and achieve significant improvements in public health outcomes by 2030.
