RIYADH — With the support of Minister of Health Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, King Saud Medical City in Riyadh hosted the annual symposium and meeting of the obesity centers under the ministry recently.

The symposium, the first forum to be organized with the collaboration of the Saudi Arabian Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (SASMBS), aimed to enhance insights into the concepts, physiology and variations in techniques of mini gastric bypass and the treatment of complications from the practical experiences of the speakers and guests.

Dr. Haitham Al-Falah, KSMC's CEO, said, "Prevalence of obesity in the Kingdom has gained high attention at the national level. Around 17 percent of the Saudi population are diabetics and approximately one-third are obese, which can lead to other medical consequences."

He added: "This year, the government is actively addressing this challenge by imposing taxes on high calorie products and adding four hours of physical activity weekly in the school curriculum. Preventive measures and awareness are essential to combat this condition. It is the responsibility of each and every one of us.”

The KSMC is working continuously in enhancing the Bariatric & Metabolic Surgery Center as it has gained double recognition as a center of excellence from the International Federation for the Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO) and Surgical Review Corporation (SRC). Finally, the number of cases has reached 644 up to this date.

Al-Falah has said, "While we improve our care for better patient outcomes, the center also focuses on providing continuous education and the latest updates to health care professionals as one of its mandates.”

The KSMC conducted a number of community activities to keep society enlightened and proactive.

Surgeries were shown live to the audience during the symposium. Additionally, the guests and speakers exchanged their experience and referred to best practices in the field. — SG