Minister of Health Dr. Ahmed Al-Awadhi affirmed Kuwait’s continued commitment to developing the healthcare system, strengthening the preventive approach, supporting scientific research and innovation, and expanding scientific partnerships with local and international institutions in line with global best practices, with the patient’s best interest at the center of the healthcare process.
This came in the opening speech delivered by Al-Awadhi at the launch of the second Dasman International Diabetes Conference (IDDS 2026), organized by the Dasman Diabetes Institute, one of the centers of the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences.
Al-Awadhi said the convening of the second edition follows the remarkable success of the inaugural conference, confirming its scientific credibility and its growing role as an international platform contributing to a comprehensive understanding of diabetes, enhancing prevention strategies and reviewing the latest innovative treatments and methods for controlling complications, reports Al-Jarida daily.
He explained that this year’s conference offers an integrated scientific program reflecting advanced awareness of current challenges, as it addresses advanced diabetes treatments, specialized workshops and lectures on the global burden of the disease, the importance of early intervention, and the role of modern technologies, including artificial intelligence and smart medicine, in improving healthcare quality, efficiency and sustainability.
The minister noted that the conference places special focus on complex diabetes complications, particularly diabetic foot, describing it as one of the most significant health challenges that directly affect quality of life.
Al-Awadhi praised the pioneering role of the Dasman Diabetes Institute as a leading national institution in research, education and training, and its tangible contributions to developing scientific knowledge, raising the efficiency of healthcare personnel and enhancing the quality of services in this vital field.
In statements to reporters following the opening, the minister said the participation of doctors and scientists from around the world and their engagement with patients has a major impact on improving health services. He also highlighted the national vision to build a more efficient and sustainable healthcare system in light of new research, particularly with the advancement of artificial intelligence.
For his part, Acting Director General of the Dasman Diabetes Institute Dr. Faisal Al-Rifai said the impact of the 2025 conference was evident not only in the quality of scientific discussions, but also in the professional relationships and partnerships established.
He noted that researchers were given new opportunities to develop their work, while doctors exchanged practical experiences that positively influenced patient care.
Al-Rifai added that the 2026 conference builds on those solid foundations through a comprehensive scientific program featuring specialized workshops, in-depth sessions and participation by a distinguished group of international speakers and experts.
He stressed that this reflects the conference’s growing standing on the global medical conference map, with a continued focus on applied research, advanced medical practices and tangible impact on healthcare quality.
He also underlined the importance of local partnerships, particularly with the Ministry of Health, describing them as a fundamental pillar in developing the health system and an effective model for integrating scientific research, education and clinical application to improve national healthcare outcomes.
