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Artificial intelligence (AI) offers opportunities to enhance breast cancer screening by improving diagnostic accuracy and reducing radiologist workload, yet its successful adoption depends on public trust and acceptability. This cross-sectional survey of 562 Emirati women aged 18 years and older in Abu Dhabi explored knowledge, perceptions, and willingness to participate in AI-supported screening. Using a structured, culturally adapted questionnaire, descriptive statistics summarized attitudes and concerns, and logistic regression identified predictors of AI-related knowledge. Most participants (69%) believed AI could improve diagnostic accuracy, although only 11% fully trusted AI without human oversight. Human clinicians remained central to decision-making, with 86% of women preferring physician judgment in cases of conflict between AI and radiologist findings. Willingness to undergo AI-supported screening was high (74%), though concerns about false results (59%) and data misuse (36%) were prevalent. Being a health professional (aOR = 2.76, 95% CI: 1.23–6.43) and having higher knowledge of breast screening methods (aOR = 8.29, 95% CI: 3.98–18.6) were significantly associated with awareness of AI use in breast cancer screening. These findings indicate that while Emirati women show cautious support for AI in breast cancer screening, trust, cultural values, and baseline knowledge are key determinants of acceptance. Public health strategies that emphasize transparent communication, robust data protection, and education on both conventional and AI-assisted screening are essential to promote equitable and ethical integration of AI technologies into cancer control programs.

Background The representation of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is disproportionate to graduates from STEM fields. There is limited research addressing challenges facing women’s retention in STEM in the UAE. Methods A cross-sectional study using a validated questionnaire was conducted. A total of 165 participants were enrolled; 62% males and 35% females. Results More women believed there is gender inequality in STEM (47% versus 28%). 44% of female participants experienced gender inequality in their careers. Men were significantly less likely to experience gender inequality (OR=0.06, 95% CI=0.02-0.16). Women reported lack of organizational emphasis on diversity and inclusion for promotion to leadership (44% versus 60%). Thematic analysis of open-ended responses showed a number of dominant barriers, such as gender bias in hiring and promotion, career impact of motherhood and family responsibilities, and lack of institutional support and flexibility. Conclusion Data confirms gender-based preconceptions and biases in STEM fields. Institutional initiatives and policies to challenge stereotypes and promote gender equality are required. The governmental role is crucial in creating an inclusive environment for women scientists.

Introduction Genome sequencing has utility, however, it may reveal secondary findings. While Western bioethicists have been occupied with managing secondary findings, specialists’ attention in the Arabic countries has not yet been captured. We aim to explore the attitude of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) population toward secondary findings. Method We conducted a cross-sectional study between July and December 2022. The validated questionnaire was administered in English. The questionnaire consists of six sections addressing topics such as demographics, reactions to hypothetical genetic test results, disclosure of mutations to family members, willingness to seek genetic testing, and attitudes toward consanguinity. Chi-squared and Fisher’s exact tests were used to investigate associations between categorical variables. Results We had 343 participants of which the majority were female (67%). About four-fifths (82%) were willing to know the secondary findings, whether the condition has treatment or not. The most likely action to take among the participants was to know the secondary findings, so they can make life choices (61%). Conclusion These results can construct the framework of the bioethics of disclosing secondary findings in the Arab regions.

Background Pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing improves treatment outcomes by tailoring therapy to a patient’s genetic profile. However, PGx implementation faces global challenges, including costs, reimbursement, and regulations. Initial PGx guidelines exist in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), but insurers’ perspectives remain understudied. This study explores insurers’ views on policies and strategies to expand PGx adoption and overcome implementation barriers. Methods This qualitative study used a semi-structured interview design to explore the perspectives of twelve executive and middle management insurance representatives selected through purposive convenience and snowball sampling. Thematic analysis was conducted inductively, supported by comparative analysis, the Institutional Theory, the TAM, and SWOT analysis to interpret the findings. Results Analysis revealed variable awareness of PGx, highlighting both perceived benefits and significant barriers. Key findings included economic constraints, limited physician and public awareness, and policy challenges related to cost-effectiveness and infrastructure. Ethical and privacy concerns were minimal but were noted, with potential implications for insurance premiums. Participants stressed the need for collaborative efforts to align PGx with UAE healthcare goals and highlighted the role of advanced health information systems in facilitating integration. Differences emerged between executive and middle-level management: the former emphasised strategic policies and long-term returns on investment, while the latter focused on practical operational barriers. Conclusions Advancing PGx in the UAE requires local cost-effectiveness studies, clear government-led coverage guidelines, and collaborative action among insurers, providers, regulators, and academia. These findings may inform health systems with similar public–private insurance arrangements, where phased adoption strategies and education initiatives are key to sustainable implementation.

Background Premarital screening is a preventive public health measure to identify genetic, infectious, and chronic conditions affecting the health of couples and their future offspring. It plays a crucial role in reducing the prevalence of common hereditary disorders, particularly in regions with high consanguinity rates, like the Middle East. In the United Arab Emirates, where approximately half of the marriages are consanguineous, premarital screening has become a cornerstone of genetic healthcare, helping to mitigate the increased risk of genetic disorders. Despite its importance, gaps remain in healthcare professionals’ awareness and training regarding the implementation of premarital genetic screening, highlighting the need for educational interventions to ensure its effective integration into routine practice. This study evaluates the knowledge enhancement and attitude shift among physicians participating in health education workshops on expanded premarital screening, addressing gaps in their awareness, training, and perspectives on its implementation and ethical considerations. Results A cross-sectional study was conducted between May 2023 and June 2024 among physicians participating in three premarital genetic screening workshops. Differences in knowledge scores before and after the training were assessed using paired t-tests. The study surveyed 60 physicians, predominantly females (85%) and Emiratis (67%). Only 25% received formal training or education on premarital genetic screening. The study observed a significant increase in knowledge scores after the workshop, with overall scores rising from a mean of 45% (SD = 15) to 77% (SD = 12), showing a mean difference of 32% ( p  < 0.001). This improvement was significant across different age groups, genders, and regardless of prior formal training. While the belief that expanded premarital screening should be obligatory decreased (90% to 76%), the proportion of physicians who strongly disagreed that it breaks personal privacy increased significantly (10% to 42%). Conclusion These findings suggest that targeted educational interventions can significantly enhance healthcare professionals’ knowledge and attitudes regarding genetic screening practices. To maximize impact, these interventions should be sustainable and reinforced through regular refresher courses. Continuous education ensures that physicians remain updated on the latest guidelines, advancements in genetic screening, and best practices, ultimately improving the quality of patient care and counseling services.

Introduction The adoption and implementation of genomic medicine and pharmacogenomics (PGx) in healthcare systems have been very slow and limited worldwide. Major barriers to knowledge translation into clinical practice lie in the level of literacy of the public of genetics and genomics. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) multi-ethnic communities toward genomic medicine and genetic testing. Method A cross-sectional study using validated questionnaires was distributed to the participants. Descriptive statistics were performed, and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with knowledge of genomics. Results 757 individuals completed the survey. Only 7% of the participants had a good knowledge level in genetics and genomics (95% CI 5.3–9.0%). However, 76.9% of the participants were willing to take a genetic test if their relatives had a genetic disease. In addition, the majority indicated that they would disclose their genetic test results to their spouses (61.5%) and siblings (53.4%). Conclusions This study sets the stage for the stakeholders to plan health promotion and educational campaigns to improve the genomic literacy of the community of the UAE as part of their efforts for implementing precision and personalized medicine in the country.

Background Newborn genomic screening offers the potential for early detection and management of genetic disorders. Understanding parental perspectives is essential before integrating genomic testing into standard newborn screening. Methods This was a descriptive cross-sectional study surveyed 568 parents in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE). An online self-administered validated and piloted questionnaire was used to gather information on demographic characteristic and perspectives regarding newborn genomic screening. Data were analysed using R version 4.4.3. Results Most parents (78.2%) supported integrating genomics into newborn screening programs, with 63.5% stating it requires distinct management from standard screening. Females preferred geneticists (38.2% vs. 32.5%, p  < 0.001) and hospitals (45.1% vs. 39.2%, p  < 0.001) for discussions, with 74.2% emphasizing explicit consent compared to 68.5% of males ( p  < 0.002). Treatability (82.7%), age of symptom onset (74.1%), and severity (72.2%) were key decision-making factors. Additionally, 66.7% preferred genomic testing to be covered by insurance, and 82.2% supported storing genomic data for future use. Conclusion Parents participated in the study strongly support genomic newborn screening. Gender-based differences emphasize the need for tailored communication and culturally sensitive strategies to inform policy development and implementation of newborn genomic screening program in the UAE and similar contexts.

Background Pharmacists play a unique role in integrating genomic medicine and pharmacogenomics into the clinical practice and to translate pharmacogenomics from bench to bedside. However, the literature suggests that the knowledge gap in pharmacogenomics is a major challenge; therefore, developing pharmacists’ skills and literacy to achieve this anticipated role is highly important. We aim to conceptualize a personalized literacy framework for the adoption of genomic medicine and pharmacogenomics by pharmacists in the United Arab Emirates with possible regional and global relevance. Results A qualitative approach using focus groups was used to design and to guide the development of a pharmacogenomics literacy framework. The Health Literacy Skills framework was used as a guide to conceptualize the pharmacogenomics literacy for pharmacists. The framework included six major components with specific suggested factors to improve pharmacists’ pharmacogenomics literacy. Major components include individual inputs, demand, skills, knowledge, attitude and sociocultural factors. Conclusion This framework confirms a holistic bottom-up approach toward the implementation of pharmacogenomics. Personalized medicine entails personalized efforts and frameworks. Similar framework can be created for other healthcare providers, patients and stakeholders.

Pharmacogenomics (PGx) can potentially tailor medication prescriptions to the genetic profiles of individuals, enhancing treatment outcomes and minimizing adverse drug reactions. This study assessed cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients' knowledge and views toward PGx testing in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A cross‐sectional study was conducted among CVD patients attending multiple clinics using a validated, culturally adapted, and piloted bilingual questionnaire. Participants were invited via phone calls or in‐person contact at clinics. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS V.29, incorporating descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression. A total of 425 responses were analyzed; 67.5% were over 50 years old, and 67.5% held a bachelor's degree. Chronic diseases, excluding CVD, affected 65.2%, with 58.1% reporting medication side effects and 36.5% was hospitalized due to these effects. Knowledge varied, with 55.3% demonstrating good knowledge; 75.3% recognized DNA as gene‐based, while 47.5% understood PGx for predicting medication responses. Participants were grouped into three PGx perception clusters: Cluster 1 (33.17%) concerned about risks but valued PGx, Cluster 2 (40.23%) worried about privacy/costs, and Cluster 3 (26.58%) confident in PGx benefits. Safety was the top priority for 60.2% of respondents, 34.8% would not pay for PGx tets, and 35.3% preferred preemptive testing. Regression linked higher PGx knowledge to females, non‐healthcare workers, those with genetic diseases, and those hospitalized for side effects (p < 0.05). The study highlights a need for educational initiatives in the UAE to improve PGx literacy among CVD patients. The findings suggest that targeted awareness campaigns, policy interventions addressing privacy, and financial support could promote PGx wider adoption.

Professionalism, influenced by regional context and societal values, is essential in doctor-patient relationships, patient experiences, and clinical outcomes. However, formal education alone fails to cultivate professionalism effectively. Research highlights the hidden curriculum's detrimental impact on medical students' professionalism. Nonetheless, strategies to teach professionalism in specific curriculum areas and to counteract hidden curricula, particularly for clinical clerkships, remain underexplored. This study evaluates a structured, student-led professionalism training program in a clerkship. Over one year, we implemented and replicated an educational intervention on professionalism in four emergency medicine clerkship groups. Grounded in constructivist and transformative learning theories, the intervention aimed to enhance students' reflective capacities by addressing the hidden curriculum. It included briefing sessions on professionalism models and student-led discussions on clinical cases encountered to uncover implicit lessons. Students' understanding was reinforced through anonymous self- and peer assessments of professionalism traits. The impact was evaluated qualitatively through inductive thematic analysis of student reflections and quantitatively through student feedback based on the Kirkpatrick model. The training received highly positive evaluations from students. Quantitative analysis showed significant score increases in knowledge and ability (using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test). Students demonstrated the ability to reflect on the hidden curriculum and highlighted three key themes: professional attributes, sociocultural context, and system-level factors. Subthemes included communication, empathy, learning commitment, cultural competence, hierarchy, and family engagement. This study presents a practical clerkship professionalism training model demonstrating that regular case-based discussions and anonymous self- and peer assessments help students identify and reflect on professional behaviors within the hidden curriculum.