Abu Dhabi DoH’s Personalised Precision Medicine Programme provides tailored care to 250+ cancer patients

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) is revolutionizing cancer care with its Personalised Precision Medicine Programme for Oncology. Launched in October 2022, the initiative provides tailored treatment and prevention strategies — transforming the lives of over 250 Emirati cancer patients.

Through cutting-edge genomic technologies and collaboration with strategic partners, the programme aims to set a new standard in personalized healthcare while solidifying Abu Dhabi's position as a leader in life sciences innovation.

How does it work?

The programme leverages advanced genomic screening to craft individualized treatment and prevention plans. Patients undergo testing for 47 genes associated with cancer to enhance clinical care. Genetic counselors and specialists design customized therapies to improve treatment outcomes and accelerate recovery.

To prevent tumor development in future generations, 207 family members of patients with inherited gene mutations received tailored prevention plans. Additionally, 200 Emirati individuals — aged 25 to 50 — were randomly selected from the Emirati Genome Programme (EGP) to screen for gene variants linked to higher risks of cancers such as breast, ovarian, colorectal, and lung cancer. High-risk individuals were provided with personalized monitoring, lifestyle interventions, and access to specialized clinics.

Why does it matter?

Precision medicine enhances treatment efficacy while minimizing adverse effects and treatment resistance. By addressing cancer at the genetic level, the programme reduces the overall burden on patients and healthcare systems.

Dr. Stephen Grobmyer, Chair of the Oncology Institute at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, emphasized the initiative's importance, stating: "This groundbreaking initiative is a critical step toward implementing effective cancer prevention and treatment schemes on a national level."

Moreover, the programme's proactive approach ensures better health outcomes for future generations.

Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre at DoH, highlighted the transformative potential of genomic technologies, saying: "We aim to address diagnostics, drug therapy, and prevention tailored to individual needs, further reinforcing Abu Dhabi's position as a prominent destination for life sciences."

The context

Globally, cancer remains one of the leading causes of mortality, necessitating innovative approaches to treatment and prevention. Abu Dhabi's Personalised Precision Medicine Programme exemplifies the power of collaboration between public and private sectors to tackle this pressing health challenge. With partners such as Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and G42 Healthcare, the initiative builds on DoH's mission to drive the future of healthcare.

The programme also addresses gaps in cancer care by releasing guidelines for germline testing of breast and ovarian cancer-associated genes, aiming to improve diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

As Dr. Grobmyer noted, "By leveraging our unique resources and expertise, we aim to deepen our understanding of cancer prevention and treatments across diverse populations."

Looking ahead, the DoH plans to expand the programme's scope to address other chronic diseases, ensuring that Abu Dhabi continues to lead in precision medicine research and application.