DoH enters strategic partnership with Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia to advance research in paediatric oncology and gene therapy

9 Jun, 2024:

The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the healthcare sector, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) , a nonprofit hospital, during a recent visit to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Through this MoU, the Department and CHOP aim to advance research in paediatric oncology and gene therapy.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre at DoH and Madeline Bell, President and CEO of CHOP. Leveraging Abu Dhabi’s evolving healthcare and life-science infrastructure and capabilities, both parties seek to boost research and programme development in rare diseases, paediatric oncology, and gene therapy. Recent estimates indicate a significant global burden of childhood cancer. In 2022, the World Health Organisation (WHO) reported that an estimate of over 275,000 children and adolescents (aged 0-19 years) were diagnosed with cancer worldwide. More than 105,000 children succumbed to the disease in the same year.

Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei, Executive Director of the Research and Innovation Centre at the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, said: “Building on our commitment to fostering international collaborations, the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH) continues to spearhead innovative treatments and breakthrough solutions in Abu Dhabi and beyond, alongside our global strategic partners. DoH is delighted to be working hand in hand with our esteemed partner, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), to further push the envelope within the Emirate’s pediatric healthcare landscape. Together, we will enhance research capabilities, improve disease management, and advance training for healthcare professionals. By nurturing the well-being of our children, we are cultivating the very foundation of our community for generations to come. They stand as the pillars of our community and the future leaders of tomorrow.”

Within the framework of the partnership, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and DoH will exchange faculty, researchers, and students in short-term and long-term exchange programs to foster knowledge sharing and collaboration in cutting-edge pediatric care practices. Alongside, conducting online learning opportunities and establishing conferences, seminars, and workshops. Furthermore, the two parties will utilise Real-World Evidence (RWE) to improve healthcare elevate and expand the Emirate’s research resources. DoH and CHOP will work towards elevating capabilities in cell and gene therapy as well as advancing clinical research for the benefit of paediatric patients with rare diseases.

Madeline Bell, President and CEO of Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia said: “CHOP is dedicated to improving health outcomes for children around the world and to ensuring that all children have access to the care they need – including cell and gene therapies. Our partnership with DoH will help us advance pediatric research and make breakthroughs that will benefit children in Abu Dhabi and across the globe.”

Led by the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), a high-profile Abu Dhabi delegation headed by His Excellency Mansoor Ibrahim Al Mansoori, Chairman of the DoH, visited the United States of America (USA) between May 30^th,2024 and June 6^th,2024 to showcase the Emirate’s partnership opportunities and explore collaboration with leading organizations in Research and Development (R&D), manufacturing and innovation. Kicking off in Philadelphia, delegates have met with existing and new partners to foster collaboration with leading education research institutions, governmental bodies and health-tech giants. The transnational mission has culminated in San Diego, coinciding with Abu Dhabi’s participation at BIO International Convention 2024 to exhibit the Emirate’s growth and development of its biotechnology industry. The participation has witnessed in-depth discussions, shared insights and expertise as well as explored collaborations in health-tech, life science and innovation.

Highlighting the rich diversity and expertise within Abu Dhabi’s ecosystem, the Delegation comprised of 20 key entities including the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), Abu Dhabi Executive Office (ADEO), G42, Masdar City, Mubadala Investment Company, Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi Group (KEZAD), Malaffi, The Medical Office, Ambulatory Healthcare Services, PureHealth, One Health, M42, Technology Innovation Institute (TII), Burjeel Holdings, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi Holding Company (ADQ), Abu Dhabi Stem Cell Centre (ADSCC) and Etihad Airways.