Doha: In recognition of World Obesity Day, the Qatar Metabolic Institute (QMI) of Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) is highlighting its commitment to providing healthcare services for people with obesity through its comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to care.
According to Qatar News Agency, the QMI's National Obesity Treatment Center (NOTC) and the National Bariatric Center (NBC) provide comprehensive management of obesity medically and surgically, addressing one of the most pressing public health challenges globally.
With more than 20,000 annual patient visits, the NOTC is one of the largest and most advanced obesity treatment facilities in the region, offering holistic, patient-centered care. The center integrates medical, nutritional, and behavioral therapies alongside advanced interventional procedures such as endoscopic treatments and pharmacological interventions.
QMI Director, Dr. Dabia Hamad Al Mohanadi, highlighted the chronic and complex nature of obesity and its significant impact on health and quality of life, increasing the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. NOTC's Director, Dr. Buthaina Alowinati, emphasized a comprehensive approach to obesity care, focusing on personalized, multidisciplinary strategies for effective management to improve patients' quality of life and achieve sustainable health outcomes.
Annually, around 1,000 patients receive surgical treatment at HMC. NBC provides interdisciplinary care with advanced laparoscopic, robotic, and minimally invasive procedures. The center integrates research into its practice, advancing obesity treatment and bariatric surgery.
Director of the Fellowship Program in Bariatric Medicine, Dr. Wahiba Elhag, emphasized the role of bariatric medicine in providing tertiary care for patients with severe morbid obesity and complex metabolic disorders. Bariatric medicine is crucial for optimizing and preparing patients for surgery, as well as offering comprehensive follow-up care.
HMC's QMI has several innovative programs, including a specialized adolescent obesity management program, an integrated wellness program, a one-stop multidisciplinary clinic, preoperative assessment, and optimization of bariatric patients, and medical weight management for patients with severe obesity.
In addition to clinical services, the QMI centers, both NOTC and NBC, play a role in research, education, and public awareness campaigns, promoting healthier lifestyles and encouraging preventive measures against obesity.
With a mission to provide compassionate, evidence-based care, QMI's centers of excellence continue to expand services and enhance the care experience for patients. The dedication to research and staff development ensures that the centers remain at the forefront of innovation in obesity management.