Abu Dhabi event to address asthma issues affecting 1.3m UAE residents

Organisers of global pharmaceutical event CPhI Middle East and Africa say they will deliver content to address the increasing prevalence of Chronic Respiratory Diseases (CRDs) in the region when the event returns to the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), 16-18 September. CRDs including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, respiratory allergies and occupational lung diseases, are becoming more prevalent in the Middle East region and leading to more opportunities for pharmaceutical firms. Despite the introduction of 100% tax on tobacco products and the implementation of non-communicable disease initiatives, medicines are often either scarce or too expensive for patients and, in many instances, CRDs remain undiagnosed. “In the Middle East & Africa (MEA), CRDs are often left undiagnosed and untreated which has huge social and economic consequences. Successful pharmaceutical firms will underscore the importance of diagnosis and preventative treatment, while also working with government and health authorities to raise awareness of the issue,” said Cara Turner, Brand Director – Pharma, for UBM EMEA, organisers of CPhI. According to the Global Asthma Network, 14% of the UAE population is impacted by CRDs – around 1.3m people. Nearly 300 exhibitors from more than 35 countries are expected to attend the three-day showcase, together with 4,900 visitors. “Panel discussions will address the issues surrounding obesity and chronic diseases including diabetes and oncology; private medical insurance that all expatriate residents must carry; the growth of medical tourism in the region and the growth and development of the domestic manufacturing,” Turner added. The exhibition will also feature Live Pharma Connect, a free service open to visitors and exhibitors allowing both parties to make pre-arranged pharma specific, mutually beneficial meetings during the event. Further information: www.cphi.com/mea