The prevalence of neurological disorders, particularly among the aging population has become a concern for neurologists in Oman.
The fourth Oman Neurology Conference, held over the weekend at the Maani Hotel, was organized by the Oman Neurology Society, Oman League against Epilepsy, and Oman Epilepsy Society in collaboration with Oman’s Ministry of Health, Sultan Qaboos University, and Medical City.
When asked what the major concerns are in Oman, Dr Wafa Al Shehi, consultant at the Royal Hospital, said, “One of the primary concerns regarding neurological health in Oman is the rising prevalence of neurological disorders, particularly among the aging population. There is an increasing need for specialized care and resources to manage conditions effectively. Additionally, there is a growing concern about inadequate awareness of neurological issues among the public, which often leads to late diagnoses and treatment.”
The conference offered a rich scientific program encompassing a diverse array of subspecialties within neurology, from cutting-edge diagnostic techniques to revolutionary treatment modalities, ONC 2024 showcased the forefront of neurological innovation and excellence.
Dr Shehi, speaking to the observer, said the conference yielded several important recommendations aimed at improving neurological care in Oman such as enhancing public awareness where the experts felt there is a need for a concerted effort to increase public awareness about neurological disorders through educational campaigns.
Training and development were also one of the recommendations- “continuous professional development for healthcare providers to stay updated with the latest advancements in neurology”.
Strengthening Research Initiatives has also been recommended by promoting local research efforts to better understand the specific neurological health issues faced by the Omani population.
According to the discussions, epilepsy, and its various manifestations require greater public awareness. Many individuals are unaware of the condition's symptoms, which can lead to misunderstandings and stigma. Education about epilepsy can empower patients and their families, encouraging timely medical intervention.
Several challenges were identified during the conference, including limited resources as there is a shortage of specialized neurologists and resources dedicated to neurological health in the region. Another area that continues to be a challenge is stigma. Stigmatization surrounding neurological conditions, particularly mental health aspects, poses a barrier to seeking help, pointed out the experts, adding that the awareness gaps continue to be a hindrance.
“There remains a significant gap in public understanding of neurological disorders, which affects early detection and treatment outcomes,” Dr Shehi said.
She added, “The Fourth Oman Neurology Conference highlighted critical issues and strategies to enhance neurological care in Oman. By addressing these challenges collaboratively, we can work towards improving the quality of life for individuals affected by neurological disorders.”
The goals of the ONC program are to share the latest updates, exchange knowledge and advancements in the fields of neurology and neuroscience, as well as provide physicians, scientists, researchers, and students the opportunity to learn, interact, and share information with the experts.
The conference brought together leading neurologists, researchers, and healthcare professionals to discuss advancements and challenges in neurological health. The event provided a platform for sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration among experts in the field.
This year, the conference centered around several key topics, such as ‘Advancements in Epilepsy Management’: Participants explored innovative treatment protocols and the latest research surrounding epilepsy care and neurodegenerative Diseases, where discussions focused on the management of conditions such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, emphasizing early diagnosis and intervention strategies. They also looked into ‘Stroke Prevention and Treatment’: Experts shared insights on the importance of timely intervention and rehabilitation techniques for stroke patients; neuro-inflammatory disorders as multiple sclerosis and updates in the management of MS; and neuromuscular disorders, where the experts discussed the new genetic therapies and discussed recent studies about efficacy; as well as the intersection of neurological disorders and mental health, which had a significant focus, highlighting the need for integrated care approaches.
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