Al-Obaidi: Dermatology, gynecology among major specialties

Health Minister Dr. Ali Al-Obaidi said Monday Dermatology and gynecology were very important specialties because skin was human being's largest organ and "a mirror" of most diseases, which might start with a rash. Al-Obaidi's remarks came on his behalf by Assistant Undersecretary for Technical Affairs Dr. Jamal Al-Harbi, at the opening of the 5th Scientific Forum on use of laser and latest methods to treat skin diseases. He said the scientific forum, which grouped specialists from around the globe, was part of the health ministry's strategy to improve health care as well as allowing Kuwaiti doctors interact with renowned dermatologists. These dermatologists will give lectures and hold workshops during the forum, he noted, as well as checking patients in all public hospitals. Dr. Abdulwahhab Al-Fozan, Chairman of Kuwait Society of Dermatologists, said the forum featured participation of specialists from the GCC, Arab, European and Asian countries, as well as from the US. They will be discussed the use of laser in skin surgery as well as latest treatment methods against skin-related diseases. Dr. Mahinor Al-Bannai, General Coordinator of the forum, said laser was used to treat more than 30 percent of patients with skin diseases. She noted that more than 300,000 patients were visiting dermatology clinics every year. Al-Bannai said the forum would include four training courses and 12 workshops