New Perspectives on Health Issues, Research and Innovation

In the swift transition from traditional to modern lifestyles, health-conscious societies with good governance have contributed to an immense improvement in the quality of life of their populations. In contrast to the West, however, where populations are ageing, the Middle East is characterised by a young, growing and technology-savvy demographic. This heralds a promise of continued improvement in health status, with better health system design and management. However, new diseases such as lifestyle-related obesity are beginning to take their toll. Bold steps are required to develop a health-conscious, knowledge-based society, centred on the prevention of disease and the promotion of good health and well-being, in support of improved quality of life and economic development in the Middle East.