Khalifa University Hosts The 3rd Healthy Longevity Symposium To Advance Ageing Research

The 3rd Healthy Longevity Symposium, hosted by Khalifa University of Science and Technology, has reinforced its commitment to research and knowledge exchange. The event, featuring the Nature Forum: Measuring Healthy Aging, began on 13th November at Erth Hotel Abu Dhabi. Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, acknowledged the efforts of UAE and international partners in organising such a significant scientific gathering in Abu Dhabi.

More than 100 student poster presentations are being showcased during the programme, which runs until 14th November. These presentations highlight emerging biomedical research from Khalifa University and its partner institutions. Senior officials and leading researchers attended the opening ceremony, including Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili from the Department of Community Development and Noura Al Ghaithi from the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi.

Noura Al Ghaithi emphasised that the forum demonstrates a shared dedication to extending both lifespan and healthspan. She noted that this positions Abu Dhabi as a global centre for longevity science. Ongoing initiatives like the Future Health and Emirati Reference Genome Programme were also highlighted by her during the event.

Al Hajri stated that the symposium aligns with Khalifa University's mission to foster research that improves wellbeing and enhances long-term resilience. The opening keynote was delivered by Al Ghaithi, followed by international experts such as Kaare Christensen from the University of Southern Denmark and Terrie Moffitt from Duke University, who discussed global perspectives on ageing and mental health.

Over 25 specialists in public health, biomedicine, and ageing research participated in discussions about metrics and technologies shaping healthy ageing. They explored data-driven health strategies and translational research. Keynotes featured researchers from various institutions including the Department of Health – Abu Dhabi, Nature Portfolio, Khalifa University, as well as experts from Europe, the U.S., and Asia.

A high-level panel addressed challenges and opportunities for healthy ageing in the UAE and beyond. Participants included Mohammed Al Ameri, Mie Rizig, Kaare Christensen, and Wadha A. Al-Muftah. The session was moderated by Khaled Musallam from Khalifa University and Burjeel Holdings.

Scientific Sessions on Ageing

Scientific sessions delved into measurements of body and organ function with contributions from researchers at Columbia University, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, and the University of Basel. A dedicated session focused on high-dimensional molecular datasets featured experts from Harvard Medical School, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, University of Oxford, and Leiden University Medical Center.

The latest multi-omics and quantitative insights into ageing and longevity were presented during these sessions. This comprehensive approach provided attendees with a deeper understanding of how various factors influence healthy ageing.

The symposium successfully brought together diverse perspectives on healthy ageing while reinforcing Abu Dhabi's role as a leader in longevity science research. By fostering collaboration among international experts, it aims to advance knowledge in this critical field.

With inputs from WAM