Raising Awareness on the Importance of Prevention and Early Screening of Congenital Malformations A National Priority in Lebanon
Under the patronage of the Minister of Public Health, Dr. Rakan Nassereddine, ASSAMEH Birth & Beyond organized a scientific workshop titled “Congenital Malformations in Lebanon: Understanding, Prevention and Improved Care” at the Institut Français du Liban. The event was held in the presence of the Minister’s representative, Rita Freiha, partners, a large group of physicians and specialists, as well as journalists and healthcare professionals.
The workshop opened with remarks by the Association’s President, Aboud Chami, who recalled the enduring commitment of the organization founded by Dr. Robert Sacy. He highlighted its humanitarian mission: to provide high-quality medical care to mothers, children, and premature newborns from the most vulnerable communities, at a cost significantly lower than that of private hospitals.
Intervention by Ms. Freiha
Rita Freiha praised the partnership between the Ministry and the Association, a collaboration that has had a positive impact on supporting public hospitals and improving access to quality care for populations relying on the public healthcare system.
She stated: “Quality of care and patient safety remain essential priorities for the Ministry of Public Health. Today, we have the responsibility to transform the resilience demonstrated since the Covid-19 pandemic into sustainable reform by strengthening prevention and reinforcing the healthcare system.”
Scientific Sessions
Dr. André Megarbané presented the causes of congenital malformations, emphasizing genetic factors and the role of consanguineous marriage. He outlined available screening tools, prevention strategies adapted to the Lebanese context, and the importance of awareness and early detection.
Dr. Salim Adib analyzed the national health landscape, presenting demographic trends, international comparisons, and environmental factors related to congenital malformations, as well as their impact on public health.
Dr. Malek Nassar addressed the management of high-risk pregnancies, highlighting the importance of prenatal diagnosis, early screening, and ethical considerations in close coordination with families.
Dr. Riva Matta dedicated her intervention to the theme “From Birth to Care: Management of Affected Newborns.” She detailed medical approaches to congenital malformations, the importance of multidisciplinary coordination, as well as fetal and congenital hematological diseases, stressing the need to improve postnatal follow-up.
An Nahar
NNA
