Muscat – Dr Maitha al Asmi of Oman Medical Specialty Board (OMSB) brought recognition to the sultanate with her research presented at the Middle East Council of Ophthalmology (MEACO) Congress held in Muscat recently.

The MEACO Congress is the largest ophthalmology meet in the Middle East and Africa region that attracts eyecare professionals and businesses engaged in the field from the region, as well as Europe, America, Asia and Australia.

The event’s scientific programme included collaborations between several international academic and clinical institutions.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Dr Maitha said, “I was awarded the first place for best scientific poster. My presentation was on manifestation of a rare disease, and its main objective was to highlight the importance of screening and early detection of such cases to prevent severe visual loss.”

She informed that the MEACO Congress is one of the biggest platforms that all ophthalmologists from the region await every year for an opportunity to meet and share experiences and learn about the latest advances in the field.

Her presentation was in the young ophthalmologists category. Ophthalmology residents and other young ophthalmologists from Yemen, Iraq and Saudi Arabia, besides Oman, participated in the category.

“My presentation was supervised by Dr Anuradha Ganesh, a paediatric ophthalmology consultant at Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, who provided me immense support and guidance.”

 She described her award as representative of more than just individual recognition. “It reflects our collective pursuit to push the boundaries of medical knowledge and enhance patient care.”

Drawing from her experience, Dr Maitha noted the numerous advantages of such medical conferences. “They go beyond mere lectures, facilitating exchange of ideas and presentation of pertinent research by ophthalmology  experts.”

Emphasising the role of diverse participants in medical conferences, Dr Maitha said, “Active participation lays a robust foundation for medical research and refines our approach towards patient data.”

Advising peers to actively engage in research work, Dr Maitha said, “Our achievements exemplify the results of dedication and the drive to enhance healthcare.”