Qatar Biobank focuses on the health of future generations.
DOHA: A large number of people have shared information on their health as well as biological samples at ‘Qatar Biobank’s inaugural six-month public recruitment’ for research.
It was revealed that 72 percent of participants contributed to the health initiative because it was recommended by friends and family.
The initiative has received 500 contributors, 68 percent of whom are Qatari, to the state’s leading biomedical research platform, illustrated through actual visits to Qatar Biobank centre.
Nasser Masoud Al Yami, 68, who was the 500th participant, said: “I heard about Qatar Biobank through a family member and have been eager to participate since.
“The clinical staff demonstrated a high level of care starting from registration all the way to the final feedback session.
“I am delighted to have received such a comprehensive check-up, and I urge Qatar’s elder generation to lead the way,” he added.
“It is important for us to set an example for our families by stepping forward and contributing to this worthy cause.”
A staggering 96 percent of participants rated their experience at Qatar Biobank as ‘very positive’, which illustrates that the biobank’s participant-centred approach is paying off.
Furthermore, recent analysis of contributor feedback demonstrates that the Qatari community is confident about the nation’s largest population-based health initiative.
The biobank’s recently appointed Managing Director, Dr Hadi Abderrahim, said: “Our relationship with the public is at the heart of what we do, and is critical to our success.
“Our intentions are not just to get people through the door, but are instead about engaging the wider community.”
Through its recruitment approach, Qatar Biobank aims to provide a model for public involvement in biomedical research.
By inviting the public to contribute, it empowers the local community to take on an active role as ‘citizen scientists’, helping shape the health of future generations.
“We don’t make assumptions that the public has any previous experience with biomedical research or an understanding of how to get involved in biobanking,” said Abderrahim.
“We aim to educate the public which in turn enables them to relish the opportunity to participate. Then when they visit, we make every effort to ensure they have a five-star experience; and we are extremely pleased to see that this message is actively being communicated by word of mouth throughout the community.” The Peninsula
