Second Arab Society for Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes Conference, 6th-8th November 2014, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

Abstract

The scientific program of the conference featured 62 oral and 84 poster presentations. Diabetes was the topic most heavily presented due to its widespread prevalence and unique features in our region. Milestones in diabetes care, diabetes education, epidemiology, updates in neonatal diabetes and hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemia as well as insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus were among the topics discussed by leading world-renown authorities as well as by regional experts. Diabetes technology was a particularly hot topic in the meeting featuring 2 symposia on the recent advances in artificial pancreas and regional experience with insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitoring systems. Experience pertinent to diabetes and fasting was elegantly presented by regional experts. The meeting also featured workshops dedicated to diabetes educators and stimulating discussions with behavioral psychologists. Growth disorders were presented in different formats of plenary, “Meet the Expert”, multicenter research study presentation, case presentations. Surveillance of growth hormone use was presented from Tunisia and Kuwait. In addition, pubertal disorders were widely covered. Speakers highlighted regional trends in precocious puberty, updates on PCOS management, adrenal disorders and novel mutations in a variety of puberty-related disorders. Exciting data regarding survivors of childhood cancer as well as updates in Turner syndrome management were brilliantly presented. A session of particular interest tackled disorders of sexual differentiation (DSDs), starting with an overview of medical approach to DSDs, followed by an animated presentation and discussion of religion point of view regarding DSDs as well as a valuable psychological approach to youth with DSDs and their families. Last but not least, a highly informative session was held on bone disorders and vitamin D status in the region.