Significant Humanitarian Initiatives Announced at Conjoined Twins Conference in Riyadh

First International Conference on Conjoined Twins in Riyadh

The inaugural International Conference on Conjoined Twins recently took place in Riyadh, uniting health experts, leading surgeons, Saudi officials, and humanitarian leaders from around the globe. This unprecedented gathering concluded with the announcement of new humanitarian aid initiatives valued at nearly USD 15 million. The conference emphasized the importance of prioritizing conjoined twins and others with rare diseases within global health agendas.

Calls for Continued Care

Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Rabeeah, the Supervisor General of King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Centre (KSrelief), highlighted the ongoing need to support conjoined twins and urged attendees to focus on collaboration, innovation, and compassion. He stated, “We must continue to prioritize the needs of conjoined twins and others with rare diseases in our global health agendas. Through collaboration, innovation, and compassion, we can provide these individuals with the care and support they deserve, enabling them to live dignified and fulfilling lives.”

This conference contributed significantly to raising awareness about the specific needs of conjoined twins, and it outlined proactive steps to enhance their support systems. One of the key proposals was to establish a dedicated international fund to facilitate additional research and care initiatives focused on rare diseases.

Key Initiatives Launched

Among the groundbreaking projects announced at the event was the Inclusive Website Registry for Conjoined Twins Globally. This initiative, a collaborative effort between KSrelief, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization (WHO), aims to create a comprehensive digital registry dedicated to the conjoined twin community. The portal will serve as a critical resource for data collection, cross-border medical collaboration, and cutting-edge research, transforming how conjoined twins access medical and social support services.

Moreover, KSrelief, alongside the International War and Disaster Victims Protection Association (IRVD), unveiled new humanitarian projects totaling about USD 7 million. These projects will provide health, educational, and social care for conjoined twins following separation procedures. Other organizations, including the Taybah Foundation for Development, International Medical Corps (IMC), and the Benevolence Coalition for Humanitarian Relief, also announced their partnership with KSrelief for various initiatives, widening the support network.

Celebrating Formerly Conjoined Twins

An inspiring aspect of the conference was the participation of former conjoined twins who shared their journeys. Among them were sisters Princess Anne Manzo and Princess May Manzo from the Philippines, who successfully underwent separation surgery in Riyadh back in 2004. Now adults and recent college graduates, they were honored on stage by Dr. Al Rabeeah, symbolizing the hope and possibilities that dedicated medical care can offer.

Looking Ahead

The International Conference on Conjoined Twins concluded with a compelling call for similar conferences to be held every three to five years, ensuring that the needs of this unique community remain in focus. Participants recognized the importance of ongoing dialogue and collaboration among medical professionals, policymakers, and humanitarian leaders to continue advocating for advancements in medical care and social inclusion for conjoined twins.

This event marked a significant milestone in the global conversation surrounding the care of conjoined twins and highlighted how international cooperation can lead to substantial humanitarian efforts. By prioritizing the unique needs of these individuals, the community is sending a powerful message about the importance of health care equity for all, particularly for those with rare conditions.

The Saudi Conjoined Twins Programme, which has been operational since 1990, has completed 61 successful separation procedures from cases originating from 21 different countries, demonstrating its commitment to improving the lives of these extraordinary individuals in need. The outcomes of this conference will undoubtedly have a long-lasting impact on the lives of conjoined twins around the world.