AGP Executive Report

Cancer Awareness in Bahrain: The Health Ministry is set to launch “Nahtam” (We Care) under its Health Ministry programme, with “Itmi’nan” running through October for breast and cervical cancer awareness and screening, followed by “Nahtam Bih’” in November for prostate cancer. Mental Health for Older Adults: MP Dr Munir Seroor urged routine mental health screening in primary care for older people, citing risks linked to ageing, loneliness and isolation, and called for a review of Bahrain’s 2009 older persons law. Public Health & Infrastructure Oversight: Bahrain’s Ministerial Committee for Development Projects and Infrastructure met under Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, highlighting compensation for citizens affected by Iranian attacks, progress on wastewater and road safety upgrades, and the launch of an Environmental and Public Health Crimes Unit. Gaza Healthcare Support: The Royal Humanitarian Foundation (RHF) signed an agreement to fund priority medicines and medical supplies for the Palestinian Ministry of Health, with priority for urgent needs in Gaza. Accessibility in Schools: MP Dr Maryam Al Dhaen proposed optional sign language classes in schools and apps that convert speech to text and support deaf people using schools, hospitals and government services. Eye Care Charity: Alkhidmat Foundation Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with Bahraini charity Daar Ibn As-Sabeel, carried out free cataract surgeries for 84 underprivileged patients, including medicines and eyeglasses.

Cancer Awareness Push: Bahrain’s Health Ministry is set to launch “Nahtam” (We Care), with “Itmi’nan” running through October for breast and cervical cancer awareness and screening, followed by “Nahtam Bih’” in November for prostate cancer. Social Housing Model: Housing and Urban Planning Minister Amna Al Romaihi says Bahrain will keep government as guarantor of fairness and support, while private developers, banks and partners play a bigger delivery role as needs evolve. GCC Housing Cooperation: Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid met GCC housing officials at the Innovation Summit in the Social Housing Sector 2026, stressing policy alignment and wellbeing-focused urban development. Accessibility in Schools: MP Dr Maryam Al Dhaen proposes optional sign language classes in schools, plus speech-to-text and translation apps to help deaf people access education, healthcare and government services. Healthcare Aid: Royal Humanitarian Foundation signed a grant deal with Palestine’s Ministry of Health to fund priority medicines and supplies, with focus on urgent needs in Gaza. Medical Tech Update: Xenix Medical announced FDA clearance for NanoACTIV Surface Technology on its Riva spinal fixation system, aiming to expand osteogenic surface benefits across more implant types. Wellness & Funding: Integrative wellness coverage highlights new investment rounds in microbiome testing and better-for-you food brands, pointing to continued growth in health-focused startups.

Cancer Awareness Drive: Bahrain’s Health Ministry launches “Nahtam” (We Care) with October’s “Itmi’nan” campaign for breast and cervical cancer awareness, followed by November’s “Nahtam Bih’” for prostate cancer, with year-round messaging on other cancers and early screening. Accessibility in Schools: MP Dr Maryam Al Dhaen proposes optional sign language classes in schools, plus speech-to-text and translation apps to help deaf students and families communicate in classrooms, hospitals and government services. Eye Health Charity: Alkhidmat Foundation Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with Bahraini charity Daar Ibn As-Sabeel, ran free eye camps and performed 84 cataract surgeries for underprivileged patients, including medicines and eyeglasses. Food Waste Action: Bahrain Food Bank reports more than three million meals saved and distributed since 2014, recovering surplus food to support low-income families and individuals. Local Health Tech & Infrastructure: Saudi German Health UAE selected HPE’s Self-Driving Network to modernize wired/wireless and security for digital healthcare expansion across UAE hospitals, clinics and education facilities. Social Housing Focus: Bahrain’s housing model is shifting toward private delivery with government as guarantor, discussed at the Housing Sector 2026 Innovation Summit. Electricity Bills Debate: MPs propose scrapping the 32-fils electricity band for citizens’ first homes once monthly use exceeds 7,000 kWh, to prevent sharp bill jumps. Regulating Food Trucks: Northern Municipal Council sets rules for food trucks with 289 approved spaces and a compliance deadline of January 2027, including health and Civil Defence checks.

Cancer Prevention Push: Bahrain’s Health Ministry is set to launch “Nahtam” to boost cancer awareness and early screening, with “Itmi’nan” for breast and cervical cancer running through October and “Nahtam Bih’” for prostate cancer in November, alongside year-round education on cancers including colon, lung and childhood. NHRA Quality Milestone: The Eye Infirmary in Seef and Janabiya has received NHRA Diamond Accreditation, marking a major private healthcare quality win tied to its 10th anniversary and renewed focus on patient safety. Housing & Wellbeing: Bahrain’s Deputy Prime Minister met GCC housing officials at the Social Housing Sector 2026 Innovation Summit, stressing policy alignment to support family stability and wellbeing. Electricity Relief Debate: MPs have proposed scrapping Bahrain’s 32-fils fourth electricity tier for citizens’ first homes once monthly use exceeds 7,000 kWh, arguing air-conditioning costs can push families into unaffordable bills. Food Waste Action: Bahrain Food Bank says it has saved and distributed over three million meals since 2014, as the kingdom marks International Day of Awareness of Food Loss and Waste. Healthcare Sector Leadership: Bahrain Chamber approved new chairs for its 31st term, including Dr Lamya Mahmood for the Healthcare Sector Committee. Public Health & Safety Regulation: Northern Municipal Council introduced new rules for food trucks, allocating 289 approved spaces and requiring compliance by January 2027 with health and Civil Defence checks.

NHRA Private Eye Care Milestone: The Eye Infirmary’s Seef and Janabiya branches have received NHRA “Diamond Accreditation,” a top-tier national recognition tied to its 10th anniversary, highlighting Bahrain’s push for higher patient safety and quality in private healthcare. Healthcare Governance: Bahrain Chamber has approved new chairs for its 31st term, including Dr Lamya Mahmood as Chair of the Healthcare Sector Committee, aiming to strengthen private-sector input on health priorities. Public Health & Environment Enforcement: Bahrain’s Attorney General has set up an Environmental and Public Health Crimes Unit to investigate offences affecting public health and the environment, with prosecutors appointed to lead and coordinate cases. Food Waste Relief: Bahrain Food Bank reports more than three million meals saved and distributed since 2014, supporting over 3,000 families and 5,000 individuals while tackling daily food waste. Diabetes & Weight Guidance: A local health explainer notes that persistent weight trouble and tiredness can be linked to insulin resistance, recommending metabolic blood tests and lifestyle steps. Community Health Access: New rules for Bahrain’s food trucks allocate 289 approved spaces and require health and Civil Defence checks, with compliance deadlines set for 2027.

NHRA Accreditation Milestone: The Eye Infirmary’s Seef and Janabiya branches earned NHRA “Diamond Accreditation,” marking a major quality and patient-safety win tied to its 10th anniversary. Private Sector Health Leadership: Bahrain Chamber approved new chairs for its 31st term, including Dr Lamya Mahmood as Chair of the Health Sector Committee, aiming to strengthen private-sector input on healthcare priorities. Cardiac Awareness in the Community: Al Hilal marked World Heart Day with “Don’t Miss a Beat,” offering heart screenings, cardiology consultations, CPR training, and family activities at Oasis Mall Juffair. Metabolic Health Tip: A Bahrain genetics specialist highlighted insulin resistance as a possible reason weight won’t budge, pointing to warning signs like post-meal tiredness, sugar cravings, abdominal weight gain, and darkened skin around the neck. Public Health & Environment Enforcement: Bahrain’s Attorney General set up an Environmental and Public Health Crimes Unit to investigate offences affecting natural resources and public health, with prosecutors appointed to lead the work. Food Safety Update: GCC states notified WTO tougher rules for gluten-free claims, including strict gluten limits and labelling requirements. Local Preparedness Focus: Bahrain’s response to Iranian attacks was reviewed by parliament and government leaders, stressing continued readiness, essential services, and coordinated emergency action.

Bahrain Crisis Readiness: Bahrain’s Finance Minister said national readiness shows the strength of institutions, citing proactive healthcare and essential-services support during the Iranian attacks, while a joint legislative-executive meeting stressed keeping supplies, emergency response and coordination tight as the threat continues. Public Health Enforcement: The Attorney General has set up a new Environmental and Public Health Crimes Unit to investigate offences tied to public health and environmental harms, with prosecutors appointed to lead the work. Metabolic Health Reminder: A Bahrain-based specialist highlighted that stubborn weight issues and ongoing tiredness can point to insulin resistance, recommending blood tests like HbA1c and fasting insulin, plus lifestyle steps to improve metabolic health. Community Heart Care: Al Hilal marked World Heart Day with screenings, CPR training and family activities under “Don’t Miss a Beat,” pushing early prevention and timely cardiac care. Breast Cancer Awareness: Bahrain Cancer Society’s Walk-A-Thon is set for Oct 16, urging earlier screening and healthier habits alongside fundraising for prevention and treatment support. Food Label Rules: GCC states, including Bahrain, issued tougher rules for “gluten-free” claims, including strict gluten limits and labelling requirements. Animal Disease Reporting: New regulations require vets and livestock owners in Bahrain to report suspected serious ruminant diseases within 24 hours to help prevent outbreaks.

Community Heart Health: Al Hilal Healthcare Group marked World Heart Day – Season 2 in Bahrain with “Don’t Miss a Beat,” featuring cardiology talks, free heart health screening vouchers, and hands-on CPR training for families at Oasis Mall Juffair. Public Health Cooperation: Bahrain’s Health Minister Dr Jaleela bint Al Sayed Jawad Hasan met UAE and Singapore counterparts at UNGA in New York to strengthen health cooperation, including infectious and non-communicable disease work, emergencies, and the use of AI in healthcare. Pandemic Preparedness Focus: Dr Jaleela also highlighted Bahrain’s COVID-19 response and called for resilient health systems, early risk detection, updated emergency plans, and One Health coordination during UN discussions on pandemic prevention and response. Infection Threats & Training: Experts from 25+ countries gathered in Manama for the 4th International Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Diseases, with Bahrain’s Supreme Council of Health chair stressing international collaboration and up-to-date clinical care. Breast Cancer Awareness Events: Bahrain Cancer Society’s Walk-A-Thon is set for Oct 16 at Water Garden City – Seef, with organisers pushing early detection and screening awareness during October’s Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Student Wellness & Creativity: Faber-Castell Spectra 2026 preparations are underway for Nov 13 at Indian School Bahrain (Isa Town), with registration opening early October and a focus on student participation across age groups.

Bahrain Health Policy & Quality: NHRA has presented national accreditation certificates to top private providers, including The Eye Infirmary (Diamond) and King Abdullah Medical City plus Aster Clinic and Zain Dental & Orthodontic Centre (Platinum), reinforcing Bahrain’s push for higher standards and governance. Obesity Treatment Update: NHRA has licensed Foundayo (orforglipron), a once-daily oral GLP-1 class medicine for obesity, offering an option for patients who prefer tablets over injections, with guidance on side effects and the need for long-term lifestyle support. Diabetes Nutrition Focus: A study from Arabian Gulf University found a major nutrition knowledge gap among Bahrain’s Type 2 diabetes patients, with only 5.7% correctly understanding food labels—highlighting urgent demand for clearer nutrition education. Infectious Disease & Antimicrobial Resistance: International experts gathered in Manama for a conference on antimicrobial resistance and infectious diseases, with Bahrain’s Supreme Council of Health stressing cooperation and up-to-date care. Pandemic Preparedness & Regional Health Links: Health Minister Dr Jaleela met UAE and Singapore counterparts at UNGA to strengthen cooperation on infectious and non-communicable diseases, health emergencies, and AI in healthcare. Breast Cancer Awareness: Bahrain Cancer Society’s Walk-A-Thon is set for Oct 16 at Water Garden City, urging earlier detection and screening, plus healthy lifestyle habits. Community & Events: ICWA/ICRF Bahrain announced Faber-Castell Spectra 2026 for Nov 13, with registration opening early October and thousands of student entries expected.

Bahrain Health Diplomacy: Health Minister Dr Jaleela bint Al Sayed Jawad Hasan met UAE and Singapore counterparts at UNGA to boost cooperation on infectious and non-communicable diseases, health emergencies, and AI in healthcare. Infection Control Focus: Bahrain hosted global experts in Manama for the 4th International Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Diseases, with leaders calling for stronger preparedness for “Disease X.” Regional Health Security: Supreme Council of Health Chairman Lt Gen Dr Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdullah Al Khalifa opened the conference, stressing early risk detection and resilient health systems. Obesity Treatment Update: NHRA licensed Foundayo (orforglipron), a once-daily oral GLP-1 obesity medicine, offering a needle-free option with guidance on side effects and the need for ongoing medical follow-up. Diabetes Nutrition Gap: A study from Arabian Gulf University found only 5.7% of Bahrain’s type 2 diabetes patients correctly understand food labels, linking better nutrition knowledge to improved blood sugar control. Quality in Private Care: NHRA issued accreditation certificates, with The Eye Infirmary reaching Diamond status and several clinics/hospitals earning Platinum classifications. AI in Medicine Next: Arabian Gulf University announced an AI in Medicine conference in Manama (Nov 5–7) covering AI for heart disease risk, diabetes/obesity monitoring, imaging, and emergency care.

National Health Strategy: Bahrain has launched its National Health Strategy 2026–2030, “From Development to Impact,” outlining a roadmap to improve efficiency, quality, equity and sustainability across the healthcare system. Obesity Treatment Update: The NHRA has licensed Foundayo (orforglipron), a once-daily oral GLP-1-class medicine for obesity, offering an alternative to injections, with guidance on side effects and the need for long-term lifestyle support. Nutrition & Diabetes Education: A study from Arabian Gulf University found a major nutrition knowledge gap among Bahrain’s adults with type 2 diabetes, with only 5.7% correctly understanding food labels—highlighting the need for clearer patient education. Infectious Disease Readiness: Bahrain hosted the Bahrain International Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Diseases, with experts urging Gulf-wide preparation for “Disease X” and stronger early-warning and response systems. Quality Assurance in Private Care: NHRA presented accreditation certificates to top-performing facilities, including Diamond and Platinum classifications for leading eye, clinic and dental services. AI in Healthcare: Arabian Gulf University announced an Artificial Intelligence in Medicine conference in Manama (Nov 5–7), focusing on AI for heart disease risk, diabetes/obesity monitoring and medical imaging.

NHRA Accreditation: Bahrain’s National Health Regulatory Authority presented four-year accreditation certificates to top-performing facilities, with The Eye Infirmary’s two branches earning Diamond status and King Abdullah Medical City, Aster Clinic (both branches), and Zain Dental & Orthodontic Centre securing Platinum ratings—highlighting quality, safety, and stronger governance in private care. Obesity Treatment Update: NHRA has licensed Foundayo (orfoglipron), a once-daily oral GLP-1 medicine for obesity, positioning it as an alternative to injections for eligible patients; NHRA notes common side effects like nausea and constipation and stresses medication must be part of a long-term plan with diet and exercise. Nutrition & Diabetes Insight: A study from Arabian Gulf University found a major nutrition knowledge gap among Bahrain’s type 2 diabetes patients, with only 5.7% correctly understanding food labels—linking better nutrition literacy to improved blood sugar control and lower BMI. National Health Strategy: Bahrain launched its National Health Strategy 2026–2030, aiming for continuous transformation with clear vision, equity, and sustainability to improve efficiency and service quality. Infectious Disease Preparedness: Experts called for Gulf-wide readiness for “Disease X” at Bahrain’s antimicrobial resistance and infectious diseases conference, stressing early warning and stronger regional coordination. Regional Health Collaboration: RCSI Medical University of Bahrain met Gulf CDC leaders to discuss public health collaboration, research, training, and capacity building. Diabetes Research from Bahrain: AGU students published findings in Frontiers in Nutrition on dietary culture, glycemic control, and obesity among 364 adults with type 2 diabetes in Bahrain. Logistics for Health Supply Chains: DHL Express launched its first direct Bahrain–South Africa freighter flight, boosting air connectivity that can support faster movement of time-sensitive goods, including healthcare-related shipments.

Obesity Care in Bahrain: NHRA has licensed Foundayo (orfoglipron), a once-daily oral GLP-1 option for obesity, offering an alternative to injections for patients who prefer tablets; NHRA says it must be used under approved medical guidelines, with common side effects including nausea and stomach upset. Diabetes Nutrition Gap: A study by Arabian Gulf University medical students found only 5.7% of Bahrain’s adults with type 2 diabetes could correctly understand food labels, with higher nutrition knowledge linked to better blood sugar control and lower BMI—pushing for stronger, targeted nutrition education. Health System Roadmap: Bahrain launched its National Health Strategy 2026–2030, aiming for continuous transformation with a focus on equity and sustainability, aligned with Economic Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals. University Wellness Accreditation: The University of Bahrain received WHO-recognised Health-Promoting University accreditation, highlighting efforts to build a healthier, safer campus environment. Infectious Disease Preparedness: Experts urged Gulf-wide readiness for “Disease X” at Bahrain’s International Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance and Infectious Diseases, stressing early warning and better preparedness. Cancer Screening Focus: A regional analysis flags higher mortality from early-onset colorectal cancer across the WHO Eastern Mediterranean, supporting earlier detection and screening strategies.

National Health Strategy: Bahrain has launched its National Health Strategy 2026–2030, a roadmap aimed at transforming the healthcare system with a focus on equity, sustainability and measurable impact. Obesity Treatment Update: Bahrain’s NHRA has licensed “Foundayo” (orfoglipron), an oral GLP-1 medicine for obesity, paving the way for pharmacy availability under approved medical guidelines. Workplace Safety: Bahrain hosted the GCC’s third Executive Committee meeting for Occupational Safety and Health, with a push for stronger heat-stress protections and a unified regional framework. Digital Health Records: STC Bahrain partnered with government hospitals to digitize and archive patient medical records, moving from paper files to secure electronic access. Public Health Collaboration: RCSI Medical University of Bahrain met Gulf CDC leaders to explore joint work in public health research, training and capacity building. Local Research on Diabetes: Arabian Gulf University students published a Bahrain-focused study in Frontiers in Nutrition linking nutrition literacy and label reading with better blood sugar control among type 2 diabetes patients. Cancer Support: The Royal Humanitarian Foundation signed an agreement with Jordan’s King Hussein Cancer Foundation to fund diagnostics and treatment for eligible Syrian refugees. Healthcare Tech & Logistics: DHL launched a new direct Bahrain–Johannesburg freighter route, boosting regional shipment capacity that includes healthcare supply needs.

Obesity Treatment Update: Bahrain’s National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) has licensed “Foundayo” (orfoglipron), an oral GLP-1 medicine for obesity, allowing it to enter pharmacies under approved medical guidelines after consultation. Local Research Spotlight: Arabian Gulf University students published a Bahrain-focused study in Frontiers in Nutrition linking dietary culture, nutrition label literacy, and blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes patients. Healthcare Digitisation: STC Bahrain partnered with government hospitals to convert and archive paper patient records into secure, searchable electronic files. Cancer Support: Royal Humanitarian Foundation (RHF) signed an agreement with Jordan’s King Hussein Cancer Foundation to fund diagnostics and cancer treatment for eligible Syrian refugees. Workplace Safety Push: Bahrain opened its 6th National Occupational Safety and Health Conference, highlighting AI and smart technologies to move from reactive to proactive risk management. Golden Residency Visa (2026): Bahrain opened applications for golden residency for four categories—retirees, property owners, talented individuals, and long-term employees—via the eService portal. Regional Logistics for Health Supply Chains: DHL Express launched a weekly direct Bahrain–Johannesburg freighter route, boosting capacity for time-sensitive sectors including healthcare.

Obesity treatment update: Bahrain’s National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) has licensed “Foundayo” (orfoglipron), an oral GLP-1 medicine for obesity, allowing it to enter pharmacies under approved medical guidelines and consultation requirements. Healthcare digitisation: STC Bahrain has partnered with government hospitals to convert and archive patient medical records, moving paper files into secure, searchable electronic records to speed access across the healthcare network. Cancer care for refugees: The Royal Humanitarian Foundation (RHF) signed an agreement with Jordan’s King Hussein Cancer Foundation and Centre to fund diagnostic services and cancer treatment for eligible Syrian refugees. Workplace safety push: Bahrain opened its 6th National Occupational Safety and Health Conference, with GCC partners discussing a regional framework and a unified push to protect workers from heat stress, alongside Bahrain’s move toward smarter, more proactive safety management. Regional health research links: RCSI Bahrain met Gulf Health Council and Gulf CDC leaders to explore collaboration in public health, research, training and capacity building. Logistics for health supply chains: DHL Express launched its first direct Bahrain–South Africa freighter route (weekly Boeing 767), boosting cargo capacity for time-sensitive sectors including healthcare.