Data analytics hold potential to extend healthy human lifespan, say experts

Special Panelists take part in a discussion on the role of advanced data analytics and longitudinal studies in healthy aging at the Global Healthspan Summit in Riyadh. (Huda Bashatah)
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Panelists take part in a discussion on the role of advanced data analytics and longitudinal studies in healthy aging at the Global Healthspan Summit in Riyadh. (Huda Bashatah)
Special Panelists take part in a discussion on the role of advanced data analytics and longitudinal studies in healthy aging at the Global Healthspan Summit in Riyadh. (Huda Bashatah)
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Panelists take part in a discussion on the role of advanced data analytics and longitudinal studies in healthy aging at the Global Healthspan Summit in Riyadh. (Huda Bashatah)
Special Panelists take part in a discussion on the role of advanced data analytics and longitudinal studies in healthy aging at the Global Healthspan Summit in Riyadh. (Huda Bashatah)
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Panelists take part in a discussion on the role of advanced data analytics and longitudinal studies in healthy aging at the Global Healthspan Summit in Riyadh. (Huda Bashatah)
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Updated 05 February 2025
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Data analytics hold potential to extend healthy human lifespan, say experts

Data analytics hold potential to extend healthy human lifespan, say experts
  • National-level initiatives highlighted in France and the UK
  • Technology is reshaping understanding of healthy aging

RIYADH: The role of advanced data analytics and longitudinal studies in extending the healthy human lifespan came under the spotlight at a conference in Riyadh on Wednesday.

Expert panelists said that, as aging research evolved, the integration of large-scale data analytics with clinical trials was reshaping the understanding of healthy aging.

The session at the Global Healthspan Summit, of which Arab News is a media partner, highlighted key national-level initiatives such as France’s Instituts Hospitalo-Universitaires HealthAge and the UK’s Our Future Health.

Dr. Bruno Vellas, founder of the IHU HealthAge in Toulouse, set the stage by underlining the necessity of improving medical practices to align with innovative research.

“There is a need to change medical practice based on the evidence gathered,” he said, stressing the importance of integrating lifestyle factors into healthcare models.

Vellas noted that while data analytics offered immense benefits, they represented only part of the solution.

“To achieve optimal outcomes, findings must be translated into clinical practice,” he said. 

The panel featured diverse voices including Dr. Raghib Ali, CEO and chief investigator of Our Future Health, who echoed the need for inclusive research practices.

“The focus is to produce evidence that is relevant to diverse populations, particularly those of South Asian and African descent,” he said, highlighting the urgency of addressing health disparities. “It is essential to ensure that the innovations developed are accessible to all, not just those with the highest incomes.”

Dr. Nikole Kimes, co-founder and CEO of Siolta Therapeutics, provided insights into how advanced analytics allowed researchers to move beyond traditional reductionist approaches in medicine.

“What advanced analytics enables is a shift from merely treating symptoms to understanding the complex interactions within biological systems,” she explained.

Emphasizing the importance of longitudinal studies, Kimes said: “These studies allow for an examination of health outcomes before disease symptoms manifest, providing a crucial advantage in preventative care.”

She also pointed to an emerging understanding of microbiome and nutrition in shaping long-term health outcomes. “By exploring these early factors, it is possible to potentially alleviate chronic diseases before they take root,” she said.

Dr. Richard I. Morimoto, a leading researcher from Northwestern University, elaborated on the cellular mechanisms underlying stress responses.

“Stress, often viewed negatively, can actually be protective at the molecular level,” he said, emphasizing the significance of understanding interpersonal variability in stress responses and advocating for personalized healthcare strategies.

“By harnessing large data analyses, it is possible to uncover how different individuals respond to stress and how to protect against disease,” he said.

“The integration of longitudinal studies and big data opens tremendous opportunities for detecting and mitigating health risks.”

He added that understanding cellular mechanisms in diverse populations was essential for tailoring interventions effectively.

However, as the panel discussed the potential of these innovations, they also acknowledged the challenges in translating research into practice.

Vellas pointed out the need for robust frameworks that could effectively incorporate findings into clinical settings. “There is a need to work diligently to avoid negative trial outcomes and ensure that research translates into tangible benefits for populations,” he warned.

The sentiment was echoed by Ali, who stressed the importance of identifying barriers to effective implementation. “It is critical to map out the stages in the journey from lab research to everyday life,” he said, highlighting the role of evidence-based practices in shaping public health interventions.

The discussions also touched on the ethical dimensions of research into extending the healthy human lifespan.

Kimes pointed out the responsibility researchers have in ensuring findings did not worsen health inequality.

“As new interventions are developed, it is vital to remain vigilant about their accessibility and affordability,” she said.

Her view aligned with Ali’s commitment to producing research with a global impact. “It is essential that findings benefit not only the UK but also communities worldwide,” he said.

In closing, the panelists underscored the critical importance of collaboration across disciplines and borders.

As the field of aging research continues to evolve, the insights shared highlighted the transformative potential of advanced data analytics and longitudinal studies. The prioritization of preventative care and research inclusiveness means experts are paving the way for a paradigm shift in the way healthy aging is approached.


Laylat Al-Qadr: Worshipers pack Holy Mosques for 27th night of Ramadan

Laylat Al-Qadr: Worshipers pack Holy Mosques for 27th night of Ramadan
Updated 27 March 2025
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Laylat Al-Qadr: Worshipers pack Holy Mosques for 27th night of Ramadan

Laylat Al-Qadr: Worshipers pack Holy Mosques for 27th night of Ramadan
  • Makkah’s Grand Mosque received over 4.2 million worshipers on Wednesday night

RIYADH: Millions of Muslims from around the world flocked to the Grand Mosque in Makkah and the Prophet’s Mosque in Madinah for the 27th night of Ramadan, where they performed Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers.

In a new record, the Grand Mosque received over 4.2 million worshipers on Wednesday night, according to Al-Ekhbariya.

Worshipers were seeking Laylat Al-Qadr (The Night of Power), one of the most important nights in Islam and is, as stated in the Qur’an, better than a thousand months.

Laylat Al-Qadr falls within the final 10 days of Ramadan but its exact date remains unknown, however it’s widely regarded as falling on the 27th of Ramadan. Mislims are also encouraged to seek this night during the odd-numbered nights of the last 10 days.

Operational plans on Wednesday included preparing the Mataf (Area of Circumambulation) to accommodate 107,000 pilgrims per hour, ensuring a smooth movement inside the Grand Mosque.

Authorities have also equipped 428 escalators and 28 elevators and modern audio systems including 1,300 speakers, in addition to providing power sources with a capacity of up to 90,000 tons to cool the Grand Mosque.

The Makkah region Health Affairs Department has boosted its services through medical centers located within the Grand Mosque and its courtyards to provide medical services to pilgrims. 


New initiative launched to boost agroforestry in Saudi Arabia

New initiative launched to boost agroforestry in Saudi Arabia
Updated 27 March 2025
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New initiative launched to boost agroforestry in Saudi Arabia

New initiative launched to boost agroforestry in Saudi Arabia

RIYADH: The National Center for Vegetation Cover Development and Combating Desertification has launched the Agroforestry Action Plan Development Project to enhance environmental sustainability, social development and economic growth.

The project assesses agroforestry conditions, applies global best practices and promotes investment for sustainable forest management, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, it supports environmental sustainability and combats desertification, the SPA added.

As part of the project, the center will activate its December 2024 memorandum with the Center for International Forestry Research and World Agroforestry to enhance research collaboration and implement advanced agroforestry techniques.

The initiative aims to restore land, expand vegetation, protect habitats and reduce carbon emissions. It also fosters resilient forest ecosystems and improves forest areas across the Kingdom.

Additionally, the center is advancing sustainable forests through its initiative to plant 60 million trees, rehabilitating 300,000 hectares by 2030.


Ithra to host three-day Eid Al-Fitr festivities

Ithra to host three-day Eid Al-Fitr festivities
Updated 27 March 2025
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Ithra to host three-day Eid Al-Fitr festivities

Ithra to host three-day Eid Al-Fitr festivities

DHAHRAN: The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture in Dhahran will host more than 25 Eid Al-Fitr events from March 31 to April 2, featuring exhibitions, performances, and interactive activities.

The program includes an exhibition showcasing eight master artisans in papermaking, calligraphy, and ornamentation. Visitors can explore an installation inspired by mudbrick architecture and traditional palm-based crafts.

At the Children’s Museum, activities include an immersive Eid celebration and workshops such as “Balloon Art,” “Eid in a Bag,” and “The Scent of Eid.”

Families can enjoy the “Eid Wheel” game and storytelling sessions where children create their own cloud keepsake.

Other experiences include “Eid Echoes,” a 360-degree audio journey capturing the festive sounds of Eid, set in the plaza. The library will host Eid-themed storytime.

The “Eid on the Big Screen” program will feature global cinema and Japanese anime, including “The Wind Rises,” “Chibi Maruko-chan,” and “A Mosquito.”

Visitors can also explore an AI-powered interactive display and a vitual reality journey through historical Eid celebrations. Live oud performances will take place in Ithra’s gardens, creating a festive open-air concert.

Lush Garden will offer a vibrant space with games and challenges for families and children to enjoy Eid’s joyful atmosphere. The “Energy Exhibit” will also feature special Eid programming for kids of all ages.


Chad president arrives in Jeddah

Chad president arrives in Jeddah
Updated 27 March 2025
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Chad president arrives in Jeddah

Chad president arrives in Jeddah

The President of Chad Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno was recently received by Prince Saud bin Mishaal bin Abdulaziz, the deputy governor of the Makkah Region, on his arrival at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.

The Mayor of Jeddah Saleh Al-Turki, and Ambassador of Chad to the Kingdom Hassan Saleh Al-Qadam Al-Junaidi were among the officials present, the Saudi Press Agency reported.


Smart solutions make life easier for growing pilgrim numbers at Grand Mosque

Smart solutions make life easier for growing pilgrim numbers at Grand Mosque
Updated 26 March 2025
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Smart solutions make life easier for growing pilgrim numbers at Grand Mosque

Smart solutions make life easier for growing pilgrim numbers at Grand Mosque
  • The system enables seamless crowd control during peak periods, facilitating smooth entry and exit processes

MAKKAH: The safety, comfort and experience of millions of pilgrims at the Grand Mosque will be better than ever, thanks to the General Authority for the Care of the Two Holy Mosques harnessing advanced technology and improving its strategic oversight.

At the heart of the transformation is a command center which gives the authority a comprehensive overview of operations. Advanced sensors at key entrances track pilgrim numbers in real time, enabling precise crowd monitoring and management in collaboration with relevant authorities.

A camera system captures real-time entry movements, providing instantaneous insights into pilgrim flows and pinpointing potential congestion risks. This dual-system approach has transformed crowd control within the mosque and is particularly effective in critical areas such as the Tawaf and Sa’i routes.

The system enables seamless crowd control during peak periods, facilitating smooth entry and exit processes. By leveraging precise and historical data, it ensures decision-makers can make swift, informed choices.

Over 200 digital panels have also been installed to improve spatial navigation, helping pilgrims move more efficiently through the mosque complex.

The number of electric golf carts has been expanded to 400, as well as custom-designed manual carts being available. This meets the diverse needs of pilgrims during the season, ensuring comfortable and seamless transportation that simplifies the performance of religious rituals.

A huge cooling infrastructure spans the sacred space, utilizing 155,000 tonnes of refrigeration to maintain perfect ambient temperatures across the Grand Mosque. Balanced lighting illuminates every corner, while a precision audio system ensures that calls to prayer and religious services resonate with clarity. A new luggage storage service also offers secure, QR-coded smart tags for easy tracking and retrieval of belongings.

The authority maintains rigorous standards and conducts periodic updates as part of efforts to maintain service efficiency and accommodate the growing number of pilgrims.