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.


Saudi crown prince, Pakistan PM discuss relations 

Saudi crown prince, Pakistan PM discuss relations 
Updated 20 March 2025
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Saudi crown prince, Pakistan PM discuss relations 

Saudi crown prince, Pakistan PM discuss relations 

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting in Jeddah on Wednesday, the Saudi Press Agency said.

The pair discussed bilateral relations, ways to boost cooperation in various fields, and the latest regional and international developments.

Saudi and Pakistani senior officials attended the meeting.

 

 


Saudi crown prince, French president discuss regional developments 

Saudi crown prince, French president discuss regional developments 
Updated 20 March 2025
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Saudi crown prince, French president discuss regional developments 

Saudi crown prince, French president discuss regional developments 

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received on Wednesday a phone call from French President Emmanuel Macron, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

They discussed resumption of Israeli strikes on Gaza, in addition to efforts to halt attacks and protect civilians.

Macron commended the Kingdom's role in the US-Russian dialogue and the talks to resolve the crisis in Ukraine.

The pair also tackled issues of mutual interest.


Saudi crown prince, UK PM discuss developments in Gaza, Ukraine during call

Saudi crown prince, UK PM discuss developments in Gaza, Ukraine during call
Updated 20 March 2025
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Saudi crown prince, UK PM discuss developments in Gaza, Ukraine during call

Saudi crown prince, UK PM discuss developments in Gaza, Ukraine during call

RIYADH: Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman received on Wednesday a phone call from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the Saudi Press Agency said.

They discussed during the call developments in the Gaza Strip and their security and political repercussions. 

Starmer praised the Kingdom's pivotal role in hosting the US-Russia dialogue in Jeddah.

The pair reviewed efforts to resolve the Ukrainian crisis.

They also discussed ways of enhancing cooperation.


Saudis tap into Ramadan’s transformative power

Saudis tap into Ramadan’s transformative power
Updated 20 March 2025
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Saudis tap into Ramadan’s transformative power

Saudis tap into Ramadan’s transformative power
  • Many Muslims find that the self-discipline learned during this time leads to lasting changes

RIYADH: Ramadan, for many people, is an exceptional opportunity to practice self-discipline. Some people focus on personal growth while others learn new habits or adopt healthy lifestyles.

Fasting, as one example, involves abstaining from food, drink, smoking and sexual relations from sunrise until sunset, teaching people to control their desires.

The shift in eating patterns allows Muslims to consume mindfully, gaining an appreciation for food and a greater understanding of the situation of millions of people around the world who lack access to safe food and drinking water.

“It is an excellent time for self-discipline,” Hind Saud told Arab News. “The essence of Ramadan and the practice of fasting is a transforming experience, making you a better person, especially if you’re aiming to develop new habits that require self-control.”

She said that she took advantage of the month of fasting to build positive habits, control her food consumption and her appetite for sweets.

“Last Ramadan, I focused on enhancing my health by cutting caffeine. The long fasting hours encouraged me to incorporate healthier beverages like fresh juices, herbal teas and plenty of water.

“I also wanted to reduce my intake of sugar and artificial sweets, which I typically enjoy in desserts and snacks outside of Ramadan. So, I replaced it with fruits and yogurt as part of my suhoor meal.”

Ramadan is also a time for spiritual reflection. People use this month to deepen their relationship with God through prayers, reading the Qur’an, and giving to charity. It can also be a time to meditate and practice active meditation.

“Self-control in Ramadan is spiritually achieved by freeing oneself for worship and renewing one’s soul and body from the preoccupations in the past months,” said Amira Abdulmohsen, a local from Riyadh.

She added: “It is also achieved by abstaining from distractions such as wasting time on social media and instead using the time to read the Qur’an or memorize some chapters of it. Ramadan is in general a time to cleanse the body of toxins such as smoking.”

Both spiritual reflection and meditation require separating time from hectic schedules and engaging in activities that lift the spirit and help people to manage their time effectively.

For example, many Saudis during this holy month find joy in praying Taraweeh at the masjid. This daily activity creates a sense of responsibility because it must be performed every day at a specific time.

This habit not only encourages individuals to prioritize their spiritual well-being but also raises their sense of accountability toward themselves and their community. It is a great time to bring the neighborhood closer and strengthen their bonds as well.

“Taraweeh prayer strengthens the community’s relationship with each other, while a person strengthens his relationship with neighbors through Ramadan gatherings for iftar meal or through iftar gifts,” Abdulmohsen said.

“Iftar gifts are when I prepare an iftar dish and give some of it to the neighbors minutes before sunset.

“Or, when people have an iftar meal together every day at the local masjid. Some families have a habit of delivering meals to masjids during Ramadan.”

The lessons learned during Ramadan often extend beyond the month itself. Many Muslims find that the self-discipline learned during this time leads to lasting changes.


Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs organizes iftar banquets in 61 countries, benefiting thousands

Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs organizes iftar banquets in 61 countries, benefiting thousands
Updated 20 March 2025
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Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs organizes iftar banquets in 61 countries, benefiting thousands

Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs organizes iftar banquets in 61 countries, benefiting thousands
  • Ministry initiative serves iftar meals to 15,000 people in Sudan’s cities and regions
  • Program endorses values of unity and compassion among Muslim societies

RIYADH: Daily iftar banquets organized by the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call, and Guidance during the first half of Ramadan have benefited thousands in 61 countries, including Sudan, Tanzania, the Philippines, and Argentina.

In Sudan, the ministry’s initiative has served iftar meals to 15,000 people across Sudan’s cities and regions and will reach 30,000 people by the end of Ramadan, which concludes in late March.

These banquets are part of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques’ Iftar Program, which is being carried out in 61 countries worldwide during Ramadan.

The program endorses unity and compassion among Muslim societies, while strengthening brotherhood and solidarity during Ramadan, a month of worship when Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset.

In Tanzania, 2,000 people have benefited from the iftar program during the first half of Ramadan, with the number expected to reach 4,500 next week, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The ministry organized iftar banquets in South America, where more than 7,500 people in mosques and centers across Argentina benefited from the program.

This week, the religious attache at the Saudi Embassy in the Philippines organized an iftar meal in Manila, which was attended by several heads of Islamic associations in the country.