M42’s IROS and Halia Therapeutics launch clinical study on obesity treatment in the UAE
 

(ABU DHABI) - To combat a global obesity epidemic that is placing significant strain on healthcare systems worldwide, IROS, an Abu Dhabi-based contract research organization, part of the M42 group, a global health leader powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and technology, and Halia Therapeutics, a global clinical-stage pharmaceutical company based in Utah, U.S., are joining forces to conduct a clinical trial focused on obesity treatment. This collaboration highlights Halia Therapeutics' role as a global innovator, discovering and delivering new therapies to patients with a strong commitment to addressing global health challenges.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 2.5 billion adults in the world aged 18 years and older are overweight, including over 890 million adults who are living with obesity. About one-third of adults in the UAE are estimated to be obese and have one of the highest occurrences of type 2 diabetes nearing almost 20 percent in some parts, more than double the global average.

IROS and Halia Therapeutics’ clinical trial will explore a promising new therapy for obesity, specifically designed to address the chronic complex disease and further medical knowledge to provide a deeper understanding of the critical factors for effective obesity management in a global population.

The trial will involve 60 patients who have type 2 diabetes and who are classified as either obese or overweight. Conducted in two phases over approximately six months, the study will begin with a safety assessment and evaluation of how the body processes the treatment. This will be followed by a phase where some participants receive the active treatment while others receive a placebo. The trial aims to explore innovative solutions for managing obesity.

Key objectives of the study include demonstrating the drug’s efficacy in promoting weight loss with minimal side effects, assessing the safety of the drug for long-term use, and its impact on the quality of life for patients.

Islam ElTantawy, General Manager of IROS, said: “IROS is committed to developing innovative therapies for unmet medical needs. Our partnership with Halia addresses a critical public health issue with the potential to improve the lives of millions struggling with obesity. This collaboration is a testament to IROS’s capabilities in conducting studies of international standards and aligns with our plan for global expansion through partnerships with organizations such as Halia Therapeutics. It also demonstrates the UAE's capability in conducting cutting-edge clinical research and its position in fighting against one of the world's most pressing health challenges — obesity.”

Dr. David Bearss, CEO of Halia Therapeutics added: “Obesity is a significant health challenge affecting millions globally, and the Middle East is no exception. Through this study, we aim to contribute to global efforts to combat this epidemic by developing new and effective treatments. Our collaboration with IROS positions us to make significant strides in understanding and treating chronic diseases at their source.

“This study aligns with the region’s focus on advancing healthcare through innovation. We are dedicated to bringing forward solutions that can lead to future research collaborations.”

The success of this trial could enhance treatment options for obesity, both in the UAE and worldwide. Trial results will be closely monitored with updates provided as the study progresses. This collaboration further positions the UAE as an emerging hub for clinical research, leveraging cutting-edge capabilities to address the growing burden of chronic diseases in the region and globally.
 

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