New york city: Advisor at the Royal Court and King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) Supervisor General Dr. Abdullah Al Rabeeah emphasized the importance of the United Nations designating November 24 as World Conjoined Twins Day. This initiative, backed by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, reflects Saudi Arabia's dedication to public health and the rights of conjoined twins.
According to Saudi Press Agency, during an event in New York City themed "From Words to Action: A World Fit for Conjoined Twins and Children with Disabilities," co-organized by KSrelief and UNICEF, Al Rabeeah noted that children with disabilities are among the most vulnerable and marginalized populations globally, especially during crises. He highlighted the struggles healthcare systems face in providing necessary diagnostics and treatment, which adds to the burdens faced by these children and their families.
He further stated that Saudi Arabia has been focusing on the surgical separation of conjoined twins since the establishment of the Saudi Conjoined Twins Programme in 1990. The program has assessed 152 cases from 28 countries and successfully carried out 67 complex separations. Al Rabeeah underscored the importance of ongoing post-surgery care, including medical, rehabilitative, and educational support.
In his closing remarks, Al Rabeeah called for a collective effort to strengthen support frameworks for children with disabilities, ensuring they not only survive but thrive. He expressed hope that the discussions would lead to meaningful and positive outcomes for all children with disabilities.