Sara Khamis alsuwaidi
Emirates Health Services, United Arab Emirates
Abstract Title: PRECISION MEDICINE IN CHOLESTEROL MANAGEMENT: PHARMACOGENOMIC STRATEGIES FOR EMIRATI PATIENTS IN THE NORTHERN EMIRATES
Biography: Family medicine consultant and head of policies and standards in the hospitals department of Emirates Health Services.Completed a diploma in clinical genomics medicine and genetic counseling from Harvard medical school in 2024. Member of EHS genomic services committee where she supervised the implementation of genomic projects like the premarital genetic screening, pharmacogenomics and genetic newborn screening program. Leading clinical integration between EHS facilities in priority disease like Myocardial infarction, stroke and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. I
Research Interest: This study examines pharmacogenetic variants influencing cardiovascular drug response in Emirati patients, aiming to optimize statin therapy and reduce adverse events through precision medicine. A retrospective cross-sectional analysis of 50 Emirati individuals—40 on lipid‑lowering therapy—was conducted from October 2022 to September 2023, assessing SLCO1B1, ABCG2, and CYP2C9 variants and categorizing patients into four metabolizer groups using de‑identified clinical and genomic data. Whole genome sequencing showed that among Atorvastatin users, 75% were Normal Metabolizers, 15% Decreased Function, and 10% Poor Metabolizers, with 40 mg demonstrating the best efficacy, though 25% reported side effects. Among Rosuvastatin users, 85% were Normal Metabolizers and 15% Rapid Metabolizers, with 20 mg being most effective. These findings underscore the significance of genotype‑guided dosing to improve lipid control and minimize adverse outcomes. The study concludes that Ezetimibe, alone or combined with statins, effectively supports achievement of ESC lipid targets, particularly in normal and decreased‑function metabolizers, with Rosuvastatin 20 mg or Atorvastatin 40 mg plus Ezetimibe 10 mg showing optimal results. Overall, the research highlights the value of precision medicine approaches in tailoring cardiovascular therapy to individual genetic profiles for safer, more effective care. Key Words: Pharmacogenetics, Statins, Emirati Population, Precision Medicine