logo
Dr. Azad Moopen Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award at AKMG's MARAAYA 2025 Convention in Ras Al Khaimah

Dr. Azad Moopen Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award at AKMG's MARAAYA 2025 Convention in Ras Al Khaimah

Mid East Info28-04-2025
Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare and founding president of AKMG Emirates, was conferred with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the biennial convention of the Association of Kerala Medical Graduates (AKMG), MARAAYA 2025. The ceremony, held at the Cultural Development Centre in Ras Al Khaimah, brought together prominent healthcare professionals and dignitaries from around the world.
The award recognized Dr. Moopen's visionary leadership and momentous contributions to the healthcare sector, as well as his pivotal role in establishing and nurturing AKMG Emirates. Dr. Moopen's vision and relentless dedication have been instrumental in establishing AKMG Emirates, and his leadership continues to be the cornerstone of the association's ongoing success. Commenting on receiving the award, Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman of Aster DM Healthcare and Founding president of AKMG Emirates said, 'Over the decades, AKMG's growth and global collaborations, including with AKMG Emirates in the UAE, reflect the rising stature and recognition of Malayali doctors internationally, known not just for their clinical achievements, but also for their leadership, community-building, and humanitarian contributions across continents. With the continued commitment of our younger generation of healthcare professionals, I am confident that Malayali doctors will continue to prosper and further elevate their impact on global healthcare in the years to come.
It is truly humbling to receive this recognition from AKMG Emirates, which has been such an integral part of the professional journey for doctors coming from Kerala. As someone who has always believed in the power of collective progress, I share this award with every member of the AKMG family who continue to work towards uplifting the standards of healthcare and professional excellence worldwide.'
Dr. Azad Moopen began his remarkable journey in 1987 with a single clinic in Dubai. Guided by a mission to make quality healthcare more accessible and affordable, Dr. Moopen transformed Aster DM Healthcare into a global healthcare conglomerate with over 927 facilities across seven countries. His vision has revolutionized the healthcare landscape, offering affordable care while ensuring high standards. Today, Aster DM Healthcare is one of the largest integrated healthcare providers in the GCC and India, employing over 38,000 people, touching 20 million lives annually. In the GCC, Aster's network includes 15 hospitals, 122 clinics, and 313 pharmacies, complemented by myAster – the omnichannel digital health platform combining all of Aster's services. In India, Aster has 19 hospitals, 13 clinics, 203 pharmacies, and 254 labs & patient experience centers across 5 states. Dr. Moopen remains deeply committed to healthcare as a service, not just a business.
Established in 1979-80, the Association of Kerala Medical Graduates (AKMG) has been a trailblazer among alumni organizations for medical and dental professionals of Kerala origin in North America. Over the years, AKMG has grown into a global network, committed to education, humanitarian service, and fostering strong professional ties among healthcare professionals across continents.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Aster Clinics Launches Smyl AI, the UAE's First AI-Powered Dental Screening Tool, Pioneering a New Era of Accessible Dental Care
Aster Clinics Launches Smyl AI, the UAE's First AI-Powered Dental Screening Tool, Pioneering a New Era of Accessible Dental Care

Mid East Info

time21 hours ago

  • Mid East Info

Aster Clinics Launches Smyl AI, the UAE's First AI-Powered Dental Screening Tool, Pioneering a New Era of Accessible Dental Care

In a major leap toward accessible and technology-driven oral healthcare, Aster Clinics, a leading integrated healthcare provider under Aster DM Healthcare in the GCC, has officially launched Smyl AI – the UAE's first AI-powered Dental Bot, designed to redefine how dental care is delivered and experienced. Smyl AI offers free, instant dental screenings via WhatsApp, making oral health assessments easier, faster, and more accessible than ever before. The launch of Smyl AI marks the beginning of Aster Clinics' Smarter Smiles initiative in the UAE – dedicated to enhancing awareness, enabling early detection, and promoting proactive dental care across the country. Developed in collaboration with India-based an expert in AI health technology, Smyl AI is the first solution of its kind to be introduced in the UAE dental landscape. The innovative AI-enabled tool empowers users to complete a dental screening in under 2 minutes by answering a few simple questions and uploading three images of their teeth (upper, lower, and front). The AI tool then generates a free dental health report, highlighting potential concerns such as cavities, gum disease, plaque, and stains. Users can then easily schedule a consultation with a dental specialist at their nearest Aster Clinic for further evaluation and care. Speaking about this initiative, Ms. Alisha Moopen, Managing Director and Group CEO, Aster DM Healthcare, said 'Technology holds immense potential to transform healthcare, and Smyl AI is a perfect example of how innovation can bridge the gap between awareness and access. Through this initiative, we aim to encourage early diagnosis and preventive care in oral health, an area that often gets neglected until symptoms become severe. At Aster, we are committed to putting powerful tools into the hands of our patients—literally—so they can take charge of their health with confidence and ease.' A recent survey conducted on UAE residents revealed that 80% of participants suffer from dental caries, with 50% visiting a dentist only when in pain, and just 20% making annual dental visits. These alarming statistics highlight the pressing need for regular dental screening and education about oral hygiene. Poor oral hygiene, sugary diets, and low awareness continue to be key contributors. Other prevalent oral health issues include gum and periodontal diseases, plaque and tartar deposits, stains, and mouth sores, as indicated by the survey.[1] Dr. Sherbaz Bichu, CEO of Aster Hospitals and Clinics – UAE, Oman, and Bahrain, commented 'Oral health is a window to overall well-being. Yet, many residents delay dental visits due to fear, cost, or inconvenience. With Smyl AI, we've created an experience that's quick, non-intrusive, and empowering. Our goal is to integrate technology and care—making dental assessments not only more accurate but also more approachable for families, working professionals, and communities across the UAE.' Smyl AI is accessible via WhatsApp by visiting and starting a chat with 'Hi Aster UAE.' From there, users can select their preferred language, input personal details, upload photos, and receive a comprehensive screening report—entirely free of cost. The tool instantly connects users with Aster Clinic's network of 30+ expert dental specialists for personalized treatment and trusted care. The tool ensures data privacy by complying with UAE healthcare information protection regulations and using secure, encrypted transmission protocols. All patient data is handled with utmost confidentiality and stored only with user consent. With a strong legacy of healthcare excellence, Aster's dental team offers professional advice, compassionate care, and reliable treatment outcomes you can trust. With a growing footprint of 110 Aster Clinics across the UAE, this first-of-its-kind initiative positions Aster Clinics as a pioneer in integrating AI into mainstream dental care. While currently in pilot phase at Aster Clinic Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT), the Smyl AI dental screening tool will soon be rolled out across Aster Clinics throughout the UAE. In line with the UAE's vision for improving healthcare access and awareness, Aster Clinics is committed to using innovative solutions like Smyl AI to drive positive changes in the oral health landscape.

Aster Volunteers UAE Recycles 750 Kgs of E-Waste in 4th Collection Drive - Middle East Business News and Information
Aster Volunteers UAE Recycles 750 Kgs of E-Waste in 4th Collection Drive - Middle East Business News and Information

Mid East Info

time12-06-2025

  • Mid East Info

Aster Volunteers UAE Recycles 750 Kgs of E-Waste in 4th Collection Drive - Middle East Business News and Information

Aster Volunteers UAE, the global CSR arm of Aster DM Healthcare, recently organized an impactful 4th E-Waste Collection Drive as part of the 'Aster Green Choices initiative', reinforcing Aster DM Healthcare's unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability. Collection boxes were strategically placed in nine Aster units across the UAE, including Aster Jubilee Medical Centre Bur Dubai, Aster Hospital Mankhool, Aster Hospital Qusais, Aster Hospital Sharjah, Medcare Orthopedics and Spine Hospital, Medcare Al Safa, Aster Clinic Al Warqa, Aster Corporate Office Al Diyafah, Aster Retail Warehouse – Dubai Investment Park, and Aster Cedars Hospital & Clinic, Jebel Ali. Additionally, Medcare Royal Specialty Hospital Qusais and Medcare Hospital Sharjah supported the initiative by contributing some e-waste. The drive resulted in the recycling of 750 kgs of e-waste in collaboration with E-Scrappy. To date, the initiative has cumulatively recycled 1,998 kgs of e-waste over the four editions. The drive not only highlighted the importance of proper e-waste disposal but also educated the public on the environmental impact of electronic waste, encouraging more sustainable practices across the UAE. Over the years, the initiative has successfully recycled 496 kgs of e-waste in 2020, 318 kgs in 2023, 434 kgs in 2024 and now 750 kgs in 2025. Asterians from various units played a crucial role by collecting e-waste from nearby shops and bringing electronic waste from their homes to designated collection boxes. The collected e-waste was responsibly recycled by E-scrappy, who issued a Green Certificate to Aster Volunteers UAE, underscoring their commitment to environmental management. Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman, Aster DM Healthcare, commented on the initiative, stating, 'Our commitment to environmental sustainability continues to be a core pillar of Aster's mission, guided by our ESG framework and alignment with 10 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. Aligned with the spirit of World Environment Day, with each edition of the E-Waste Collection Drive, we build greater awareness about the importance of responsible e-waste disposal and foster a culture of recycling within our communities. The success and continued growth of this initiative reaffirm our belief that collective action can drive meaningful environmental impact. Alongside efforts like tree plantations, indoor and seed plant distributions, and clean-up drives, the E-Waste Collection Drive reflects our enduring dedication to a greener, more sustainable future.' The E-Waste Collection Drive is part of Aster DM Healthcare's broader environmental sustainability strategy, which includes other countries like Qatar, KSA, Oman, and India. The company's long-term goals focus on mitigating the environmental impact of toxins leached from buried metals, ensuring the proper disposal and recycling of e-waste. Over the last few years, Aster Volunteers has emerged into a global movement driven by over 85,000 volunteers who have impacted over 6.5 million lives. Aster DM Healthcare GCC achieved a significant reduction of 541 tCO2e in net greenhouse gas emissions through the integration of solar energy sources, including 1,340,000 KWh of solar energy as on 31st March 2024. The company also excelled in waste management, recycling 64,871 kilograms of waste, including 3,992 kilograms of plastic waste, 2,835 kilograms of paper waste, and 434 kilograms of e-waste. The organization prioritizes waste segregation at the source, enabling efficient recycling of biomedical, plastic, food, metals, paper, and cardboard waste. Aster's Annual ESG Report for FY 23-24 highlighted a reduction of 1,769 KL in water consumption across nine hospitals. Social initiatives under Aster Volunteers have significantly contributed to community health, disaster aid, and social empowerment programs. Aster DM Healthcare, one of the largest integrated healthcare providers in the GCC, has received three prestigious awards from the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Arabia CSR Awards for its sustainability, corporate social responsibility (CSR), and community initiatives. Recognized with the 'Advanced CSR Label for 2022' by the Dubai Chamber, Aster has excelled in Workplace, Marketplace, Community, and Environment impact areas for four consecutive years. The company integrates 10 UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) into its ESG policies through initiatives like Aster Volunteers, impacting communities globally. Aster also signed the Action Declaration on Climate Policy Engagement at COP27 and was the only Middle Eastern and Indian company listed among Corporate Knights' Global 100 sustainable companies for 2022, showcasing its commitment to building sustainable organizations. Looking ahead, Aster DM Healthcare aims to continue its commitment to environmental sustainability by organizing more e-waste collection drives and other green initiatives. The organization's long-term goals include reducing carbon emissions, increasing the use of renewable energy, and promoting sustainable practices across all its operations.

53-year-old British National with Complex Gastrointestinal Conditions Successfully Treated at Aster Cedars Hospital and Clinic, Jebel Ali
53-year-old British National with Complex Gastrointestinal Conditions Successfully Treated at Aster Cedars Hospital and Clinic, Jebel Ali

Mid East Info

time13-05-2025

  • Mid East Info

53-year-old British National with Complex Gastrointestinal Conditions Successfully Treated at Aster Cedars Hospital and Clinic, Jebel Ali

Aster Cedars Hospital and Clinic, Jebel Ali, a part of the leading integrated healthcare provider – Aster DM Healthcare, has once again demonstrated its expertise in advanced gastrointestinal care by successfully treating a complex case involving multiple severe gastrointestinal conditions. The patient, 53-year-old Michael Anthony John Caselberg, a British national, presented with a combination of symptoms, including altered bowel habits, chest discomfort, and severe acid reflux. Through expert diagnosis and state-of-the-art medical interventions, Aster Cedars Hospital's multidisciplinary team delivered exceptional results. Mr. Caselberg was diagnosed with several serious conditions: moderate inflammation of the food pipe caused by acid reflux (Grade B Reflux Esophagitis), a large hernia where part of the stomach pushes into the chest (large hiatus hernia), changes in the food pipe lining that can increase cancer risk (Barrett's esophagus), inflammation and damage in the stomach and small intestine (erosive gastroduodenitis), and growths in the colon (multiple colonic polyps). These conditions are rare and can lead to serious complications, especially the potential for cancer in the case of Barrett's esophagus. Large hiatus hernias are found in less than 5% of people with hernias, and Barrett's esophagus affects 1-2% of people with chronic GERD / long-term acid reflux.1 These statistics emphasize how rare and serious Mr. Caselberg's case is, highlighting the need for quick and accurate diagnosis and treatment. Over the past decade, more people in the UAE have been experiencing chronic acid reflux (GERD). In 2014, the Emirates Gastroenterology Society reported that over 30% of the UAE population (about 3 million people) suffered from acid reflux.3 GERD was found in 13.5% of the population, with a higher rate (19.2%) among adults over 30. Key risk factors for GERD include age, lack of sleep, arthritis, and depression. However, regular exercise was found to reduce the risk.[1] After thorough evaluation using advanced diagnostic tools such as Endoscopy, Colonoscopy, and imaging, the team identified and accurately staged the patient's conditions. To address the large hiatus hernia and associated reflux issues, Mr. Caselberg underwent Laparoscopic Fundoplication—a minimally invasive surgical procedure performed by Dr. Sandeep Patil, Specialist General Surgery, at Aster Cedars Hospital. This advanced surgery addressed the large hiatus hernia, strengthened the lower esophagus, and prevented further acid reflux, ensuring a faster recovery and reduced post-operative complications. Dr. Sandeep Ramesh Sharma, Specialist Gastroenterology, Aster Cedars Hospital and Clinic, Jebel Ali, who led the initial diagnostic evaluation, explained, 'The successful treatment of Mr. Caselberg's multiple gastrointestinal conditions highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach. Our team worked together to ensure precise diagnosis and optimal surgical intervention. The laparoscopic fundoplication procedure has provided him with much-needed symptom relief and sets a high standard for gastrointestinal care in the region.' Mr. Caselberg, who was discharged in stable condition on November 2, 2024, after a smooth recovery, expressed his gratitude towards the medical team at Aster Cedars Hospital. 'I am incredibly thankful to Dr. Sandeep Ramesh Sharma, Dr. Sandeep Patil, and the entire medical staff at Aster Cedars Hospital for their outstanding care. They not only diagnosed my conditions accurately but also performed the surgery with such skill that I have already experienced a dramatic improvement in my health. I am now looking forward to my recovery with confidence,' Mr. Caselberg said. The patient's post-operative recovery has been smooth, with no complications, and he reported significant symptom relief during his follow-up visit on November 9, 2024. This case underscores Aster Cedars Hospital's ability to manage complex gastrointestinal conditions and perform challenging procedures with expertise. Dr. Sandeep Patil, Specialist General Surgery, Aster Cedars Hospital and Clinic, Jebel Ali remarked, 'Laparoscopic fundoplication is a highly effective and minimally invasive technique for addressing large hiatus hernias and severe acid reflux. The procedure's high success rate globally—ranging from 90-95%—is a testament to its effectiveness.2 I'm pleased with Mr. Caselberg's outcome, which reflects our hospital's commitment to providing the best care possible.' This successful intervention highlights Aster Cedars Hospital and Clinic's position as a leading healthcare provider in the region for complex gastrointestinal conditions. The hospital's proficiency in diagnostics, surgical interventions, and personalized post-operative care continues to set a benchmark for medical excellence in the UAE.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store