Advancing Gastroenterology on the Global Stage: DDW 2026, Chicago

Bahrain's clinical research earns its place among the world's finest — at the most prestigious gathering in gastroenterology.

We are immensely proud to highlight Dr. Najah Zayyani's participation at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2026, held in Chicago, USA — one of the world's foremost gatherings in gastroenterology, hepatology, and endoscopy. DDW brings together over 13,000 global experts and more than 6,000 scientific abstracts each year, this year united under the theme 'Discovery at Every Turn.' To present at DDW is to stand among the very best in the field — and BSH stands there with distinction.

At this global platform, Dr. Najah presented two landmark research studies, both derived directly from her clinical practice at Bahrain Specialist Hospital:

Study 1: Ultrasound Attenuation Imaging (USAI) in Fatty Liver Disease

A reproducible, non-invasive method for grading fatty liver disease — advancing early diagnosis and improving patient stratification without the need for invasive procedures. This study addresses a major diagnostic gap in one of the region's most prevalent chronic conditions, offering a clinically accessible and patient-friendly alternative to biopsy-based grading.

Study 2: Adenoma Detection Rate (ADR) Over 25 Years in Bahrain

A comprehensive analysis of over 11,900 colonoscopies evaluating colonoscopy screening quality and colorectal cancer prevention outcomes across GCC and non-GCC populations — representing one of the most substantial longitudinal endoscopy datasets in the region. The study confirms that high ADR benchmarks were consistently achieved at BSH, reinforcing the critical importance of structured, quality-driven screening programmes in reducing colorectal cancer incidence across our community.

In Collaboration With:

Dr. Rakesh Kumar  |  Dr. Farina H. Hanif  |  Dr. Kiran Tabish  |  Dr. Sana Noman  |  Dr. Asra Shaikh

Our sincere appreciation to all Gastroenterology and Radiology colleagues whose expertise, collaboration, and commitment made these research contributions possible.

DDW 2026 — where cutting-edge discussions span microbiome research, GI motility, and evolving clinical guidelines — is a stage that demands excellence. Dr. Najah's work meets that standard, translating 25 years of clinical practice at BSH into evidence-based advancements that will improve patient outcomes across Bahrain and the wider region.

Congratulations to Dr. Najah on representing Bahrain's expertise on the world stage.