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Khaldoun Abdulrazak Tabbah
- Clinical Associate Professor
- Ext: 5334
Dr. Khaldoun Tabbah is a highly experienced pulmonologist, internist, and academic with over 30 years of expertise in chest and internal medicine. He has served as a Faculty Associate Professor in the United Kingdom, Syria, and the United Arab Emirates. Dr. Tabbah received his Doctorate in Medicine from the University of Southampton, UK, in 1999 and holds a Master’s degree in Internal Medicine from the University of Aleppo, Syria. He trained at Southampton General Hospital, England, gaining extensive clinical and research experience. A prolific researcher, Dr. Tabbah has published over 50 articles in indexed international journals, authored two chapters in respiratory medicine textbooks and medical encyclopedias, and delivered more than 25 presentations at national and international conferences. His primary research interests focus on asthma and allergic disorders. He is an active member of the European Respiratory Society, the Emirates Respiratory Society, and the Syrian Respiratory Society.
Education
- Doctor of Medicine, University of Southampton, England, United Kingdom, 1999.
- Syrian Board of Medical Specialties (Respiratory Medicine), MOH, Damascus, Syria, June 2000.
- Master’s Degree in Internal Medicine (MSc - Postgraduate Higher Education), University of Aleppo, Syria, 1991.
- MD, University of Aleppo, Syria, 1986.
Doctor of Medicine, University of Southampton, England, United Kingdom, 1999.
Syrian Board of Medical Specialties (Respiratory Medicine), MOH, Damascus, Syria, June 2000.
Master’s Degree in Internal Medicine (MSc - Postgraduate Higher Education), University of Aleppo, Syria, 1991.
MD, University of Aleppo, Syria, 1986.
Experience
- Senior Pulmonologist & Head of the Department of Respiratory Medicine Ajman Specialty General Hospital (JCI-Accredited), Government of Ajman, UAE Since 2019 – Present.
- Senior Pulmonologist & Chairman of the Infection Control Committee Saudi German Hospital Group UAE (JCI-Accredited) – Sharjah & Ajman, UAE September 2017 – August 2019.
- Senior Pulmonologist & Head of the Department of Respiratory Medicine Ras Al-Khaimah Hospital (JCI-Accredited), Arabian Healthcare Group, Ras Al-Khaimah, UAE, December 2013 – July 2017.
- Associate Professor, Senior Consultant in Respiratory Medicine Faculty of Medicine, University of Aleppo, Aleppo University Hospital, Aleppo, Syria February 2000 – May 2013.
- Clinical Research Fellow, Specialist Registrar in Respiratory Medicine & Allergology University of Southampton, University Department of Medical Specialties, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, England, UK, November 1996 – February 2000.
Senior Pulmonologist & Head of the Department of Respiratory Medicine Ajman Specialty General Hospital (JCI-Accredited), Government of Ajman, UAE Since 2019 – Present.
Senior Pulmonologist & Chairman of the Infection Control Committee Saudi German Hospital Group UAE (JCI-Accredited) – Sharjah & Ajman, UAE September 2017 – August 2019.
Senior Pulmonologist & Head of the Department of Respiratory Medicine Ras Al-Khaimah Hospital (JCI-Accredited), Arabian Healthcare Group, Ras Al-Khaimah, UAE, December 2013 – July 2017.
Associate Professor, Senior Consultant in Respiratory Medicine Faculty of Medicine, University of Aleppo, Aleppo University Hospital, Aleppo, Syria February 2000 – May 2013.
Clinical Research Fellow, Specialist Registrar in Respiratory Medicine & Allergology University of Southampton, University Department of Medical Specialties, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, England, UK, November 1996 – February 2000.
Teaching Area
- Teaching Experience: As an Associate Professor and Senior Consultant in Respiratory Medicine at Aleppo University Hospital and the Faculty of Medicine between 2000 and 2013, Dr. Khaldoun Tabbah conducted extensive classroom lectures, tutorials, bedside teaching programs, and seminars for both undergraduate and postgraduate medical students, including residency training for aspiring pulmonologists. The core of his teaching focused on classroom-based medical education, clinical examination skills, and bedside management of respiratory diseases. Dr. Tabbah also supervised the performance of technicians at the pulmonary function test laboratory and the allergy skin test unit, alongside overseeing the regular weekly bronchoscopy training program for undergraduate pulmonologists. As a Fellow in Respiratory Medicine at Southampton General Hospital, UK, Dr. Tabbah was actively involved in tutorial clinical teaching for third- and fourth-year undergraduate medical students. Additionally, he conducted regular teaching sessions for student nurses on the acute management of chest medicine emergencies.
Teaching Experience: As an Associate Professor and Senior Consultant in Respiratory Medicine at Aleppo University Hospital and the Faculty of Medicine between 2000 and 2013, Dr. Khaldoun Tabbah conducted extensive classroom lectures, tutorials, bedside teaching programs, and seminars for both undergraduate and postgraduate medical students, including residency training for aspiring pulmonologists. The core of his teaching focused on classroom-based medical education, clinical examination skills, and bedside management of respiratory diseases. Dr. Tabbah also supervised the performance of technicians at the pulmonary function test laboratory and the allergy skin test unit, alongside overseeing the regular weekly bronchoscopy training program for undergraduate pulmonologists. As a Fellow in Respiratory Medicine at Southampton General Hospital, UK, Dr. Tabbah was actively involved in tutorial clinical teaching for third- and fourth-year undergraduate medical students. Additionally, he conducted regular teaching sessions for student nurses on the acute management of chest medicine emergencies.
Research
- Alongside my clinical experience, Dr. Khaldoun Tabbah has had the unique opportunity to combine clinical skills with research interests in Allergology and Respiratory Medicine. Since 2009, he has served as a supervisor for postgraduate medical doctor theses in pulmonology at the Respiratory Section, Internal Medicine Department, Aleppo University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Aleppo, Syria. Research topics under his supervision have included Pleural Effusion, Spontaneous Pneumothorax, early detection of COPD in smokers, depression in chronic respiratory disorders, and the use of Procalcitonin as a biomarker for initiating antibiotics in acute exacerbations of COPD.
- Principal Investigator at the Aleppo Center, Syria, for The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Phase III, 2001-2004.
- Doctor of Medicine (DM) Thesis: ‘Specific Immunotherapy for Perennial Allergic Rhinitis’ A clinical research study on the efficacy and immunological changes involving 65 adult patients with house dust mite or cat-induced perennial allergic rhinitis, with or without mild-to-moderate asthma. School of Medicine, University of Southampton, England, UK, November 1999. Supervisor: Dr. Anthony J. Frew.
- Master’s Degree in General & Respiratory Medicine (MSc) Thesis: ‘The Progression of Annual Risk of TB Infection in Syria’ A national study conducted in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), International Union Against Tuberculosis & Lung Disease (IUATLD), and Tuberculosis Surveillance Research Unit (TSRU) - Netherlands. School of Medicine, University of Aleppo, Syria, June 1991. Supervisor: Professor M.W. Sankari.
Alongside my clinical experience, Dr. Khaldoun Tabbah has had the unique opportunity to combine clinical skills with research interests in Allergology and Respiratory Medicine. Since 2009, he has served as a supervisor for postgraduate medical doctor theses in pulmonology at the Respiratory Section, Internal Medicine Department, Aleppo University Hospital, Faculty of Medicine, Aleppo, Syria. Research topics under his supervision have included Pleural Effusion, Spontaneous Pneumothorax, early detection of COPD in smokers, depression in chronic respiratory disorders, and the use of Procalcitonin as a biomarker for initiating antibiotics in acute exacerbations of COPD.
Principal Investigator at the Aleppo Center, Syria, for The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Phase III, 2001-2004.
Doctor of Medicine (DM) Thesis: ‘Specific Immunotherapy for Perennial Allergic Rhinitis’ A clinical research study on the efficacy and immunological changes involving 65 adult patients with house dust mite or cat-induced perennial allergic rhinitis, with or without mild-to-moderate asthma. School of Medicine, University of Southampton, England, UK, November 1999. Supervisor: Dr. Anthony J. Frew.
Master’s Degree in General & Respiratory Medicine (MSc) Thesis: ‘The Progression of Annual Risk of TB Infection in Syria’ A national study conducted in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), International Union Against Tuberculosis & Lung Disease (IUATLD), and Tuberculosis Surveillance Research Unit (TSRU) - Netherlands. School of Medicine, University of Aleppo, Syria, June 1991. Supervisor: Professor M.W. Sankari.
Publications
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JournalTabbah K (2019) Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Are environmental risk factors for current wheeze in the ISAAC Phase Three due to reverse causation?, Clinical & Experimental Allergy Journal, 49, pp.430 - 441, Apr 2019
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JournalTabbah K (2018) Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Ambient air pollution and the prevalence of rhino-conjunctivitis in adolescents: A worldwide ecological analysis., Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health Journal, 11, pp.755 - 764, Aug 2018
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JournalTabbah K (2018) Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Obesity, underweight and BMI distribution characteristics of children by gross national income and income inequality: results from an international survey., Obesity Science and Practice Journal, https://doi.org/10.1002/osp4.169, Apr 2018
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Body Mass Index and vigorous physical activity in children and adolescents: an international cross-sectional study., Acta Paediatrica, 106, pp.1323 - 1330, Aug 2017
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Global association between UVR exposure and current eczema prevalence in children from ISAAC Phase Three., Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 137, pp.1248 - 1256, Jun 2017
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Does urban extent from satellite images relate to symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema in children? A cross-sectional study from ISAAC phase three, Journal of Asthma, 53, pp.854 - 861, Aug 2016
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Association between paracetamol use in infancy or childhood with body mass index, Obesity (Silver Spring), 23, pp.1030 - 1038, May 2015
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Siblings, asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema: A worldwide perspective from the international study of asthma and allergies in childhood (ISAAC)., Clinical and Experimental Allergy Journal, 45, pp.126 - 136, Jan 2015
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Fast-food consumption and body mass index in children and adolescents: An international cross-sectional study., British Medical Journal (BMJ Open), 2014;4: e005813, Apr 2014
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase Three Study Group) , Childhood intermittent and persistent rhinitis prevalence and climate and vegetation: a global ecologic analysis, Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 113, pp.386 - 392, Apr 2014
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Does migration affect asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema prevalence? Global findings from the international study of asthma and allergies in childhood, International Journal of Epidemiology, 43, pp.1846 - 1854, Jun 2014
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Cooking fuels and prevalence of asthma: A global analysis of phase three of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC), Lancet Respiratory Medicine 2013; 1(5):386-394, 1, pp.386 - 394, Jul 2013
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JournalTabbah K , The role of serum procalcitonin in diagnosing bacterial infections of lower respiratory tract in patient with acute exacerbation of COPD., Research Journal of Aleppo University - Medical Sciences Series, Mar 2013
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Do fast foods cause asthma, rhino-conjunctivitis and eczema? Global findings from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Phase Three, Thorax, 68, pp.351 - 360, Apr 2013
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , The worldwide association between television viewing and obesity in children and adolescents: A cross sectional study., Public Library of Science ONE Journal, 8, Sep 2013, doi: e74263. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0074263
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Phase Three: A global synthesis., Allergologia et Immunopathologia (Madr), 41, pp.73 - 85, Feb 2013
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , The association between BMI, vigorous physical activity and television viewing and the risk of symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema in children and adolescents: ISAAC Phase Three, Clinical and Experimental Allergy, 43, pp.73 - 84, Jan 2013
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JournalTabbah K, C Reactive Protein (CRP) as a marker in community acquired pneumonia, Research Journal of Aleppo University - Medical Sciences Series, Jun 2012
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JournalTabbah K, Infectious pleural effusion, Research Journal of Aleppo University - Medical Sciences Series, Mar 2012
-
JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Changes over time in the relationship between symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema: A global perspective from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC), Allergologia et Immunopathologia (Madr), 40, pp.267 - 274, May 2012
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , The association between tobacco and risk of asthma, rhino-conjunctivitis and eczema in children and adolescents: analyses from Phase Three of ISAAC programme, Thorax, 67, pp.941 - 949, Nov 2012
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Satellite-based estimates of ambient air pollution and global variations in childhood asthma prevalence., Environmental Health Perspectives, 120, pp.1333 - 1339, Sep 2012
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Exposure to cats and dogs and symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema., Epidemiology, 23, pp.742 - 750, May 2012
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Acetaminophen use and risk of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis, and eczema in adolescents: International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood Phase Three., American Journal Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine, 183, pp.171 - 178, Jan 2011
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , The impact of the method of consent on response rates in the ISAAC time trends study, International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, 14, pp.1959 - 1965, Aug 2010
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JournalHabash N & Tabbah K, Risk factors of pneumothorax cases at Aleppo University Hospitals, Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences, PP 342-343, 35, pp.342 - 343, Dec 2010
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Book ChapterTabbah K, Lung Cancer, The Arab Medical Encyclopedia, Journal, Damascus, Syria
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JournalMohammad Y, Tabbah K, Mohammad S, Yassine F, Clyton T, Hassan M. , International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood: Phase III in the Syrian Arabic Republic, Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal, 16, pp.710 - 716, Jul 2010
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Global variation in the prevalence and severity of asthma symptoms: Phase Three of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC)., Thorax, 64, pp.476 - 483, Jun 2009
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Global map of the prevalence of symptoms of rhinoconjunctivitis in children: The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Phase Three, Allergy, 64, pp.123 - 148, Jan 2009
-
JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Global variations in prevalence of eczema symptoms in children from ISAAC Phase Three., Journal Allergy Clinical Immunology, 124, pp.1251 - 1258, Dec 2009
-
JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Translation of questions: the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) experience., International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, 13, pp.1174 - 1182, Sep 2009
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Self-Reported Truck Traffic on the Street of Residence and Symptoms of Asthma and Allergic Disease: A Global Relationship in ISAAC Phase Three, Environmental Health Perspective, 117, pp.1791 - 1798, Nov 2009
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JournalTabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Worldwide trends in the prevalence of asthma symptoms: phase III of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC)., Thorax 2007; 62(9): 758-66, 62, pp.758 - 766, Sep 2007
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JournalTabbah K, Prevalence of symptoms of asthma, allergic rhinitis & atopic eczema in Aleppo (ISAAC Phase III in Aleppo), Research Journal of Aleppo University- Medical Sciences Series,, pp.41 - 62, Mar 2006
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JournalMaziak W & Tabbah K , Smoking among adults in Syria: proxy reporting by 13-14 year old, Public Health, 119, pp.578 - 581, Jul 2005
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Book ChapterTabbah K, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorders, Respiratory System Diseases by Tabbah K et.al, University of Aleppo, Syria
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JournalVarney VA, Tabbah K., Mavroleon G., Frew AJ, Usefulness of specific immunotherapy in patients with severe perennial allergic rhinitis induced by house dust mite: A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial, Clinical and Experimental Allergy, 33, pp.1076 - 1082, Aug 2003
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JournalTabbah K., Varney VA., Frew AJ , A double-blind, placebo-controlled house dust mite allergen-specific immunotherapy trial in patients with severe allergic rhinitis and mild asthma (Abstract), American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Feb 2000
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JournalTabbah K., Varney VA., Bodey KJ. Frew AJ, Cellular changes in cutaneous late-phase reaction following allergen specific immunotherapy, American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine,, 159, pp.Page A856 - , Jun 1999
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JournalTabbah K., Varney VA., Mavroleon G., Frew AJ , Cat specific allergen immunotherapy: Follow-up for two years, Allergy, 53, pp.169 - , Jan 1998
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JournalTabbah K., Mavroleon G., Varney VA., Frew AJ, Clinical efficacy of desensitisation to cat dander: A double-blind placebo-controlled trial (Abstract), Allergy and Clinical Immunology International, pp.35 - , Jan 1997
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JournalVarney VA, Tabbah K, Edwards J, Brewster H, Mavroleon G, Frew AJ, Clinical efficacy of specific immunotherapy to cat dander: A double-blind placebo-controlled study., Clinical and Experimental Allergy, 27, pp.860 - 867, Aug 1997
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JournalMavroleon G, Tabbah K, Varney VA, Begishvili B, Frew AJ , House dust mite immunotherapy, placebo-controlled trial: Effects on skin test size and symptoms., Allergy, 52, pp.163 - 163, Mar 1997
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JournalTabbah K, Varney VA, Mavroleon G, Edwards J, Brewester H, Frew AJ. , Clinical efficacy of specific immunotherapy for cat allergy, The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (JACI), 99, pp.S67 - S67, Jan 1997
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JournalTabbah K & Sankari MW , The progression of the annual risk of tuberculous infection in Syria: A summary of the original paper published in Arabic, Research Journal of Aleppo University; Medical Sciences Series, 19, pp.43 - 55 , Jun 1990
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JournalInternational Collaboration of 64 authors , Clinical standards for the diagnosis and management of asthma in low- and middle-income countries., International Journal Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, 27, pp.658 - 667, Sep 2023, doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.5588/ijtld.23.0203
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Journal A. Riaz, K. Tabbah , Folic acid allergy in pregnancy: a case report., Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association., 75, pp.119 - 121, Jan 2025, doi: 10.47391/JPMA.10691.
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JournalKhaldoun Tabbah, Safielrahman Haitham Sami Elawaddlly, Ahmad Jalal Kanawati, Mahmoud Tariq Al Ammour, Abdulrahman Salem Abufanas, Dena Nashaat Hamza, Abdul Ilah Ghazwan Dakak, Doha Farouk Abdelhafiz, Mohamad Mohamad Munzer Madarati, Traditional and Electronic Cigarette Usage Patterns, Dependence, and Perceptions Among Ajman University Students, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 23, pp.Article number 143 - NA, Jan 2026, doi: 10.3390/ijerph23020143
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JournalKhaldoun Tabbah, Abdulrahman Salem Abufanas, Ahmad Jalal Kanawati, Safielrahman Haitham Sami Elawaddlly, Dena Nashaat Hamza, Mohamad Mohamad Munzer Madarati, Abdul Ilah Ghazwan Dakak, Doha Farouk Abdelhafiz, Mahmoud Tariq Al Ammour, Spirometric Lung Function Among Smokers and Non-Smokers: A Cross-Sectional Study in University Students, Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, 23, May 2026
Tabbah K (2019) Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Are environmental risk factors for current wheeze in the ISAAC Phase Three due to reverse causation?, Clinical & Experimental Allergy Journal, 49, pp.430 - 441, Apr 2019
About the journal
Tabbah K (2018) Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Ambient air pollution and the prevalence of rhino-conjunctivitis in adolescents: A worldwide ecological analysis., Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health Journal, 11, pp.755 - 764, Aug 2018
About the journal
Tabbah K (2018) Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Obesity, underweight and BMI distribution characteristics of children by gross national income and income inequality: results from an international survey., Obesity Science and Practice Journal, https://doi.org/10.1002/osp4.169, Apr 2018
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Body Mass Index and vigorous physical activity in children and adolescents: an international cross-sectional study., Acta Paediatrica, 106, pp.1323 - 1330, Aug 2017
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Global association between UVR exposure and current eczema prevalence in children from ISAAC Phase Three., Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 137, pp.1248 - 1256, Jun 2017
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Does urban extent from satellite images relate to symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema in children? A cross-sectional study from ISAAC phase three, Journal of Asthma, 53, pp.854 - 861, Aug 2016
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Association between paracetamol use in infancy or childhood with body mass index, Obesity (Silver Spring), 23, pp.1030 - 1038, May 2015
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Siblings, asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema: A worldwide perspective from the international study of asthma and allergies in childhood (ISAAC)., Clinical and Experimental Allergy Journal, 45, pp.126 - 136, Jan 2015
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Fast-food consumption and body mass index in children and adolescents: An international cross-sectional study., British Medical Journal (BMJ Open), 2014;4: e005813, Apr 2014
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase Three Study Group) , Childhood intermittent and persistent rhinitis prevalence and climate and vegetation: a global ecologic analysis, Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, 113, pp.386 - 392, Apr 2014
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Does migration affect asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema prevalence? Global findings from the international study of asthma and allergies in childhood, International Journal of Epidemiology, 43, pp.1846 - 1854, Jun 2014
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Cooking fuels and prevalence of asthma: A global analysis of phase three of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC), Lancet Respiratory Medicine 2013; 1(5):386-394, 1, pp.386 - 394, Jul 2013
Summary Background Indoor air pollution from a range of household cooking fuels has been implicated in the development and exacerbation of respiratory diseases. In both rich and poor countries, the effects of cooking fuels on asthma and allergies in childhood are unclear. We investigated the association between asthma and the use of a range of cooking fuels around the world. Methods For phase three of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC), written questionnaires were self-completed at school by secondary school students aged 13–14 years, 244 734 (78%) of whom were then shown a video questionnaire on wheezing symptoms. Parents of children aged 6–7 years completed the written questionnaire at home. We investigated the association between types of cooking fuels and symptoms of asthma using logistic regression. Adjustments were made for sex, region of the world, language, gross national income, maternal education, parental smoking, and six other subject-specific covariates. The ISAAC study is now closed, but researchers can continue to use the instruments for further research. Findings Data were collected between 1999 and 2004. 512 707 primary and secondary school children from 108 centres in 47 countries were included in the analysis. The use of an open fire for cooking was associated with an increased risk of symptoms of asthma and reported asthma in both children aged 6–7 years (odds ratio [OR] for wheeze in the past year, 1·78, 95% CI 1·51–2·10) and those aged 13–14 years (OR 1·20, 95% CI 1·06–1·37). In the final multivariate analyses, ORs for wheeze in the past year and the use of solely an open fire for cooking were 2·17 (95% CI 1·64–2·87) for children aged 6–7 years and 1·35 (1·11–1·64) for children aged 13–14 years. Odds ratios for wheeze in the past year and the use of open fire in combination with other fuels for cooking were 1·51 (1·25–1·81 for children aged 6–7 years and 1·35 (1·15–1·58) for those aged 13–14 years. In both age groups, we detected no evidence of an association between the use of gas as a cooking fuel and either asthma symptoms or asthma diagnosis. Interpretation The use of open fires for cooking is associated with an increased risk of symptoms of asthma and of asthma diagnosis in children. Because a large percentage of the world population uses open fires for cooking, this method of cooking might be an important modifiable risk factor if the association is proven to be causal.
About the journal
Tabbah K , The role of serum procalcitonin in diagnosing bacterial infections of lower respiratory tract in patient with acute exacerbation of COPD., Research Journal of Aleppo University - Medical Sciences Series, Mar 2013
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Do fast foods cause asthma, rhino-conjunctivitis and eczema? Global findings from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Phase Three, Thorax, 68, pp.351 - 360, Apr 2013
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , The worldwide association between television viewing and obesity in children and adolescents: A cross sectional study., Public Library of Science ONE Journal, 8, Sep 2013, doi: e74263. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0074263
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Phase Three: A global synthesis., Allergologia et Immunopathologia (Madr), 41, pp.73 - 85, Feb 2013
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , The association between BMI, vigorous physical activity and television viewing and the risk of symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema in children and adolescents: ISAAC Phase Three, Clinical and Experimental Allergy, 43, pp.73 - 84, Jan 2013
About the journal
Tabbah K, C Reactive Protein (CRP) as a marker in community acquired pneumonia, Research Journal of Aleppo University - Medical Sciences Series, Jun 2012
About the journal
Tabbah K, Infectious pleural effusion, Research Journal of Aleppo University - Medical Sciences Series, Mar 2012
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Changes over time in the relationship between symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema: A global perspective from the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC), Allergologia et Immunopathologia (Madr), 40, pp.267 - 274, May 2012
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , The association between tobacco and risk of asthma, rhino-conjunctivitis and eczema in children and adolescents: analyses from Phase Three of ISAAC programme, Thorax, 67, pp.941 - 949, Nov 2012
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Satellite-based estimates of ambient air pollution and global variations in childhood asthma prevalence., Environmental Health Perspectives, 120, pp.1333 - 1339, Sep 2012
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Exposure to cats and dogs and symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis and eczema., Epidemiology, 23, pp.742 - 750, May 2012
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Acetaminophen use and risk of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis, and eczema in adolescents: International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood Phase Three., American Journal Respiratory & Critical Care Medicine, 183, pp.171 - 178, Jan 2011
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , The impact of the method of consent on response rates in the ISAAC time trends study, International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, 14, pp.1959 - 1965, Aug 2010
About the journal
Habash N & Tabbah K, Risk factors of pneumothorax cases at Aleppo University Hospitals, Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences, PP 342-343, 35, pp.342 - 343, Dec 2010
About the journal
Tabbah K, Lung Cancer, The Arab Medical Encyclopedia, Journal, Damascus, Syria
About the journal
Mohammad Y, Tabbah K, Mohammad S, Yassine F, Clyton T, Hassan M. , International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood: Phase III in the Syrian Arabic Republic, Eastern Mediterranean Health Journal, 16, pp.710 - 716, Jul 2010
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Global variation in the prevalence and severity of asthma symptoms: Phase Three of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC)., Thorax, 64, pp.476 - 483, Jun 2009
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Global map of the prevalence of symptoms of rhinoconjunctivitis in children: The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) Phase Three, Allergy, 64, pp.123 - 148, Jan 2009
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Global variations in prevalence of eczema symptoms in children from ISAAC Phase Three., Journal Allergy Clinical Immunology, 124, pp.1251 - 1258, Dec 2009
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Translation of questions: the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) experience., International Journal of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, 13, pp.1174 - 1182, Sep 2009
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group), Self-Reported Truck Traffic on the Street of Residence and Symptoms of Asthma and Allergic Disease: A Global Relationship in ISAAC Phase Three, Environmental Health Perspective, 117, pp.1791 - 1798, Nov 2009
About the journal
Tabbah K Co-author in (ISAAC Phase III Study Group) , Worldwide trends in the prevalence of asthma symptoms: phase III of the International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC)., Thorax 2007; 62(9): 758-66, 62, pp.758 - 766, Sep 2007
About the journal
Tabbah K, Prevalence of symptoms of asthma, allergic rhinitis & atopic eczema in Aleppo (ISAAC Phase III in Aleppo), Research Journal of Aleppo University- Medical Sciences Series,, pp.41 - 62, Mar 2006
About the journal
Maziak W & Tabbah K , Smoking among adults in Syria: proxy reporting by 13-14 year old, Public Health, 119, pp.578 - 581, Jul 2005
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Tabbah K, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorders, Respiratory System Diseases by Tabbah K et.al, University of Aleppo, Syria
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Varney VA, Tabbah K., Mavroleon G., Frew AJ, Usefulness of specific immunotherapy in patients with severe perennial allergic rhinitis induced by house dust mite: A double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial, Clinical and Experimental Allergy, 33, pp.1076 - 1082, Aug 2003
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Tabbah K., Varney VA., Frew AJ , A double-blind, placebo-controlled house dust mite allergen-specific immunotherapy trial in patients with severe allergic rhinitis and mild asthma (Abstract), American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Feb 2000
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Tabbah K., Varney VA., Bodey KJ. Frew AJ, Cellular changes in cutaneous late-phase reaction following allergen specific immunotherapy, American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine,, 159, pp.Page A856 - , Jun 1999
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Tabbah K., Varney VA., Mavroleon G., Frew AJ , Cat specific allergen immunotherapy: Follow-up for two years, Allergy, 53, pp.169 - , Jan 1998
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Tabbah K., Mavroleon G., Varney VA., Frew AJ, Clinical efficacy of desensitisation to cat dander: A double-blind placebo-controlled trial (Abstract), Allergy and Clinical Immunology International, pp.35 - , Jan 1997
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Varney VA, Tabbah K, Edwards J, Brewster H, Mavroleon G, Frew AJ, Clinical efficacy of specific immunotherapy to cat dander: A double-blind placebo-controlled study., Clinical and Experimental Allergy, 27, pp.860 - 867, Aug 1997
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Mavroleon G, Tabbah K, Varney VA, Begishvili B, Frew AJ , House dust mite immunotherapy, placebo-controlled trial: Effects on skin test size and symptoms., Allergy, 52, pp.163 - 163, Mar 1997
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Tabbah K, Varney VA, Mavroleon G, Edwards J, Brewester H, Frew AJ. , Clinical efficacy of specific immunotherapy for cat allergy, The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (JACI), 99, pp.S67 - S67, Jan 1997
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Tabbah K & Sankari MW , The progression of the annual risk of tuberculous infection in Syria: A summary of the original paper published in Arabic, Research Journal of Aleppo University; Medical Sciences Series, 19, pp.43 - 55 , Jun 1990
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International Collaboration of 64 authors , Clinical standards for the diagnosis and management of asthma in low- and middle-income countries., International Journal Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, 27, pp.658 - 667, Sep 2023, doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.5588/ijtld.23.0203
The aim of these clinical standards is to aid the diagnosis and management of asthma in low resource settings in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). CONCLUS ION: These first consensus-based clinical standards for asthma management in LMICs are intended to help clinicians provide the most effective care for people in resource-limited settings.
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A. Riaz, K. Tabbah , Folic acid allergy in pregnancy: a case report., Journal of the Pakistan Medical Association., 75, pp.119 - 121, Jan 2025, doi: 10.47391/JPMA.10691.
Folic acid intake prevents neural tube defects in the developing foetus. Folic acid allergy in pregnancy is very rare. Most physicians are unaware of this complication. Only 29 cases of folic acid allergy, mainly in non-pregnant women, have been reported in literature worldwide since 1949. In most reported cases, the involvement of folic acid was confirmed by the absence of symptoms after withdrawing folic acid. We present a case of folic acid allergy in a primigravida. The patient developed severe urticaria within hours of folic acid intake, followed by mild vaginal bleeding. Her symptoms improved within days of stopping folic acid. She delivered a healthy baby at term without anomalies or pregnancy complications. Allergy to folic acid was confirmed postnatally by oral intake of a lower dose of folic acid, where the patient again had urticaria that resolved when the medication was stopped.
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Khaldoun Tabbah, Safielrahman Haitham Sami Elawaddlly, Ahmad Jalal Kanawati, Mahmoud Tariq Al Ammour, Abdulrahman Salem Abufanas, Dena Nashaat Hamza, Abdul Ilah Ghazwan Dakak, Doha Farouk Abdelhafiz, Mohamad Mohamad Munzer Madarati, Traditional and Electronic Cigarette Usage Patterns, Dependence, and Perceptions Among Ajman University Students, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 23, pp.Article number 143 - NA, Jan 2026, doi: 10.3390/ijerph23020143
Background: Nicotine use among the youth has been on the rise, especially with the introduction of E-cigarettes. This has sparked concerns regarding E-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes in terms of patterns, dependence, and perceptions within the youth population, which are issues this study aimed to investigate. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among university students at Ajman University, which is in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Using the Cigarette Dependence Scale (CDS-12) and Penn State Electronic Cigarette Dependence Index (PS-ECDI), dependence on both cigarettes and E-cigarettes was quantified. Results: Out of 1713 respondents, 18.9% were currently using nicotine products, including E-cigarettes (12.7%) and traditional cigarettes (5.1%). Nicotine use was significantly associated more with males than females with an odds ratio of 4.14. However, there was no difference between genders in the dependence scores. In addition, dual nicotine use and an earlier onset of nicotine consumption were associated with significantly higher dependence scores than single users and a late onset of smoking. Participants overall attributed cigarettes and E-cigarettes as equally harmful. Conclusions: Both cigarette and e-cigarette use were prevalent and associated with notable dependence. Although E-cigarettes are often promoted as cessation aids, their use in our sample did not appear to facilitate quitting and may instead sustain nicotine dependence. Targeted youth focused cessation programs and stricter marketing and sales regulations are essential to prevent further normalization. Longitudinal studies are needed to track evolving patterns and health impacts in the MENA region.
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Khaldoun Tabbah, Abdulrahman Salem Abufanas, Ahmad Jalal Kanawati, Safielrahman Haitham Sami Elawaddlly, Dena Nashaat Hamza, Mohamad Mohamad Munzer Madarati, Abdul Ilah Ghazwan Dakak, Doha Farouk Abdelhafiz, Mahmoud Tariq Al Ammour, Spirometric Lung Function Among Smokers and Non-Smokers: A Cross-Sectional Study in University Students, Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health, 23, May 2026
Background: With the increasing use of cigarettes and electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) in young adults, growing concern exists regarding lung health among university students. While the adverse respiratory effects of smoking are well established in older populations, early functional changes among young adults remain less well studied. Identifying such changes in this vulnerable population is crucial due to the risk of detrimental long-term health effects and the role of implementing early preventive measures. This study aims to compare the effects of nicotine use, sex, and body mass index (BMI) on the spirometric lung function parameters, including FEV1, FVC, and FEV1/FVC ratio, of smokers (including cigarette, ENDS, shisha, and midwakh users) and non-smokers in a university population. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Ajman University, United Arab Emirates. A convenience sample of 652 smokers and non-smokers students was initially recruited voluntarily, of whom 630 participants met the spirometry acceptability criteria and were included in the final analysis. Lung function was assessed using spirometry performed according to the guidelines of the American Thoracic Society and European Respiratory Society. Forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), and the FEV1/FVC ratio were recorded and expressed as percentages of predicted values based on Global Lung Function Initiative reference equations. Lung function parameters were compared according to smoking status, sex, and BMI. Results: A total of 630 students were included (60.5% males; the majority aged 20–22 years). The prevalence of smoking was 28.9% and was significantly higher among males than females (38.6% vs. 14.1%; OR = 3.86, p < 0.001). Smokers demonstrated a significantly lower FEV1/FVC ratio compared with non-smokers (0.84 ± 0.07 vs. 0.86 ± 0.07, p < 0.001), despite slightly higher predicted FEV1 and FVC values. Males exhibited higher predicted lung volumes than females, whereas females had higher FEV1/FVC ratios (p < 0.001). Lung function varied significantly across BMI categories (p < 0.001), with increasing BMI associated with higher predicted lung volumes but lower FEV1/FVC ratios. Stratified analysis showed that male smokers had the lowest FEV1/FVC ratios, while female nonsmokers had the highest. Conclusions: Smoking, sex, and BMI significantly influenced lung function in this cohort. Smokers demonstrated reduced FEV1/FVC ratios, indicating early airflow limitation. Males were more likely to smoke and had higher lung volumes, while females showed higher FEV1/FVC ratios. Increasing BMI was associated with higher lung volumes but lower FEV1/FVC ratios. These findings suggest that early pulmonary changes may occur in young adults, highlighting the importance of early screening, careful interpretation of spirometry, and the implementation of targeted public health interventions to reduce nicotine use, promote smoking cessation, and support lung health among university students.
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Conference Presentation
- Chronic Dry Cough (Oral Presentation), 1st Saudi German Hospital Sharjah Respiratory Symposium (CME Accredited by MOH UAE #19/0372), SGH Ajman Auditorium, Ajman, UAE, March 1, 2019.
- Asthma Management (Oral Presentation), RAK Health Symposium (CME Accredited by MOH UAE #MOHAP/CPD/17/0590), Hilton Garden Inn, RAK, UAE, May 19, 2017.
- Asthma & COPD Diagnosis Discussion (Oral Presentation), Control Program for DHA GPs, Edited and CME. Accredited by RCP London Grand Hyatt Hotel, Dubai, UAE, April 29, 2017.
- Transformation of Asthma Management (Oral Presentation), Ras Al Khaimah Medical District CME Activities, MOH, UAE. Awarded 4 Credit Hours of Category 1 by MOH ID Hilton Resort, RAK, UAE, April 25, 2015.
- Management of Asthma in Pregnancy (Oral Presentation), RAK Hospital CME Day, Awarded 7 Credit Hours of Category 1 by MOH ID #0746/2014 RAK, UAE, January 16, 2015.
- Understanding Asthma, Helping Your Patients Breathe Better (Oral Presentation), Awarded 1 Credit Hour of Category 1 by MOH ID #0621/2014 RAK Hospital, RAK, UAE, October 30, 2014.
- Asthma in Primary Health Care (Oral Presentation). Awarded 8 Credit Hours of Category 1 by MOH ID #0246/2014 Hilton Resort, RAK, UAE, April 5, 2014.
- The Role of Serum Procalcitonin in Diagnosing Bacterial Infection of the Lower Respiratory Tract in Patients with Acute Exacerbation of COPD (Abstract, Poster) Gulf Thoracic Congress, Dubai, UAE, March 13–15, 2014.
- A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled House Dust Mite Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy Trial in Patients with Severe Allergic Rhinitis and Mild Asthma. (Poster) International Conference of the American Thoracic Society (ATS), Toronto, Ontario, Canada, May 5–10, 2000.
- Cellular Changes in Cutaneous Late-Phase Reaction Following Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy, (Poster) International Conference of the American Thoracic Society (ATS), San Diego Convention Center, San Diego, California, USA, April 23–28, 1999.
- Cat-Specific Allergen Immunotherapy: Follow-Up for Two Years (Oral Presentation) XVIIth Congress of the European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology (EAACI), International Convention Centre, Birmingham, UK, June 21–26, 1998.
Chronic Dry Cough (Oral Presentation), 1st Saudi German Hospital Sharjah Respiratory Symposium (CME Accredited by MOH UAE #19/0372), SGH Ajman Auditorium, Ajman, UAE, March 1, 2019.
Asthma Management (Oral Presentation), RAK Health Symposium (CME Accredited by MOH UAE #MOHAP/CPD/17/0590), Hilton Garden Inn, RAK, UAE, May 19, 2017.
Asthma & COPD Diagnosis Discussion (Oral Presentation), Control Program for DHA GPs, Edited and CME. Accredited by RCP London Grand Hyatt Hotel, Dubai, UAE, April 29, 2017.
Transformation of Asthma Management (Oral Presentation), Ras Al Khaimah Medical District CME Activities, MOH, UAE. Awarded 4 Credit Hours of Category 1 by MOH ID Hilton Resort, RAK, UAE, April 25, 2015.
Management of Asthma in Pregnancy (Oral Presentation), RAK Hospital CME Day, Awarded 7 Credit Hours of Category 1 by MOH ID #0746/2014 RAK, UAE, January 16, 2015.
Understanding Asthma, Helping Your Patients Breathe Better (Oral Presentation), Awarded 1 Credit Hour of Category 1 by MOH ID #0621/2014 RAK Hospital, RAK, UAE, October 30, 2014.
Asthma in Primary Health Care (Oral Presentation). Awarded 8 Credit Hours of Category 1 by MOH ID #0246/2014 Hilton Resort, RAK, UAE, April 5, 2014.
The Role of Serum Procalcitonin in Diagnosing Bacterial Infection of the Lower Respiratory Tract in Patients with Acute Exacerbation of COPD (Abstract, Poster) Gulf Thoracic Congress, Dubai, UAE, March 13–15, 2014.
A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled House Dust Mite Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy Trial in Patients with Severe Allergic Rhinitis and Mild Asthma. (Poster) International Conference of the American Thoracic Society (ATS), Toronto, Ontario, Canada, May 5–10, 2000.
Cellular Changes in Cutaneous Late-Phase Reaction Following Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy, (Poster) International Conference of the American Thoracic Society (ATS), San Diego Convention Center, San Diego, California, USA, April 23–28, 1999.
Cat-Specific Allergen Immunotherapy: Follow-Up for Two Years (Oral Presentation) XVIIth Congress of the European Academy of Allergology and Clinical Immunology (EAACI), International Convention Centre, Birmingham, UK, June 21–26, 1998.
Memberships, Awards and Honors
- European Respiratory Society (ERS).
- Emirates Thoracic Society (ETS), UAE.
- Syrian Thoracic Society, Syria.
- Syrian Union Against Tuberculosis & Lung Diseases, Syria.
- Medical Speaker Series of Lectures on Asthma, COPD, Tuberculosis, and Upper & Lower Respiratory Tract Infections, presented to GPs, Physicians, and Pulmonologists in Syria and the UAE.
- Expert Reviewer for: Clinical and Experimental Allergy, the official journal of the British Society for Allergy & Clinical Immunology. Manuscript numbers: 3034, 3439, and 3499 - Research Journal of Aleppo University, Medical Sciences Series. Manuscript numbers: 50/2011, 131/2011 - Tishreen University Journal for Research & Scientific Studies. Manuscript number: 1101/2011 - Dar Al-Quds for Science & Translation, Damascus, Syria (www.medforall.net).
- Acknowledgement: His name has been included in the biographical directory published by Marquis Who’s Who in the World, 18th Edition, 2001.
- Medical Speaker with Honorarium for GSK, AstraZeneca, Cipla, Julphar, and Chiesi Pharmaceutical Companies in Syria (2009–2012) and in the UAE (since 2014).
- Lectures on Respiratory Diseases for the Primary Health Care Department, RAK Medical District, MOH, UAE (2014 & 2015).