Cihan University-Erbil Concludes International Conference on Obesity with Scientific Achievements and Multidisciplinary Healthcare Perspectives
On Thursday, October 22, 2026, Cihan University-Erbil, in partnership with Barsam International Development and Innovation Company, concluded the two-day International Conference on Obesity: A New Era 2026 – Prevention, Treatment and Multidisciplinary Care. The conference, organized with the scientific and organizational participation of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, brought together distinguished academics, physicians, surgeons, nutritionists, dietitians, researchers, and healthcare professionals to exchange scientific knowledge and explore recent developments in obesity prevention, treatment, and multidisciplinary patient care.
Over the two-day event, the conference provided a platform to discuss obesity as a complex, chronic health condition that requires comprehensive approaches integrating nutritional, medical, surgical, psychological, and behavioral interventions. The scientific program featured four keynote presentations, specialized panel discussions, an international scientific workshop, and a healthcare exhibition, addressing important developments in obesity management and highlighting the essential role of cooperation among healthcare professionals in improving patient outcomes.
The first day of the conference focused on recent scientific advances in obesity prevention and treatment, including the underlying causes of obesity, modern surgical interventions, and the relationship between obesity and healthy aging. The scientific discussions also addressed the psychological and social dimensions of obesity, emerging pharmacological treatments, nutritional management before and after surgery, and the role of clinical nutritionists in long-term patient care. These sessions gave participants opportunities to explore different scientific perspectives and examine the importance of evidence-based approaches to obesity management.
The second day featured an international scientific workshop covering the professional responsibilities of nutritionists and dietitians within multidisciplinary healthcare teams, childhood obesity prevention, modern dietary strategies, and the relationship between gut microbiota and metabolic health. The workshop emphasized the importance of translating scientific knowledge into practical healthcare applications and strengthening collaboration between academic institutions and healthcare professionals.
The scientific activities also included two specialized panel discussions featuring graduates and current students of the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics. The alumni panel highlighted professional experiences and career opportunities in clinical nutrition, hospitals, healthcare institutions, and the nutrition industry, while the student panel focused on academic development, practical learning, and preparation for future professional responsibilities. These discussions demonstrated the importance of connecting university education with clinical practice and encouraging students to develop the scientific and professional skills required in modern healthcare settings.
Alongside the scientific sessions, the conference featured a specialized healthcare exhibition, bringing together healthcare institutions, medical centers, and private-sector companies. The exhibition provided an opportunity to strengthen professional communication, exchange experiences, and explore developments in healthcare and nutrition-related services.
The conference concluded with an official closing ceremony at the university’s Conference Hall, during which Prof. Dr. Amjad S. Al-Delawi, President of Cihan University-Erbil and conference chair, delivered the closing speech. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of scientific cooperation and the role of academic institutions in advancing research and professional knowledge in nutrition and healthcare. He also highlighted the value of multidisciplinary approaches in addressing obesity and the importance of connecting scientific research with practical healthcare applications to improve public health and patient care.
As part of the closing proceedings, Asst. Prof. Dr. Ameena Sabah Mahmood presented the scientific conclusions and recommendations of the conference, reflecting the major themes addressed throughout the two-day program and the importance of continued cooperation among specialists in nutrition, medicine, and healthcare.
Additionally, the closing ceremony included the distribution of certificates of participation and appreciation to speakers, participants, and members of the organizing committees, in recognition of their contributions to the successful organization and scientific activities of the conference. Appreciation was also extended to the academic and administrative committees, participating institutions, healthcare specialists, and all those who contributed to the event.
Overall, the conference marked an important contribution to strengthening academic collaboration, advancing scientific knowledge, and encouraging multidisciplinary approaches to obesity prevention and treatment. It also reflected the continued commitment of Cihan University-Erbil and the Department of Nutrition and Dietetics to supporting scientific research, developing professional expertise, and promoting improvements in nutrition and healthcare services in the Kurdistan Region, Iraq, and beyond.
