"Our study on autism and micronutrition can be a guideline for caring for individuals with autism."
Qatar University (QU) has significantly expanded its commitment to research, making noteworthy contributions to the advancement of the health sector in the State of Qatar. Numerous scientists and researchers affiliated with the university are diligently dedicating their efforts to drive tangible advancements in knowledge. Their goal is to address contemporary challenges, foster innovation, bolster the economy, and make meaningful contributions with both local and international impact.
As a prominent member of QU Health, Dr. Sawsan Gholam Mohammed, Assistant Professor of Clinical Education, who works at QU’s College of Medicine has focused her research on a wide range of current medical challenges, notably autism, cancer and diabetes.
Dr. Sawsan Mohammed received her Doctor of Medicine (MD) from the Arabian Gulf University in 1997 and then joined Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC). She has 13 years of experience as a practicing physician in Qatar at HMC and in Sweden at the Karolinska Institute. Primarily focusing on patients requiring nervous system rehabilitation, she developed a keen interest in molecular medicine.
From 2011-2014, Dr. Sawsan received additional training at the University Hospital Heidelberg in Germany. She continued her research in late complications of diabetes and cancer at the German Cancer Research Center (Deutsches Krebsforschungszentrum, DKFZ). She pursued postgraduate studies from Heidelberg University, where she obtained her MD in 2019. In 2022, she became an Assistant Professor of Clinical Education at QU, where her research is focused on micronutrition and neurodevelopmental deterioration and disorders, such as autism. In addition, Dr. Sawsan is passionate about applying micronutrition concepts to maternal and infant health in Qatar and has published several research papers in these fields.
Regarding her journey in the scientific field, Dr. Sawsan focused on the field of precision medicine, specifically micronutrition. Her initial interest revolved around diabetes and cancer, which evolved into applying precision nutrition in the areas of neurological diseases and developmental disorders. Focusing on autism, she regarded it as one of the most common and complex neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Her decision was influenced by its importance for Qatar and its societal impact, particularly due to the higher prevalence of autism in Qatar compared to Western countries.
Dr. Sawsan also contributed five chapters for a pioneering book “Personalized Food Intervention and Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder Management,” which was published by a leading publisher of the world's most prestigious journals, Springer Nature, and which won a Gourmand Award 2022 in the best health book category.
Addressing her dedication to autism, she commented, “The specific treatment of these disorders has been challenging, and when looking at previous clinical trials for the treatment of autism and ADHD, we find that nutritional intervention is frequently used as a complementary method of treatment and behavior control. Early diagnosis of nutritional deficiencies and metabolic disorders in conjunction with careful therapeutic and behavioral interventions can be a basis for improving the intellectual and behavioral abilities of individuals with autism or hyperactivity disorder. Several studies have shown that increasing the intake of specific nutrients can reduce the symptoms and diseases associated with these disorders. Thus, nutritional intervention and appropriate supplementation can be crucial in the management and treatment of autism.”
She adds, “Our study on autism and micronutrition is of great importance to Qatar and its health system, as it can serve as a guide for therapeutic interventions and the management and channeling of resources to care for individuals with autism. Furthermore, we are exploring the impact of malnutrition on reproductive, maternal and infant health. During pregnancy, maternal nutrition plays a crucial role in shaping both maternal and baby health. We are currently looking at the effect of vitamin B12, vitamin B9 (folic acid), vitamin D, iron, and other micronutrients. Developing a deeper understanding of micronutrient deficiencies allows us to address the causes of deficiencies, mitigate risk, and deliver effective therapeutic interventions.”
Dr. Sawsan emphasized that QU fosters a supportive research atmosphere for scientists and researchers. This support is manifested through crucial funding and grants for principal investigators, as well as assistance for attending and participating in international conferences. The university also extends efforts to expand the network of partners, facilitating the establishment of impactful research collaborations. This proactive approach contributes to garnering appropriate scientific coverage and, consequently, enhances the reputation and standing of QU.