Changing Preventative Care in the Middle East
Preventative Care in the Middle East: A New Era Begins
Preventative healthcare in the Middle East is undergoing a significant transformation. With chronic diseases on the rise and late-stage diagnoses still far too common, the introduction of innovative diagnostics, such as the PanTum Detect blood test, could signal a major shift. We sat down with Ali Ghaidan, CEO of RMDM Group, to discuss the future of early cancer detection, the rollout of science-backed sugar alternatives, and why the region is ready for a new healthcare model: one centred on prevention, education, and empowerment.
Q: The PanTum Detect blood test has just launched in Dubai. What does this mean for the region?
Ali: This is a pivotal moment. PanTum Detect is the world’s first blood test capable of actively identifying cancer before symptoms appear. In regions like the Middle East, where patients often seek medical attention at later stages, this technology can mean the difference between early, manageable intervention and a far more complex, invasive treatment journey. It offers a real opportunity to shift from reactive to proactive healthcare, enabling us to detect disease earlier, and improve outcomes significantly.
Q: Why is early detection so important, especially in the context of cancer?
Ali: Because it gives people the power to take control of their health. Early detection means less aggressive treatment, significantly higher survival rates, and a better quality of life. Detecting cancer at or before its critical point dramatically increases the chances of successful treatment, opening the door to better outcomes.
Q: What kind of solutions is RMDM offering beyond diagnostics like PanTum Detect?
Ali: Our approach connects tumour metabolism with diet, driven by the belief that nutrition plays a pivotal role in both the treatment and prevention of diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
We’re currently moving forward with Phase II clinical trials on Benfo-Oxythiamine, developed by Dr Johannes Coy and his team. This compound blocks the enzyme transketolase (TKTL1), which cancer cells rely on to fuel their growth. By inhibiting this
enzyme, Benfo-Oxythiamine slows cancer metabolism, enhancing treatment effectiveness and improving patient outcomes.
We also support the development of natural, low-glycaemic sugars in partnership with Dr. Coy and Intelligent Sugar GmbH. By understanding how cancer cells utilise sugar, Dr. Coy identified specific natural sugars that offer a healthier alternative to traditional options. Incorporating these into daily diets can improve well-being and reduce the risk of diet-related diseases.
Our oncology nutrition programme provides patients with tailored nutritional support during treatment by applying The Dr Coy Principle. This approach changes how cancer cells make energy. Instead of fermenting sugar, they are forced to burn sugar and other nutrients. Cancer cells rely on TKTL1—the “factory” for cell creation—and its sugar metabolism pathway to release energy. This lets them grow and spread quickly. Targeting this pathway removes their growth advantage and supports more effective treatments~
Q: How do these interventions fit alongside traditional medical treatments?
Ali: Our one-stop-shop approach brings together early detection and nutraceutical support in a holistic model designed to help doctors and clinicians at every stage, from diagnosis to treatment.
Dr. Coy’s discovery of the TKTL1 gene and its link to modern lifestyle diseases has been central to how we’ve shaped our solutions. Everything we offer is designed to work alongside existing care plans, whether someone is currently in treatment, in remission, at higher risk, or simply wants to take control of their long-term health.
Q: Are there any case studies that illustrate how this approach is working?
Ali: We have several compelling examples, some involving early cancer diagnoses and others where patients were already at an advanced stage. The application of The Dr Coy Principle, which focuses on targeted nutrition during treatment, has led to remarkable outcomes.
In cases where patients were diagnosed at stage 4 with a life expectancy of just 5 to 6 months, we’ve seen complete turnarounds. Some of these individuals have now been cancer-free for over 11 years.
By making strategic dietary changes during the course of treatment, patients significantly increase their chances of recovery.
Q: How open are people Middle East open to these ideas?
Ali: Since COVID, people have become much more conscious of their health. Preventative care is no longer a nice-to-have; it’s something people are actively seeking out. The Middle East is making real progress in this space. It is becoming a go-to destination for advanced healthcare, particularly in prevention and longevity. What’s really exciting is how the younger generation is leading the way. They are more aware, more curious, and fully embracing lifestyle changes that support long-term health and well-being.
With longevity becoming a central part of modern medicine, and more functional doctors gaining traction, it is clear we cannot rely on medication alone. Real change starts with small, daily lifestyle choices and a better understanding of our own health, starting with early diagnosis and prevention.
Q: What role does public education play in your mission?
Ali: Public education is central to our mission and one of our greatest challenges. We invest heavily in raising awareness with healthcare practitioners and institutions about TKTL1, and the groundbreaking technology it has made possible. Our approach is innovative and not yet reflected in medical textbooks. As evidence continues to demonstrate TKTL1’s role as a key metabolic regulator, we work closely with the medical community to translate these insights into improved patient care.
Education also begins with individuals. In the UK, for example, the NHS offers only three routine screening tests, and limited resources make early detection difficult. That’s why we aim to provide tools like PanTum Detect, empowering people to understand their health and take proactive action early.
Q: What’s your long-term vision for preventative care in the MENA region?
Ali: I believe that prevention is better than cure! Health shouldn’t begin only when something goes wrong; it should start with knowledge, awareness and everyday choices we make.
Our goal is to make early detection and nutritional education a natural part of daily care, so that people feel empowered and supported with practical, evidence-based
solutions. By shifting the focus from treatment to prevention, we’re not just improving outcomes – we’re redefining what healthcare can and should be.
It’s challenging to change lifestyle habits but with the increasing number in cancer , obesity, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s we have to make changes. we must do so in ways that are realistic, accessible, and culturally sensitive.
Q: And what’s next for RMDM?
Ali: We are currently finalising projects set to launch in the UK and Saudi Arabia, and are in active discussions with stakeholders in Qatar and Jordan. We are also engaging with leading research institutions and national health authorities to initiate clinical trials, with the goal of integrating our test into national screening programmes.
Last year, I visited Sierra Leone to begin discussions around clinical trials for malaria prevention, as part of our broader commitment to proactive, global health solutions.
Q: Final thoughts?
Ali: Post-COVID, people are seeking more transparency and trust when it comes to their health. We’re fortunate to be able to work with brilliant scientists and medical experts who are helping us tackle lifestyle diseases from every angle.
Collaborating closely with Dr Johannes Coy and learning about his groundbreaking discovery of the TKTL1 gene has opened doors to solutions we once thought unimaginable. It’s an exciting time in preventative health, and we’re just getting started.