Dr. Kadria Sayed, Chief of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at American Hospital Dubai, shares her remarkable journey from her medical education in Aleppo to her transformative role in the UAE healthcare landscape. As a trailblazer in her field, Dr. Sayed discusses the challenges she faced as a woman in medicine, her dedication to advancing diagnostic quality and accessibility in healthcare, and her commitment to mentoring the next generation of female professionals in STEM.
Can you walk us through your journey from earning your MD to becoming the Chief of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at American Hospital Dubai? What key decisions shaped your path?
My journey began in Aleppo, Syria, where I pursued my medical education, heavily influenced by my father, a doctor and professor at the University of Aleppo. After obtaining my MD, I moved to the U.S. with my husband for postgraduate training in pathology, where I practiced for 15 years. Although we returned to Aleppo to serve our community, civil unrest forced us to relocate to Dubai, a move that transformed our family. In 2012, I joined the American Hospital as a consultant in pathology and was eventually promoted to Chief of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. My experience here has been immensely rewarding, empowering me to integrate new technologies alongside a talented professional team.
What inspired you to choose this career?
While it may seem like sheer luck, I believe in the idea of destiny guiding us. A friend informed me about a residency position in pathology at George Washington University, encouraging me to apply, even though I wasn’t particularly drawn to it during medical school. However, I found immense joy in the field once I started training, leading me to realize it was the right choice for my career.
You’ve been recognized for your expertise in diagnostic histopathology and cancer diagnosis. What significant advancements have you witnessed?
My focus has been on breast cancer diagnosis, particularly exploring biomarker expression in the Middle East compared to Western countries. I’ve noted that the incidence and genetic predispositions for breast cancer differ significantly between the two regions, providing unique research opportunities that pave the way for tailored diagnostic and treatment strategies.
As the Regional Program Director for the DHA-DCGME Pathology Residency Program, what impact do you hope it will have on pathology in the region?
I’m excited about the transformative impact this program will have on the future of pathology in the UAE. As the first of its kind in the UAE, it aims to raise the standards of pathology training, cultivating a new generation of skilled pathologists adept in both technical expertise and patient care. I envision this program fostering collaboration among healthcare professionals, promoting continuous learning, and strengthening interdisciplinary partnerships to enhance patient care.
What strategies or support systems have helped you maintain a successful career while fulfilling personal commitments?
I’m grateful to have a supportive partner in my husband, who is also a doctor and understands the pressures of the medical field. Throughout my career, I have also benefitted from mentors who guided me in navigating my path. Supporting the younger generation in achieving their goals is important to me as I seek to foster a nurturing environment for the future of our profession.
You’re a dedicated advocate for diagnostic quality and accessible healthcare. What key issues are you passionate about?
I am deeply committed to advocating for diagnostic quality and accessible healthcare in the UAE and beyond. Accurate diagnostic lab results are crucial, as 70-80% of clinical decisions rely on them. In cancer care, a multidisciplinary team of specialists is essential for personalized patient assessment and treatment, significantly enhancing care quality and outcomes.
What advice would you offer to young women aspiring to careers in STEM fields?
I encourage young women pursuing careers in STEM to cultivate discipline and dedication, essential traits for navigating the challenges in these fields. Stay committed to your goals, continuously seek knowledge, and embrace growth opportunities; your perseverance will lead to success in STEM.
Text By Victor Gee
