GSD Healthcare, Office 708/Building 26/Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai (2026)

14/01/2026

With winter now in full swing, many people are once again noticing minor joint discomfort: stiffer knees, less agile hands, and a stiff neck. But does the cold really affect joint pain, or is it just a cliché?
Dr. Gabriella Santalena, a rheumatology specialist at the Orthopedic Rehabilitation Unit of the San Siro Clinical Institute, sheds light on the situation, explaining what happens to the body when temperatures drop and how to protect ourselves during the coldest months.

With age, cartilage loses elasticity and shock-absorbing ability. Cold temperatures further stiffen cartilage, joints, muscles, and tendons, making movement more painful. This is why people with osteoarthritis often experience worse symptoms in fall and winter: temperature and humidity directly affect cartilage and bones, intensifying pain.

Cold causes muscles to contract, producing heat. If contraction persists, it leads to tension, pain, and reduced function. Muscle stiffness and inflammation increase in winter, even among young people, especially those working outdoors or participating in sports.

Cold strongly worsens fibromyalgia symptoms, increasing widespread muscle pain and stiffness, particularly in the neck, shoulders, knees, and elbows. Muscle stiffness increases joint tension, creating a cycle of worsening pain.

In rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, cold is not a direct cause of flare-ups, but many patients feel worse in winter due to reduced physical activity and less light exposure.

Cold constricts blood vessels, causing fingers to turn white, then blue, then red, often with pain and possible fingertip ulcers. It is common in autoimmune diseases, but can also appear in healthy people (primary Raynaud’s). Even stress or sudden temperature changes can trigger it.
How to protect yourself:
• Dress warmly and keep the body dry, especially the neck
• Exercise regularly with gentle activities (walking, stretching)
• Use heat therapies (hot baths, mud therapy, massages)
• Keep hands and feet warm; avoid sudden, intense heat on frozen skin
• Severe cases may require vasodilator treatments in winter

If pain is severe, persistent, or limits daily activities. Raynaud’s phenomenon should always be evaluated to rule out autoimmune diseases.

#صحة #وقاية #تميز #دبي #ابوظبي #السعودية #الصحة #مستشفى #ايطاليا

05/01/2026

According to 2025 data from the National Agency for Regional Health Services (AGENAS), the IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital in Milan confirms its position among the best facilities in Italy in the following areas:
• cardiovascular, including heart attack procedures, angioplasty, bypass surgery, and emergency cardiac treatments
• of the nervous system, offering very high standards in the neurological field

The results, reported in the National Outcomes Program (PNE) 2025, confirm the excellence of the healthcare provided at our hospital, as evaluated against volume, outcomes, and process criteria.

One of the elements that distinguishes San Raffaele Hospital is its ability to care for even the most complex patients, those who may be difficult to treat in other specialized facilities. In cardiac surgery, in particular, results are excellent across all categories monitored by the PNE (National Outcomes Plan), with a particular focus on valvular pathologies.
The data show that, in patients who come to our facility, the reduction in mortality risk - compared to the national average - for valves is 30% while for coronary interventions it is 50%: a significant indicator of the quality of the clinical pathway.
This level of excellence is possible thanks to a highly specialized team and the use of advanced technologies that enhance procedural precision, reduce complications, and shorten recovery times.

San Raffaele Hospital has a state-of-the-art Neurology, Neurorehabilitation, and Neurophysiology department, capable of following neurological patients through every phase of the treatment process: from admission to the Emergency Room to rehabilitation.
Thanks to specialized skills and advanced technologies, the team of neurologists—led by Professor Massimo Filippi—works daily to ensure timely care and the most effective and personalized diagnostic and therapeutic processes possible. The departments have a total of approximately 90 beds.
Areas of excellence include:
• Multiple Sclerosis Center
• CARD Center - Alzheimer's and related pathologies
• Stroke Unit
• Regional Epilepsy Center
• Neuromuscular Pathology Center
• Headache and Facial Pain Center

Thanks to a team of highly skilled specialists and healthcare professionals, we work every day to maintain the standards of quality, expertise, and innovation that have always distinguished our facility.
In addition, there is extensive and innovative clinical research activity. This recognition is a source of great satisfaction for us and encourages us to always do our best.

#صحة #وقاية #تميز #دبي #ابوظبي #السعودية #الصحة #مستشفى #ايطاليا

15/12/2025

The Policlinico San Marco and Policlinico San Pietro confirm their position as Italian leaders in the musculoskeletal field. This is what emerges from the data in the 2025 edition of the National Outcomes Program (Pne)—curated by the National Agency for Health Services and submitted to the Ministry of Health—covering hospital services provided in 2024 by 1,117 public and private hospitals.

The two Bergamo hospitals of the Gruppo San Donato have once again been ranked among the Italian hospitals with a "very high level" in this area. The musculoskeletal area was assessed synthetically using six indicators:
• Surgery within 48 hours of admission to the hospital for a femoral neck fracture
• Volume of hospital admissions for femoral neck fracture
• 30-day readmissions after hip replacement surgery
• Volume of hip replacement hospital admissions
• 30-day readmissions after knee replacement surgery
• Volume of hospital admissions for knee replacements

This important recognition recognizes the professionalism and dedication of the Orthopedic teams at the two hospitals, led by Professor Marco Bigoni and Dr. Michele Massaro for the Policlinico San Pietro and Dr. Davide Molisani for the Policlinico San Marco, as well as their ongoing research into improving techniques and materials and the promptness of emergency procedures, such as those for femur fractures.
“Being among the hospital facilities recognized by Agenas for a very high level of care and assistance in the musculoskeletal area is a source of great satisfaction for our two hospitals,” comments Eleonora Botta, Medical Director of the Istituti Ospedalieri Bergamaschi.
This important result, further improving on last year, is the result of the daily commitment of all our medical, nursing, and healthcare staff to provide our patients with the best care, whether scheduled or emergency, such as for femoral neck fractures. It also confirms the crucial role our two hospitals play in the region, responding appropriately and with quality to the population's healthcare needs, including in emergency settings, in coordination with the regional network in which they are located.

#صحة #وقاية #تميز #دبي #ابوظبي #السعودية #الصحة #مستشفى #ايطاليا

11/12/2025

Raynaud's phenomenon, often perceived as a simple "cold hands" complaint, can be the first sign of more complex conditions that deserve special attention. In some cases, it can represent a warning sign of autoimmune or rheumatic diseases.

Raynaud's phenomenon is characterized by recurrent episodes in which the fingers (and sometimes the toes) become pale, bluish, or red, often accompanied by tingling or pain, particularly in response to cold or stress.
It's often perceived as a minor annoyance, but it can actually be a sign of systemic diseases. This is why it's essential not to ignore the signs. The problem arises when patients downplay their symptoms, attributing them solely to the cold; the risk is wasting valuable time in making a diagnosis.

Periungual capillaroscopy, a rapid, noninvasive, and painless test, is now a fundamental tool for the early diagnosis of certain autoimmune and rheumatological diseases, as it allows visualization of microcirculation at the nail level.
Thanks to this technique, we can distinguish:
• “Primary” Raynaud’s is more common and generally benign.
• “Secondary” Raynaud’s, linked to rheumatological diseases or autoimmune diseases such as scleroderma, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis.

An early diagnosis allows to:
• Activate targeted clinical monitoring
• Prevent complications
• Start any therapies promptly
In rheumatology, as in many other branches of medicine, early intervention significantly improves patients' prognosis and quality of life.

Capillaroscopy enables visualization of the capillaries at the nail root using a high-resolution digital microscope. This allows us to:
• Identify any alterations in the microcirculation that may indicate the onset of a systemic disease.
• Identify vascular abnormalities early before the onset of clinical symptoms of autoimmune diseases.

It is a safe test, free from contraindications, and can be performed immediately.
Its importance is also recognized by international guidelines: the European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) recommends capillaroscopy as the first-line investigation in patients with suspected Raynaud's disease.

Capillaroscopy is particularly indicated for:
• Anyone who experiences frequent episodes of discoloration of the fingers.
• Young women between 20 and 40 years old (they are the most affected, even though it is not an exclusively female disorder).
• Those who have a family history of autoimmune diseases or already suffer from rheumatological disorders.

#صحة #وقاية #تميز #دبي #ابوظبي #السعودية #الصحة #مستشفى #ايطاليا

10/12/2025

Bilateral pneumonia is a bacterial, viral, or (more rarely) fungal infection that affects both lungs, involving the alveoli, which fill with fluid or pus and make breathing difficult. Although serious, it can be effectively treated with early diagnosis and proper therapy. Monitoring symptoms and seeking prompt medical care are essential.
With insights from pulmonologist Dr. Anna Angela Rachele Beretta, the condition and its risks are explained.

Types:
• Bacterial: e.g., Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus aureus
• Viral: influenza viruses, SARS-CoV-2
• Fungal: rare, mainly in immunocompromised individuals

Early Symptoms, often like flu or bronchitis are:
• High fever (>38°C), chills, sweating
• Dry → productive cough (yellow-green sputum)
• Chest pain, dyspnea, fatigue
• Loss of appetite; possible nausea or confusion (especially elderly)
Dyspnea often signals more severe, widespread involvement.

Bilateral pneumonia is more aggressive, involving both lungs and raising the risk of:
• Hypoxemia
• Respiratory failure
• Hospitalization
Unilateral cases are typically managed with antibiotics and home rest if caught early.

More severe due to weaker immunity. Higher risk of respiratory failure, sepsis, and organ failure. Symptoms may include low or absent fever, confusion, apathy, appetite loss, and worsening chronic diseases (e.g., COPD, heart failure).

Causes include bacteria (pneumococcus, mycoplasma, legionella) and viruses (e.g., COVID-19).
Risk factors: advanced age, chronic diseases, previous respiratory issues, recent hospitalization, immune compromise, smoking, alcoholism.

Diagnosi requires a pulmonary exam and evaluation of oxygen saturation.
Key tests:
• Chest X-ray and CT scan
• Laboratory tests to identify the infectious agent
• Sputum exam or blood culture
In severe cases: additional tests to assess organ involvement and blood gas analysis.

Depending on cause:
• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
• Antivirals or supportive therapy for viral forms.
May require hospitalization for severe symptoms or at-risk patients.
Other treatments: oxygen therapy, rest, hydration.
Therapy lasts 7–21 days, depending on response.

Home-treated cases need repeat medical evaluations and blood/radiology tests.
Hospitalized patients require daily monitoring.
Most acute forms resolve in a few weeks if no complications occur.

Possible Complications
• Acute respiratory failure
• Sepsis
• Lung abscess
• Pleural effusion
• Permanent lung damage
Prognosis depends on age, speed of diagnosis, infectious agent, and comorbidities. Young, healthy individuals usually recover completely; elderly or frail patients may take longer.

Seek medical evaluation for:
• Persistent fever not improving with medication
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain

#صحة #وقاية #تميز #دبي #ابوظبي #السعودية #الصحة #مستشفى #ايطاليا

08/12/2025

The city's first multi-specialty Smart Clinic center, Smart Clinic Villa Borghese, opened on Via del Galoppatoio in Rome on Monday, November 17. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by:

• The President of Smart Clinic, Attorney Vito Cozzoli
• The CEO of Smart Clinic, Eng. Elena Bottinelli
• The Country General Manager of Generali Italia and President of Generali Welion, Dr. Gianluca Perin
• The General Manager of Generali Italia, Dr. Massimo Monacelli
• The Chief Health & Welfare and Broker Management Officer of Generali Italia and CEO of Generali Welion, Eng. Francesco Bardelli
• The president of the GSD Foundation, Dr. Gilda Gastaldi
The opening in Rome represents a further step forward in the development of the network of healthcare facilities, born from the joint venture between Gruppo San Donato, the leading Italian healthcare group, Generali, the leader in the Italian insurance sector, and GKSD, an international authority in innovation.
A project destined to extend across the entire national territory and to combine clinical excellence, technological innovation and accessibility.
A new care model that combines prevention, quality, and accessibility
Smart Clinics represent an innovative health management proposal that integrates diagnosis and treatment across all medical specialties, with a significant focus on:
• Prevention and well-being
• Accessibility to services
• High quality standards
• Use of the best technologies
• Attention to customer experience

And precisely to respond to one of the main contemporary challenges, represented by the phenomenon of demographic aging, the new center in Rome has developed two programs that promote active longevity and prevention:
• Genos, the innovative program created by researchers and specialists at the San Raffaele Hospital in Milan, offers personalized diagnostic and treatment pathways designed to monitor general health, assess the main risk factors, and identify potential pathologies early.
• Smart Weight, the multidisciplinary path that integrates medical assessment, nutritional support, and continuous clinical monitoring in the prevention and treatment of obesity.

#صحة #وقاية #تميز #دبي #ابوظبي #السعودية #الصحة #مستشفى #ايطاليا

03/12/2025

نحتفل اليوم بروح الاتحاد التي جمعت قلوبنا على رؤية واحدة…
رؤية تبني وطناً يعلو بالإنجازات ويكبر بطموحات أبنائه.
في عيد الاتحاد، نجدد ولاءنا ومحبتنا لدولة الإمارات، ونفخر بأن نكون جزءاً من مسيرتها الملهمة نحو مستقبل أكثر ازدهاراً وابتكاراً.
كل عام والإمارات قيادةً وشعباً بخير وأمان وتقدم.

On December 2, we celebrate the spirit of unity that brought our nation together under one inspiring vision—
a vision that continues to build a country defined by achievement, ambition, and innovation.
On UAE Union Day, we renew our pride and commitment to the UAE and honor the remarkable journey that shapes its bright future.
Wishing the UAE continued progress, prosperity, and peace.

#صحة #وقاية #تميز #دبي #ابوظبي #السعودية #الصحة #مستشفى #ايطاليا
#الإمارات

24/11/2025

At San Raffaele Hospital, the Cardiac Surgery team treated a 56-year-old patient—considered high risk for traditional open-heart surgery—with an innovative percutaneous mitral valve, a minimally invasive technique still in the experimental phase. San Raffaele is one of only two centers in Europe performing this procedure.
The surgery was performed by Dr. Paolo Denti, a cardiac surgeon in the Cardiac Surgery Unit of the IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital, directed by Prof. Francesco Maisano.
Dr. Denti is part of the Valve Center, created by Prof. Maisano to manage valve diseases using traditional, innovative, and experimental approaches.

Two minimally invasive transcatheter options were evaluated for the patient:
1. Native valve repair, which is low risk but not always effective and unsuitable for this patient’s anatomy.
2. Percutaneous mitral valve implantation, the chosen option, is still in early development and reserved for highly selected patients (about 50% are not eligible).

The implanted valve has an innovative design that lowers the risk of obstruction and can be used in more patients than previous devices. It is part of an international study led by Dr. Paolo Denti and Dr. Vahl Torsten (Columbia University), and this case was the first in Italy and among the first in Europe. Unlike traditional prostheses, this valve modifies the patient’s cardiac anatomy, surrounding the mitral chordae tendineae and reducing the heart’s diameter at the base.
The procedure, performed under general anesthesia, involves venous access from the groin, catheter navigation to the left atrium, placement of two hemi-rings beneath the native mitral valve, and release of the prosthetic valve, which anchors the native valve and stabilizes the heart base.
The new technique is far less invasive than open-heart surgery—the patient was discharged after 3 days. San Raffaele Hospital remains one of just two European centers authorized for this implantation and continues contributing to the development of next-generation therapies for mitral valve disease.

19/11/2025

PSA is a protein produced by the prostate and an enzyme responsible for the liquefaction of seminal fluid.
Contrary to popular belief, PSA is not a tumor marker, but an organ marker, because it is always detectable in the presence of the prostate gland and can have altered values not only in the case of tumor pathology. A simple blood test measures PSA levels, providing information on the health of the prostate gland.
A PSA level is typically considered normal when it is less than 4 ng/ml. However, it's important to note that this parameter should always be evaluated by a specialist to ensure it's correctly interpreted.

A higher-than-normal PSA value does not necessarily indicate the presence of cancer. However, an alteration in PSA represents a sign that should be examined further with your urologist, who will evaluate your medical history and any risk factors to decide whether further tests are necessary. It is important to emphasize, however, that PSA testing is one of the fundamental elements in prostate cancer screening, but it must always be accompanied by a urological examination to allow for a complete and correct evaluation.
According to international guidelines, PSA testing is recommended:
• Starting from 50 years old
• From 45 years of age in case of a family history of prostate cancer
• And up to approximately 75 years of age

A high PSA can depend on various conditions, not necessarily serious:
• benign enlargement of the prostate (BPH), which is very common with age and does not have any pathological significance
• inflammation or infection (prostatitis)
• recent sexual in*******se, urological examination, transrectal ultrasound
• prostate cancer (one of the possible causes, but it is not the most common)

Altered PSA itself does not cause direct symptoms, but it can be accompanied by:
• Need to urinate frequently
• Weak urinary stream
• Sensation of urgency or burning during urination

Treatment varies depending on the cause:
• Benign enlargement of the prostate: specific drugs and, if necessary, minimally invasive procedures, which improve control of urinary symptoms and therefore the quality of life of those who suffer from it.
• Prostate or infections/inflammations: antibiotic therapy in case of evidence of bacteria in the prostate, or only a decongestant.
• Prostate cancer: today there are many options ranging from active surveillance (i.e., monitoring the pathology before intervening with invasive treatments), to surgical or radiotherapy interventions, up to systemic therapy.
In all cases, prostate cancer treatment achieves excellent results if the disease is diagnosed early. Hence, the importance of undergoing regular check-ups and tests.

#صحة #وقاية #تميز #دبي #ابوظبي #السعودية #الصحة #مستشفى #ايطاليا

17/11/2025

Diagnoses of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Specific Learning Disorders (SLD/DSA) in children have been increasing. Early recognition of attention and learning difficulties is essential for timely diagnosis and effective support.

ADHD and DSA are neurodevelopmental disorders caused by different neurobiological functioning.
ADHD is marked by persistent difficulty maintaining attention, often accompanied by hyperactivity and impulsivity.
DSA affects reading, writing, and arithmetic and includes:
• Dyslexia, involving difficulties in reading accuracy and understanding
• Dysorthography, involving spelling and phonographic difficulties
• Dysgraphia, involving motor difficulties in writing
• Dyscalculia, involving difficulty understanding and using numerical and calculation skills

Signs of ADHD may include distractibility, carelessness, difficulty following instructions, organizational struggles, forgetfulness, restlessness, and impulsive behavior.
Signs of DSA vary by type: misread or distorted words, confusion between similar letters, fragmented reading, spelling errors, messy handwriting, difficulty staying on the line, number reversals, trouble understanding numerical relationships, slow or inaccurate calculations, and difficulty solving mathematical problems. These disorders can also co-occur.
Their origins are multifactorial, involving both genetic predisposition and environmental factors. ADHD typically appears in early childhood, while DSA becomes evident once reading, writing, and math are introduced in school.
Diagnosis requires a multidisciplinary team:
• The Pediatrician, who identifies early signs
• The Child Neuropsychiatrist, who leads the diagnostic process and prescribes therapies
• The Developmental Psychologist, who evaluates cognitive, emotional, and behavioural functioning
• The Speech Therapist, who assesses and treats language, reading, writing, and math difficulties

ADHD and DSA cannot be “cured,” as they are stable neurobiological characteristics, but targeted interventions can greatly improve functioning. Recommended approaches include Parent Training, teacher training, a Personalized Learning Plan (PDP), compensatory tools, specific rehabilitation programs such as speech therapy or cognitive enhancement, and psychological support to improve self-esteem and emotional regulation.
For ADHD, medication may be used when appropriate. Treatment must be prescribed and monitored by specialized and accredited centers. In Italy, approved medications include Atomoxetine and Methylphenidate, used within a multimodal therapeutic plan combining medication with behavioral and educational interventions.

#صحة #وقاية #تميز #دبي #ابوظبي #السعودية #الصحة #مستشفى #ايطاليا

14/11/2025

November 14 is a day dedicated to raising awareness about diabetes—a condition affecting millions of people worldwide. Created by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization, this day is about understanding what diabetes is, supporting those living with it, and sharing ways we can prevent or manage it.

What is Diabetes? Diabetes is a condition where the body can’t properly process sugar, leading to high blood sugar levels. There are different types, including Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes.

Why is Awareness Important? Understanding diabetes can help people prevent it, catch early signs, and manage it better. Many people don’t realize they’re at risk, which is why education and awareness are essential!

How to Help? You can help by sharing information, supporting loved ones, joining awareness events, or even getting screened if you’re at risk.
Let’s support each other and spread knowledge to create a healthier future. Together, we can make a difference!

13/11/2025

At the San Rocco Clinical Institute in Ome (BS), varicose veins can be treated using the most modern minimally invasive endovascular surgery treatments, which allow the problem to be eliminated effectively, safely, and with excellent aesthetic results.

Varicose veins are abnormal, permanent, and tortuous dilations of the veins, particularly those of the lower limbs, which affect both men and women of all ages. It is a very common, chronic, progressive condition caused by malfunction of the venous valves that regulate blood flow to the heart.

There are some cases in which they manifest silently, but generally, some warning signs are present. The main symptoms of varicose veins are:
• Heaviness and swelling of the legs
• Dilated and bluish veins with evident aesthetic tortuosities
• Night cramps, itching, burning, edema
• In the most severe cases, venous ulcers

When the venous valves no longer function properly, blood tends to flow backwards, causing dilation of the blood vessel, blood stagnation, and the appearance of symptoms and skin blemishes.
Heredity and genetics, as well as an inadequate lifestyle, are predisposing factors for valvular laxity.

It is sufficient to schedule an angiological or phlebological visit, in addition to undergoing a venous color Doppler ultrasound to evaluate blood flow and intercept incontinent vein segments.
Minimally invasive endovascular surgery: the new frontier of treatment
The strong push of technology has produced a strong rise in endovascular surgery over the last twenty years.
Unlike traditional surgery, the new techniques close the diseased vein from the inside without removing it as was done, for example, with saphenous vein stripping.

Types of endovascular treatments:
• Heat treatments: performed under local anesthesia, they use heat (laser and radiofrequency) to obliterate the lumen of a blood vessel.
• Non-thermal treatments: these include sclerotherapy, moca and cyanoacrylate (a biocompatible glue) which act, without having to resort to any anesthesia, through a combination of mechanical action (given by the instrument used) and chemical action (given by the sclerosing substance which obliterates the lumen of the vessel).

The advantages of endovascular surgery:
• A faster and more streamlined minimally invasive approach
• Outpatient ex*****on
• Immediate return to daily activities
• Excellent aesthetic results
• Reduced risk of complications

#صحة #وقاية #تميز #دبي #ابوظبي #السعودية #الصحة #مستشفى #ايطاليا

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