44th GCC meeting in Doha concludes: Arab leaders highlight regional stability and security of Gulf countries

Condemning Israel's aggression in Gaza and asking for international support for the Palestinian people as well as disputes with Iran over natural resources and concerns over its nuclear programme shaped the negotiations.

Global Affairs

2023 12 05T154955Z 566628837 RC2ZQ4A1S6HD RTRMADP 3 GULF SUMMIT QATAR Scaled — HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates attends the 44th session of the Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), in Doha, Qatar, December 5, 2023.UAE Presidential Court/Handout via REUTERS THIS IMAGE HAS BEEN SUPPLIED BY A THIRD PARTY.

Maha Mehrgan

Front of mind

Longevity, influence and the social media trap: Who do we trust with our health?

In a world where six-pack abs are flaunted more than six-point health plans, who are we really trusting with our well-being? Consultant Aesthetic and Plastic Surgeon, Dr Ali Ghanem, cuts through the noise in a candid conversation with Qonversations — unpacking the layered relationship between health, social media, influence, and longevity. Dr Ghanem, in an interview with Ismail Akwei, begins with a stark reminder: “Health is life.” He challenges the outdated definition of health as merely the absence of disease and instead argues for a reimagined standard — optimal functioning across body and mind. You may be disease-free, but if your cognitive function, mobility, or digestion isn’t thriving, you’re missing the very essence of life.

Is there a secret to longevity? This health expert says 1,000% yes

In the era of social media, post-COVID, and with mental health at the forefront, a shift is taking place in how people perceive well-being. As a new approach that looks beyond traditional medicine gains popularity, one voice stands out: Natalie Lefevre, a longevity expert whose journey from personal health struggles to keynote speaker and influencer has inspired many. “I believe we’re in a major paradigm shift,” Natalie explains. According to the health optimisation expert, who was misdiagnosed 18 years ago, conventional systems often fail to address the root causes of illness. Instead, she advocates for a proactive, investigative approach to health—one that emphasizes prevention, self-awareness, and personal responsibility.