Sawsan Al Sayegh is an immunologist at Dubai Hopital. She studied Medical Science at Lahore Medical University in Pakistan and after practicing medicine in Dubai went to the UK to specialise in immunology.
In an exclusive interview with Reem Mahmoud, Dr. Al Sayegh spoke of her experiences and described how her job changed her from a shy girl to a strong-willed physician.
Why did you choose to study in Pakistan?
Because of its proximity to the Gulf. But I discovered on arrival that
the customs of Pakistan were very different to those I was used to and
living conditions were harsh. I tried hard to adapt to these
conditions. I lived in a dormitory that had a rigid rationing scheme for
the use of electricity. You can imagine how difficult it was to live in
high temperatures without airconditioning.
If it was so hard why didn’t you leave?
It was a well-respected college with high academic standards.
How do you assess your educational experience in Pakistan?
The experience strengthened my character. I was brought up in a
loving family and I thought that everything in life was good. In
Pakistan I encountered numerous types of people, some of which were not
as honest and goodwilled as those I was used to.
Academically, the real challenge to me was that unlike my brothers, who
studied at private schools and learnt English at an early age, I
completed my secondary education at a government school. This meant
that when I started at university my knowledge of English prevented me
from fully understanding my lecturers. To pass my first exam I had to
memorize the material. I found myself with two huge challenges: learning
English and pursuing my academic studies. This challenge strengthened my
resolve and made me a completely different person from the simple high
school graduate I was.
What did you do after graduating from Lahore Medical College?
I worked at various hospitals. Then I went to England to specialise in
immunology.
Why immunology?
The challenge appealed to me. The scientific base in Pakistan was the
same but the British technology is more advanced. The approach to
education is also different. Unlike Lahore College, the British
system appreciated and encouraged me every step of the way. The British
educational system seeks to broaden a student’s horizon. Socially the UK
was very different to Pakistan. Nevertheless, I lived as a student with
a limited and carefully planned social life.
How do you define immunology?
Immunology is a base for the study of numerous diseases. All idiopatic
diseases, allergies and many others come under its realm. It is the
study of the internal defense mechanism that the human body builds to
defend itself against deseases.
Does the Gulf suffer from any particular diseases?
Yes. In addition to the hot and humid weather, lifestyles play a major
role in spreading diseases. Air-sealed homes with central
airconditioning and lack of fresh air have adverse effects on air
cleanliness. The decline in natural breast-feeding has deprived infants
from natural immunity. Perfumes and scents commonly used in the Gulf are
also among the contributing factors.
Your specialisation covers several dangerous illnesses such as Hepatitis
and AIDS. How do you deal with an AIDS patient? Are you afraid of
contracting the disease yourself?
The first time I dealt with a patient with a dangerous illness I was
unaware of what she was carrying. After coming into contact with her I
underwent a number of check-ups which showed that I was not infected.
Normally, medical staff take the necessary precautions. We get
innoculated against serveral deseases and wear protective devices. This
minimizes the risk for infection.
In most cases we sympathise with people who have contracted an illness
because God willed that illness on him. Do you sympathise with an AIDS
patient even if he contracted his disease through improper behaviour?
As a doctor it is my duty to treat patients without discrimination. If
an AIDS patient is suffering and needs my assistance I will help him. I
will not add to his suffering.
What problems do you encounter as a physician?
There are no problems stemming from the fact that I am a woman. However,
there are common problems that we as doctors face. In general, there is
a serious deficiency in health awareness. Another difficulty pertains to
the field of immunology. Despite its importance and complexity it is not
properly understood in and outside the medical profession.
Do Emirati women have a lot to offer to your profession?
The Emirati female physician can offer a great deal. Apart from
specialising in different fields her high levels of academic success
reflects her love of her work. We as women must continue to aim high. We
are sufficiently ambitious to achieve more.
Has you professional success come at the expense of your family life?
My profession has not hindered my family and social life. Undoubtedly,
there is a small price that the family and the woman must pay. But this
price is far from heavy as some may claim. A little measure of
understanding and orgnisation will make women successful inside and
outside the home.
What are your professional ambitions?
I would like to be succesful in my job and pursue my academic career. I
will not be content with a small measure of success.
