Doctoral research

The introduction of this doctoral thesis comprises a series of narrative reviews focusing on modifiable risk factors associated with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the State of Kuwait. These reviews aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of how lifestyle behaviors—such as diet, physical activity, smoking, and other health-related habits—contribute to the prevalence of NCDs in the region. By employing a systematic approach to evidence synthesis and incorporating rigorous quality appraisal methods, this thesis seeks to bridge the gap between research and practice. The ultimate goal is to formulate evidence-based, context-specific recommendations that promote healthier living in Kuwait, addressing key barriers and facilitating sustainable behavioral change at both individual and societal levels.

The last research project presents a case report examining the application of an innovative preventive health screening tool for early detection of modifiable risk factors in non- communicable diseases (NCDs). The case focuses on an individual with elevated NCD risk, documenting baseline screening results across metrics such as physical activity levels, sleep quality, and handgrip strength. Over a twelve-week period, the project tracks the effectiveness of personalized lifestyle interventions recommended based on screening data. This case provides practical insights into the screening tool’s utility in a non-clinical setting, highlighting its role in empowering self-management and informing future improvements for broader preventive health applications.

The complementary research project will investigate the statistical relationships among the metrics acquired through the preventive health screening tool. By analyzing these correlations— whether positive, negative, or statistically insignificant—the study aims to clarify how each metric interacts. Understanding these associations will enable practitioners to design health-promoting interventions with greater precision, ensuring that the recommended "dose" of lifestyle modifications is tailored to individual needs at the optimal time.

The central project of this doctoral thesis aims to synthesize findings from preceding research to develop an innovative preventive health screening tool accessible outside of traditional medical clinics. This tool will assess modifiable risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. Data will be collected using questionnaires that evaluate daily physical activity, sleep quality, and other lifestyle factors, complemented by objective measures such as handgrip strength. Together, these metrics provide a comprehensive risk profile for NCDs, highlighting risk factors that are largely modifiable through self-management practices. This project ultimately seeks to bridge the gap between clinical and community-based preventive healthcare, empowering individuals to monitor and manage their health proactively.

The second phase of this doctoral thesis involves qualitative research designed to examine the challenges and opportunities related to self-management practices for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the State of Kuwait. This phase employs semi-structured interviews to capture in-depth insights from a cohort of highly educated professionals working in academia and the medical field, providing a nuanced understanding of their perspectives on health behaviors and self-care strategies. To complement these findings, a nationwide survey is conducted among the general population, offering a broader assessment of public attitudes, barriers, and facilitators influencing self-management practices across diverse demographic groups. Together, these studies aim to inform tailored interventions that enhance self-care capabilities and improve health outcomes in Kuwait.

The preliminary phase of this doctoral research focuses on reviewing measurement tools commonly used in strength and conditioning for their application in preventive healthcare assessments related to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This scientific evaluation examines the validity, reliability, and feasibility of these tools to construct a comprehensive, quantitative testing battery. Advanced measurement technologies, performance diagnostics, and self- assessment metrics are being explored to support proactive health management and enable individuals to monitor their health outside of clinical settings. This foundational work aims to synthesize current scientific insights, laying the groundwork for further studies within the research project.