
King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Saudi Arabia has entered a five-year partnership with the University of Birmingham’s Bladder Cancer Research Centre (BCRC) aimed at transforming bladder cancer diagnosis and monitoring.
This collaboration combines the expertise of the KFSHRC urology department with the research capabilities of BCRC for advancing non-invasive diagnostic tools leveraging the latest liquid biopsy technology.
The project intends to introduce advanced molecular diagnostics in Saudi Arabia, employing a 23-gene panel for identifying key genetic variations associated with bladder cancer.
KFSHRC Urology Department chairman and principal investigator Waleed Altaweel said: “Partnering with BCRC allows us to introduce innovative diagnostic methods that ease the burden on patients while improving healthcare outcomes. This collaboration supports our priorities by bridging geographic and technological divides and advancing cancer diagnostics across a diverse population.”
In addition to diagnostic advancements, this partnership serves as a knowledge exchange platform, fostering collaboration between Saudi and UK research communities.
It will facilitate the sharing of methodologies, insights, and technological advancements in genomic diagnostics, ultimately benefiting both regions.

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By GlobalDataA material transfer agreement (MTA) underpins this partnership, ensuring secure and ethical exchanges of anonymised patient samples.
This agreement allows for advanced genomic testing while upholding stringent data privacy standards.
Co-principal investigator professor Mohamed Alotaibi said: “This collaborative approach aligns with global healthcare goals, enhancing expertise and building capacity to tackle complex health challenges.”
Project facilitator Dr Raouf Seyam stated that the partnership presents an opportunity to enhance the research through the integration of varied genetic data, thereby advancing solutions for cancer care that are relevant on a global scale.
Both KFSHRC and BCRC are poised to revolutionise the management of bladder cancer by implementing accessible standards for patient-focused, non-invasive diagnostic methods.