United Arab Emirates 2024: Sofia Konstantinopoulou | Pediatric pulmonologist and sleep medicine consultant at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), Abu Dhabi, UAE and core faculty member of the World Sleep Academy.

Delegate: Sofia Konstantinopoulou

Affiliation: Pediatric pulmonologist and sleep medicine consultant at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SKMC), Abu Dhabi, UAE and core faculty member of the World Sleep Academy.

Short Bio: I am a triple US board certified pediatric pulmonologist and sleep medicine physician who trained and worked at Children’s hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), with an academic appointment as Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the Perelman School of Medicine at PENN.

I am currently working as a consultant in pediatric pulmonology/ sleep medicine at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City (SEHA), which is the country’s referral center for pediatrics.

I am privileged to take care of some of the most complex, chronic pediatric patients, and to be a part of multidisciplinary teams aiming at delivering efficient, compassionate, family- centered care. I am the clinical lead of our Aerodigestive Program. My main clinical focus is caring for patients with sleep disordered breathing who are on home mechanical ventilation.

I serve as core faculty of our ACGME accredited pediatric residency program and of the World Sleep Academy (WSA). I am an active member of CHEST, the AASM and of the ATS- International Health Committee.

I am open to global collaborations in clinical research, in health advocacy and in medical education.

Activity: Abu Dhabi Radio Interview- 30 minutes community awareness on the importance of sleep
1. Health Impact: Explore how lack of sleep affects Gen Z’s mental health, weakens their immune system, and increases the risk of chronic conditions.
2. Performance Struggles: Discuss how insufficient sleep hampers Gen Z’s academic and professional success, impacting focus, memory, and overall productivity.
3. Emotional Toll: Highlight the emotional and social challenges Gen Z faces with sleep deprivation, including heightened stress, mood swings, and difficulties in relationships.
4. Tech’s Role: Look into how technology, like excessive screen time and late-night digital activities, contributes to Gen Z’s sleep issues and overall well-being.

Location: Abu Dhabi

Date of Activity: 15.3.2024

Submitted by: Sofia Konstantinopoulou