Prevalence and Impact of Comorbidities on Disease Outcomes in Middle Eastern CLL Patients: A Retrospective Study at Kuwait Cancer Control Center
January 2024 - December 2026

Project Description
This study investigates the prevalence and impact of comorbidities, specifically vascular disease and diabetes, on survival outcomes in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL) patients. The study was conducted retrospectively at the Kuwait Cancer Control Center.
Objectives
To assess the impact of comorbidities, particularly vascular disease and diabetes, on the survival of CLL patients.
Methodology
- Study Population: 316 patients - Time Period: 2008-2021
Project Team

Dr. Salem AlShemmari
Hematologist Oncologist
Kuwait University
InvestigatorDr. Salem H. D. Al-Shemmari is a hematologist oncologist dedicated to advancing patient care in hematological and other malignancies through clinical practice, teaching, and research.
Dr. Salem H. D. Al-Shemmari is a hematologist oncologist dedicated to advancing patient care in hematological and other malignancies through clinical practice, teaching, and research. He graduated from Kuwait University with a B.M.B.CH. degree and became a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada in Hemato-Oncology in 1994. He further specialized in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle in 1995. Dr. Salem serves as academic staff in the Department of Medicine, Kuwait University, teaching at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. He established the Medical Oncology Fellowship Program and contributed to the Hematopathology and Hematology Fellowship Programs. He has established the myeloid neoplasm reference Lab at Kuwait Cancer Center. He is also a member of the Department of Hematology, Kuwait Cancer Center. Dr. Salem has authored over 60 peer-reviewed research papers, numerous review articles, technical reports, and laboratory manuals. He has led more than 10 peer-reviewed research grants, serving as principal investigator on 8. Author of a textbook titled ‘Basis of Malignant Hematology Practice in Kuwait: Emphasis on Local Data