Saudi Expertise Meets Global Innovation

Dr. Alhomoud’s Journey from Qassim University to New York’s Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in the Fight Against Blood Cancers

Dr. Mohammad Alhomoud’s story reflects the power of ambition, perseverance, and international collaboration. From his beginnings in Saudi Arabia to his current role at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) in New York — one of the world’s leading institutions for cancer research and treatment — his journey highlights how Saudi medical expertise is shaping the global fight against blood cancers.

A Strong Foundation in Saudi Arabia

Dr. Alhomoud began his medical career at Qassim University, followed by an intensive Internal Medicine residency at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center in Riyadh. “That training was invaluable,” he says. “It gave me both rigor and a deep understanding of the health challenges unique to our region.”

Determined to advance further, he moved to the United States, where he trained at Case Western Reserve University Hospital in Cleveland and later completed a fellowship in Hematology and Medical Oncology at Weill Cornell Medicine / New York-Presbyterian. He then pursued an advanced fellowship in Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy at MSK, before joining the institution as a specialist in this highly complex field.

Blood Cancers: A Growing Challenge in Saudi Arabia

Blood cancers — including leukemia, lymphoma, and multiple myeloma — remain among the most difficult and life-threatening cancers worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, leukemia ranks among the top five cancers for both men and women, according to Global Cancer Observatory data.

“As our population grows and ages, and as diagnostic capabilities expand, we will see more cases,” explains Dr. Alhomoud. “These cancers create an enormous burden not only on patients, but also on families and the healthcare system. To confront this challenge, we must invest in awareness, early diagnosis, and access to advanced treatments.”

Transforming Bone Marrow and Stem Cell Transplantation

Bone marrow and stem cell transplantation are among the most powerful weapons against blood cancers. Historically, they carried high risks. Today, thanks to cutting-edge research at centers like MSK, these procedures are safer, more effective, and lifesaving for more patients than ever before.

“Advances in conditioning regimens, supportive care, and cellular therapies are improving survival rates and quality of life,” notes Dr. Alhomoud. “We are also addressing complications like graft-versus-host disease and thrombotic microangiopathy through novel diagnostic tools and treatment approaches. Bringing this expertise to Saudi Arabia through collaboration with leading cancer centers could significantly improve patient outcomes and bring hope to more families.”

Pioneering CAR T-cell Therapy with New Approaches

Perhaps one of the most exciting frontiers is CAR T-cell therapy, which engineers a patient’s own immune cells to recognize and destroy cancer. While revolutionary, not all patients respond.

“Some patients do not respond to CAR T-cell therapy or relapse after treatment. Our research shows that using low-dose radiation prior to CAR T-cell infusion can enhance the effectiveness of this therapy, improving how the engineered cells expand and persist in the body,” Dr. Alhomoud. explains. “This approach could offer a new option for patients with aggressive or treatment-resistant blood cancers, helping us push the boundaries of what is possible in cancer care.”

The Value of Global Collaboration

Every year, many Saudi patients travel abroad to seek advanced cancer care. For Dr. Alhomoud, this underscores the importance of international collaboration.

“At MSK, we are committed to support Saudi patients and families throughout their treatment journey,” he says. “But beyond that, collaboration between MSK and leading Saudi institutions is vital. These partnerships not only enhance the care patients receive when they come to New York, but also strengthen local capabilities, train healthcare providers, and bring more advanced care options closer to home.”

A Message of Hope for Blood Cancer Awareness Month

As Blood Cancer Awareness Month is marked around the world, Dr. Alhomoud shares a powerful message: “Blood cancers can be overwhelming, but early diagnosis saves lives, and modern therapies like cellular therapy and immunotherapy are transforming outcomes. We are entering a new era where patients have more options than ever before. For families in Saudi Arabia, I want to emphasize that innovation and collaboration are paving the way for better care. With determination and continued progress, we can improve survival, enhance quality of life, and bring new hope to patients across the Kingdom.”