The first class of medical graduates from King Abdulaziz University in 1981 included Samia al-Amoudi, a physician who later transitioned into a prominent role as an obstetrician and gynecologist in Saudi Arabia. Her career trajectory shifted significantly following a personal breast cancer diagnosis in 2006, leading to a public shift toward intensive healthcare advocacy and academic research.
Medical Foundation and Early Career
Born in 1957 in Jeddah, al-Amoudi pursued medical studies within her home country. After graduating from the medical college at King Abdulaziz University, she established a professional practice as both a consultant obstetrician and a gynecologist. Her early career was defined by her clinical work in these medical fields before she gained further recognition as an associate professor at the university.
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In April 2006, al-Amoudi diagnosed herself with breast cancer. She initiated a public discussion about the disease, marking the first time a Saudi woman wrote openly regarding her personal medical journey. This effort involved a series of articles published in the Al Madinah newspaper and appearances on television programs to address the condition. Her advocacy resulted in the 2007 book titled Breast Cancer, Break the Silence.
Institutional Leadership and Recognition
Following the completion of her own treatment in 2012, al-Amoudi assumed leadership roles at the Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Al-Amoudi Center of Excellence in breast cancer, serving as its CEO and as the scientific chair for breast cancer at King Abdulaziz University. She also became the first woman from the Gulf Cooperation Council to serve on the board of the Union for International Cancer Control. Her professional influence was acknowledged by Arabian Business, which ranked her on its annual lists of influential Arabs and powerful women in healthcare between 2010 and 2016. In 2007, the United States Department of State presented her with the International Women of Courage Award.
Fast facts
- Born: 1957, Jeddah
- Citizenship: Saudi Arabia
- Profession: Physician, Gynecologist, Obstetrician
- Medical Degree: King Abdulaziz University, 1981
- Award: International Women of Courage Award, 2007
- Notable Role: CEO, Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Al-Amoudi Center of Excellence in breast cancer
- Publications: Breast Cancer, Break the Silence, 2007
Questions readers ask
What is the focus of Samia al-Amoudi's research?
She serves as the scientific chair for breast cancer at King Abdulaziz University and heads the Sheikh Mohammed Hussein Al-Amoudi Center of Excellence in breast cancer.
Which international board has she served on?
She is the first woman from the Gulf Cooperation Council to sit on the board of the Union for International Cancer Control.
