With deep sadness, we announce the passing of our longtime Board member and colleague, Dr Gemma Adib, who died on Friday, April 4, at the age of 73, following a long illness. 

A passionate advocate for osteoporosis and chronic disease prevention and management, and a devoted humanitarian, Gemma Adib leaves behind a legacy that has touched countless lives.

Dr Adib was a distinguished Medical Doctor and Consultant Internist, practising both in Damascus, Syria, and Germany. Most notably, Dr. Adib was the Founder and President of the Syrian National Osteoporosis Society (SYNOS), a role through which she championed the cause of bone health with tireless dedication. For over 25 years, she led efforts to raise awareness, improve diagnostics, and promote research into osteoporosis across Syria and the Arab world. She organized landmark events such as the first IOF Clinical Densitometry Course in Syria (2009) and the 5th Pan Arab Osteoporosis Congress (2010). Her work was instrumental in shaping policy and best practices in the region, culminating in her co-authorship of the IOF Middle East & Africa Audit (2011).

From 2012 to 2024, Dr Adib served with distinction on the Board of the International Osteoporosis Foundation (IOF). She also held the Presidency of the Pan-Arab Osteoporosis Society (PAOS) and chaired the IOF Middle East and Africa Regional Advisory Council (RAC) for a decade. In 2015, her contributions were honoured with the IOF President’s Award, and she also received national commendations from both France and Austria for her humanitarian and medical achievements.

As a co-founder of the Syrian Environmental Society, she was a passionate advocate for ecological education, especially among youth. She offered free medical consultations through various charities, always driven by a deep empathy for those most in need. 

IOF President Professor Nicholas Harvey stated: 

"Gemma Adib was a deeply valued member of the IOF community, serving for many years as both a dedicated Board member and a passionate representative for the Middle East. Her tireless efforts to raise awareness and deepen understanding of osteoporosis reflect her unwavering commitment to education and osteoporosis patient care. Her legacy will endure in the countless lives she touched and the contributions she made to the field and especially to the advancement of osteoporosis awareness in the Middle East."

“On behalf of IOF, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr Adib’s family, friends, and all those around the world who are mourning her loss."

Images above:
Dr Adib being interviewed on World Osteoporosis Day 2011; 
Dr Adib, as first author of the IOF Middle East and Africa Audit 2011, was present at the official launch in Dubai, here together with friend, colleague and fellow Board member, Dr. Basel Masri (right).