As Ghana celebrates its 55th year of independence today (6th March), I'm asking what this day means to you? Personally I was a long way away from being conceived as most us today were and Dr Kwame Nkrumah was the leader I read about at school and heard about in the media. Yet every time I listen to his Independence day speech http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joBjzivBKz4 it clearly portrays a man with undisputed passion for his country. The kind we all need to portray.
To some Ghana's development lies with the government or the individual who so wishes to be concerned. But being Ghanaian is more than just flying the flag, wearing the T-shirt or displaying the ornament. It is about doing what you can in your own small way to promote our nations development. Our time keeping, work attitude, road manners, customer service to name but a few.
It's about time we do away with the attitude of "it's what grandmother used to do so I can do the same". There was a reason why our predecessors did things the way they did. A lot has changed since Dr Kwame Nkrumah led us to independence, yet we linger in our old ways.
As a brother of mine joked, ever since he can remember Ghana's golden tree chocolate comes in 3 forms. Small (long rectangular strip), medium(10 mini squares in two rows) and large(16 mini squares in three rows). To develop anything outside these squares must be a taboo. Otherwise, for a nation who prides itself as one of the world leading producers of cocoa, why is this brand not on the shelves of every international supermarket in all the shapes, forms and flavors there is to explore? (I'll save this for another day).
The responsibility of Ghana's development lies with the Ghanaian people. It's about time we stopped taking a back seat with folded arms and join in the quest to building a better Ghana. One thing i've always prided myself with though is the peace we have been able to maintain 55 years on. There's been a few local disturbances and curfews have been imposed on certain towns but if there's one thing i'm certain will be maintained its the peace.
A Ghanaian once asked, what is the Ghana dream? What does being Ghanaian mean to the average Ghanaian. if you ask me i'd say 'To be the role model nation for Africa since we took the first step toward independence. Self sustaining, free from government corruption and to be a peaceful democratic nation. PS: 24/7 power supply would be nice. :-)
We are in this together. United we stand. Happy Independence Day and God bless our homeland Ghana. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdwA5KwK2_4&feature=related
Monday, 5 March 2012
Sunday, 4 March 2012
Life Science careers conference - My experience
I attended my first life science careers conference this week (01/03) at the University of Westminster, London. The conference was organised by the Society of Biology in association with British Ecological Society, Society for Experimental Biology, Biochemical Society and the Society for Endocrinology and attracted science graduates, soon to be graduates and newly enrolled students. The event was scheduled to take place from 11.30am to 17.30hrs.
The day started with the usual registration process, an exhibition by various universities, societies and recruitment agencies followed by a series of talks focused on planning your life science career and the options available.
Universities present included the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of Surrey, Cranfield University, University of Westminster.
Societies included the Society of Biology, Biochemical Society, British Ecological Society, British Pharmacological Society, British Toxicology Society,Society for Experimental Biology, Society for Endocrinology, Society for microbiology and the Physiological Society. Matchtech and Nature jobs were the two recruitment agencies present.
Teachfirst, the charity organisation recruiting science graduates to teach in deprived schools were also present to showcase their work. Personally, it was the first I had heard of Teachfirst and had I discovered them earlier, I would definitely had signed up to their program. Primarily because I appreciate their cause and secondly because I like a challenge. Having the opportunity to have a direct measure of success through your efforts whiles impacting on the lives of deprived school pupils is truly rewarding. Find out about teach first here: http://www.teachfirst.org.uk/TFHome/
The afternoon session comprised of a series of talks from careers advisers, societies and representatives of academia, industry, environmental sector, government, education, biomedical and clinical sciences. Each of these representatives gave an insight into their career path and the opportunities available. One thing was clear across board, the importance of networking and going the extra mile to show initiative and evidence of your skill set.
Attendees were advised to identify an area of interest and to take it one step further by taking one thing away from the conference and acting on it. So what did I take from the conference?
As competitive and impossible as the media may portray the job market to be, the life science industry is growing in the UK but then so is the number of graduates. It is for this reason that it is imperative to have that extra edge over your competitors. To achieve this it is important to remain employable by focusing on developing your skills set. As Stephen Cole mentioned, some jobs today may be non existent tomorrow due to the influence of technology and developing your skills and qualities keeps you abreast with the current market so you remain employable. A lot of emphasis was placed on the evidence of skills and advantage of networking. You have to create opportunities for yourself and be patient, flexible and enthusiastic.
Personally, I have been contemplating pursuing a PhD and a career in science communication. Being at the conference has increased my understanding of the market and helped point me in the right direction. I have since joined a couple of relevant organisations, improved my CV and have a lists of avenues to explore in science communication / academia.
It was certainly a Thursday well spent and I look forward to other networking opportunities.
The day started with the usual registration process, an exhibition by various universities, societies and recruitment agencies followed by a series of talks focused on planning your life science career and the options available.
Universities present included the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, University of Surrey, Cranfield University, University of Westminster.
Societies included the Society of Biology, Biochemical Society, British Ecological Society, British Pharmacological Society, British Toxicology Society,Society for Experimental Biology, Society for Endocrinology, Society for microbiology and the Physiological Society. Matchtech and Nature jobs were the two recruitment agencies present.
Teachfirst, the charity organisation recruiting science graduates to teach in deprived schools were also present to showcase their work. Personally, it was the first I had heard of Teachfirst and had I discovered them earlier, I would definitely had signed up to their program. Primarily because I appreciate their cause and secondly because I like a challenge. Having the opportunity to have a direct measure of success through your efforts whiles impacting on the lives of deprived school pupils is truly rewarding. Find out about teach first here: http://www.teachfirst.org.uk/TFHome/
The afternoon session comprised of a series of talks from careers advisers, societies and representatives of academia, industry, environmental sector, government, education, biomedical and clinical sciences. Each of these representatives gave an insight into their career path and the opportunities available. One thing was clear across board, the importance of networking and going the extra mile to show initiative and evidence of your skill set.
Attendees were advised to identify an area of interest and to take it one step further by taking one thing away from the conference and acting on it. So what did I take from the conference?
As competitive and impossible as the media may portray the job market to be, the life science industry is growing in the UK but then so is the number of graduates. It is for this reason that it is imperative to have that extra edge over your competitors. To achieve this it is important to remain employable by focusing on developing your skills set. As Stephen Cole mentioned, some jobs today may be non existent tomorrow due to the influence of technology and developing your skills and qualities keeps you abreast with the current market so you remain employable. A lot of emphasis was placed on the evidence of skills and advantage of networking. You have to create opportunities for yourself and be patient, flexible and enthusiastic.
Personally, I have been contemplating pursuing a PhD and a career in science communication. Being at the conference has increased my understanding of the market and helped point me in the right direction. I have since joined a couple of relevant organisations, improved my CV and have a lists of avenues to explore in science communication / academia.
It was certainly a Thursday well spent and I look forward to other networking opportunities.
Saturday, 3 March 2012
The gift of hearing
The World health organisation (WHO) has marked today (3/3) as the international day for ear and hearing care. As part of the days events there was a forum where individuals could share their stories and experiences about deafness. One thing is for certain, hearing is a gift not to be taken for granted. Imagine what life would be like with reduced / no hearing. The inability to hear can be very frustrating as most sufferers shared. Here's a video on a day in the life of deaf culture
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0rDLb4qrU8&feature=related
Some people are born deaf, others become deaf as a side effect of other diseases such as cytomegalovirus, meningitis, measles and mumps while others loose their hearing just from negligence. Don't fall victim to the latter. When your child has pain in the ear or discharge from the ear, see your doctor as it might be an ear infection. When detected early, ear infection can be treated with simple affordable medication. Parents remember that slapping your child across the face can damage the ear drum and encourage infections.http://www.who.int/features/qa/81/en/index.html
Your ear is precious and hearing although taken so lightly can have serious consequences on your lifestyle. It affects your confidence, job, family, friendship and integration in the community. Help yourself where you can and prevent ear infection by not inserting anything into the ear i.e pencils, car keys, hair pins and cotton buds. Adults who develop hearing loss be it partially or fully are usually too embarrassed to tell anyone about it and so suffer in silence especially for fear of losing their job.
Don't be the reason for a deaf victims insecurity. There should be more education about hearing disabilities and more provision needs to be made to allow sufferers feel more integrated in community. In the meantime, remember not to yell but to speak clearly and don't fall victim to negligence. Look after your ear!.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0rDLb4qrU8&feature=related
Some people are born deaf, others become deaf as a side effect of other diseases such as cytomegalovirus, meningitis, measles and mumps while others loose their hearing just from negligence. Don't fall victim to the latter. When your child has pain in the ear or discharge from the ear, see your doctor as it might be an ear infection. When detected early, ear infection can be treated with simple affordable medication. Parents remember that slapping your child across the face can damage the ear drum and encourage infections.http://www.who.int/features/qa/81/en/index.html
Your ear is precious and hearing although taken so lightly can have serious consequences on your lifestyle. It affects your confidence, job, family, friendship and integration in the community. Help yourself where you can and prevent ear infection by not inserting anything into the ear i.e pencils, car keys, hair pins and cotton buds. Adults who develop hearing loss be it partially or fully are usually too embarrassed to tell anyone about it and so suffer in silence especially for fear of losing their job.
Don't be the reason for a deaf victims insecurity. There should be more education about hearing disabilities and more provision needs to be made to allow sufferers feel more integrated in community. In the meantime, remember not to yell but to speak clearly and don't fall victim to negligence. Look after your ear!.
Tuesday, 28 February 2012
Eating Disorder - Its real
February 20th - 26th has been dedicated to raising awareness on eating disorders. Watch this http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcccczwD36s&feature=related and here's a summary on the prevalence / burden of Eating disorders.
An eating disorder is the umbrella name which refers to the condition whereby one is constantly thinking of eating or not eating and feels out of control around food. The individual ends up becoming obsessed about food, weight and their body shape and end up using food to meet their insecurity needs instead of to satisfy hunger.
It is a mental illness and develops over time as a way of dealing with low self esteem, depression, conflicts, pressure, stress and the challenges of live. If left untreated it develops into a destructive cycle and can eventually lead to death.
The two most common types of eating disorders are Bulima Nervosa and Anorexia Nervosa. In the case of anorexia, the sufferer is abnormally sensitive about being perceived as fat or fears becoming fat and so deprive themselves of food. Bulimia sufferers develop a habit of binge eating and purging afterwards either by use of laxatives or self induced vomiting. Others forms of eating disorders include binge eating disorder and compulsive over eating.
Eating disorders is a psychological problem and it has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. It is usually associated with females but it affects males too. The condition affects about 70million individuals worldwide, 10 -15% of which are males. 1 in 5 women suffer at some point with an eating disorder or disordered eating and are usually between the ages of 12 and 25. It is the third most chronic illness among adolescent in the west. About 20% of sufferers die from other complications which develop as a result of the eating disorder such as suicide. Five to ten percent of anorexics die within ten years of onset, 18-20 percent die within twenty years of onset, and only 50 percent report ever being cured. The mortality rate for anorexia nervosa is 12 times higher than th death rate of all causes of death for females between 12 - 25.
Treatment is usually by psychological intervention.
It could happen to anyone. Don't suffer in silence.
Find out more here:
http://www.eating-disorders.org.uk/about-anorexia-nervosa.html
http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/emotional_health/mental_health/mind_eatingdisorders.shtml
http://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/counseling/Eating_Disorder_Statistics.pdf
An eating disorder is the umbrella name which refers to the condition whereby one is constantly thinking of eating or not eating and feels out of control around food. The individual ends up becoming obsessed about food, weight and their body shape and end up using food to meet their insecurity needs instead of to satisfy hunger.
It is a mental illness and develops over time as a way of dealing with low self esteem, depression, conflicts, pressure, stress and the challenges of live. If left untreated it develops into a destructive cycle and can eventually lead to death.
The two most common types of eating disorders are Bulima Nervosa and Anorexia Nervosa. In the case of anorexia, the sufferer is abnormally sensitive about being perceived as fat or fears becoming fat and so deprive themselves of food. Bulimia sufferers develop a habit of binge eating and purging afterwards either by use of laxatives or self induced vomiting. Others forms of eating disorders include binge eating disorder and compulsive over eating.
Eating disorders is a psychological problem and it has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. It is usually associated with females but it affects males too. The condition affects about 70million individuals worldwide, 10 -15% of which are males. 1 in 5 women suffer at some point with an eating disorder or disordered eating and are usually between the ages of 12 and 25. It is the third most chronic illness among adolescent in the west. About 20% of sufferers die from other complications which develop as a result of the eating disorder such as suicide. Five to ten percent of anorexics die within ten years of onset, 18-20 percent die within twenty years of onset, and only 50 percent report ever being cured. The mortality rate for anorexia nervosa is 12 times higher than th death rate of all causes of death for females between 12 - 25.
Treatment is usually by psychological intervention.
It could happen to anyone. Don't suffer in silence.
Find out more here:
http://www.eating-disorders.org.uk/about-anorexia-nervosa.html
http://www.bbc.co.uk/health/emotional_health/mental_health/mind_eatingdisorders.shtml
http://www.ndsu.edu/fileadmin/counseling/Eating_Disorder_Statistics.pdf
Monday, 27 February 2012
International women's Day
8th March is the 101st international Womens day. find an event near you here - http://www.internationalwomensday.com/
My Personal shortlist:
"Women in Research" http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/event/2750435627/eorg?ebtv=C
"No going Back" http://nogoingback.eventbrite.co.uk/
"Queen Poku" http://www.stratford-circus.com/events/theatre/queenpokou.htm
And why not try attempt writing a piece "She's the one" http://www.myworldpublishing.co.uk/shestheone/
Happy International Women' Day to all my ladies round the world.
My Personal shortlist:
"Women in Research" http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/event/2750435627/eorg?ebtv=C
"No going Back" http://nogoingback.eventbrite.co.uk/
"Queen Poku" http://www.stratford-circus.com/events/theatre/queenpokou.htm
And why not try attempt writing a piece "She's the one" http://www.myworldpublishing.co.uk/shestheone/
Happy International Women' Day to all my ladies round the world.
Saturday, 11 February 2012
Networking event
I went to my first official networking event last night and I'm pleased to say it was a Ghanaian gathering organised by the Ghanaian londoners team and held in Holloway, London at KC's. The event was to bring together like minded residents in the uk with interest in Ghana to network, share ideas and promote business.
The function was scheduled to start at 8pm and as is typical of GMT (Ghana man time) the event started about an hour later than scheduled and so felt a bit short lived at the end. Still the atmosphere remained very vibrant and attendees just kicked off mingling whiles waiting. As they say, 'Great minds think alike' hence there were no awkward moments of silence nor reserved participants. Everyone was chatty and very friendly. What I found inspiring about the occasion was the youthful age of the participants and the enthusiastic attitude of all present.
Among those present was James Clive Taylor of Scratch studios - Ghana who aims to promote Ghana hi-life / Hip-life music in the diaspora. It was the first I heard of Scratch Studios so I got back home and had to satisfy my curiosity. I was pleased with my discovery. Find out about scratch studios here. http://scratchstudios.org/index.htm
The function was scheduled to start at 8pm and as is typical of GMT (Ghana man time) the event started about an hour later than scheduled and so felt a bit short lived at the end. Still the atmosphere remained very vibrant and attendees just kicked off mingling whiles waiting. As they say, 'Great minds think alike' hence there were no awkward moments of silence nor reserved participants. Everyone was chatty and very friendly. What I found inspiring about the occasion was the youthful age of the participants and the enthusiastic attitude of all present.
Among those present was James Clive Taylor of Scratch studios - Ghana who aims to promote Ghana hi-life / Hip-life music in the diaspora. It was the first I heard of Scratch Studios so I got back home and had to satisfy my curiosity. I was pleased with my discovery. Find out about scratch studios here. http://scratchstudios.org/index.htm
Obviously we had the organizer and her team present in our midst. Adwoa Agyemang, an obvious proud Ghanaian and social entrepreneur with passion for youth entrepreneurship and women empowerment is the founder of the Ghana Londoners Network as well as Women in Enterprise (WE). Ghanaian Londoners is now in its third year and remains focused in it's vision to becoming the leading organisation promoting enterprise, investment opportunities and development for Ghanaians' in the Diaspora http://www.ghanaianlondoners.org/
Following on in her quest to promote women empowerment, Women in Enterprise aims to promote and acknowledge women in the community, who are dedicated to economic growth and community development. Now in it's second years the WE awards ceremony is scheduled for November 2012 and nomination are now open. http://www.weawards.co.uk/
The host of the event, a graduate from the Young enterprise Program (YEP) also organised by Ghanaian Londoners was pleasant, professional and one to watch. Find out about the YEP project here http://www.ghanaianlondoners.org/youth-enterprise/
Another youngster to watch who goes by the name of Rebecca, the second YEP project graduate at the event is a first year fashion and textiles student from the University of Creative Arts (UCA) who aims to specialize in making her own African themed textiles for the bridal market.
Also present was Lorna Asante, a Model & Actress. View her portfolio here - http://portfolios.models.com/lornaasante/
My best discovery of the evening however, was the Ghana Language School(GLS) run by Naomi Fletcher and her husband. They cater for all your business, tourism and just for fun needs where knowledge of a Ghanaian language is required. Meet Naomi here to find out more about the GLS. http://twentytenclub.com/2011/05/15/meet-naomi-fletcher/ .
Others present include representation from the 'Proud to be African' Clothing line - http://proudtobeafrican.co.uk/index.php/, Photographer and creative director Xenophon Ankrah of Filter - http://www.xenophonankrah.com/, http://filtercreative.co.uk/home, upcoming entrepreneur Nannette, Dr. Richard Armah of Groves Dental Centre in Surrey, Provident financial services and finally the face behind the Azonto fitness class in London. If you live in the London vicinity you should definitively go check them out. To satisfy my curiosity I hope to visit the class soon. http://azontofitness.wordpress.com/
Can't say I was surprised there were no scientist present. Overall, the event was certainly a Friday night well spent and I will endeavor all to be a part of the next gathering scheduled for sometime this year. There is a fun speed networking session and you even get complimentary tea and coffee delivered straight to your hands. United we stand!!!!!
Monday, 6 February 2012
Female Genital Mutilation
Female Genital Mutilation is defined by the World Health Organisation as the practise of partially or totally removing the external female genitalia, or causing injury to the female genital organs for non-medical reasons. This is a common practise in Africa and some parts of Asia and to a lesser extent among immigrants in the west. http://reproductiverights.org/en/document/female-genital-mutilation-fgm-legal-prohibitions-worldwide.
FGM is usually performed in young girls between 0 - 15years and is of no medical benefit. Ladies who have undergone FGM suffer with both short term and long term consequences. Short term repercussions include inflicting severe pain, shock, haemorrhaging, sepsis and urine retention. Long term aftermaths include infertility, increased risk of childbirth complications, increased risks of new born deaths, recurrent bladder and urinary tract infections.
There are about 140 million girls and women worldwide living with these consequences and FGM is now a violation of the human rights of girls and women. In Britain the practice was outlawed in 1985 and taking children out of the country to have it performed was made illegal in 2003. Eighteen African countries namely Benin, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d’Ivoire, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, South Africa, Tanzania, and Togo have passed laws declaring FGM illegal. Other countries in the west such as Australia, Belgium, Canada, Cyprus, Denmark, Italy, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden and United States where immigrants practise this have also enacted laws against FGM.
Regardless, this brutal practise is still happening today. Watch this. WARNING: DISTRESSING AND DISTURBING CONTENT -http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2010/jul/25/female-circumcision-children-british-law
In the quest to raise awareness of the inhumane nature if this practise, the 6th of February has been set aside as the international day on female genital mutilation.
Here is all you need to know about the severity of Female Genital Mutilation. Join hands educate to eradicate. http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs241/en/
What is wrong with this image?
The BBC today published an article about the increased risk of birth defects in pregnant women with diabetes. http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-16873489. With this story came the image above. ‘This is just wrong’, my first thought.
My thoughts are not geared towards the story nor is it towards the image but rather towards the harsh reminder of the impractical problem facing diabetics at large, which is the injection of insulin. Watch this. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pwL9e1TTdI
Diabetes is a long term condition in which the body has unusually high levels of glucose in the blood either due to the pancreas producing too little or no insulin at all. Insulin is a hormone required to metabolise glucose by converting it into energy for the body to utilise in going about daily activities. Lack of this energy and the build-up of glucose escalate into a host of other conditions including blindness, heart disease, and damage to blood vessels and nerves which can lead to loss of limbs. The condition affects about 346 million people worldwide according to figures by the World Health Organisation with more than 80% of diabetes related deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries.
Diabetes facts: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs312/en/index.html
There are two types of diabetes;
- Type 1 also known as insulin dependent or insulin controlled is where the pancreas is unable to produce any insulin at all
- Type II also known as non- insulin- dependent or diet controlled is where the insulin produced by the pancreas is not sufficient or does not work properly.
Both types of diabetes as with any other illness require a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Type I diabetes although less prevailing is the more aggressive form and treated by daily injection of insulin. Some cases of type II diabetes may also require insulin injections.
What is Diabetes? http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&NR=1&v=4EEtubB74lM
This takes me back to the image - Daily injection to body parts such as the stomach, thighs and back of the arms where fatty tissue is abundant. It is most effective when injected into the stomach making it the first site of choice. Can you imagine the discomfort or inconvenience of having to inject yourself several times daily? Not very practical yes, but this is not because researchers and pharmaceutics are insensitive to the mode of administration but because insulin is a tricky substance to make for administration in any other form.
Basically, insulin is a protein and proteins are fussy, in that the lack of the right environment causes their degradation. Enzymes present in the mouth and stomach will be quick to break down this insulin once they come into contact rendering them ineffective. It is for this reason that getting the right formulation to enable oral administration has been challenging. Direct injection into the body tissue bypasses this problem.
As with the numerous scientific advancement’s, there is hope for the future. A buccal (mouth) spray called Oral-lyn has been developed by Generax and currently undergoing clinical trials. Information and details on progress of this trial so far can be found here (apologies for the technicalities to my non- scientific audience).
Trial data so far: http://investor.generex.com/releasedetail.cfm?releaseid=590202
About Oral – lyn: http://generexind.com/oral-lyn.html
Here is a couple more life stories about living with diabetes.
Where you can, DO!!!
If you are a bit like me you can find an excuse any day to celebrate any event. Happy first Monday morning of the year, happy first portion of chocolate cake this month, happy first day with no caffeine etc.
On a more serious note however, certain days have been designated internationally by the World Health Organisation to help raise awareness and educate the general public on certain pressing issues and these need not pass you by.
Follow the links below to find out more and make of note of the dates below so where you can you may join in the broadcast and enlightenment of some of these worldwide subjects of concern.
Annual WHO events
- World Cancer Day
4 February 2012 - International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation
6 February 2012 - World Water Day
22 March 2012 - World TB Day
24 March 2012 - World Health Day
7 April 2012 - World Malaria Day
25 April 2012 - World No Tobacco Day
31 May 2012 - World Blood Donor Day
14 June 2012 - World Hepatitis Day
28 July 2012 - World Breastfeeding Week
1–7 August 2012 - World Humanitarian Day
19 August 2012 - World Suicide Prevention Day
10 September 2012 - World Rabies Day
28 September 2012 - World Heart Day
29 September 2012 - World Mental Health Day
10 October 2012 - World Sight Day
13 October 2012 - World Pneumonia Day
12 November 2012 - World Diabetes Day
14 November 2012 - World Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Day
16 November 2012 - World AIDS Day
1 December 2012 - International Day of Persons with Disabilities
3 December 2012 - Human Rights Day
10 December 2012
Sunday, 5 February 2012
Neglected Tropical Diseases
Last week saw Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD’s) make headlines in the scientific and humanitarian community. On 30th January, 13 of some of the world’s most renowned pharmaceutical companies together with prominent leaders and other charitable organisations pledged to work towards actively combating and eradicating some of the world’s deadliest yet neglected diseases by 2020.
I have followed this closely, done my research and here to bring you a summary of what there is to know about NTD’s. Visit World Health Organisation for more Information on NTD’s. http://www.who.int/features/factfiles/neglected_tropical_diseases/en/index.html
Neglected Tropical Disease refers to 17 selected diseases of ancient times which still remain a burden in 149 countries today. They have been highlighted as predominantly affecting the poor in developing countries. There are about 1.4 billion people affected by these diseases and the companies (listed in the table below) have pledged to donate an average of 1.4 billion treatments each year to those in need. Most of these conditions are preventable and treatable and can be eradicated through sanitation, clean water, awareness and early medical intervention. Of course these key measures remain a challenge in the affected regions and it is for this reason that these pledgers have vowed to actively pursue the eradication of NTD’s by 2020.
10 out of these 17 of which this pledge is to actively address are:
- Sleeping sickness, or Human African Trypanosomiasis
- Guinea worm disease, or dracunculiasis
- Lymphatic filariasis, or elephantiasis
- Chagas disease, or American trypanosomiasis
- Visceral Leishmaniasis or kala-azar-azar
- Onchocerciasis, or river blindness
- Soil-transmitted helminth's (STH)
- Blinding Trachoma
- Leprosy
- Onchocerciasis, or river blindness
A brief summary of these diseases and the areas of prevalence can be found here: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/healthnews/9048983/The-ten-tropical-diseases-being-targeted.html
Together the pledgers have vowed to:
- Sustain, expand and extend drug supply to affected nations
- Accelerate research and development for new treatments
- Increase funding to improve drug product and operational research
- Increase funding to improve delivery and implementation programmes including prevention, monitoring and education
- Coordinate their efforts and work together to achieve these goals by 2020
Click for details of the pledges made. http://www.vadvert.co.uk/health/21555-private-and-public-partners-unite-to-combat-10-neglected-tropical-diseases-by-2020.html
Table 1: Pledgers on eradicating Neglected Tropical Disease by 2020.
| Pharmaceutical companies | Governments | Other Organisations |
| GSK | UK | WHO |
| Merck & Co | USA | World bank |
| Novartis AG | UAE | Bill and Melinda Gates foundation |
| Sanofi Aventis | | Children’s investment fund foundation |
| Bayer HealthCare | | USAID |
| Johnson & Johnson | | DFID |
| Bristol- Myers-squipp Co | | Lion’s club International |
| Pfizer Inc | | |
| Gilead Sciences Inc | | |
| Merck KGaA | | |
| Abbott Laboratories | | |
| AstraZeneca Plc | | |
| Eisai Co | | |
Wednesday, 1 February 2012
World Cancer Day
This Saturday the 4th of February is World Cancer Day.
Having worked in the health care sector, I’ve seen first-hand what a daunting experience battling cancer can be for the sufferer, the family and loved ones. It is no respecter of person and it is important that awareness is continually raised. This is why I have taken time out to put together this short piece in aid of world cancer day.
1 in 3 people would have lost a relative or loved one to cancer at some point in their live and yet 1 in 3 of every cancer death can be prevented. There is an estimated annual death of about 7million worldwide from cancer. While scientists continue in the battle to treat this aggressive disease there is a lot more you can do to join in the battle against cancer. Here are 5 basic measures everyone should put in place.
- Healthy diet
- . Regular exercise.
- . No smoking
- . Regular checks
- . Look up your family history and look out for the signs
Click http://www.who.int/features/factfiles/cancer/01_en.html to find out 10 facts about cancer from WHO.
Ever met anyone who has battled and survived cancer? There are many survivors out there today and cancer is no longer the death sentence it used to be. Stand up and do something this world cancer day because together it is possible.
Most importantly remember cancer is no longer a death sentence. Don’t bury your head in the sand. Talk to someone. The earlier the better.
Watch this http://www.worldcancerday.org/ to find out all you need to know about world cancer day.
Together it is possible.
Thursday, 19 January 2012
Sport Relief
http://my.sportrelief.com/sponsor/hanatakordor
I have a check list of things I wish to accomplish by the end of this very eventful year, 2012.
I am kick starting this by helping to raise £500 for sport relief. To achieve this target, I will be taking part in the sport relief mile run, (a mile for every £100 raised), volunteer on a hospital ward, set up cake stalls and whatever other challenge you wish to throw at me (within reason ofcourse).
Please follow the link above to find out more and sponsor me however small to help reach my target.
Remember, every little helps to bring a smile to that special face.:-)
Thank you and stay posted to be a part of my journey.
Don't forget, every little helps to bring a smile to that special face. :-)
I have a check list of things I wish to accomplish by the end of this very eventful year, 2012.
I am kick starting this by helping to raise £500 for sport relief. To achieve this target, I will be taking part in the sport relief mile run, (a mile for every £100 raised), volunteer on a hospital ward, set up cake stalls and whatever other challenge you wish to throw at me (within reason ofcourse).
Please follow the link above to find out more and sponsor me however small to help reach my target.
Remember, every little helps to bring a smile to that special face.:-)
Thank you and stay posted to be a part of my journey.
Don't forget, every little helps to bring a smile to that special face. :-)
Monday, 16 January 2012
The Science Brain Drain
I have lost most of my science colleagues with whom I started my scientific journey with to other sectors predominantly business development and banking. Regrettably I have to say I am tempted to join in the trend. So what is the cause of this scientific brain drain?
Personally I love the sciences. I find research exiting and discoveries intriguing. I have worked in research, worked in manufacturing and have experience from both academia and industry. I use to say I could really not see myself doing anything else as science is the only subject that has logic behind its reasoning. It’s neither vague nor abstract but rather presents you with facts and figures. I enjoy my time in the lab. It is almost as if you are in your own kitchen whipping up new recipes. The idea of bench to bedside research fascinates me. There is nothing more rewarding than an experiment finally going to plan or checking your flask in the morning to see a beautiful monolayer or proliferating cells. Regrettably as much as I have enjoyed my time in the lab I can no longer bear grudge against my fellow absconded scientist.
In countries like Ghana from where I originate, basic science and maths forms a key part of early education and most parents wish for their children to pursue subjects in the sciences. At the secondary educational level, students have a choice of three subject areas namely science, business and arts. Following on from these when it comes to university applications, science students carry on with the usual science subjects business student move on to business and accounting degrees and general arts students move on to pursue the likes of human resources, law and politics.
Here in the United Kingdom, parents tend to allow their children make their own choices, expectations are lower and options are vast. Science remains the least favourite choice with subjects in the Arts and vocational courses being more popular. The few who pursue the sciences like myself soon find that pursuing a scientific career is not as clear cut as you expect.
I can understand the reasons for the scientific brain drain in Ghana as most people tend to just go with the flow in the job market and banking and telecommunications are on the boom. I cannot comment on the pathway for engineers or technologist but when it comes to the Biologics there is certainly a need for review into career pathways.
Unlike other courses where you have the option of taking up other recognised certified CPD courses, options in biologics seem limited. The chance to be able to secure funding to work on your own research topic of interest is almost negligible without a PhD or even some post-doctoral experience. Even then you would need some highly impressive recommendation. Understandably data from research is very crucial as it has a direct impact on human life and as such there is the need for the person providing this data to be qualified, competent and experienced. I suppose it is the same concept of having to study for at least 5years to qualify to be a registered medic. If I want to trust you with my life I need to be certain you are qualified, competent and experienced enough to handle it. That is just the way the job goes.
So what happens when you do not wish to sit behind a bench all through your career? Well this is the part no one ever tells you about, the vast scientific options outside the laboratory environment that does not require you to commit to a 3 – 4year PhD program. And hence the reasons for this science brain drain. Not everyone who sets off to pursue a career in science wants to wear a lab coat. The problem is that the choice of subject at university level are mainly tailored to the lab environment that if you wish to branch away into the likes of scientific writing or media or clinical studies and even scientific sales the course content is seen as inappropriate for these sectors. One would think you could then have the option of taking recognised certified CPD courses to enhance these prospects, only there is no such thing. Your best option is to sort something out yourself either through work experience, a top up degree or branching away altogether. Now not everyone can afford top up degrees or post graduate study.
Now when it comes to these other sectors where we seem to be losing talented scientist to, they recognise and appreciate the analytical and thorough minds of Scientist and are more than happy to poach us. Aside my passion for the biological sciences, I love IT and my interest in technology has been heightened over these last couple of years with all the recent advances in the sector. Still I prefer science over technology which is why I am now in a dilemma as other non-scientific options have come my way and now I have come to understand the reasons why I’ve already lost some of my colleagues to these other more straight forward and lucrative sectors.
So what have I decided to do? To have the best of both worlds and become a STEM Ambassador/ Science communicator and contribute my quota to curbing the science brain drain. Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths/Medicine....... We are all one family.
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