#HaLINCkana unites youth advocates for preconception health awareness

MANILA - Last August 29, Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health (VYLH) – Philippines together with the Institute of Human Genetics, NIH-UP Manila, March of Dimes, Department of Health (DOH) and the Commission on Population and Development (POPCOM) organized a webinar on preconception health which marked the culmination of the first youth-led Preconception Health Awareness Week. The webinar and week-long event held with the theme “Preconception Health para sa Malusog na Pangangatawan at Planadong Kinabukasan” aimed to increase public awareness on the importance of preconception health in attaining good health and well-being among women and men of reproductive age, as well as the importance of preconception care in the prevention of birth defects and premature births. 

Honorable speakers, namely, POPCOM Commissioner Dexter Galban, March of Dimes Vice President of Global Health Programs Dr. Salimah Walani, and UP Manila Chancellor and VYLH-Philippines National Program Adviser Dr. Carmencita Padilla, were invited to talk about the current teenage pregnancy and family planning situation in the Philippines, Preconception health and its global promotion, and Preconception health in the Philippines as a multi-sectoral challenge respectively. The webinar was moderated by VYLH-Philippines Vice President for NCR-South Luzon Ms. Jeanne Ruth Basas, RND.

Moreover, Dr. Mary Ann Abacan and Dr. Beverly Lorraine Ho also graced the webinar by giving their messages to the participants. Dr. Abacan, VYLH-Philippines NCR & South Luzon Cluster Adviser, welcomed all the participants and mentioned that “[i]t can’t be denied that the voice of the youth is what matters because it is your voice that will drive the future”.  This was followed by Dr. Ho, Director on Health Promotion and Communication Service of the Department of Health, who greeted everyone and expressed her appreciation for the invitation to this webinar. Furthermore, Dr. Ho mentioned the importance of promoting health in realizing “Ambisyon 2040” or the Philippines’ blueprint in the next 20 years. By the end of 2040, it is hoped that the country will have a "very low poverty rate, and also the young will become successful, accomplished, healthy, and achieve their full potential."

Comm. Galban noted that, although the national fertility rate went down significantly from 4.1 to 2.1 pregnancies per women from 1993 to 2017, consolidated data of POPCOM also showed a 63% increase in the number of pregnancies of women ages 10-14 years old from 2011 to 2018. According to him, this sector is “more vulnerable to challenges because they are not aware of the difficulties, particularly of the part of being a mother or the ramifications of being pregnant early on” which sometimes means that they have to stop school or not going back to school at all. Furthermore, he tackled the different Philippine population management programs challenging the youth especially those who are involved in health engagement, health policies, and health programs to look and see how they can collaborate and work together along with POPCOM. Relevant to the current pandemic situation, he mentioned that among the programs, Adolescent Health and Development, particularly on the issue of mental health is given much attention as this certain group lost their typical support system which they usually get from schools, religious groups, communities, and the like has been disrupted. Comm. Galban then left a challenging yet inspiring statement saying “The youth are done waiting for the world to change and the world is now waiting for the youth to change it.”

Dr. Walani discussed preconception health which she defined as optimizing a woman’s health to promote a future healthy pregnancy regardless of pregnancy plans. She also emphasized the fact that a mother mostly intervenes once she knows that she is pregnant weeks or months later the child was actually conceived; realizing that this is actually too late since the development of most vital parts happened on its first few days and weeks. Dr. Walani also advised couples to communicate with their partners by saying “talk to your partner, talk about health, don’t shy away from the idea of planning for the pregnancy. Don’t shy away from the idea of being healthy.” 

Dr. Padilla stressed that preconception health involves not only the women in their reproductive age but also the men since it’s a partnership and a life-course approach that is not only limited during pregnancy. She gave the participants a challenge to reflect on: “Why is it despite the programs we have in the government, despite the programs we have at the local health center, why is it that we’re still getting women who get pregnant at the wrong time and they’re not ready for the pregnancy and of course their problems with the babies; adding, “Be responsible. Start with yourself”. Dr. Padilla also emphasized that people are still part of the solution to the problems related to preconception health since the government alone can’t do it. There may be laws and programs available yet these are not clear and “packaged” programs that emphasize the value of preconception health in the country. 

Furthermore, she presented three collaborative strategies for promoting preconception health in the country. First is the academic strategy which involves the training of Genetic Counselors. Next is engaging the Youth through VYLH-Philippines where she acknowledged the efforts of the youth network as one of her major arms in reaching out to the community outside the university. The third is community research and engagement which the Institute of Humana Genetics-NIH, UP Manila has spearheaded. She also commended the Community Youth Project conducted by volunteer youth leaders and their partners which has received funding from a national grant competition.

In the said webinar, majority of the participants (56%) came from the age of 15-20 years old, followed by the 21-25 years old (30%), 26-30 years old (6%), and the remaining were from ages 31-35 and 35-up (6%). Majority of these participants also came from different partner organizations through #YouthForPH.

These demographics show that different age groups, especially the youth, are interested in learning about preconception health. The challenge now is on how to jumpstart and keep the momentum rolling in our advocacy for Preconception Health given the current pandemic. This is where we believe the youth can intervene, especially the social and technological savvy ones, in making the advocacy for Preconception Health digital and far reaching.#

Words by Shane Paul Baula, RN
Edited by Jasper Jover and RPascual

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#FolicacidPH 2020 focuses on folic acid and the health of our future generation

PAMPANGA - Once again, the Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health (VYLH)-Philippines, together with more than 40 organizations who accepted the challenge to become partners in the campaign, utilized its youth force last July 18, 2020 in the promotion of the significance of folic acid supplementation to the health of everyone, especially those who are planning to conceive.

The National Social media Day for Folic acid Awareness, also known as #FolicacidPH, was conceptualized by VYLH-Philippines Pioneer and Former National President Ryan John Pascual in 2016. Since then, the event is annually held in conjunction with the observance of the Nutrition Month and National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week. This year, the non-profit health promotion activity was coordinated by VYLH-Philippines North and Central Luzon Cluster. 

About the theme

Our future generation deserves the best start in life. An insufficient amount of folic acid in the body of a woman before and during each pregnancy can mean the difference between a normal life for the baby and a life challenged by congenital anomalies or one cut short by untimely death. Thus, taking folic acid supplements can be the first best gift we can give to our future kids.

On its 5th year, the theme of the social media campaign, “Folic acid supplementation: Key to better health of our future generation” emphasizes the importance of taking folic acid before and during each pregnancy, as well as its role in ensuring the health of our next generation. Knowing this, the vitamin can contribute largely to the quality of their lives and their future contributions to the society at large.

Folic acid is a key component in preventing some major birth defects of the baby's brain and spine, collectively known as neural tube defects (NTD). Studies shows that the intake of folic acid through supplementation and food fortification can significantly reduce the risk of NTDs. In case of supplementation, proper dosage and intake schedule can lessen the risk of NTDs by up to 70% [1].

Folic acid is very important for the health of babies during conception. However, this doesn’t mean that only pregnant women and those that are in the reproductive age need folic acid. Everyone needs folic acid. Folic acid, also known as Vitamin B9 or folate, is used by our bodies to make new cells. Since it is water-soluble, it is excreted regularly from the body and it should be replenished everyday.

According to the 7th National Nutrition Survey by the Food and Nutrition Research Institute-DOST, 1 in every 5 Pinays of childbearing age is folate deficient [2]. This may be associated to the low awareness on the significance of Vitamin B9 among Filipino women belonging in the reproductive age and the absence of a legislation on Folic acid fortification, supplementation and public education. With these in mind, VYLH-Philippines conducts awareness campaigns such as #folicacidPH and engages its campaign partners to reach more people and inform them of the impact of folic acid for them as an individual, their families and for the whole community.

#folicacidPH 2020

Modifications were made for this year’s campaign were made to adapt to the present situation brought about by restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This health crisis posed a great challenge to the campaign but the members of VYLH-Philippines made sure that, despite the hurdles they faced, the goal of increasing public awareness about the importance of Folic acid supplementation was met.

Because everyone’s safety is of highest priority, “on-the-ground” and group activities, that were conducted during the previous years by the members of VYLH-Philippines and its partners, were discouraged. Hence, #folicacidPH 2020 was composed purely of online activities. 

The campaign focused on sharing posts about folic acid and its benefits to everyone’s health. The official profile photo frame and profile banner for #folicacidPH 2020 were also launched during the campaign’s kickoff at the start of the month of July. Partner organizations were also encouraged to craft their own infographics and conduct online discussions about the campaign.

A statement chain was shared through social media where advocates stated the reason why they support #folicacidPH and a bingo card with pictures of different foods tickled the minds of the advocates as they identify which of those are good sources of folate.

To take advantage of the popularity of TikTok among the youth, VYLH-Philippines also launched #FASayaw, a dance challenge for Folic acid awareness. #folicacidPH also took the Twitter-verse by storm as facts about Folic acid were tweeted and retweeted by the advocates during the Tweet Barrage. Another Tiktok challenge that was done by VYLH-Philippines volunteers for the 11th Founding Anniversary of the network and national social media day was the "e-numan" challenge wherein volunteers took the vitamin in the tune of Oops by Little Mix.  

To cap off the campaign, over 300 advocates attended the Folic acid Webinar hosted by the VYLH-Philippines conducted on July 19, 2020 (6:00 P.M. Manila Time) via WebinarJam. The webinar featured three lectures. Ms. Jeanne Ruth Basas, RND, Nutritionist-Dietitian of the UP NIH-Institute of Human Genetics, discussed about folic acid in the diet. Dr. Mary Ann Abacan, Geneticist-Metabolic Specialist in UP-Philippine General Hospital and VYLH-Philippines NCR-South Luzon Cluster Adviser, gave updates about folic acid while UP Manila Chancellor and VYLH-Philippines Founding Adviser Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla explained the importance of having a comprehensive legislation for folic acid fortification and supplementation. The presentations were followed by an open forum facilitated by the webinar moderator, VYLH-Philippines National President Rufus Thomas Adducul.#

_______________
[1] Blencowe et al.2010
[2] DOST CALABARZON

Words by Nikki Dela Cruz, RN (Kabilin, Pampanga)
Edited by RPascual/Trisha Guioguio

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LAB1NG 1SA: VYLH-Philippines celebrates its 11th Founding Anniversary

"BANYUHAY: VYLH-Philippines' Metamorphosis to the New Normal." 

Around this theme, the Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health-Philippines (VYLH-Philippines) celebrated its 11th Founding Anniversary amidst the pandemic. 

Since on-the-ground advocacy works are yet to be encouraged, VYLH-Philippines deliberately thought of activities that would mobilize its members through the different social media platforms. This year, to continuously showcase the volunteers' creative juices in the "new normal",  social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter were used to increase public awareness on the network's advocacy.

Having said that, an 11-day online festivity from July 8 to 18, 2020, was conceptualized in celebration of the network's advocacy and the more than a decade work of volunteer youth leaders throughout the country in promoting the network's four advocacies: newborn screening, folic acid supplementation, rare disorder support, and the latest addition, preconception health. 

This year's roster of activities is a fusion of traditional VYLH-Philippines activities and several social media trends, such as TikTok.

On its culminating day, VYLH-Philippines had its annual online "Kamustahan" get-together dinner via Zoom, which was well-attended by its members. It was a blissful night as everyone got to enjoy the short program and participate with the online games. The highlight of the night was the premiere of the the VYLH's song "Be One, VY." The song, composed by Ms. Beau Tinio (Hiraya) of Bohol, was first played during the network's 4th National Leadership Congress.

Video by June Abellar (Hayaw, Negros Occidental) 

Despite the situation we are facing, everyone enjoyed celebrating the success of the network. Another highlight on that night was the message given by the network's founding adviser, Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla, or Tita Menchit, as what we volunteers are used to calling her. It only goes to show that the pandemic can't stop the volunteers from performing what they love doing even in this very challenging time when most activities are interdicted.

Additionally, in observance of this year's Nutrition Month and National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week, the Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health-Philippines, together with the Institute of Human Genetics, National Institutes of Health-UP Manila, organized the 5th #FolicacidPH National Social media Day for Folic acid Awareness. The event spearheaded by VYLH-Philippines North and Central Luzon Cluster and supported by Newborn Screening Central Luzon and partner youth organizations, was held under the theme, "Folic Acid Supplementation: Key to Better Health of our Future Generation". Various social media activities and a webinar on folic acid were also organized by the network in support of the observance of the social media day. 

For this year's anniversary, the VYLH-Philippines Mindanao Cluster was tasked to spearhead the activities and be the overall-in-charge of the celebration. The Newborn Screening Center - Mindanao, through the generosity of the Unit Head and VYLH-Philippines Mindanao Cluster Adviser, Dr. Conchita Abarquez, or "Tita Conch," sponsored tumblers. The tumblers were sent out to the active members, especially those who have completed the 11-day challenge.#

Words by Shane Paul Baula, RN (K4, Davao City), VP Mindanao

Edited by: RPascual, Trisha Guioguio

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#YouthForHealth: VYLs speak on COVID19 and the Youth

MANILA – With almost six months of quarantine restrictions in the country, the Philippines continues its fight against the pandemic caused by a novel virus described in December 2019. SARS-COV2, then known as the novel Coronavirus 2019, was determined as the causative agent of a new type of infectious respiratory syndrome, the Coronavirus Disease 2019 or COVID-19. 

Based on the latest statistics released by the Department of Health on August 25, there are 197, 164 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the country while more than 3,000 deaths have been recorded [1]. Metro Manila which has been subjected to varying levels of quarantine accounts to more than half of the total cases in the country. CALABARZON, Central Visayas, Central Luzon, and Western Visayas are the other regions in the country with high number of confirmed cases. Early this month, health workers have requested the government to tighten restrictions in NCR to provide a breather of the congested health system and provide a reprieve for our frontliners due to the continuous influx of COVID-19 cases [2]. 

DOH COVID19 Tracker. (Accessed 25 August 2020)

In this edition of #YouthForHealth, Volunteer Youth Leaders (VYLs) have shared their experiences, insights on the role of the youth, and recommendations in protecting ourselves and our families during this pandemic. 

On the challenges they experienced due to the pandemic

On the COVID-19 prevention strategies that they have done

On what VYLs recommend on how we can protect ourselves

On the role of the youth during this pandemic

A Change in Behavior

Various government and non-government organizations are promoting a “healthier” change in behavior for Filipinos as a response to the pandemic. Two of the campaigns focusing on COVID-19 prevention that are found in social media are “BIDA Solusyon” and “Bagong Gawi”.  

The Department of Health together with other government agencies is currently leading the campaign “BIDA Solusyon sa COVID-19.” The campaign is envisioned as a “strong and cohesive information campaign” which will encourage the Filipino people to take an active role in the fight against the “COntraVIDa’ that is COVID-19. Four behaviors are promoted by the campaign which are simplified in the BIDA acronym – namely B for “Bawal ang walang mask” (masks are necessary); I for “I-sanitize ang mga kamay, iwas-hawak sa mga bagay (clean your hands for 20 seconds)”; D for “Dumistansiya ng isang metro (keep your distance at 1 meter)” ; and A for “Alamin ang totoong impormasyon (know factual information).” The multi-media campaign implemented by the Health Department also featured celebrity-endorser and “BIDA Champion” Alden Richards as its ambassador. On the other hand, the BIDA Solusyon Facebook page is currently supported by more than 19,000 followers. 

In Facebook, another campaign that is supported by a growing number of organizations is “Bagong Gawi” (New Habits). According to its Facebook Page, Bagong gawi aims to guide Filipinos on the journey of learning the basics and instill habits needed to lead safe and healthy lives in the midst of the pandemic [4]. Since its launch in July, the campaign has already produced online guides covering various topics of “new normal” life that were published in English, Filipino, Ilocano, Cebuano, and Hiligaynon. Among the topics that were covered in the campaign include proper handwashing, use and disposal of face masks, habits outside the home and at the workplace. One of the recent posts of the campaign emphasized that COVID-19 is not the only infectious disease that a person can contract during this pandemic. Several basic precautions such as proper handwashing, vaccination, proper food handling, maintaining the cleanliness of our surroundings, and habits during essential travel were recommended [5].  

For VYLH-Philippines, practices that are related to infection prevention are included in the four strategies in achieving preconception health. The strategies that are promoted by the network are popularized as “L.I.N.C” which stands for “Healthy Lifestyle, Infection Prevention, Good Nutrition, and Contraception and Planning the Family.” 

Basically, preconception health is the health of women and men during their reproductive years. Preconception health focuses on taking healthy steps prior to pregnancy in order to protect the health of the baby that they may have in the future. Thus, aside from reducing the risk of adverse birth outcomes such as birth defects and preterm birth, preconception health can also improve the health status of women and men at any stage of their life, regardless of their plan to become parents. 

This August, VYLH-Philippines highlights preconception health as its most recent core advocacy through the first #PH4PH Preconception Health Awareness Week. In addition to promoting the concepts under preconception health, the #YouthForPH, a network of organizations coordinated by VYLH-Philippines that are united in the promotion of preconception health, is also being formed [6]. Despite the current pandemic situation, one of the main considerations for the network on pursuing the launch of the campaign is the need for increasing health awareness and instilling health seeking behavior among Filipinos, particularly the Filipino youth.#

For updates on the first Preconception Health Awareness Week, follow @YouthForPH in Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

___________________

[1] DOH COVID19 Tracker. https://www.doh.gov.ph/covid19tracker Accessed 25 August 2020 

[2] PRRD heeds front-liners’ call; reverts NCR, other areas to MECQ https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1110889

[3] DOH BIDA Solusyon sa COVID19. https://www.doh.gov.ph/bidasolusyon

[4] Vision and Mission of Bagong Gawi. https://facebook.com/bagonggawiph/posts/116390803450089

[5] Protection against other Communicable Diseases. https://facebook.com/bagonggawiph/posts/137727654649737

[6] VYLH-Philippines #PH4PH Preconception Health Awareness Campaign Guide. https://sites.google.com/site/vylhphilippines/our-activities/social-media-campaigns/ph4ph

Compiled by RPascual (Pioneer - Cavite)

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First Dr. Salvacion Gatchalian Memorial Webinar focuses on Congenital Disorders

MANILA - The Dr. Salvacion R. Gatchalian Memorial Webinar Series was launched last July 14, 2020 with no less than UP Manila Chancellor Carmencita Padilla as the inaugural webinar speaker on the topic: Congenital Childhood Diseases: Role of Newborn Screening.

An engaging lecture attended by more than 700 physicians, nurses, students, and lay persons, Dr. Padilla imparted three important key points: 

1. Congenital disease, also called a birth defect, is a major cause of infant morbidity and mortality;

2. The goal of newborn screening is to screen all Filipino newborns for common and rare congenital diseases to reduce preventable deaths; and

3. The COVID-19 pandemic greatly affected the newborn screening performance in the country but efforts were made to continue the service for the newborns.

This webinar was sponsored by the Newborn Screening Society of the Philippines, Inc. Dr. Ma-Am Joy Tumulak, genetic counselor at the UP Manila National Institutes of Health, moderated the interactive question and answer portion. A testimonial video featured a patient with congenital hypothyroidism who was screened at birth and went on to get a college degree.

Watch the webinar at the MU Sigma Phi Ageing and Longevity
Medical Webinars Facebook Page

The year-long pediatric webinar series aims to honor the memory of Dr. Salvacion R. Gatchalian, a renowned pediatric infectious disease specialist, President of the Philippine Pediatric Society, alumna of the UP College of Medicine, and member of the Mu Sigma Phi Sorority, whose untimely passing shook UP Manila and the medical community. The series tackles relevant and timely medical topics on the care of children – immunization, diabetes, hearing loss, nutrition, developmental growth, pneumonia, red eye, among others. Through interactive lectures, prominent specialists in the forefront of their respective medical fields, here and abroad, discuss salient points to provide evidence-based guidelines for timely and appropriate medical care and improve the quality of life of the pediatric population.

Registration to the webinars is free through bit.ly/muwebinars2020. The target participants include physicians (general practitioners, occupational and industrial physicians, family and community medicine physicians, school physicians, preventive and wellness medicine practitioners, doctors to the barrios), other healthcare professionals (nurses, pharmacists), and medical and paramedical students,here and abroad. The webinars will be held on selected Tuesdays (12:00-1:00pm Manila time) from July 2020 to June 2021, through livestream.upm.edu.ph, and Facebook @AgeingWebinars.

This webinar series is organized by the Mu Sigma Phi Sorority of the UP College of Medicine in cooperation with the Postgraduate Institute of Medicine and the Mu Sigma Phi Foundation, Inc, to raise funds for the PGH Department of Pediatrics. For more inquiries, please contact muwebinars2020@gmail.com (DR. ROWENA F. GENUINO for UP Healthscape/UP Manila)#

Read the full issue of UP Manila Healthscape No. 13. 

The weekly UP Manila Healthscape is published by the Information, Publication, and Public Affairs Office (IPPAO) of UP Manila.

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“Kalusugan ay Karapatan” COVID-19 series goes online

MANILA - "Kalusugan ay Karapatan" (Health is a Right), an online program produced and broadcasted by TVUP, is currently airing a series on COVID-19. The online program hosted by VYLH-Philippines National Adviser and University of the Philippines Manila Chancellor Dr. Carmencita Padilla tackles various  health and wellness topics as she interviews leading health experts in the country. It also aims to make the public more informed and more active with preventive health measures which are important especially in this time of a pandemic. 

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a new strain of coronavirus, SARS-COV2. This new virus and disease were unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the infectious disease outbreak as a global pandemic. A few days later community quarantine and outbreak prevention measures were implemented throughout the Philippines. Aside from fighting the infection, misinformation has also been recognized as a problem. 

As of May 30, the Department of Health has reported and confirmed more than 16,000 cases and 900+ deaths in the country, while more than 5.9 million cases and 360,000+ deaths have been reported worldwide.

Series Episode 1: COVID-19 Overview (May 15, 2020)

The first episode of the series provided an overview of COVID-19 with Dr. Marissa Alejandria, Director of the UP Manila National Institutes of Health (NIH) Institute of Clinical Epidemiology and President of the Society for Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, as resource person. The following are excerpts from the interview.

What is COVID-19 and what are its symptoms?

COVID-19 is caused by SARS COV2 virus. It usually starts as a mild illness which can progress to moderate (mild and moderate~80%), severe (15%), or critical stage(5%). Symptoms are variable and may include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, muscle pain, diarrhea, or loss of smell and taste. In moderate cases, there will be additional shortness of breath and pneumonia that can be seen on X-ray. In severe cases, difficulty in breathing worsens and may need ventilatory support in an ICU. When patients deteriorate, like needing dialysis, they are in critical stage.

How does the virus spread from one person to another?

It mostly spreads from person to person among close contacts through infected respiratory droplets that come out during coughing, sneezing, or talking/singing. Some of the virus settle on surfaces and can be introduced to the mouth, nose, or eyes by hands that touched those surfaces. These are the reasons why it is very important to maintain physical distancing, wear mask, properly cover cough and sneeze, and wash hands frequently.

What is the presymptomatic period in this infection?

The virus starts being shed two days before there are any symptoms and can already infect others; but transmission is high when symptoms are manifest. Physical distancing and mask wearing are therefore important to protect contacts during this presymptomatic period when there are no or just mild symptoms. Washing of hands is also very important at this time to prevent contamination. When exposed to an infected person, the contact may develop symptoms 2 to 14 days after, average of 5-6 days.

The last pandemic was the Spanish flu of 1918. What can we learn from it?

The Spanish flu of 1918 and the COVID-19 are both pandemics, able to spread across continents; and both have no treatment or vaccine (so far for COVID-19) which led to lives lost, 50-100 million for the Spanish flu. To control that pandemic, quarantine and isolation measures were also implemented. It lasted till 1920 because there was a second wave after the quarantine measures were lifted. We have to learn from this. We have to calibrate our responses in terms of the quarantine measures or the non-pharmaceutical interventions that we are implementing now to contain and mitigate this pandemic.

As an infectious disease specialist, what are your messages for the general public?

For the general public, we need to lead a healthy lifestyle; and for us to control this pandemic, discipline and cooperation in implementing personal protective measures are paramount. These are physical distancing, hand hygiene, proper cough etiquette, and not stressing ourselves with misinformation. We need to be responsible, listen to credible sources, and not be tempted to spread fake news.

Series Episode 2: Protecting One's Self (May 24, 2020)

Episode 2 in the COVID-19 series tackled the topic Protecting One’s Self with Dr. Regina Berba, chair of the PGH Infection Control Unit as resource person. The following are some of the myths on COVID-19 being perpetrated on social media that Dr. Berba emphatically disproved. 

(UP Manila Healthscape COVID-19 Special Issue No. 6)

TVUP (TVUP.ph) is an Internet television (webcast) network operated by the University of the Philippines which delivers free content for information and educational purposes. TVUP also airs the #stopCOVIDdeaths webinars organized by UP in partnership with the National Telehealth Center-NIH, UP Manila and PhilHealth. Videos of TVUP programs are available in Youtube.  (RPascual)

______________________

This article was prepared using excerpts from the UP Manila newsletter, "Healthscape"

Download Healthscape (Special Issue on COVID19) No. 5

Download Healthscape (Special Issue on COVID19) No. 6

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Para Sa Mga Frontliner - Isang Tulang Papugay

PARA SA MGA FRONTLINER

Tulang Papugay

katha ni Junaif Ampatua

Kulang ang salitang "salamat"

bilang papugay sa lahat ng inyong hirap.

Itong sakunang nangyari'y di inaasahan

ngunit sa inyo kami ngayon ay nakapasan.

Ilang buhay man ang nanganib,

ilang buhay din ang inyong nasagip,

Ilang buhay man ang sa inyo'y nasawi,

Sa amin kayo'y mananatiting bayani!

Alam naming di ito ang dapat --

na hantungan at katapusan nating lahat,

kaya naman lubos ang paghanga

at paggalang namin sa inyo --

aming mga makabagong mandirigma!

Inyong baunin sa laban, aming mga panalangin,

pati na ang pag-asang, lahat ay aayos din.

Sinubok na tayo noon at dati pa,

ngunit walang makakatinag

sa pusong Maharlika.

Dugo ng mga bayani sa ugat nati'y nanalaytay,

likas na sa atin ang pagiging matibay!

Para sa mga taong nasa unahan,

Padayon! Kasama kami sa inyong laban!

Batid namin lahat ang inyong sakripisyo,

Mabuhay ang dugong Filipino --

Aming Frontliners,
Mabuhay kayo!

________________

Junaif Ampatua LPT (Batch Kalilintad, 2017) is an ALS Mobile Teacher at Schools Division of Calapan City. He took up BSEd-English at St. Anthony College Calapan City Inc.. At present, he is studying MAEd major in English Literature at Divine Word College of Calapan. In 2019, Junaif became part of a team that pioneered a health facility project for the IP Community of Baras, Oriental Mindoro. Their project Project K4Baras (Kalinga, Karunungan, Kalinisan, at Kaligtasan para sa Baras) became the recipient of Bayanihan para sa Kalusugan Award and recognized as the YSEALI Most Innovative Project during the culmination of Ideas Positive Run 9.

Featured Image: "The Frontliners" 

Original digital artwork by Daje Pinpiño 

Used with permission from the artist

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ICBD 2020 calls to Accelerate Efforts for Birth Defects Prevention and Care

The 9th International Conference on Birth Defects and Disabilities in the Developing World (ICBD) was held at the
Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Colombo Sri Lanka from February 23-26, 2020 (Photo @SLMAonline)

COLOMBO, SRI LANKA – With the theme, “Health for All: Accelerate Efforts for Birth Defects Prevention and Care”, the 9th International Conference for Birth Defects and Disabilities in the Developing World (ICBD) aligned with the third Sustainable Development Goal which aims to ensure health for all. The four-day conference-workshop held at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel, Colombo, Sri Lanka last February 23-26, 2020 gathered 400 experts, health professionals and advocates from 36 countries. 

Organized by the March of Dimes, the Sri Lanka Medical Association, the Ministry of Health of Sri Lanka, and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (US CDC), the 9th ICBD featured two pre-conference workshops, nine plenary sessions, and fifteen simultaneous sessions of oral presentations. A total of 59 poster presentations were also included in the conference which covered the surveillance of birth defects, public health policy, health care systems and strategies to ensure prevention, and improving care for persons with birth defects. The two pre-conference workshops that were held prior to the ceremonial opening of the conference centered on birth defects surveillance data and advocacy, and the development of targeted genomic education. 

Participants of the Birth Defects Surveillance Workshop were guided on preparing a communication plan on advocating for birth defects awareness and surveillance (Photos: @SLMAonline @WorldBDdayPHL)

On the night of February 23, the conference formally opened with the ceremonial procession and lighting of the oil lamp, as part of Sri Lankan tradition. Welcome remarks were given by the conference chairs, World Health Organization (WHO) - South East Asia Regional Office (SEARO) Senior Adviser Dr. Neena Raina and the president of the Sri Lanka Medical Association Dr. Indika Karunathilake. The Sri Lankan Minister of Health and Indigenous Medical Services, Women and Child Affairs, and Social Security Mrs. Pavithra Wanniarachchi graced the event as the guest of honor. On the other hand, Prof. Arnold Christianson gave the keynote address wherein he presented a historical account and the continuing need for services for people with congenital disorders in low and middle income nations. Various traditional dances of the host country entertained guests throughout the opening program. 

Ceremonial lighting of the oil lamp marks the opening of the 9th ICBD (Photo @SLMAonline)

From February 24 to 26, various plenary and simultaneous sessions became the avenue for the sharing of research outputs, programs and strategies in birth defects surveillance, prevention and care. Specific plenary sessions were also dedicated to human rights and inclusion of people with birth defects, premature birth, digital health standards and interventions, and the role of community and parent organizations. 

March of Dimes Vice President for Global Programs
Dr. Salimah Walani on the podium for the SDG talk

One of the plenary sessions focused on linking birth defects with the Sustainable Development Goals. In the session, Dr. Nathalie Roos (WHO), Dr. Salimah Wallani (March of Dimes, USA), and Dr. Vijaya Kancherla (USA) conducted a live online poll among the conference participants on their perception about birth defects and its relation to the SDGs, and discussed the results of their literature search on the topic. 

Local and international participants were entertained in a night of music and dance at the conference dinner and beach party held on February 25 at Mount Lavenia Hotel, Sri Lanka. 

Philippines participates to ICBD 2020

UP Manila Chancellor Dr. Carmencita Padilla
(Photo @SLMAonline)

The Philippine delegation to ICBD2020 was headed by University of the Philippines Manila Chancellor Dr. Carmencita Padilla who was invited to give a plenary presentation on advocating for neonatal newborn screening programs. In her talk, Dr. Padilla highlighted some of the challenges that are needed to be addressed in the establishment of neonatal screening in a developing healthcare system. She concluded with the lessons she learned from the father of newborn screening, Dr. Robert Guthrie. Dr. Padilla noted that developing countries should learn from other countries with established programs, thus avoiding the same mistakes. Lastly, newborn screening program planners and proponents should never give up despite the obstacles that they will encounter.  

Dr. Padilla also gave a presentation on the implementation of the Wellness in the Workplace Project in the Philippines as part of the session on life course approaches and programs.  In her talk, Dr. Padilla presented an update on the preconception health and wellness program initially implemented among workers in a textile factory and the office setting. For the second phase of the program, Padilla revealed that initial work has been done in utilizing e-learning access of the learning modules through a partnership of the Institute of Human Genetics, NIH-UP Manila and the UP Open University. A panel of experts composed of doctors from various specialties has also been formed for the review and improvement of the learning modules. The Wellness in the Workplace Project is part of global collaboration under the March of Dimes. The implementation of the project in Lebanon was also presented in the same session.

There were also two oral presentations from the Philippines that were included in the symposium on engaging civil society in preconception care. Dr. Padilla, as the National Program and Founding Adviser of Volunteer Youth Leaders for Health-Philippines, presented the various strategies in engaging the youth in preconception care that were implemented by the youth network. These strategies included national social media campaigns, community youth formations, and the conduct of a youth-led community-based preconception health campaign. The community-based campaign was also presented in a poster presentation by NCR-South Luzon Coordinator Jeanne Ruth Basas on behalf of Team Proactive Kabilin. The poster highlighted the pioneering work done by VYLH-Philippines and its partners on implementing a youth-led community-based preconception health awareness campaign in Los Baños, Laguna. 

Speakers and moderators of the Simultaneous Session on Engaging Civil Society in Preconception Care 

In a separate talk on the same simultaneous session, VYLH-Philippines National President Mr. Rufus Thomas Adducul shared some lessons and challenges encountered in a youth volunteer program for health. Adducul noted that youth-led volunteer programs have an advantage as they know the needs of the youth. Volunteer programs should also use diversity among its members to its advantage. Likewise, volunteer groups should strive in building their brand and identity. In terms of addressing challenges, Adducul mentioned the use of social media in connecting youth leaders across the archipelago, sustaining the commitment and participation of youth leaders, as well as addressing the financial needs of the network through partnership building. Beyond their passion and commitment, he also stressed that the “youth cannot do it alone”, as support from public and private sector are necessary in enabling youth leaders in fulfilling their role in nation building.   

On the other hand, the second poster of the delegation focused on the integration of rare diseases in the Philippine public health delivery system through legislation. Although it spanned for years, the efforts for a rare disease legislation succeeded with the enactment of RA 10747 or the Rare Diseases Act of the Philippines on March 2016.

Colombo Declaration

The conference concluded with the plenary session on the voice of the community and patient organizations, and the presentation of the Colombo Declaration on Birth Defects Care and Prevention. The declaration primarily requests the World Health Organization (WHO) to revisit the implementation of the 63rd World Health Assembly Resolution on Birth Defects, as well as to reinvigorate global efforts to prioritize birth defects prevention and care in the global health agenda. It further calls upon governments, international development partners, funders, as well as the WHO to dedicate support and resources to 14 measures that can help in accelerating efforts towards birth defects care and prevention in order to achieve “Health for All”.

Presentation of the Colombo Declaration on Birth Defects Care and Prevention at ICBD 2020

The activities recommended by the declaration supported by 20 local and international organizations include establishing systems for the collection of quality data on birth defects, developing national policies and programs for birth defects care and prevention, ensuring health care policy and practice is based on current scientific evidence, ensuring the continuation of services from pediatric to adult life for individuals among birth defects, and providing training to health care workers including genetic and genomic education. The declaration also endorses educating the public on improving birth outcomes through traditional and social media modalities, engaging civil society and patient organizations, as well as implementing programs to eliminate stigma and discrimination against persons with birth defects and disabilities.

During the closing program, a copy of the declaration was presented by the ICBD conference chairs to Mrs. Shiranti Rajapaksa, the wife of Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister. In an update from the Sri Lanka Medical Association (@SLMAonline), the conference organizers also presented the declaration to the Sri Lankan Health Minister, Director General of Health Services, and the WHO Country Representative in Sri Lanka as part of their observance of World Birth Defects Day.

In the closing ceremonies of the 9th ICBD, children with birth defects and disabilities performed on stage. Afterwards, international participants of ICBD 2020 were invited for a tour to “Ayati”, the National Center for Children with Disabilities in the University of Kelaniya as a post-conference activity.

The ICBD is a biennial conference which aims to provide a platform in building the capacity of lower-income countries for the prevention of birth defects and preterm births, and care of people living with birth defects. Previous editions of the ICBD were held in South Africa (2001), China (2005), Brazil (2007), India (2009), Poland (2011), Philippines (2013), Tanzania (2015) and Colombia (2017).#

Download the Colombo Declaration on Birth Defects Care and Prevention

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Written by RPascual (Pioneer, Cavite)
Edited by TGuioguio (K4, Davao City)

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