The info hub for the hub of global health
Countering misinformation
Join us for a conversation about countering misinformation and promoting necessary investments in health. Fara Ndiaye, deputy executive director of Speak Up Africa, will explain how the organization provides local communities with reliable info by amplifying the voices of African science leaders.
There’s still time to register for the virtual event on Monday, February 28 at 4:00 pm PT! This event is open to anyone interested in learning about success drivers in uptake and ownership of health interventions—from a communications perspective.
UNICEF in Ukraine
The conflict in Ukraine is escalating rapidly, and UNICEF is on the ground to support children and families. After seven years of conflict and layered challenges along with the new threat from Russia, the health care, education, and water systems are buckling under the pressure.
UNICEF emergency teams are in Ukraine delivering safe water, educational supplies, health care, and nutritional support as close as possible to the contact line. They are also working to protect children from violence, abuse, and risks from weapons such as explosives and mines. Follow UNICEF for updates on the developing situation.
Lifesaving partnership
Seattle Children’s, the University of Washington, PATH, Adara, and Kiwoko Hospital in Uganda have joined forces to save premature babies. This group of medical providers and researchers created a low-cost device to help babies breathe that uses blended oxygen and doesn’t require electricity—meaning it is more accessible for low-income countries. For the millions of preterm babies born each year with immature lungs, this could mean a better chance to grow and thrive.
Prepping the pipeline
Do you know any rising 10th or 11th graders who are interested in science and research? Fred Hutch is accepting applications for the Pathways Research Explorers program to start in August. Students can apply now to jump into the pipeline for global health careers.
Eating disorders in youth
Between increased social media, fewer opportunities for social support, and feeling the need to control something during a chaotic time, eating disorders in youth are on the rise. Seattle Children’s reported that referrals for eating disorders have quadrupled since the beginning of the pandemic.
Seattle Children’s has expanded its treatment program to support more youth and families during this time. The team provides diagnosis and treatment, medical monitoring, and nutritional support. If a young person you know might have an eating disorder, check out the resources. Early detection and treatment are key.
The blame game
While wealthy nations have extra vaccine doses even after offering boosters, more than 80% of the African population hasn’t had access to a single dose. Partners In Health (PIH) says this is due to global health inequities and discriminatory measures. Wealthy nations have blamed Africans for new COVID-19 variants and spreading the virus, and yet have made it very challenging to access vaccines on the continent.
PIH has partnered with national governments in five African countries to train health workers, strengthen supply chains, and provide tests, treatment, and vaccines. To advocate for vaccine equity, you can add your name to PIH’s petition urging the Biden administration to support global vaccine access.
Zoomin’ around town
Mar. 2: Join Forum One for Experiences That Inspire Your Audiences to Engage—a webinar to learn about audience engagement, strategic partnerships, and innovation.
Mar. 8: Attend International Women’s Day: A New Generation with the Gates Discovery Center for a virtual conversation with women leaders in global health and gender equality from the Gates Foundation, WomenLift Health, and others.
Mar. 8: Register to attend You Should Smile More: Gender Bias in the Workplace through Davis Wright Tremaine’s Project W.
Mar. 10: Save the date for the Women in Global Health Seattle Q1 virtual gathering.
Mar. 22: Register for another round of Fun Talk about Tough Topics with Trevor Noah and Fred Hutch.
Mar. 22 and 24: Sign up for UNICEF USA’s Advocacy Day to build relationships with members of Congress and raise awareness of UNICEF’s work.
Mar. 26: Get your tickets for The Max Foundation Maximize Life Gala— the annual fundraising event where the Max global community comes together to support the mission of accelerating health equity.
“The essence of global health equity is the idea that something so precious as health might be viewed as a right.”
–Dr. Paul Farmer, Partners In Health
We are deeply saddened about the passing of Dr. Farmer. His legacy will live on in the immeasurable number of lives he changed.