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JUNIOR DOCTORS
NETWORK
empowering young physicians to work together towards a healthier
world through advocacy, education, and international collaboration
Published by the Junior Doctors Network of the World Medical Association
The information, perspectives, and opinions expressed in this publication do not
necessarily reflect those of the World Medical Association or the Junior Doctors
Network. WMA and WMA-JDN do not assume any legal liability or responsibility
for the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information presented.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
ISSN (print) 2415-1122
ISSN (online) 2312-220X
Junior Doctors Leadership 2022-2023
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
CHAIR PERSON
DEPUTY
CHAIRPERSON
SECRETARY
SOCIO-MEDICAL
AFFAIRS OFFICER
EDUCATION
DIRECTOR
MEDICAL ETHICS
OFFICER
MEMBERSHIP
DIRECTOR
PUBLICATIONS
DIRECTOR
COMMUNICATIONS
DIRECTOR
IMMEDIATE PAST
CHAIRPERSON
Dr. Yassen Tcholakov
(Canada)
Dr. Marie-Claire Wangari
(Kenya)
Dr. Lekha Rathod
(India/Netherlands)
Dr. Pablo Estrella
(Spain)
Dr. Lwando Maki
(South Africa)
Dr. Uchechukwu Arum
(Nigeria/United Kingdom)
Dr. Sazi Nzama
(South Africa)
Page 2
Dr. Balkiss Abdelmula
(Tunisia)
Dr. Jihoo Lee
(Korea)
Dr. Jeazul Ponce H.
(Mexico)
Editorial Team 2022−2023
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
Dr. Ireju
(Nigeria)
Dr. Bonnke Arunga
(Kenya)
Dr. Carol Kanghete
(Kenya)
Dr. Fatma
(Tunisia)
Dr. Jamie Colloty
(South Africa)
Dr. Michael Johnson
(UK)
Dr. Po-Chin Li
(Taiwan)
Dr. Parth Patel
(Malawi)
Dr. Rebecca Enejo
(Nigeria)
Dr. Ramitha Eshan
(Sri Lanka)
Dr. Maymona Choudry
(Philippines)
Page 3
Dr. Aqsa Shafique
(Pakistan)
Table of Contents
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS
06 Words from the JDN Chairperson
By Dr Uchechukwu Arum (Nigeria/United Kingdom)
07 Words from the Communications Director
By Dr Sazi Nzama (South Africa)
09 Words from the Publications Director
By Dr Jeazul Ponce Hernandez (Mexico/Spain)
10 Responding to the worst natural disaster in recent history.
By Medical Education Director; Dr Balkiss Abdelmula (Tunisia)
12 Natural disasters and inequality, a challenge to face.
By Publications Director, Dr Jeazul Ponce H. (Mexico)
14 Health in Climate Change at COP27
By Vice Chair JDN Dr. Lwando Maki et.al. (South Africa)
19 The Second International Conference on Public Health in Africa
(CPHIA 2022)
By Secretary Dr. Marie-Clare W. (Kenya)
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
Page 4
Table of Contents
JUNIOR DOCTORS’ CONTRIBUTIONS
24 Experiences of Surgical Residents of Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical
Centre in the Aftermath of Super Typhoon Rai (Odette) in Cebu City,
Philippines
By Dr Maymona Choudry
27 How COVID-19 Pandemic Shaped the World
By Dr Israel Osaige
30 Being a physician in the United States Armed Forces
By Dr Israel Osaige
32 Why the blame
By Dr Dabota Yvonne Buowari
33 Translational Medicine: Where Basic Science Becomes Medically
Tangible.
By Dr Daniel Andres Sierra Garcia
37 Medicina Traslacional: Donde la ciencia se vuelve medicina tangible.
By Dr Daniel Andrés Sierra García
41 The 1st International Junior Doctors’ Network (JDN) Malaysia
Conference 2022
By Dr Merlinda Shazellenne
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
Page 5
Dear colleagues,
I am pleased to present to you the 26th issue of the JDN Newsletter. This is a great
platform where junior doctors share their views on wide range of topics and give updates of
activities in global health.
This newsletter has been a valuable resource, providing us with a platform to share our
experiences, knowledge, and insights with peers from around the world. In this edition, we
have curated an array of articles that we hope will pique your interest and is particularly
unique as this is the first time, we have an article in another language other than English
(Spanish).
I would like to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to the JDN publications team
and contributors for their hard work and dedication in producing this high-quality
publication. I would also like to thank the JDN members for their engagement and support,
which motivates us to continue producing informative and engaging content.
As we celebrate this milestone, we are reminded of the importance of collaboration,
communication, and knowledge-sharing among junior doctors. We hope that this newsletter
continues to serve as a valuable platform for us to connect, learn, and grow together.
Thank you for being a part of JDN, and we look forward to continuing to serve you.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
Words from the JDN Chairperson
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 6
Dr. Uchechukwu Arum
Chairperson JDN-World Medical Association
Dr. Uchechukwu Arum
Chairperson 2022-2023
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
Words from the Communications Director
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS
Page 7
Dr. Sazi Z Nzama MD
Communications Director 2022−2023
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
Dear colleagues,
It is most pleasing to bring you the 26th
issue of the Junior Doctors Network
Newsletter. Undoubtedly, these past few years have been some of the most difficult
years that we, as the younger generation, have ever experienced.
The challenges we encountered both as a medical fraternity as well as individuals
have highlighted various aspects of our lives that required more attention than
previously prioritized.
It is wonderful to witness the evolution of a medical fraternity and its’ movement
towards becoming more progressive, inclusive and relevant to the society and the
world that we as the leaders of tomorrow, want to actualize in this lifetime. Through
constant positive influence and communication, the world we now live in sees a
grand shift in the focus of pertinent issues across the world; Healthcare
professionals’ welfare and mental health, the inclusion and advocacy for LGBTQAI+
health, medicine and rights. The empowerment of and equality for women and
women in leadership.
These milestones, serve as reassurance that, when united for common causes, the
youth have the power to effect tremendous change in the world we live in. The
possibilities of what we can then do, become limitless!
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
Words from the Communications Director
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS
Page 8
To learn more information about JDN activities and updates, please visit the
JDN media accounts (Figure 1).
Media Resource
Website https://www.wma.net/junior-doctors/
Mailing List https://goo.gl/forms/jCP774K1fldLIoWj1
Twitter @WmaJdn
Facebook (Members) WMA-JDN
Facebook (Public) WMA JDN
Instagram wma_jdn
Figure 1. List of JDN media resources.
This issue brings reflections from our colleagues in the broader international
community; sharing lessons learnt through the pandemic, war and natural disasters and
provides a glimpse into the recent events affecting junior doctors in their various
locations.
Through their reflections, I hope conversations can be initiated, thoughts provoked, and
ideas illuminated. Moreover, the thoughts see themselves coming to life through
collaborative action as we continue on. In our journey towards building a sustainable
world that is safe and equal, for all who live in it.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
Words from the Publications Director
Dear JDN colleagues,
On behalf of the Publications Team (2022−2023) of the Junior Doctors Network (JDN), we
are honoured to share the 26th
issue of the JDN Newsletter with junior doctors across the
world.
Since a few years ago, around the world difficulties, such as the coronavirus disease 2019
(COVID-19) pandemic, natural disasters, the terrible wars and conflicts that perpetuate
around the planet (Palestine, Western Sahara, Ukraine, South Sudan, etc.), junior doctors
have contributed significantly to advancing local and national response efforts.
The JDN Newsletter provides an international platform where junior doctors offer valuable
insight into their clinical and community health leadership in local and national health
initiatives. This 26th
issue includes articles from junior doctors from:
We acknowledge the leadership of all editors of the JDN Publications Team 2022-2023 as
we finalized this 26th
issue. We recognize and appreciate the continued support of the JDN
Management Team and WMA leadership as we share this high-quality resource for junior
doctors across the globe.
We hope enjoy it and still participate in your community and of course continue sharing with
us the amazing job you are doing to improve your environment and society.
Jeazul Ponce Hernandez
Jeazul Ponce Hernandez MD MSc. MPH.
Publications Director 2022−2023
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 9
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
Reflections on recent earthquakes in Turkey and Syria
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS
By Dr. Balkiss Abdelmula (Tunisia)
Medical Education Director 2022-2023
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
Page 10
The death toll from the massive earthquake, that recently struck both Turkey and
Syria, has surpassed 46,000 people, with rescue workers still desperately searching
for survivors. The earthquake, which measured 7.2 on the Richter scale, is
considered as one of the worst natural disasters in recent history.
It caused widespread devastation and displacement, and the chances of finding
anyone alive diminish with each passing day, as many are trapped under the rubble.
Despite the appeal for international aid to assist with relief and recovery efforts,
including medical supplies and personnel, as well as tents and food for the
thousands of people left homeless by the disaster, the situation remains dire, and
there are fears that the death toll will continue to rise as rescue teams reach more
remote areas.
According to the latest reports from the World Health Organization (WHO) reports,
the earthquake is having devastating impacts on health facilities in the affected
areas, severely disrupting the delivery of essential health services, especially in
previously war-torn Syria. With many health facilities destroyed or forced to suspend
or reduce their operations, affected communities are left without access to essential
medical care. care. This has also resulted in an increased risk of disease outbreaks,
particularly for those living in crowded and unsanitary conditions. Preventing public
health risks to those who lost their homes as well as averting further loss of life and
disability through life-saving care thus remain major priorities.
Responding to the worst natural disaster in recent history
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
Reflections about recent earthquake in Turkey and Syria
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 11
While the full impact of the earthquake is yet to be known, there is a need for urgent
action to allocate resources and coordinate with relevant partners to support the
rehabilitation of damaged health facilities and the delivery of essential health services
in the affected areas and communities. The WHO is working closely with health
ministries of both countries and other local and global partners to assess the damage
and support the affected health facilities in restoring their services as quickly as
possible. However, the scale of the damage and the ongoing security challenges in
affected areas are making the response efforts difficult and complex.
In such context, it is worthy to
salute the resilience and
inspiring determination of the
Syrian and Turkish health
workforce in their dedicated
response amidst yet another
crisis.
As junior doctors, it is
important for us to convey our
respect and admiration to our
colleagues on the field and to
express condolences to all
affected individuals and
families.
Being aware of the impact of such a devastating natural disaster, particularly on the
health systems of both countries, we would also like to call upon our governments
to take action where possible to help those affected by this disaster. Supporting the
WHO as well as local and global relief organizations in their efforts to respond to
this crisis is the least anyone could do. We can contribute by simply donating to
these organizations as well as by spreading awareness and advocating for the
basic human rights of all affected populations.
Photo credit line: Ammar Safarjalani / Xinhua News / ContactoPhoto
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
Reflection about recent earthquake in Turkey and Syria
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 12
As a Mexican who has experienced a few earthquakes in her flesh, the last one
in 2017, I can affirm the horrible panic that can be felt. However, this does not
make me in the least bit an expert at natural disasters. But it does leave me with
many reflections, some with very mixed feelings and others full of doubts. Could
it be that the social determinants and the inequality gaps enhance the damage of
a natural catastrophe? probably the answer is YES. It should be noted that
solidarity and the response of the citizenry are always unbeatable, memorable
and very plausible.
Solidarity is good, but it is not everything, actions are required, actions by
governments and the different stakeholders, but these actions should be
affordable and equitable.
The rescue teams immediately responded to the facts, and the news spread, the
NGOs, and the international canine brigades were all there. They all came from
many parts of the world. The humanitarian response has been exemplary, but it
is worth noting the lack of equity in this solidarity response. Unfortunately, the
arrival of this aid compared with Turkey was not seen in the same way as Syria,
probably due to the political and social circumstances of that country, but that
gives me questions to me (asking myself), how much do we need to think over
in terms of access to humanitarian aid, rescue services, and the responses of
governments to this type of circumstance?
By Dr. Jeazul Ponce Hernandez
(Mexico)
Publications Director 2022-2023
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
Natural disasters and inequality, a challenge to face.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
Reflection about recent earthquake in Turkey and Syria
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 13
As JDN members, it is important to demonstrate our empathy, and respect for
the victims, to have positions in these circumstances, but it is also valid to raise
our voices. As members of an international organization, we cannot let these
details go by, we must work on a team and support the WHO, UN, WMA, etc.
Finally, as doctors of different specialties, we contribute in a thousand ways.
There will be members who are volunteers, and donors, and there will be others
whose specialty is disaster medicine, but we are also members of JDN to
express alternatives in a critical and constructive way, respectful statements that
provide help and improve society, statements which can reach to the
governments and the international community.
I would also like to share my greatest admiration for those furry heroes who are
there to help us through thick and thin, who risk their lives and, although their
voice is not heard in the same way, do not detract from their great heroic actions.
Those rescuers dogs, deserve all the admiration in the world and, above all,
thanks.
Photo credit line: @buraktturker illustration
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
Team of officials and contributions
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 14
The 27th Conference of Parties (COP27) to the United Nations Framework Convention
on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was held in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, from 6-18
November 2022. Eight physicians from South Africa, Egypt, India, Finland, Austria,
Sweden, and the United States represented the World Medical Association (WMA) at
COP 27. Dr Ankush Kumar Bansal (United States) and Dr Lwando Maki (South Africa)
led the delegation during the first and second weeks, respectively. The delegation
represented WMA’s views and position toward climate change, as expressed through
the adoption of WMA climate change and environment policies [1-5]. Delegates followed
key areas of health impacts with the attendance of COP27 negotiations, daily health
community debrief/strategy meetings and health-related side events. There was also a
social media campaign supported by WMA Communications.
Lwando Maki, ,
MBCHB(UCT),DiPEC(SA),
AHM(YALE/FPD),MRSSAf
South African Medical Association
Cape Town, South Africa
Corresponding author
Email: dr.lwando.maki@gmail.com.
Ankush Kumar Bansal,
MD, FACP, FACPM,
SFHM
Associate Member
Florida, United States
Muha Hassan,
MBCHB, BsSc(Hons)
Associate Member
Coventry, England
Ahmed Taha
Aboushady, MD, MPH
Junior Doctors Network
Alexandria, Egypt
Mahesh Prasad Bhatt,
MBBS, MS
Associate Member
Dehradun, India
Lars Rocksén, MD
Swedish Medical
Association
Ornskoldsvik, Sweden
Johanna Schauer-
Berg, MD, MPH
Associate Member
Salzburg, Austria
Lekha Rathod,
MBBS,MScIH
Junior Doctors Network
Uterecht, Netherlands
Health in Climate Change at COP27
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 15
Health-Related Side Events
In collaboration with the Global Climate Health Alliance, WMA members successfully
organized a panel entitled, “Building Healthy Resilient Health Systems”. On this
panel, Dr. Lwando Maki (South Africa) described the health impacts of climate
change as witnessed by health professionals.
Advocacy and Plenary Statements Supported by Member States
During COP, WMA delegates met delegates to advocate for health as aligned with
WMA policies.
COP27 KEY OUTCOMES
Loss and Damage Fund
The outcome was the establishment of a new fund for loss and damages, with a
transitional committee that would make recommendations for adoption at COP28.
Santiago Network
The Santiago Network was formed at COP25 in Madrid, with the goal of helping low-
income countries to identify technical needs and connect with technical experts and
providers who can address technical needs. At COP27, there was a consensus on
the institutional arrangements to operationalize the Santiago Network.
Warsaw International Mechanism
The Warsaw International Mechanism (WIM) was established in 2013, with the goal
of coordinating and encouraging dialogue on loss and damage. There was no
decision made on taking the WIM forward by the parties.
Carbon Markets
Carbon markets, which can be bought and sold between countries or entities, are
defined as a system of credits based on carbon emissions that countries or entities
can use to emit carbon emissions. Although the use of carbon credits was
transparent, delegates changed the text to allow for confidentiality around movement
of carbon credits.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 16
Failure to Phase Out Fossil Fuels
Although a total of 80 countries, led by India, supported the call to phase out fossil fuels,
parties failed to raise the mitigation ambitions regarding fossil fuels including coal.
Involvement of Youth and Intergenerational Equity
COP27 had a youth envoy for the first time. Members of the WMA delegation from the
Junior Doctors Network (JDN) were proud to have represented young physicians from
across the world at COP27. There will be further activites by the Junior Doctors Network
(JDN) in support of addressing the climate crisis and they have the support of the WMA
environmental caucus.
Right to a Clean, Healthy, and Sustainable Environment
The “right to a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment” phrase, as recognised by
the UN General Assembly in July 2022, was included on the cover text of document with
decisions along with the right to health.
Koronivia Joint Work on Agriculture (KJWA)
TheKJWA was included and it was document that works to addressing topics such as
food systems. The KJWA looks at food systems, nutrition, and security, health impacts
as it relates to loss & damage and local or indigenous communities, resilient health
systems, emissions with respect to carbon markets and Article 6, and gender issues and
health in the committee meetings and some negotiations was a positive step forward.
WAY FORWARD TO COP28
To prepare for COP28, the WMA delegation propose the following actions:
1. To develop and plan lectures and panel discussions with collaborating organizations,
which can describe the health impacts of climate change across geographic regions and
what physicians are observing due to climate change (e.g. hurricanes, typhoons,
excessive heat, drought, nutrient depletion from soil, vector-borne diseases)
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 17
2. To organize and plan the promotion of previous and current WMA statements and
declarations on climate change to national delegations
3. To expand the Environment Caucus activities and membership, which can foster new
ideas, encourage collaborative projects, and leverage expertise among WMA members
4. To seek relevant delegations in order to facilitate advocacy work during COP28.
Photo 1. The COP27 delegation during week 1 included WMA members (Dr.Ankush
Bansal, Dr.Muha Hassan, Dr.Ahmed Taha Aboushady) with Dr. John Balbus(U.S. Office
of Climate Change and Health Equity) and three members of the U.S. Department of
State.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 18
Photo 2. The COP27
delegation during week 2
included WMA members,
Dr.Lwando Maki, Dr.Lars
Rocksén, Dr.Johanna
Schauer-Berg, Dr.Lehka
Rathod, and Dr.Mahesh
Bhatt (left to right).
References:
1. World Medical Association. WMA Declaration of Delhi on Health and Climate Change. 2009
[updated 2017; cited 2023 Feb 5]. Available from: https://www.wma.net/policies-post/wma-
declaration-of-delhi-on-health-and-climate-change/
2. World Medical Association. WMA Resolution on Climate Emergency. 2019 [cited 2023 Feb 5].
Available from: https://www.wma.net/policies-post/wma-resolution-on-climate-emergency/
3. World Medical Association. WMA Resolution on Protecting the Future Generation’s Right to
Live in a Healthy Environment. 2020 [cited 2023 Feb 5]. Available from:
https://www.wma.net/policies-post/wma-resolution-on-protecting-the-future-generations-right-
to-live-in-a-healthy-environment/
4. World Medical Association. WMA Statement on Sustainable Development. 2018 [cited 2023
Feb 5]. Available from: https://www.wma.net/policies-post/wma-statement-on-sustainable-
development/
5. World Medical Association. WMA Statement on Divestment from Fossil Fuels. 2016 [cited
2023 Feb 5]. Available from: https://www.wma.net/policies-post/wma-statement-on-
divestment-from-fossil-fuels/
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 19
The Africa Centre’s for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) hosted the Second
International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA 2022) in a hybrid format in
Kigali, Rwanda from 13-15 December 2022. This was preceded by numerous side
events that commenced on the 12th
of December 2022 and a youth pre-conference
(YPC) for young African global health leaders and advocates from the 10th and 11th of
December 2022.
By Marie-Claire Wangari (MBChB) (Kenya)
Secretary 2022-2023
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
Team of officials and contributions
The Second International Conference on Public Health in Africa
(CPHIA 2022)
Figure 1: CPHIA 2022 Publicity Poster
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 20
What is CPHIA:
CPHIA is a platform for African researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders
to come together and share perspectives and research findings in public
health while ushering in a new era of strengthened scientific collaboration and
innovation across the continent. [1]
The inaugural conference was held in 2021 in a fully online format due to the
Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, making the second edition the first in-
person event which was attended by close to 4000 participants and had over
50 side events.
Building on CPHIA 2021, the 2022 event was themed: “Preparedness for
Future Pandemics and Post-Pandemic Recovery: Africa at a Crossroads.” It
aptly summarized the current state of the continent on matters pertaining to
health emergencies. It also affirmed the New Public Health Order (NPHO); [2]
[3] that was released by the Africa CDC a few months earlier.
What is the New Public Health Order (NPHO):
The NPHO is a roadmap to sustainable health outcomes and health security.
It is defined by five pillars as follows:
Team of officials and contributions
Figure 2: Summary of the Africa CDC, New Public Health Order Pillars .
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 21
Personal Reflections of my participation at the CPHIA 2022
1. Intergenerational Solidarity
Following the heels of the 2022 International Youth Day theme, it was crucial
to learn about the current efforts and plans of the African Union (AU) and the
Africa CDC regarding development of African leaders of tomorrow. With a
special focus on young doctors, especially considering the age for youth in the
AU is 35 years old as opposed to the global cut-off of 25 years old.
2. Meaningful Youth Engagement and Participation
The YPC advanced the Africa CDC’s efforts of meaningful youth engagement
and participation by offering young African’s a chance to discuss key health
policy issues affecting them. In addition, the attendees attended the pre-
conference and the main event free of charge courtesy of full financial support
offered by the event partners and the Africa CDC (including logistics and
accommodation facilitation).
The lack of a feedback session on the YPC during day 1 of the CPHIA 2022
was noted, in addition to the lack of a dedicated main plenary and/or a parallel
session for the youth with most youth-themed events being left to side
sessions. However, the announcement of the establishment of an Africa CDC
Youth Advisory Council at the opening ceremony was welcome with the
inaugural members of the Africa CDC Youth Advisory Team for Health
(YAT4H) being annouced in late January 2023.
3. Women in Health – From Recipients to Providers to Leaders
This plenary session blended various modalities of formats from panel
discussions, fireside presentations, and best of all, a debate session on the
motion, “Gender equity in health leadership in Africa-have we made progress
or gone backwards.” This creative debate was moderated by Dr. Ebere
Okereke, where those for the notion narrowly defeated the opposition via a
vote on Mentimeter (finally tally was 190 votes to 112 votes). You can recap
the session on the Africa CDC YouTube page here
Team of officials and contributions
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
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TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 22
Team of officials and contributions
4. Investment in Public Health Workforce and Leadership
Programs
In line with the NPHO, there are already ongoing efforts towards attaining this
pillar with the ongoing AU COVID-19 Vaccination Bingwa Initiative that aims
to establish a network of youth champions for COVID-19 vaccination on the
continent. (PS: Bingwa is a Kiswahili term for Champion)
Furthermore, the Africa CDC has the Kofi Annan Global Health Leadership
Programme, whose inaugural fellows were in attendance of CPHIA 2022.
This was a huge plus as it gave interested individuals a chance to learn about
the program as the call for the third cohort was already ongoing and set to
close on 15th January 2023.
5. Preparedness for future Pandemic and Post-Pandemic
Recovery in Africa
The highlight of the CPHIA 2022 for me was the Africa CDC side-event, on
health diplomacy, that was held on the last day as the last session before the
closing ceremony. This session demystified what the Africa CDC is doing on
matters of Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response such as the
Africa Pandemic Preparedness and Response Authority (APPRA).
The session also had positive stories of how the Africa CDC used best
practices from previous health emergencies to be better equipped. Whilst
trying to mitigate the health system challenges brought about by the COVID-
19 pandemic. Among the key messages shared was a crucial one; that of
knowledge exchange and shared learning. It was interesting to see how the
Africa CDC’s efforts in pandemic preparedness already align with health
security and pandemic preparedness discussions such as the World Health
Organization Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB) [4] where the INB Co-
Chair, Ms. Precious Matsoso [5] shared more on the INB processes and how
it intertwines with health diplomacy and Africa CDC’s efforts regionally. You
can recap the session on the Africa CDC YouTube page here.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
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TEAM OF OFFICIALS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 23
Team of officials and contributions
Conclusion
Having participated in both editions of the CPHIA, I believe that this is a pivotal
global health event for all those who are interested in or engaged in Public Health
in Africa. It is my hope that more people attend the event, especially those not
based on the continent. All roads now lead to Zambia for CPHIA 2023.
Disclaimer: This article has been modified for the JDN Newsletter following
personal reflections on the same. Views expressed are purely the author’s own [6].
References
1. “CPHIA 2022-About This Conference,” [Online]. Available: https://cphia2022.com/about /.
[Accessed 13 Jan 2023].
2. “Africa Calls for New Public Health Order,” Africa CDC, 29 Sept 2022. [Online]. Available:
https://africacdc.org/news-item/africa-calls-for-new-public-health-order/ . [Accessed 13 Jan
2023].
3. “Call to Action: Africa’s New Public Health Order,” Africa CDC YouTube Page, 29 Sept
2022. [Online]. Available: https://youtu.be/Byt3t7Ic7k0 . [Accessed 13 Jan 2023].
4. “World Health Organization (WHO) Intergovernmental Negotiating Body (INB),” World
Health Organization (WHO), [Online]. Available: https://inb.who.int/ . [Accessed 13 Jan
2023].
5. “Report of the first meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Body,” World Health
Organization (WHO), 10 March 2022. [Online]. Available:
https://apps.who.int/gb/inb/pdf_files/inb1/A_INB1_4-en.pdf . [Accessed 13 Jan 2023].
6. M.-C. Wangari, “Of Christmas, CPHIA, New Public Health Order & New Year Plans,”
LinkedIn Articles, 24 Dec 2022. [Online]. Available:
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/christmas-cphia-new-public-health-order-year-plans-
wangari-mbchb-/. [Accessed 13 Jan 2023].
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 24
By: Maymona J. Choudry, MD, MPH
(Philippines)
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
JDN members’ contributions
Experiences of Surgical Residents of Vicente Sotto Memorial
Medical Center in the Aftermath of Super typhoon Rai (Odette) in
Cebu City, Philippines
In December 2021, according to the Philippines Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Council, one of the most powerful typhoons struck the southern parts of
the Philippines [1]. Super Typhoon Rai, also known as “Bagyong Odette”, made its first
landfall on 16 December 2021, bringing torrential rains, violent winds, floods, and storm
surges to the Visayas and Mindanao Islands [2]. Within 24 hours, with sustained winds
of 100mph in a band spanning 600 miles, the typhoon intensified into a Category 5
hurricane, [1]. The storm lasted a total of 24 hours, affecting around 16 million people,
of which 2.4 million needed assistance, requiring funding of $169 million in the islands
of Visayas & Mindanao [2].
In other parts of the Philippines, the typhoon severely impacted an estimated 9.9 million
people across the six most affected regions, leaving about 2.4 million people in need of
assistance. According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management
Council (NDRRMC) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD),
the typhoon killed at least 409 people; injured thousands more, and cumulatively
displaced nearly 3.2 million people [2].
Meanwhile in Cebu, a few hours prior to the peak of the typhoon, the surgical residents
of Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC) went about their normal days at
the hospital before receiving multiple text alerts from the NDRRMC about the incoming
typhoon. Since storms are a common occurrence in the Philippines, most of the locals
did not heed the warning from the NDRRMC. We went to work as usual, attending
endorsements, conducting ward rounds, and assisting in operations. Nightfall came and
light rain started to pour, with everybody rushing to go home, and the traffic bustling on
the streets. The dark clouds in the sky felt like an imminent sign for us to go home early.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 25
JDN members’ contributions
Some of us went home while others stayed at the hospital when heavy rainfall started
pouring coupled with strong thunderstorms and powerful lightning strikes. At the storm’s
peak, the raindrops felt heavier than before, and the sound of the windstorm rustled
through the windows and corridors of the building. The whole building started to tremble
due to the impact of the typhoon, and the electricity started to flicker until the entire
building lost power. Meanwhile, some of my colleagues on duty at the hospital were
preparing themselves for the possible surge of trauma patients. One of the scenarios in
the emergency room was the destruction and damage of the glass doors (Figure 1),
which were salvaged by the security and maintenance staff. Due to the unavailability of
food deliveries, some of my colleagues who went out that night to buy food supplies
were met with flying debris and broken tree branches on the streets. It was a one-of-a-
kind experience for each one of us.
Figure 1. One of the examples of
property damage at the hospital.
© Maymona Choudry
The next morning, once the storm had calmed,
there was a city-wide power outage. Walking down
the street to the hospital, we encountered the
aftermath of the typhoon (Figure 2). For almost two
weeks after the passing of Supertyphoon Odette
through Cebu, most people were affected to
varying degrees. Some of us had experienced a
power outage and water shortage at our homes,
unavailability of clean drinking water, shortage of
food products, and inflation rates of gasoline for
almost three weeks. For the residents of the
VSMMC, the hospital became our shelter against
the harsh impacts of the typhoon. Every day, we
had to look for a place to take a bath, sleep safely,
and buy food aside from the unhealthy snacks we
had been eating for almost a week. Eventually,
after two weeks, the power supply was re-
established, and everything else fell back to how it
was before the typhoon. It was at this time that the
residents came together to help each other
emotionally and spiritually.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 26
It was one of the most memorable experiences for someone like me who has
never experienced a natural disaster firsthand. I am grateful that my
colleagues were there with me; their presence provided me with the emotional
support that I needed and served as a reminder that I am not alone in this
difficult journey.
It has been 31 years since Typhoon Mike, which was one of the strongest
typhoons to hit the region. As a tertiary hospital in the region, the VSMMC
conducts training on disaster risk reduction, preparedness, and management.
The local government should work “hand-in-hand” with the hospitals to ensure
adequate preparation and management of any disasters. The super typhoon
Odette served as a wake-up call to the local government of Cebu to remain
prepared for typhoons, storms, and any disaster that may hit the region,
especially those that are being alerted by the NDRRMC.
JDN members’ contributions
Figure 2. Streets of Cebu City after the impact of Supertyphoon Odette. © Maymona Choudry
References:
1. McCarthy & Storel. Desperation grows in the Philippines in the aftermath of Typhoon Rai.
Retrieved from: https://www.npr.org/sections/pictureshow/2021/12/20/1066049450/super-
typhoon-rai-leaves-a-path-of-devastation-and-uncertainty on July 11, 2022.
2. UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Philippines: Super Typhoon Rai
(Odette) Humanitarian Needs and Priorities Revision (Dec 2021 – Jun 2022) (2 Feb 2022) –
Philippines. Retrieved from: https://reliefweb.int/report/philippines/philippines-super-typhoon-
rai-odette-humanitarian-needs-and-priorities-revision
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 27
By: Dr. Israel Osagie,
Brookes Army Medical Center,
United States of America
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
JDN members’ contributions
How COVID-19 Pandemic shaped the World
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the world, affecting nearly
every aspect of daily life. The virus, which first emerged in Wuhan, China in 2019,
quickly spread across the globe, resulting in widespread lockdowns and economic
disruption.
One of the most significant impacts of the pandemic has been on public health. The
virus has infected millions of people and killed hundreds of thousands, overwhelming
healthcare systems in many countries. The rapid spread of the virus also highlighted
existing inequalities in healthcare access and outcomes, with marginalized
communities disproportionately affected.
The pandemic has also had a major impact on the global economy. Businesses have
shuttered, unemployment has risen, and supply chains have been disrupted, leading
to a recession in many countries. The economic fallout has disproportionately
affected low-income workers and small businesses.
The pandemic has also accelerated the shift towards remote work and online
learning. With lockdowns in place and social distancing measures in effect, many
people have been forced to work and study from home. This has resulted in a rapid
adoption of technology, as well as changes in work culture and the way we live our
lives.
The pandemic also accelerated the use of IT in the medical field which saw the use
of data science, artificial intelligence and machine learning being applied to specific
areas such as scientific health, research studies and predictions, genetic mapping
and sequencing of novel pathogenic strains, use of complex computerized RNA 3D
models employed in vaccine discovery and production at breakneck speed, defying
the delays involved with traditional medical pharmacotherapeutic phases and
processing of medication.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 28
JDN members’ contributions
The pandemic also accelerated the use of IT in the medical field which saw the use
of data science, artificial intelligence and machine learning being applied to specific
areas such as scientific health, research studies and predictions, genetic mapping
and sequencing of novel pathogenic strains, use of complex computerized RNA 3D
models employed in vaccine discovery and production at breakneck speed, defying
the delays involved with traditional medical pharmacotherapeutic phases and
processing of medication.
The pandemic has also had a significant impact on social and political issues. The
crisis has highlighted existing inequalities and injustices and has led to increased
awareness of issues such as healthcare access, worker rights, and economic
inequality. The pandemic has also led to increased polarization and political division
in some countries.
In terms of global cooperation, the pandemic has both highlighted the need for
international cooperation and exposed the lack of it. Many countries have struggled to
access basic medical supplies and equipment, while others have hoarded supplies
and restricted exports. The pandemic has also exposed the fragility of global supply
chains and the need for greater self-sufficiency.
Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound and far-reaching impact on the
world. It has affected nearly every aspect of daily life, from public health and the
economy to social and political issues. The pandemic has accelerated changes that
were already underway and has highlighted existing inequalities and injustices. The
world will continue to feel the effects of the pandemic for years to come.
In terms of global cooperation, the pandemic has both highlighted the need for
international cooperation and exposed the lack of it. Many countries have struggled to
access basic medical supplies and equipment, while others have hoarded supplies
and restricted exports. The pandemic has also exposed the fragility of global supply
chains and the need for greater self-sufficiency.
Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound and far-reaching impact on the
world. It has affected nearly every aspect of daily life, from public health and the
economy to social and political issues. The pandemic has accelerated changes that
were already underway and has highlighted existing inequalities and injustices. The
world will continue to feel the effects of the pandemic for years to come.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 29
References
1. How the COVID-19 pandemic changed society. (2022, March 14). UAB
News. https://www.uab.edu/news/youcanuse/item/12697-how-the-covid-19-pandemic-changed-
society#
2. Schwartz, J. (2022, March 1). Introducing 21 ways COVID changed the world. Scientific
American. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/introducing-21-ways-covid-changed-the-
world/
3. Arora, A. (2021, September 22). How COVID-19 is changing the world. UNICEF
DATA. https://data.unicef.org/resources/how-covid-19-is-changing-the-world-a-statistical-
perspective/
JDN members’ contributions
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 30
By: Dr. Israel Osagie,
Brookes Army Medical Center,
United States of America
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
JDN members’ contributions
Being a physician in the United States Armed Forces
Being a physician in the military is a challenging and rewarding experience. As a military
doctor, you are responsible for providing medical care to soldiers, veterans, and their
families. This includes everything from routine checkups and vaccinations to emergency
care and surgery, depending on the chosen specialty of training.
The experience of a military physician is a peculiar one. It requires you balance intense
physical training within the military, with your academic and clinical skills as a medical
professional. Simultaneously training as a physician whilst undertaking your
responsibilities within the armed forces.
One of the biggest challenges of being a physician in the military is the fact that you
may be deployed to a combat zone. This means that you must be prepared to work in
austere and potentially dangerous conditions. You must also be able to make quick
decisions and act under pressure, as the lives of your patients may depend on it. These
patients could be your soldiers or enemy soldiers alike who must receive medical care,
according to the Geneva convention rules.
Despite these challenges, there are many rewards to being a physician in the military.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the job is the opportunity to make a real
difference in the lives of soldiers and their families. You will also can work with a highly
skilled and dedicated team of medical professionals. In addition to providing medical
care, military physicians also could conduct research and develop new medical
technologies. This can lead to advancements in medical care that will benefit not only
military personnel, but also the general population.
Overall, being a physician in the military is a noble and challenging profession. You will
have a chance to serve your country, help soldiers and their families, and be a part of a
dedicated team of medical professionals. The experience can be challenging, but the
rewards are many, and the impact on your patients and their families will last a lifetime.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 31
References
JDN members’ contributions
1. The White Coat Investor. (2022, October 24). Life as a military physician [Benefits of military
doctors] | White coat investor. The White Coat Investor – Investing & Personal Finance for
Doctors. https://www.whitecoatinvestor.com/10-things-i-loved-about-being-a-military-doctor/
2. Army physician has a life-changing experience with London air ambulance. (2019, November
7). Joint Base San Antonio. https://www.jbsa.mil/News/News/Article/2010344/army-physician-
has-a-life-changing-experience-with-london-air-ambulance/
3. Kellerman, A. L. (2017, April 27). Rethinking The United States’ Military Health System.
https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/rethinking-united-states-military-health-system
4. Woods, T. D. (2015). Honoring military physicians: Taking care of America’s heroes. PubMed
Central (PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6170077/
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS-Poem Page 32
Poem by Dr. Dabota Yvonne Buowari, MD
Nigeria
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
JDN members’ contributions
“Why the blame”
A A woman is raped, she is blamed
A girl is raped, her mother is blamed
A lady is sexually harassed, she is blamed
I have been stripped of my dignity as a woman
The supremacy of the male gender is promoted in
most African cultures
Oh Africa, oh Nigeria
Who did this to you?
Can a woman be allowed to speak out for once?
When will this aggression stop?
Rapists must be punished
Women and girls should be believed when they
speak out
Stop the discrimination against victims of rape
Stop blaming victims of rape
Stop blaming mothers of girls who are raped
My dignity must be kept
Oh, Nigerian women! Oh, Nigerian girls!
It’s time to break the silence and speak out.
This poem is dedicated to the survivors of rape in Nigeria
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 33
By Daniel Andrés Sierra García, MD
Guatemala/Germany
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
JDN members’ contributions
Translational Medicine: Where Basic Science Becomes Medically Tangible.”
Inside the medical community, there is often a discussion on novel treatments for
the diseases our patients face all the time. We are regularly reading about cutting-
edge scientific discoveries of how different diseases modify the normal function of
the body, with promising results that would change the course of their current
management. But what happens after? Why are these groundbreaking innovations
not reaching the patients that need them?.
The answer is complex. There’s a huge journey for these discoveries to finally
reach the medical ground and become part of routine therapeutics. As a matter of
fact, in 2022, worldwide more than 606,000 scientific papers were published as
medical research, but only 37 new drugs were approved by the US Food and Drug
Administration (FDA). There is an evident void between the laboratory results and
their application in a clinical context. The so-called “translational gap” refers to this
rift between basic research and clinical application.1 And this is where translational
medicine comes into the spotlight.
Translational medicine in a glance.
In easy words, translational medicine is the bridge that closes the gap. Essentially,
it encompasses the process of bringing basic scientific research into clinical
practice, and creating novel treatments, procedures, and diagnostics.1 For us as
clinicians, the more important perspective is the translation of the latest research
into the standard care of patients.
Translational medicine proposes a continuum of research, involving multiple
disciplines in the process.2 While basic-science researchers focus on identifying
unanswered questions on the understanding of disease pathogenesis and
therapeutic mechanisms, clinicians bring the results to the practice focusing on
patient well-being and health outcomes.3 The whole process of translation can be
divided into multiple phases, as illustrated in figure 1
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 34
(Figure 1) The translational continuum.
The whole process of translational medicine can be summarized in five
operational phases. Between each phase, some challenges and obstacles
arise and must be overcome. T0 is the basic and preclinical research, mostly
performed in basic science laboratories. Different basic disciplines are
involved in this process, and basic researchers are experts in this phase. T1
through T3 include all phases of clinical trials, each with different expected
outcomes before bringing a new therapeutic to standard clinical practice.
Physicians are most familiarized with these process, as clinical trials are
mainly conducted by clinicians. Finally, T4 involves public health intervention
in order to evaluate the outcomes of an intervention on a population level.1 As
a continuum, the order is not strict and each progressive phase can go back
to a previous one, in order to improve the outcomes. This continuum allows to
connect both the basic research and clinical intervention, bringing the
laboratory results to clinical practice and the same way around. (Adapted from
[1])].
JDN members’ contributions
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 35
JDN members’ contributions
This process takes time. In fact, it takes an average of 10.5 years for a novel
therapeutic to finally get the approval for commercialization after its discovery.5
Numerous factors influence this long duration and they depend on each phase:
reproducibility of the experiments, regulatory processes, negative results,
intellectual property, etc.1 As an example, clinical trials in phase 1 take around 2.3
years, in phase 2 around 3.6 years, and phase 3 around 3.3 years.5
Translational doctors: becoming a clinician-scientist.
For medical professionals, joining translational research can be defiant. It requires
special proficiency in speaking two different languages: basic science and clinical
medicine. Furthermore, it also represents an opportunity to gain new knowledge
outside of the clinics, like bioinformatics, project management and statistics.3
Going back to basic science does not mean you are going backward, but quite the
opposite; it represents the perfect way of connecting both clinical experience and
basic research, providing great insights from the application of diagnostics and
therapeutics for further research opportunities.
A clinician-scientist is a physician devoted to research, combining both clinical
practice and basic science laboratory research. Clinician-scientists can solve the
dead-ends of basic research, as they understand diseases simultaneously as a
scientific phenomenon and a medical condition affecting patients, bringing new
perspectives and novel approaches missed by previous experiments and
research.3 Somehow, clinician-scientist would become part of the translation
continuum, which can be passionately satisfying, especially when the results of
experimental lab work are successfully translated into healthcare delivery.2
Personal perspectives
As a doctor with a complete clinical-focus medical formation, becoming a clinician-
scientist has been challenging. Same as in surgical procedures, lab work has
specific steps, meticulous processes and requires thorough ability. Also, the grasp
of diseases is completely different between basic and clinical science. We
physicians know the basic molecular processes happening inside, nevertheless,
we ignore a lot of the in-detail complexity of those mechanisms. Reviewing (and re-
learning) the basic cell functioning, from metabolic to replication processes, has
not been an easy task.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 36
JDN members’ contributions
But coming across a multidisciplinary group with other young scientists has been
also exciting. Between scientific disciplines, we share different understandings,
unique visions, and particular thinking processes for the same problems. That is
why learning from peers coming from basic sciences has been a clash of
knowledge and a new common ground. We have created a scenario with different
junior scientists, each bringing in different ideas and perspectives, all with the
common goal of finding a convergent point to tackle a health problem. We all
share the same goal: the improvement of patients’ health and well-being as the
ultimate outcome.
Closing remarks
There is still a big road ahead for biomedical research. As young physicians, with
great service and passion for our patients, we can begin delivering this very
needed input from clinical practice back to basic science research. Modern
technologies make research both exciting and extraordinarily promising, and
there is no question that translation is urgently needed.
References
1. Seyhan AA. Lost in translation: the valley of death across preclinical and clinical divide –
identification of problems and overcoming obstacles. Transl Med Commun. 2019 Dec
18;4(1):18.
2. Homer-Vanniasinkam S, Tsui J. The Continuing Challenges of Translational Research:
Clinician-Scientists’ Perspective. Cardiol Res Pract. 2012;2012:1–5.
3. Roberts SF, Fischhoff MA, Sakowski SA, Feldman EL. Transforming Science Into Medicine.
How Clinician–Scientists Can Build Bridges Across Research’s “Valley of Death.” Academic
Medicine. 2012 Mar;87(3):266–70.
4. Woolf SH. The Meaning of Translational Research and Why It Matters. JAMA. 2008 Jan
9;299(2).
5. Thomas D, Chancellor D, Micklus A, LaFever S, Hay M, Schaudhuri S, et al. Clinical
Development Success Rates and Contributing Factors 2011–2020. United Kingdom; 2021
Feb.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 37
JDN members’ contributions; Spanish version.
Dentro de la comunidad médica, a menudo hay una discusión sobre nuevos
tratamientos para las enfermedades que todo el tiempo enfrentan nuestros pacientes.
Regularmente leemos descubrimientos científicos vanguardistas sobre cómo diferentes
enfermedades modifican la función normal del cuerpo, con resultados prometedores
que cambiarían el curso y el manejo actual. ¿Pero qué pasa después? ¿Por qué estas
innovaciones revolucionarias no llegan a los pacientes que las necesitan?
La respuesta no es fácil. Hay un gran viaje para que estos descubrimientos lleguen al
terreno médico y se conviertan en parte de la terapia rutinaria. De hecho, en 2022, en
todo el mundo se publicaron más de 606,000 artículos científicos de investigación
médica, pero solo 37 nuevos medicamentos fueron aprobados por la Administración de
Drogas y Alimentos de Estados Unidos (FDA, por su siglas en inglés). Existe una
brecha entre los resultados de laboratorio y su implementación en un contexto clínico.
La llamada “brecha traslacional” se refiere a ese vacío entre la investigación básica y la
aplicación clínica (1). Y es ahí donde la medicina traslacional cobra protagonismo.
Un vistazo a la medicina traslacional
En palabras sencillas, la medicina traslacional es el puente para cerrar esa brecha. En
esencia, abarca el proceso de llevar la investigación científica básica a la práctica
clínica, creando nuevos tratamientos, procedimientos y diagnósticos. (1) Para nosotros
como médicos, la perspectiva más importante es la traslación de las últimas
investigaciones en el cuidado estándar de los pacientes.
La medicina traslacional propone un contino de investigación, involucrando múltiples
disciplinas en el proceso. (2) Mientras que los investigadores de ciencias básicas se
enfocan en identificar preguntas sin respuestas acerca de los procesos patogénicos de
las enfermedades y los mecanismos terapéuticos, los médicos clínicos llevan los
resultados.
By Daniel Andrés Sierra García, MD
Guatemala/Germany
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
Medicina Traslacional: Donde la Ciencia se vuelve Médicamente Tangible
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 38
a la práctica, centrándose en el bienestar del paciente y los resultados en
salud (3) Todo el proceso de traslación se puede dividir en múltiples fases.
Mientras que las primeras fases están dedicadas a la investigación básica,
las fases intermedias implican la traslación a sujetos humanos sanos y
pacientes. La última fase está comprometida con la salud pública y se abarca
la traslación a poblaciones enteras. (1, 2, 4) Es evidente, entonces, por qué la
traslación lleva tiempo, con muchos desafíos que pueden surgir a lo largo del
proceso.
(Figura 1)
JDN members’ contributions
Medicina traslacional: convertirse en un científico clínico.
Para los profesionales médicos, unirse a la investigación traslacional puede ser
desafiante. Requiere un dominio especial de dos idiomas diferentes: ciencias
básicas y medicina clínica. Pero también representa una oportunidad para adquirir
nuevos conocimientos fuera de la clínica, como bioinformática, gestión de proyectos
y bioestadística. (3) Volver a la ciencia básica no significa un retroceso, sino todo lo
contrario; representa la manera perfecta de conectar la experiencia clínica y la
investigación básica, a través de una visión particular desde la aplicación de
diagnósticos y terapias para futuras oportunidades de investigación.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 39
Aunque pueda sonar vago volver a lo básico, se necesitan médicos en todo el
proceso de traslación. El científico clínico puede abrir los callejones sin salida de la
investigación básica, brindando nuevas perspectivas para considerar enfoques
novedosos pasados por alto durante los experimentos e investigaciones pasadas.
(3) De alguna manera, el científico clínico se convertiría en una parte clave del
continuo de la traslación, que puede llegar a ser muy satisfactorio, especialmente
cuando los resultados del trabajo de laboratorio experimental se trasladan con
éxito en la atención médica. (2)
Perspectivas personales
Como medico con una formación completamente con enfoque clínico,
encontrarme con un grupo multidisciplinario con otros científicos jóvenes de
diferentes campos ha sido tanto desafiante como emocionante. Los médicos
conocemos los procesos moleculares básicos que suceden en el cuerpo humano,
sin embargo, ignoramos muchos detalles de la complejidad de esos mecanismos.
Revisar y volver a aprender el funcionamiento celular básico, desde los procesos
metabólicos a la replicación del genoma, no ha sido tarea fácil.
Además, es bien sabido que, entre disciplinas científicas, la visión y los procesos
de pensamiento para los mismos problemas es particular. Por eso, aprender de
pares o “peers” provenientes de las ciencias básicas ha sido un choque de
saberes en un nuevo terreno común. Hemos creado un escenario conformado por
diferentes científicos jóvenes, cada uno aportando diferentes ideas y perspectivas,
todo con el objetivo común de encontrar un punto de convergencia para abordar
un problema de salud. Todos compartimos el mismo objetivo: la mejora de la salud
y el bienestar de los pacientes como máximo resultado.
Comentarios finales.
Todavía queda un gran camino por delante para la investigación biomédica. Como
médicos jóvenes, con una gran pasión por el servicio a nuestros pacientes,
podemos comenzar a brindar ese aporte tan necesario de la medicina clínica a la
investigación científica. Las tecnologías actuales hacen que la investigación sea
emocionante y extraordinariamente prometedora, y no hay duda de la necesidad
urgente de la traslación de conocimiento.
JDN members’ contributions
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 40
References
1. Seyhan AA. Lost in translation: the valley of death across preclinical and clinical divide –
identification of problems and overcoming obstacles. Transl Med Commun. 2019 Dec
18;4(1):18.
2. Homer-Vanniasinkam S, Tsui J. The Continuing Challenges of Translational Research:
Clinician-Scientists’ Perspective. Cardiol Res Pract. 2012;2012:1–5.
3. Roberts SF, Fischhoff MA, Sakowski SA, Feldman EL. Transforming Science Into Medicine.
How Clinician–Scientists Can Build Bridges Across Research’s “Valley of Death.” Academic
Medicine. 2012 Mar;87(3):266–70.
4. Woolf SH. The Meaning of Translational Research and Why It Matters. JAMA. 2008 Jan
9;299(2).
5. Thomas D, Chancellor D, Micklus A, LaFever S, Hay M, Schaudhuri S, et al. Clinical
Development Success Rates and Contributing Factors 2011–2020. United Kingdom; 2021 Feb.
JDN members’ contributions
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 41
JDN members’ contributions
Malaysia’s JDN recently held their very first International JDN Malaysia Conference, last
November 5th, 2022. It served to make JDN well known in Malaysia as well as to foster
unity amongst JDN representatives of the neighbouring countries. The event was held
concurrently with the CMA 26th Triennial Conference and Council Meeting.
The event had a crowd of 200 plus, both online and physical, as the event was planned
in a hybrid fashion to facilitate more participation from junior doctors who might have
logistics issues in being present physically. Our guest of honour was the WMA
president himself, Dr Osahon Enabulele, who gave a short but sweet opening speech to
start the conference. Meanwhile, Dr Murugaraj Rajathurai, the incoming CMA President
who also is the President of the MMA (Malaysian Medical Association), gave his closing
speech, post-forum.
JDN Management was represented by Dr Lwando Maki, the Vice Chairperson. The
other JDN present were Dr Yujin Song from KIRA (Korea), Dr Wunna Tun(Myanmar),
Dr. Marie-Claire Wangari (Kenya), Dr Jihoo Lee (Medical Ethics Working Group Chair)
and others, to name a few.
The topics presented are in the poster seen below (Picture 1). A brief outline about
“SCHOMOS” (Section Concerning House Officers, Medical Officers and Specialists-the
government wing of MMA) was given to the participants before introducing JDN in
Malaysia, how it all started and what all are the achievements thus far, both in Malaysia
and in the international arena. This then was followed by various topics which are
heavily related to junior doctors in Malaysia such as Mental Health, Introduction to
General Practitioner practice, Alternative Pathways, Life Long Learning and Research.
By Dr Merlinda Shazellenne
MBBS AIMST, OHD NIOSH.
Chairperson, JDN Malaysia (2021-2023)
Organizing Chairperson, 1st International
Junior Doctors Network (JDN) Malaysia
Conference.
Junior Doctors Network
World Medical Association
The 1st International Junior Doctors’ Network (JDN) Malaysia Conference 2022
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 42
JDN members’ contributions
The forum, conducted in the evening, was done to facilitate a healthy discussion
amongst those present, on how to improve the situation in Malaysia as well as the
issues concerning junior doctors in Malaysia. Suggestions from several countries
(concluded during the country updates meeting the previous day) were also presented
to the participants of the conference (Picture 2). In the Q&A; session, the participants
asked many relevant questions which were then answered by the panel present
(Picture 3).
We also took the opportunity to network with good food during the conference and
also managed to take a nice group photo as a memoir (Picture 4). Networking with
other JDN, during this forum, has led to closer unity and given opportunities for more
joint collaboration, namely some research papers and articles. We also managed to get
to know some of the lovely leaders in CMA (Picture 5) during the Grand Dinner
organized post-conference.
In a nutshell, organizing this International Conference was a pleasure on my side,
despite all the hundreds of hours spent preparing for it, as the feedback post-
conference was highly positive and this encourages my team to continue this tradition of
conducting this forum, yearly. By initializing JDN this year in MMA, and through all the
extensive networks that we have managed to grow during my tenure, both internally
(with the other Young Professionals Associations-YPA) and externally in the
international arena, I hope that the voices of junior doctors can be heard, loud and
clear, in fighting injustice and in bettering lives for all in the medical fraternity. I must
convey my sincerest gratitude, to my MMA President, Dr Murugaraj Rajathurai, for his
never-ending help and guidance during the entire planning of this forum.
Sincere thanks also must be conveyed to all of the Organizing Committee and to our
Secretariat, without whom the event will never materialize. Lastly, I wish to thank the
entire network of JDN-WMA for being an organization which is very supportive for all
junior doctors.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 43
Pictures
JDN members’ contributions
Picture 1. Poster with the program
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 44
Pictures
JDN members’ contributions
Picture 2.
Picture 3.
Junior Doctors Network Newsletter
Issue 26
May 2023
JDN MEMBERS’ CONTRIBUTIONS Page 45
Pictures
JDN members’ contributions
Picture 4.
Picture 5.
Picture 6.