Judilynn N. Solidum
University of the Philippines, Philippines
Title: Innovation in Research Translated for Improvement of Filipino Health
Biography
Biography: Judilynn N. Solidum
Abstract
Translational research is a process where what has been gathered in the laboratory or clinic or field becomes the springboard for innovation for societal improvement. New scientific methods and technologies, interdisciplinary/multidisciplinary approaches, collaborative institutional arrangements are built to narrow the gap between basic science and its application to product and process innovation. In translational research, knowledge exchange is important for decision making. Knowledge generation funders, knowledge intermediaries, knowledge producers all work together for knowledge users to be able to utilize research results. In 2012, when dengue incidence was high in the Philippines, the three year Dengue Remove program was approved by the Department of Science and Technology, National Research Council of the Philippines, for the prevention of the disease. In the pilot area, Old Balara Quezon City, and several areas in Manila, parts of the Visayas and Mindanao, an innovation on Dengue prevention was applied. Elementary and pre-school students were educated on things related to dengue and its prevention. Storytelling was the strategy used to effectively relay the necessary information regarding dengue among the said age grouped students. Original storybooks were utilized to educate children on how to lessen the occurrence of Dengue in their respective communities. The strategy showed improvements on their knowledge regarding dengue and its prevention. Pre and post tests were used that determined the positive result. The difference between the tests showed extreme significance by means of t-test. A decline in the incidence of dengue occurred in the pilot place. Translation of innovation in research results improved Filipino public health.