Two significant health research initiatives are currently being undertaken in Eastern Visayas, highlighting on the importance of cultivating a vibrant health research community in the region.
According to the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD), the two separate projects seek to address health issues regarding premature birth, low birth weight, and dengue.
Eastern Visayas Health Research and Development Consortium (EVHRDC) Chair Dr. Exuperia Sabalberino showcased the two research projects during the latest Talakayang HeaRT Beat press conference in Tacloban City.
Highlighted in the activity is the first biomedical device research conducted in the region, “Project BUHAT (Babies Under Heat Assisted Technology) Kangaroo Mother Assistive Device,” led by Dr. Virginia Ariza of the Holy Infant College (HIC).
DOST-PCHRD said that the project aims to support the implementation of Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) in more healthcare facilities in Region VIII by developing a KMC assistive device that can monitor a premature and low birth weight newborn's temperature, provide increased mobility for the newborn, and offer support to both the newborn and its mother.
Currently, the team has developed a device prototype and is now gearing up for clinical testing, which will be funded by the EVHRDC.
In her presentation, Sabalberino also shared the project “Health-seeking Behavior of Dengue Patients and Carers during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Naval and Kawayan, Biliran,” by Dr. Arlene Supremo of the Biliran Provincial State University (BPSU).
Meanwhile, noting the decline in dengue reporting during the COVID-19 pandemic, the study examined the health-seeking behavior of dengue patients and their carers in Biliran.
The study revealed that both patients and carers have differing health-seeking behaviors during the three phases of dengue which is indicative of low healthcare utilization and poor management of the disease.
These results can be used by concerned health institutions for policy development on dengue control and management.