Chlamydia, geriatrics and heart disease up for award

PRESS RELEASE
11 September 2013

Chlamydia, geriatrics and heart disease up for award

High rates of Chlamydia cases in New Zealand are the research focus of KuDos Hamilton Science Excellence Awards finalist Jane Morgan. Nominated for her research on trends related to the sexually transmitted infection, Dr Morgan is amongst three finalists for the Medical Science Award.

“Chlamydial control continues to pose a substantial public health challenge,” says Dr Morgan. “It is my hope that my research will help reduce the burden of this disease in New Zealand.”

The Institute of Environmental Science and Research’s (ESR) 2012 statistics showed that 744 in 100,000 New Zealanders are infected by Chlamydia.

Dr Morgan’s research explains that current identification and management methods do not provide enough support to reduce the spread of Chlamydia. Two of her suggestions to improve medical practice for the infection are increased screening opportunities and management to avoid re-infection.

Other research fields that gained attention for KuDos Award nomination are support for ageing citizens and heart disease management.

Finalist Mathew Parsons established the Applied Ageing Research Group. His research has been influential in establishing community-based services and providing support services for elderly people living in their own homes.

Cardiothoracic Surgeon Dr Adam El Gamel’s research is on valvular heart disease, associated risk factors, its management and long term outcomes. His work is at the forefront of helping to reduce New Zealand’s high rates of rheumatic fever in children.

The KuDos Awards recognise top science achievements in the Waikato region. With hundreds of PhD scientists, the Waikato is a hothouse for innovation in the science industry.

"Science is important, it is the feeder of change and new ideas," says Bob Simcock, the Chair of the Hamilton Science Awards Trust.

Now in its seventh year, the KuDos Awards creates a chance to recognise science achievements, while attendees enjoy a black tie dinner and an awards presentation.
Tickets are open to the general public and can be ordered at www.thekudos.org.nz.

Doctor’s diagnosis: KuDos Award finalist Dr Jane Morgan’s research has found a need for better medical practice in reducing the spread of Chlamydia in New Zealand.

ENDS

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