Kolkata: On the occasion of National Doctors’ Day, SwitchON Foundation in partnership with EPIC INDIA, University of Chicago, organized a panel discussion on Air Pollution and Climate Change with the leading doctors of Kolkata, says a press release.
The panel also gave an orientation workshop for its flagship Program called Clean Air Medical Students Ambassador Program to the medical students selected across medical colleges in West Bengal, Jharkhand and Odisha.
The initiative was supported by various Medical Associations like South Asian Medical Students Association, Association of Radiation Oncologists of India, Chest Council of India, Society of Emergency Medicines etc.
The primary objective of the Program is to develop a strong network of medical professionals who will encourage community advocacy for sustainable development with their informed knowledge of the detrimental effects of pollution on human health.
Research studies on air pollution and its adverse effects on health outcomes will cover topics like cancer, respiratory, reproductive and Maternal (including child and mother), Cardio-vascular and Community health.
Other activities include conducting training, workshops, health camps, micro projects on waste and single use plastic etc. Every ambassador will get a certain stipend and logistical expenses for conducting the research.
Vinay Jaju, Managing Director, SwitchON Foundation said, “The Clean Air Medical Ambassadors Program is to create an opportunity by SwitchON Foundation for medical students to actively research on the most burning issue and provide credible information on the impact of air pollution health under the guidance of researchers, doctors and experts.”
Certificates to the participants and awards to the best performers of the program will be provided along with training and mentorship by senior doctors and experts.
The medical ambassador will get networking opportunities with senior health researchers, clean air experts, government officials and policymakers, and medical practitioners.
