Van Lang University Celebrates World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) 2024
On November 22nd, 2024, the Faculty of Nursing, in collaboration with the Faculty of Medicine and the Faculty of Pharmacy, organized a significant event themed "Strengthening Education - Advocacy - Immediate Action" in response to World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) from November 18th to 24th, 2024. The event aimed to enlighten the Van Lang community about the detrimental effects of antibiotic misuse and to foster a healthier lifestyle for individuals in society.
Antibiotic resistance has emerged as a critical public health challenge in Vietnam. The misuse and excessive use of antibiotics in both medical and agricultural sectors has been identified as the primary cause for this alarming trend. To address this issue, experts at the event presented a series of insightful topics, highlighting the potential consequences of antibiotic misuse and emphasizing the collective responsibility in safeguarding public health.
In response to World Antibiotic Awareness Week, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thi My Dieu, President of Van Lang University, emphasizes: “Despite its global significance, WAAW remains largely unrecognized by the general public. Through this event, I hope that Van Lang students will actively participate in spreading the event's message and contribute to raising awareness about antimicrobial resistance (AMR).
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Thi Huong Quynh, a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Pharmacy, Medicine Department, University of Medicine and Pharmacy at Ho Chi Minh City, commenced her presentation by highlighting: “Vietnam is among the top ten countries with the highest rates of antimicrobial resistance due to the rampant overuse of antibiotics in various sectors, including community settings, hospitals, and livestock farming”. As a healthcare professional specializing in safe drug use, she underscored the critical need to address the current state of antibiotic use in Vietnam, particularly in the context of upper respiratory infections, which are primarily caused by viruses.
In addition, MSc. Second Degree specialist Tran Thi To Quyen, Respiratory Department, Deputy Head of the Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Van Lang University, emphasized the substantial burden imposed by infectious diseases and the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance on global public health. She proposed several interventions to reduce antibiotic misuse among the Vietnamese population, drawing inspiration from the World Health Organization's (WHO) message: "No action today, no cure tomorrow."
MSc. Dr. Do Cao Van Anh, Infectious Disease Department, Deputy Head of the Infectious Disease Department at Medicine Department, Van Lang University, provided essential guidelines and precautions for the judicious use of antibiotics. She emphasized the collective responsibility of all Vietnamese citizens in combating antimicrobial resistance, highlighting the long-term nature of this battle.
Dr. Do Thi Tuong Oanh, Tuberculosis & Lung Diseases department, Internal Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Van Lang University, shed light on the limitations of antibiotic therapy in the treatment of tuberculosis. She outlined a comprehensive strategy for preventing drug-resistant tuberculosis, emphasizing early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and controlling the source of infection.
The panel discussion at the conclusion of the event fostered engaging dialogue between students and experts, addressing various questions related to antimicrobial resistance. The insightful presentations and discussions collectively contributed to enhancing students' understanding of AMR and encouraged active participation in raising awareness
Experts exchanged knowledge with lecturers and answered questions from students in the panel discussion.
The event in response to World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) 2024 exemplifies the unwavering commitment of VLU lecturers and students to promoting health education. This event marks a significant milestone in the university's journey towards safeguarding public health, fostering healthy lifestyles, and contributing to the betterment of society.
News: Phan Nguyen & Bach Thong
Photos: Tri Chau
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