LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Health Matters

Sir, Can 1.25 million people make a difference? Well, unsurprisingly, ‘yes’ – for that is the number of people - patients, carers, members of the general public –who, each year, contribute to healthcare research.

Forget the images often portrayed in the media of technicians peering down microscopes or clinicians poking, prodding or observing volunteers in isolation wards or new drugs being trialled. Of course, those procedures are aspects of some ongoing research programmes but a vast number of research projects rely on people submitting valuable information – both data and opinions – via questionnaires, keeping logs or journals or participating in interviews.

The National Institute for Health and Care Research (see nihr.ac.uk) funds, enables and delivers health and social care research across 31 specialties leading to improvements in health and wellbeing as well as promoting economic growth.

Ageing, Dementia, Diabetes, Mental Health, Primary Care, Social Care, Stroke are just a few examples of areas where research is producing changes in diagnosis, treatments and ongoing care as well as a better understanding of common conditions.

Such research hit the headlines during and following the Covid pandemic. The development of vaccines and effective anti-viral drugs relied heavily upon participants in research programmes but the research is continuing as people monitor the longer-term impact of both the condition and treatments. A similar study is focussing on those suffering with shingles, exploring new ways to manage the debilitating pain associated with the condition.

Another major study is focussing on Dementia. Currently, there are a series of studies including those seeking to identify risk factors at an early stage where symptoms have been presented.

Frankly, the opportunities to be a part of – indeed a partner in – healthcare research are almost limitless. 1.25 million people can testify to this and you could join them. More information is available from www.nihr.ac.uk. Brian Pearson, Research Team Volunteer (NIHR and Symphony Healthcare Services)

Dementia Hero Awards

Sir, Individuals and organisations in Dorset who have gone the extra mile for people affected by dementia could be recognised at the prestigious Dementia Hero Awards sponsored by Tunstall Healthcare.

The Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Hero Awards will celebrate the achievements of individuals, groups and organisations who meaningfully involve people affected by dementia in activities and projects that make a real difference.

There are nine award categories, including an Outstanding Achievement award. Winners will be chosen by a panel of judges in research and innovation, local government, those who care for people with dementia and dementia-friendly businesses, among others.

With nearly an estimated 7,500 people living with dementia in Dorset, it’s vital we join forces to improve the lives of people affected by dementia, now and in the future. Facing dementia, we are always better together.

It couldn’t be easier to enter, nominate yourself or someone who has inspired you for a Dementia Hero Award. Visit alzheimers.org.uk/dementia heroawards, nominations close on Friday 18 November 2022. Kelly Inwood, Area Manager for Alzheimer’s Society

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December Issue deadline: 21st November