Page 130 - SAMRC Annual Report 2023-24

groups like black women scientists, and by improve outcomes for all, regardless of background
addressing the shortcomings in current diagnostic or socio-economic status. In summary, the unit's
methods for NCDs. By developing context-specific capacity development initiatives promote equity
methodologies and identifying diagnostic and and dignity by providing training, mentorship, and
prognostic markers, the unit aims to improve the employment opportunities to staff and community
management of cardiometabolic diseases and members, particularly those from underrepresented
reduce associated complications. groups. Through community engagement and a
focus on health equity, the unit strives to empower
Equitable capacity development individuals and communities, fostering participation
for empowering communities in and benefit from the research process while
addressing health disparities.
The Cardiometabolic Health Research unit
prioritises equity and dignity in health research and Science for creating a
healthcare through various capacity development healthier society
initiatives. These initiatives focus on empowering
staff and the community, particularly individuals The research unit actively engaged with the
from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and community to disseminate research findings
underrepresented groups. Training and mentorship and raise awareness about the importance of
programmes are offered to staff, as well as recent cardiometabolic health. One significant outreach
matriculants and community members involved in effort involved a researcher presenting a talk at an
our community studies, covering research skills and Oral Health Day event hosted in a community centre
career development. Special support is extended to in Strand, Cape Town. The presentation highlighted
female scientists of colour, ensuring their inclusion the crucial role of the oral microbiome in overall
and advancement within the scientific community. health, particularly its impact on cardiometabolic
Community engagement is central to the unit's work, health. The community members responded
with studies conducted in Bellville South and Belhar positively to the science engagement, showing
directly involving residents. Community members keen interest in understanding the link between oral
are hired as research assistants, provided with health care and overall well-being. To extend the
training, and offered employment opportunities, reach of this research beyond the local community,
fostering empowerment within the community and an article discussing the findings was published in
ensuring research relevance. The Conversation Africa. This article gained traction
and was subsequently picked up by radio and news
The unit's research is driven by a commitment to stations, leading to further dissemination of the
health equity, aiming to address disparities and research findings.

Dr Stanton Hector being interviewed by eNCA Prof Essop and Dr Motshwani at the first
reporter Kevin Brandt in December 2023. SAMRC/CPUT Cardiometabolic Health Research
Unit symposium.

128 SAMRC ANNUAL REPOR T 2023-24