Page 131 - SAMRC Annual Report 2023-24
P. 131
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
The researchers involved in the study participated
in interviews on various radio shows, providing
insights into the implications of oral health for
cardiometabolic health. Moreover, the research
received broader attention when the unit co-
director, Prof Glenda Davison, was invited for a TV
interview on eNCA. The TV interview allowed for
a wider audience to be reached, contributing to
increased public awareness and understanding
of the research findings. Overall, these outreach
efforts effectively communicated scientific research
to the public, translating complex findings into
accessible information that resonated with diverse
audiences. The positive feedback received from
community engagements, media interviews, and
article dissemination indicates a growing interest
in oral health in promoting overall well-being and
preventing cardiometabolic diseases.
In celebration of 30 years of
democracy in South Africa
As South Africa celebrates 30 years of democracy,
the research unit reaffirms its commitment to
Attending the IFCC WorldLab 2023 promoting health equity, dignity, and empowerment
congress in Rome, Italy from left to right: for all citizens. Recognising the historical injustices
Dr Cecil Weale, Ms Abegail Tshivhase, and disparities that have persisted in healthcare,
Prof Rajiv Erasmus, Dr Don Matshazi particularly among marginalised communities, the
and Dr Saarah Davids. unit is dedicated to addressing these inequalities
through its research and outreach efforts. The
unit's message emphasises the importance of
inclusive and community-centred approaches
to healthcare, where the voices and needs of all
individuals, regardless of background or socio-
economic status, are heard and prioritised. By
engaging with communities, particularly those
who have been historically disadvantaged, the
unit strives to empower individuals to take control
of their health and well-being. Moreover, the unit
is committed to advancing scientific knowledge
and innovation in the field of cardiometabolic
health by understanding the complex interactions
between genetics, lifestyle choices, and the
environment, and by training future scientists.
Through its research, the unit seeks to identify
novel biomarkers, interventions, and strategies
that can improve early detection, prevention, and
treatment of cardiometabolic diseases.
As South Africa enters its fourth decade of
democracy, the research unit remains steadfast in its
mission to contribute to a healthier, more equitable
Team from SAMRC/CPUT Cardiometabolic
Health Research Unit at the Egylabs society. By bridging the gap between research and
AFCC in Cairo Egypt in February 2024. community engagement, the unit aims to create
Dr Cecil Weale, Dr Dipuo Motshwari, positive change and lasting impact in the lives of
Dr Shanel Raghubeer and Dr Don Matshazi. all South Africans, ensuring that the principles of
democracy extend to every aspect of healthcare.
SAMRC ANNUAL REPOR T 2023-24 129
