Professor Vincent Idemyor, a renowned scholar from the University of Port Harcourt, will on December 10, 2024 deliver a plenary session at the prestigious American Society of Health-System Pharmacists (ASHP) Clinical Meeting in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.
Prof. Idemyor will be speaking to over 20,000 pharmacy professionals from across the globe, at the one of the largest gatherings of healthcare providers focused on advancing pharmacy practice.
He will be speaking on “Preparing Healthcare Service Delivery for Climate Change Impacts,” and will be focusing on the growing intersection between climate change and healthcare.
According to a statement from the University of Port Harcourt, Prof Idemyor’s presentation would explore disease states exacerbated by climate change, both in the short and long term adding that he would also discuss the profound effects of climate change on mental health, including stress, depression, anxiety, grief, substance use, and personality disorders.
“Furthermore, he will highlight the critical need for healthcare providers and patients to understand how certain medications may respond differently under extreme heat conditions, which could lead to adverse health outcomes”, the statement added.
The distinguished Professor of Pharmacy, is also expected to emphasize the urgent need for healthcare policy changes to address climate-related health challenges.
The statement read; “He will advocate for integrating climate science into medical curricula and continuing education programs to better equip practitioners for the evolving health challenges associated with climate change.
Additionally, he will propose the creation of climate-health task forces within healthcare institutions, aimed at driving sustainable practices and shaping health-related climate policies”.
It went on to highlight impressive profile of the Prof Idemyor as a distinguished professor of pharmacy, who has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in HIV/AIDS research and pharmacy practice, stating; “his expertise will shed light on the critical issues surrounding climate change and its effects on human health”.
“As a well-respected leader in global pharmacy, Professor Idemyor has received numerous awards for his contributions to advancing pharmacy practice. Notably, he received the 2023 ASHP Board of Directors’ Donald E. Francke Medal for his international contributions to pharmacy practice.
His sustained contributions to international pharmacy practice, academic leadership, and research have solidified his position as a leading voice in the field.
“Professor Idemyor’s expertise and insights remind us that healthcare is not just about treating symptoms—it’s about addressing the root causes of health challenges, including the environmental factors that threaten human well-being. His presentation will underscore the pivotal role healthcare professionals must play in addressing the health risks posed by climate change.
Professor Idemyor’s presentation will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing conversation, inspiring healthcare providers to take action and prioritize environmental stewardship as an extension of the Hippocratic Oath.
Speaking on the presentation, Professor Idemyor stated; “The diagnosis is clear: action on climate change is essential to safeguarding our collective health and ensuring a healthier future for all.
“In a sense, the pressure is on us as practitioners and researchers whose fields are grounded in science. We are the ones policymakers will turn to as government budgets are allocated. Science will prevail because it is rooted in undeniable realities.”
The ASHP Clinical Meeting provides a platform for healthcare professionals to engage in meaningful discussions and explore innovative solutions to address the complex challenges posed by climate change.
