NSTW to highlight health and wellness

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is all set to showcase its most recent scientific works and technologies at the 2014 National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) on July 24 to 28 at the SMX Convention Center, SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City.

With the theme “Philippines: A Science Nation Meeting Global Challenges,” the five-day expo promises fun-filled activities, informative fora, and engaging programs that are centered on healthier living, science-based wellness, eHealth technology, and healthy lifestyle options for the common Filipino.

“This year’s theme is timely and equally relevant since Filipinos have become increasingly concerned about creating a balance between working hard and living better. Poor health and the affordability of medicine, for example, have even become more important concerns these days, that is why we need to strive to increase our knowledge and capacity on key health issues,” said executive director Dr. Jaime Montoya.

Among the highlights of the 2014 NSTW are initiatives from the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), one of DOST’s three planning councils responsible for coordinating and monitoring health research activities in the country.

The PCHRD will conduct a series of interactive fora aiming to promote healthier living among all age groups. To make this possible, the agency will bring in experts like Dr. Demetria Bongga who will talk about the nutrition levels of fast-food choices and how local fast-food offerings fare when compared to international choices.

A forum titled “Initiatives on Drug Discovery: Is the Philippines Catching Up?” will provide researchers, students, and the academe with updates in the fields of medicine, pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacology. Speakers such as Dr. Isagani Padolina and Dr. Lilibeth Salvador-Reyes will talk about the industrial aspects of drug and natural product research and the role of medical chemistry on drug discovery.

Another program to look forward to is NSTW’s eHealth forum, which will highlight the country’s new platform for health information exchange, maternal and child health, and efficient eHealth technology.

Other exhibits and activities include physical routines for the general attendees, routines focused on health and wellness among the elderly, balance training, and free checkup for chronic medical conditions such as hypertension.

“There is something for everyone at NSTW. We believe that the expo will give individuals a better understanding on how we should think in terms of our health needs. It’s all about increasing the public’s knowledge on health and well-being as we aim to improve and save more lives,” Montoya said.

Institutionalized in 1982, the NSTW is an annual celebration that highlights significant contributions of science and technology to national development. It also serves as venue for scientists and researchers to interact with entrepreneurs and businessmen.

For more information, visit http://nstw.dost.gov.ph/.