Chula doctors emphasize that research in medical science is essential for developing innovations to prevent and treat diseases, ultimately leading to improved health. For instance, studies related to the COVID vaccine indicate that alternating injections yield results comparable to mRNA, making a booster shot more effective. It is important to note that every vaccine has side effects, and administering them in emergencies is appropriate. The rise in deaths following COVID cannot be attributed solely to vaccines.
Prof. Dr. Yong Phuworawan, Head of the Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, spoke on the topic “The Value of Research in Transforming the Health System” at the 2024 Health Systems Research Institute Academic Conference “Transforming the Thai Health System with Quality Research” on August 22 at Rama Gardens Hotel in Bangkok.
Prof. Dr. Yong mentioned that over the past 40 years of research, many medical professionals have asked how much financial return they receive for their work. He responded that it is challenging, as many studies often end up collecting dust on shelves after completion. He believes that if there are no products to show for it, the effort is akin to a department store without items on display.
Medical Science Research
- Research provides foundational knowledge for developing innovative solutions.
- It is utilized to prevent and treat diseases and to enhance health.
- It contributes to the planning of various patient care guidelines.
- It informs adjustments to national policies.
“My longstanding research focus has been on hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E. In the past, these were deemed incurable. However, the World Health Organization (WHO) has set a goal to reduce hepatitis to its lowest level by 2030. This policy was accepted by WHO in 2016, and Thailand has committed to minimizing the prevalence. I have made efforts to model a reduction of new cases by 90%. By 2030, our aim is to decrease the liver cancer mortality rate by at least 65%,” Prof. Yong stated.
For instance, during the 1987 international conference, it was stated that Thailand was a source of the hepatitis E virus. After returning from the conference, studies conducted in various provinces found that the prevalence of hepatitis E virus was non-existent. Without this counter-research, outdated beliefs would have persisted. As patients began reporting a history of consuming grilled pork, it was hypothesized that pork might contribute to the transmission of hepatitis E in Thailand. The virus found in Thai patients was similar to that detected in pigs. However, later investigations revealed many patients had no history of consuming or coming into contact with raw pork, including those undergoing liver transplants who had prolonged hospital stays. Additionally, individuals with weakened immune systems were also found to be infected with the hepatitis E virus, which was likely contracted through blood transfusions.
“Currently, blood banks can conduct HEV-RNA screening for high-risk groups, such as individuals with low immunity and those undergoing organ transplants, ensuring that Thais remain free from Hepatitis E.”
COVID Vaccine: Alternate Injections Yield Similar Results; mRNA is a More Effective Booster Shot
Prof. Dr. Yong noted that initially, there was skepticism regarding COVID since it was a novel virus. Information regarding COVID vaccines was new and required rapid research for emergency use. At that time, vaccines were in short supply, leading to the necessity of alternating between different vaccines. Many people were hesitant to receive inactivated vaccines, resulting in a reliance on mRNA vaccines.
“Alternating injections with inactivated vaccines serve as a good prime. Subsequently, WHO used our five references to draft Interim Recommendations, informing the world that COVID vaccines can be administered alternately. Continuous research has since shown that there is no urgent need for mRNA vaccines; instead, they are better utilized as booster shots. It’s evident that regardless of the vaccine formula administered, the final booster with mRNA vaccines shows no significant difference, which we have documented in our research,” Prof. Yong affirmed.
Prof. Dr. Yong reiterated that vaccines are beneficial but do come with side effects. Regardless of the brand of COVID vaccine, adverse events can occur in one in a hundred thousand or one in a million cases. However, if the vaccination can avert more deaths, it is necessary to implement them during emergencies. The utilization of vaccines at that time is justified. Today, should an mRNA vaccine be administered, acceptance would likely be lower due to the reduced severity of the disease.
During the COVID crisis, there was a decrease in deaths, accidents, and nearly all studied infectious diseases, including influenza, RSV, and pneumonia. However, following the COVID crisis, the death toll increased because, during the pandemic, individuals minimized their risks by staying home. As restrictions relaxed and life returned to normal, there emerged a backlog of immunity that needed to be addressed (Immunity Debt). As a result, infections surged, leading to increased fatalities, which compensated for the period spent in quarantine, rather than solely being attributed to vaccines. As infections rise, it is anticipated that the numbers will normalize in subsequent years.
Prof. Dr. Yong concluded by emphasizing that the research examples he briefly outlined are critical; they are ongoing efforts aimed at achieving success and delivering tangible benefits.
The Importance of Medical Research: Insights from Chulalongkorn University
Prof. Dr. Yong Phuworawan, Head of the Center of Excellence in Clinical Virology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University,
addressed the significance of medical research and its transformative role in health systems during the 2024 Health Systems Research Institute Academic Conference on August 22 at Rama Gardens Hotel, Bangkok. He emphasized that research in medical science is fundamental to developing innovations for preventing and treating diseases, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.
Advancements in Medical Science Research
- Research provides fundamental information necessary to develop innovations.
- Enables effective prevention, treatment of diseases, and enhances public health.
- Facilitates the planning of various guidelines for patient care.
- Informs national health policies and practices.
The Fight Against Hepatitis: A Success Story
Prof. Yong shared his extensive research in hepatitis and how it has revolutionized treatment perceptions. Originally deemed incurable, hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E have seen new approaches due to comprehensive research efforts. The World Health Organization (WHO) has established a goal to eliminate hepatitis by 2030, and Thailand aims to reduce new cases by 90%. Notably, the death rate from liver cancer is also targeted for a 65% reduction by 2030.
“What I have achieved is the result of years of studying hepatitis. Initially, in a conference in 1987, it was reported that Thailand was a source of the hepatitis E virus. However, extensive research proved the existing belief incorrect. Our findings revealed that the virus existed among patients who had no contact with raw pork,” Prof. Yong explained.
Thanks to these studies, blood banks can now screen for HEV-RNA, ensuring safety for at-risk groups such as organ transplant recipients.
The Role of Research in COVID-19 Vaccine Development
Prof. Dr. Yong also addressed the development of the COVID-19 vaccine, emphasizing the rapid research conducted during an unprecedented time. Initially, there were limited vaccines available, and mixing vaccines became a necessity.
“Alternating between mRNA and inactivated vaccines proved effective. Our research contributed to WHO’s Interim Recommendations, which acknowledged that various vaccine combinations could be safely administered. Ultimately, our findings showed that regardless of the initial vaccine type, receiving an mRNA booster was advantageous,” stated Prof. Yong.
Understanding Vaccine Safety and Side Effects
It is crucial to recognize that while vaccines play a vital role in public health, they are not without side effects. Prof. Yong mentioned, “Every vaccine can have adverse reactions, but typically the benefits outweigh these risks.” The key takeaway is that vaccines were essential during the COVID-19 crisis to prevent severe illness and death.
While the pandemic resulted in decreased fatalities from other infectious diseases due to preventive measures, a surge in deaths occurred post-COVID-19 as society returned to normal, revealing an “Immunity Debt.” This underscored the need for ongoing vigilance in public health practices.
Key Findings from Research on COVID-19 Vaccination
| Findings | Summary |
|---|---|
| Vaccine Efficacy | Mixing vaccines was effective, particularly with mRNA providing strong boosters. |
| Vaccine Side Effects | All vaccines can cause side effects, but they are rare and manageable. |
| Impact of COVID-19 | Increased mortality post-pandemic largely attributed to “Immunity Debt.” |
| Ongoing Research | Continuous research is essential for adapting health strategies and recommendations. |
Benefits of Medical Research in Health Systems
Extensive medical research not only provides insights into current health issues but also helps shape future health policies and practices. The implications of research are profound:
- The foundation for public health interventions and disease prevention strategies.
- Guides clinical practices and the implementation of treatment protocols.
- Supports the development of new technologies and therapies that can save lives.
- Facilitates educational advancements, enhancing the knowledge base of healthcare professionals.
Practical Tips for Supporting Medical Research
Individuals and communities can play a role in advancing medical research:
- Get Involved: Participate in clinical trials or studies aimed at improving health outcomes.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of new research findings and health recommendations.
- Advocate: Support policies that fund and prioritize health research initiatives.
- Share Knowledge: Discuss research developments within your community to raise awareness.
Case Studies of Successful Research Initiatives
Research not only revolutionizes treatment but also reinstates public trust in health systems:
- Hepatitis Control in Thailand: Enhanced screening and treatment protocols significantly reduced infection rates.
- COVID-19 Vaccine Deployment: Effective vaccine strategies in Thailand contributed to flattening the curve during the pandemic.
First-Hand Experience: The Value of Research
Prof. Yong’s extensive research experience has shown that ongoing health studies are crucial for societal well-being. His story exemplifies how challenging previous assumptions through research can lead to groundbreaking public health strategies and interventions.
Ultimately, as highlighted by Prof. Dr. Yong, the ongoing commitment to research in the medical field ensures that innovations continue to protect and enhance public health, providing a brighter future for society at large.
