Connecting communities: our contribution to global health and primary immunodeficiency research

In the last week of November, the Paediatric Respiratory and Immunity Group focused on engagement by taking part in both the Global Health event and the Patient Information Day for Primary (humoral) Immune Deficiencies (PID) at the Radboudumc in Nijmegen.

The Global Health event brought together representatives from around the world, showcasing their connections to Radboudumc. It provided valuable insights into ongoing collaborations in education, healthcare, and research. Our group, which maintains partnerships with South Africa and the Caribbean region of the Dutch Kingdom and conducts active research projects with countries such as Italy, Venezuela, and Indonesia, had a great time exchanging ideas on how to strengthen and expand these collaborations.

Participating in the Patient Information Day for Primary (humoral) Immune Deficiencies provided a meaningful complement, highlighting the impact of research on local patient care. PhD student Sam Engels presented his research from the Approach study, demonstrating work with the potential to directly influence patient treatment plans. The presentation sparked an engaging discussion with patients, their families, and healthcare providers. During the break, the PedResp group hosted a research booth, we brought a microscope to show lung tissue slices and interacted with attendees about ongoing projects and findings.

It was a rewarding week that combined international collaboration with direct patient engagement, highlighting the broad impact of our research from the global to the local level.