Female medical laboratory scientists have been urged to translate scientific findings into practical healthcare solutions that improve patient outcomes.
Prof. Mary-Theresa Akpoveta-Niemogha of the College of Medicine, University of Lagos, gave this advice on Wednesday at the 9th Annual National Scientific Conference of the Association of Female Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AFMLSN) in Lagos.
The conference’s theme was: “Inflammations: Transiting Scientific Findings into Practical Applications and Solutions.”
Prof. Akpoveta-Niemogha described inflammation as a common feature of many infectious and non-communicable diseases, often manifesting as pain and swelling in joints and vascular tissues.
She highlighted that medical laboratory scientists occupy a strategic position in disease detection, monitoring, research, prevention, and therapeutic guidance.
According to her, dietary habits are major contributors to inflammation, emphasizing the need for people to pay closer attention to what they consume.
She noted that processed foods and excessive carbohydrate intake could increase inflammation risk, while foods like turmeric, ginger, and onions have anti-inflammatory properties.
“Laboratory scientists can develop improved diagnostic approaches to support the treatment and management of inflammatory diseases.
Diet is a major cause of inflammation. Consuming processed and carbohydrate-rich foods may predispose individuals to inflammatory conditions.
It is important for people to be mindful of their diets by eating more fiber-rich foods, fruits, and vegetables,” she said.
The National President of AFMLSN, Mrs. Catherine Ikpeme, stated that the conference also celebrated the growing influence of women in healthcare leadership, research, and innovation.
According to her, the gathering reflects the increasing contributions of female medical laboratory scientists to healthcare delivery, scientific research, disease prevention, and evidence-based patient care in Nigeria and beyond.
Also speaking, Dr. Theresa Jeremiah, Chair of the National Organizing Committee, emphasized the critical role of laboratory scientists in disease management and patient outcomes.
Jeremiah described inflammation as a major underlying factor in many diseases and stressed the importance of translating laboratory findings into practical solutions that enhance patient care.
In her remarks, the South-West Zonal Coordinator of AFMLSN, Mrs. Catherine Dikedi, urged women to adopt preventive measures against inflammation through healthy lifestyles and proper nutrition.
She said reducing the intake of carbohydrate-rich and fatty foods could help lower the risk of inflammatory diseases.
