Last weekend I had the pleasure of visiting Medway NHS Foundation Trust to see their fantastic progress in the field of medical research. This crucial area of Medway’s work is often overlooked and I was keen to observe for myself the vital work our dedicated medical researchers do towards our better health and treatment. Our local trust is engaged in numerous interesting research and development (R&D) trials and during my visit I was introduced to three highly impressive projects, which I have shared below:
Foetal Medicine - during my visit I met Foetal Medicine consultant Dr Ranjit Akolekar and members of his team, who informed me about their to work to help prevent the dangerous condition of pre-eclampsia. This is a trial being undertaken at 5 hospitals in the county. Women who are high-risk are being given a low dose of aspirin before they reach 16 weeks, and it may lead to a 50% reduction in pre-eclampsia.
Down’s Syndrome genetics screening - I learned that through research the Trust is able to offer expectant mothers a simple and pain-free genetic screening for Down’s Syndrome that removes the need to have the invasive (and painful) traditional amniocentesis test which also carries a risk of miscarriage. This is also a trial which is only taking place in a couple of hospitals across the country and involves a very specific blood test.
Brain damage treatment - Finally I met Dr Aung Soe, a consultant Neonatologist, with whom I heard first-hand from a patient how when her daughter was born after what had been an easy pregnancy and labour she was told that the baby was very seriously ill and may have brain damage. Baby Jessica was transferred by ambulance within hours of her birth to Dr Soe’s care at Medway and she took part in a trial where she was cooled. Thankfully, Jessica subsequently made a full recovery and is now a happy and healthy little girl.
It is fantastic that important R&D projects such as the incredible ones I have seen on the maternity and pre-natal unit are happening here at Medway. It goes to show the deep commitment our local hospital has towards R&D trials for the benefit of our community.
Such work strikes a close cord with me and my family after my sister was a part of a trial during child labour. The trial took place earlier this year and happily baby Ruby was born in good health just a week before the General Election.
Unfortunately, I was only able to scratch the surface of all the wonderful work that is happening at Medway, which all too often goes unnoticed among the negative stories we hear. However, it was great to learn first-hand how research can and does change people’s lives. Having seen it all in person I am encouraged about the efforts the Trust is making - and will continue to make - to raise awareness of research, which is a crucial element of the treatment and care we receive from our NHS.