The Oxford BRC has joined with other parts of the local National Institute of Health Research infrastructure to organise a series of online talks as part of this year’s Oxford IF science and ideas festival.
The talks, by leading Oxford researchers, cover a wide range of topics, from diabetes to anxiety. Given the current COVID-19-related restrictions on gatherings, they will be delivered via Zoom webinar.
The talks, all of which begin at 6pm and last 45 minutes, are:
Why losing a few pounds is good for you – Professor Susan Jebb
Tuesday 6 October
Prof Jebb, the BRC’s Theme Lead for Obesity, Diet and Lifestyle, examines evidence for the health benefits of losing weight and why even short-term diets may be good in the long term. Being overweight is linked to a wide range of diseases, including diabetes and some cancers, and can increase the risk of serious COVID-19 complications. Prof Jebb explains how, if everyone loses just a small amount, together we can make a big difference to the nation’s health. More information
Why your body clock is important for health – Professor David Ray
Monday 12 October
What is the body clock, how does it work and what does it do to our metabolism? How does the timing of our meals and sleep impact on our health? Prof Ray, of the BRC’s Diabetes and Metabolism Theme, will show how you can hack your body clock in the 21st century to live a healthier life. More information
Childhood anxiety – helping parents help their children – Professor Cathy Creswell
Monday 19 October
Problems with anxiety are common, with roots often in childhood. However support for children and their families is all too rare. Prof Creswell, of the NIHR Oxford Health BRC, explores a range of evidence-based ways for parents to help their children overcome problems with anxiety. More information
How to imitate a pancreas – Prof Katharine Owen & Dr Rachel Besser
Monday 26 October
Next year marks the discovery centenary of insulin, revolutionising the care of people with type 1 diabetes. Prof Owen and Dr Besser, from the BRC’s Diabetes and Metabolism Theme, explore how science and research have transformed what was once a fatal illness into a managed condition. Technological advances are helping people with diabetes mimic the action of their pancreas, from drugs to patches that deliver insulin via handheld devices. More information
Pelvic pain: diagnosing endometriosis sooner – Professor Christian Becker
Wednesday 28 October
Pelvic pain and fertility problems can be symptoms of many issues. Endometriosis is a common condition that can take eight to 12 years for proper diagnosis – tissue similar to the womb’s lining grows in the ovaries and fallopian tubes – and few tests exist to distinguish it from other potential causes. Prof Becker, of the University of Oxford’s Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health, explains how researchers are analysing blood, saliva, urine and tissue samples to better understand the condition and develop more effective tests. More information
IF Oxford, which runs throughout the month of October, returns as a digital science and ideas festival with 100 online events, with activities for young children and families, or sessions for teenagers and adults to enjoy alone or as a group from the safety and comfort of their homes.