Title: Research Journey in Suriname: Impact of Environmental Exposures on Maternal and Child Health
As a researcher hailing from Suriname, I have delved into various projects aimed at improving the quality of healthcare in my homeland. From reducing waiting times at outpatient clinics to evaluating employee and patient satisfaction, my work at the Academic Hospital Paramaribo has been diverse and impactful.
One of the key projects I have been involved in is the Caribbean Consortium for Research in Environmental and Occupational Health (CCREOH), which focuses on assessing the impact of neurotoxicants on maternal and child health in Suriname. This study, conducted in the greenest country on earth, has shed light on the use of mercury in artisanal gold mining and its effects on the population.
My Ph.D. studies within the CCREOH program have allowed me to focus on the influence of chemical and non-chemical stressors on birth outcomes. Through fieldwork and recruitment of participants from various healthcare facilities, I have gained valuable insights into the cultural dynamics at play in Suriname.
One of the significant findings of my research was the association between hair mercury levels in mothers and preterm birth, highlighting the importance of environmental exposures on maternal health. Additionally, I found that maternal stress levels could impact the birthweight of the child, emphasizing the need for comprehensive healthcare interventions.
My ongoing investigation into the influence of heavy metals on the neurodevelopment of Surinamese children has been supported by a UJMT Fogarty Global Health fellowship. This research aims to understand how prenatal exposure to mercury, lead, and cadmium, coupled with maternal depression and stress, can affect a child’s behavior.
Looking ahead, I aspire to expand the scope of my research to include gene-environment interactions and other epigenetic factors that may influence childhood behavior in Suriname’s diverse population. By continuing to explore the impact of environmental exposures on maternal and child health, I hope to contribute to the advancement of public health initiatives in my country.
In conclusion, my research journey in Suriname has been both enlightening and rewarding. By studying the effects of environmental exposures on maternal and child health, I have gained valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by my community. Through collaboration with local healthcare providers and researchers, I aim to drive positive change and improve healthcare outcomes for all Surinamese. Join me in this important journey towards a healthier future for our nation.
