Education

Education

Overview

Our team planned to reach more than 10,000 people this year. Our target was to provide them with as much educational material as possible to have a positive imapct on their future.

We have made an online questionnaire to assess public knowledge about burn injuries and the role of synthetic biology in addressing this problem. The results of the questionnaire revealed sever lack of knowledge towards these two concepts among them, as shown in the following diagram:

Online Questionnaire In English

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Online Questionnaire In Arabic

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Thus, we focused our efforts on spreading awareness about synthetic biology and burn injuries, including their causes, types, preventive measures and general fire safety procedures. Furthermore , we aimed to spread knowledge about wound management and dressing techniques during our educational journey.

Our educational program this year "BioBurn Initiatives" addresses different age groups: kids, high school, undergraduate students, the public, high-risk groups, and health care workers.

During our planning phase, we concluded that we will be holding huge number of evetns. To make our work simpler, we created an event planning guidebook and decided that each event will be planned according to it. The guidebook can also serve as reference to all the other iGEM teams planning to hold events; further details are mentioned in the Conrtibution page.

EVENT PLANNING GUIDEBOOK

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To work as systematically as possible, we correlated our activities and material to existing Sustainable Developmental Goals, SDGs. In the followning paragrahs, each trageted SDG is mentioned and the way it is affected is explained.

Related SDGs

Good health and Wellbeing

Through our educational activities among different age groups about burn prevention methods and proper management of burn injuries, we aimed to reduce burn accidents and offered immediate first aid techniques for burn injuries that help minimize scarring, thus positively impacting people's health and their physical being.

Quality Education

Burn injuries in school-age can easily lead to psychological disorders. The disfiguring scars can even lead the victims to be bullied from other students which would indirectly affect their academic performance. Consequently, we targeted the school students and provided them with proper burn prevention instructions and burn wounds management. Our target is to decrease the psychological burden of burn injuries to prevent any academic effect on the victims.

Gender Equality

Statistics show that in many countries accross the world, the percentage of women affected by burn injuries is much higher than that of men. Moreover, the psychiatric effect on women is worse than on men. As a result, preventing burn injuries and healing them without leaving scars saves women from massive psychological effects and allows them to focus on their careers.

Sustainable Cities and Communities

60% of fire accidents all over the globe can be prevented by having fire safety systems and ideal cities design. Even the material used to build houses and buildings can help reduce such accidents. Hence, we made a guidebook on ideal anti-fire cities and buildings designs.


Introduction

On a narrower scale, we tried to develop better educational content and impact a wider audience. We made various educational materials and held many events.

We collaborated with experts, plastic surgery specialists, university staff and school managers to ensure the effective delivery of information in different ways. Moreover, we targeted high risk occupations such as iron welding workers, brick factories and bakeries.

Through the page sections , every event is described as :

-Overview: A summary for the event activities are mentioned.

-Furthermore: Discuss the event in detail.

-Outcomes: At the end of each group of events, offer mutual benefits for our team and for the targeted audience.

KIDS

"Early childhood education is the key to the betterment of society", Maria Montessori. This quote inspired us to prioritize children age group and raise their awareness about burn prevention and basic fire safety procedures. We also aimed to introduce simplified concepts of the human body and cells for them. Consequently, We hosted two main events:

(A) Flames Detectives

In this event our team developed a catchy story and song to educate kids with some fire safety measures in an easy manner.

(B) Synbio Sparks

Our team presented human body structure to primary school students.

(A) Flames Detectives

Overview :

Through our educational programs among kids we focused on raising awareness about burn accidents, burn prevention methods and proper handling of burn injuries. So, we organized a two-day workshop named “Flames Detectives” in a nursery. This workshop included a story, a song, various games and role plays that simplify knowledge in an appropriate manner for their age.

Day (1)

Story :

The first day of the workshop started with the distribution of a comic book prepared by the AFCM-Egypt team named “Maya and the kitchen dragon” between children.

The primary goal of the story was to teach the childrens about different sources of burns in addition to the appropriate management in case of a burn accident. The story also delivered important instructions that children must follow to protect themselves from burns.

Our team started to read out the story for the kids, showing its pictures. Everyone imagined himself in Maya’s shoes when she burned herself with a hot pot. They learned how Maya's mother managed the situation wisely, teaching her daughter the sources of danger.

Finally, we asked some questions to ensure they understood the intended learning objectives. Children were competing while they were answering our questions. Copies of the story were uploaded on social media platforms for free access and wider impact.

We translated this story in two languages :Arabic , English. In addition, We collaborated with iGEM IOANNINA team to translate it into Greek.

Story in English

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Story in Arabic

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Story in Greek

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Fire safety methods :

We presented various fire safety methods for children such as types of fire alarms and safety equipment. Our team depended on simple illustrations such as: exit sign, fire extinguisher, fire alarm, and white flames. Our teammate Youssef Fathy simplified the meaning of every sign for the children in an interactive way.

We ensured every kid could practice essential emergency evacuation through the building by preparing a scenario simulating a fire emergency. The kids were also trained to efficiently use various safety equipment in these situations. As a result, these kids would be able to behave accordingly in case of a real-life emergency.

Fire safety practice :

We introduced the "stop, drop, and roll" technique to the students in the form of an entertaining activity. When the music plays and the children shout "Fire!" they stop moving. When the music changes, they pretend to sleep on the floor, and when it changes again, they roll.

By changing the fire safety practices into a funny game, our team stressed the proper techniques done when exposed to burns. In addition, we simplified burn concepts using analogs. Fire was given a nickname to be “hot dragon” that we should keep away from. Hot liquids were described as “sneaky ninjas” who could cause a burn even if it did not appear to be steaming.

Day (2)

Sorting game :

On the second day, we made an interactive "Hot vs. Not Hot" sorting game. During the game, the children had to categorize some items as either "Hot" or "Not Hot" based on their temperature and potential to cause burns. They were given coloring sheets with pictures of kitchens and bathrooms. They identified hot objects (stove, iron) and safe objects (refrigerator, sink) by coloring them red and blue, respectively. We have given rewards for the top 10 childrens with the highest scores.

First aid measures :

Moreover, we started to simplify first aid measures if someone gets injured. We taught them to cool burned areas under runny water for at least 10 minutes, then apply a soothing lotion. To ensure their understanding of the situation, we enrolled in a role-play activity where they took on the roles of the doctor and the patient. The patients acted as if they had a small burn, and the "doctors/nurses" demonstrated the correct techniques for cooling and bandaging the burn.

Song :

The day ended with our song “Be safe from fire”. We created this song as music plays a significant role in children's education. We created this song using an inspiring AI tool called “Sonu”.

This song was designed to target various age groups, such as nurseries and primary schools. The song's lyrics were chosen carefully to deliver the message in an understandable way to learn and remember. We uploaded the song on the team’s social media platform for more impact and outreach.

(B) Science sparks "Synbio and burn care discovery day"

Overview :

AFCM-Egypt team organized a visit to a primary school, where the first stage in the educational journey begins. The visit aimed to simplify some scientific concepts in an easy and clear manner. We mentioned cell components and different functions in our bodies.

Furthermore

Our team prepared a comic book about “the little detectives inside our bodies." We collected the simplest diagrams that represent cell types and functions. We started the session by asking “Which one of you knows that our body contains young detectives living inside?” The students were interested and listened actively to explore the story of these young detectives and their functions.

Our team simplified the concepts of cells in our body to the children, clarifying their types and functions. ًThey learned the fact of union of the cells to form tissue, next forming organs, then finally developed the systems.

Moreover, one of the students asked “ where is the cell? I want to see it“ Teammates cheerfully said “They are too small to be seen by our naked eye. Despite that, we are able to see it with a microscope”.

We took these students into a new journey discovering different molecules and organelles inside cells. We highlighted the unique features of DNA molecules while we were building models of DNA using color beads and strings to unravel the mystery of the hereditary material in an easy understandable way for the students. Furthermore, we explained some organelles like mitochondria as the cell’s house power and ribosomes as the protein factories.

Finally, we divided the students into 5 groups, engaging them in a drawing activity to represent each organelle inside the cell. Every student had to identify the organelle name and function. Students enjoyed their time and enriched their mind with basic science concepts.

Moreover, our team represented different guidelines against burn incidents in homes and schools. We mentioned different simple proactive steps required to reduce injuries, in addition to the immediate management steps in case of burns. They learned to expose the burned area to runny water and to immediately call for help from parents.

At the end of the day, we had a Q&A session with an open discussion to catch any misunderstandings and get their feedback on the session’s quality and materials. We encouraged them to share what they learned with their friends and families.

Outcomes

For Our Team :

- We had successfully reached a wider audience by sharing content on social media.

For Kids :

- Effective teaching of burn prevention, first aid, and fire safety practice for kids.

- Ability of the kids to distinguish potential hazards in their environment.

- Improving first aid skills and implementing a positive attitude toward science, especially with primary school students.

- Creative curriculum development

STUDENTS

Part (1) High School Students

High school students’ age is very important due to its transitional characteristics. Moreover, it is an age when people learn, apply, and educate others what they have learned. In other words, they are the target population of any educational activity. Therefore, it was very important to consider them in our progress. We hosted a general iGEM talk in an educational center, we also organized a fire awareness and prevention speech in Tanta Royal School.

(A) iGEM talk

Overview :

Our team prepared a two-session talk addressing high school students to raise their awareness about synthetic biology and its potential in various fields. Both sessions went through the basic principles of genetic engineering, and real-life applications.

Furthermore

The first session :

We posted about holding a talk in the Tanta Educational Center on the social media. We received over 150 responses that showed interest. We gathered our data, revised the materials, and supported it with visual aids and diagrams to ensure students understood.

In the first session, we introduced our team members and the previous therapeutic and diagnostic projects. Then, we introduced a simple lecture to illustrate the basic components of genetics and synthetic biology.

Our team member Khalid Al-Heela introduced the concept of hereditary materials such as DNA and RNA. He explained the various biological processes required to produce our body’s proteins. Next, he discussed the responsibility of these materials on our physical appearance and individual characteristics. Next, our teammate Ahmed Weal focused on the genetic engineering process and its required tools. He discussed the ability of genetic engineering and synthetic biology to reprogram organisms and its power to improve human health. Finally, Ahmed Weal mentioned the role of synthetic biology in tissue regeneration and the production of drugs treating many diseases.

The Second session :

Our team prepared an interactive activity to deepen students' understanding about synthetic biology. We divided the students into 10 groups, and each had one of our team members as a supervisor ensuring they were following the correct procedures. The activity included the design of Genetically Modified Organisms using computer simulations.

We trained them on the “hdock” server to visualize three-dimensional RNA, DNA, and docking protein integration using a hybrid strategy.

Our team provided students with the educational materials as a reference, providing additional online sources for further learning.

After that, there was an open discussion with the students, exploring opportunities in this field. Feedback questionnaires were distributed, assessing the session strengths and weaknesses from their prospective. We received some recommendations to improve our materials and increase activities time in the future plans.

(B) Tanta Royal School

Overview :

The AFCM-EGYPT team aimed to spread awareness of burn prevention and first aid procedures among all schools in Egypt. The team started by visiting Tanta Royal School where we discovered the gap in fire safety practices. We succeeded in convincing the school administration to allocate a day every month to train students on various evacuation plans, and it was named “The Emergency Day”. In addition, the school administration modified its educational plan to include sessions on burns, its prevention and first aid, by doctors and firefighters.

Furthermore

We planned to contact local schools with educational sessions on burns, their causes, prevention, and first aid procedures. In this regard, we have planned a visit to Tanta Royal School, one of the oldest schools in Tanta. We were hosted by Ms. Mona, the school principal, and we gave her a general idea about the team and its therapeutic project this year, SONG-H, for treating wounds and reducing scars. Also, our team member Ahmed Attia asked about the fire safety procedures in the school. Ms. Mona explained that there are firefighting systems in the school, which include several fire extinguishers throughout the school corridors and smoke detectors.

Our team reflected on the important role of these devices in preventing fires and injuries and the need to ensure their periodic maintenance. We explained that many different studies prove the low incidence of burn injuries as a result of the effectiveness of fire safety systems. The team asked the school principal about training students on evacuation plans through the school buildings. We discovered an evacuation plan within the firefighting systems, but the students had not practiced it before.

Our team started discussing the need to educate students about burn prevention and management, and we succeeded in getting a message across to Ms. Mona about the need to allocate a day every three months to train students on different evacuation plans, to ensure their safety in emergencies. The school administration welcomed the idea and named it “The Emergency Day”. The school administration also mentioned modifying its educational plan this year by adding educational sessions on burn prevention and first aid procedures presented by doctors and firefighters.

Outcomes

For Our Team :

- Long-term partnerships with the royal school administration can help in future activities and plans.

For High School Students :

- Understanding synthetic biology principles and applications.

- Gaining practical skills through different activities.

- Improved educational outcome.

Part (2) College Students

As undergraduates are the upcoming heads of families and human power, it was crucial to address them. This was done through "Do-It-Yourself" workshop in El-Gharbia, addressing proper burn wound care, for students from different medical colleges. Moreover, we provided burn prevention tips and introduced synbio concepts for our colleagues from Benha University. Broadly, we gave hints in both events about regenerative medicine and synbio aspects in burn treatment.

(A) "Do It Yourself" Workshop

overview :

We organized a workshop in El-Gharbia, Egypt. The event was presented through a collaboration with plastic surgery specialist Dr. Esraa Shalaan. The purpose of this workshop was to teach participants wound healing process and to train them on wound care and dressing techniques. In addition, we introduced a detailed overview of regenerative medicine and its potential to replace invasive surgical procedures.

Furthermore

Wound dressing is an essential skill for all people especially for health care providers. Therefore, we have communicated with Dr. Esraa Shalan a plastic surgery specialist to teach us wound care and dressing techniques workshop. Then, we invited medical students for our workshop and 50 applications were registered.

The session started with an introduction to the wound healing process and discussing its phases. We discussed healing phases starting from the initial inflammatory response and moving on to the tissue regeneration process. DR. Essra represented the specific biological cells responsible for the wound healing process.

Our team member Mohamed Saad started to explain the role of platelets to stop bleeding and release growth factors that attract other cells. He depended on short videos representing the molecular level of interactions. He also stressed on the role of neutrophils and macrophage in this phase. Mohamed continued to discuss each phase with time for questions in between.

Since, we were keen on discussing egenerative medicine, we started to give an overview and introduce its concepts. We asked, “Who can imagine that after a deep wound injury, our bodies may have the ability to return to normal as they were?” The team showed them the ability of regenerative medicine to repair damaged tissue or organs depending on the body’s cells or laboratory-grown cells that stimulate the body’s natural healing process.

Our team discussed our new approach, SONG-H, as a real-life example of stem cell based therapy that aims to minimize scars and promote wound healing. We mentioned its ability to replace different invasive surgical procedures.

Then, we had a panel discussion with DR. Esraa included an introduction to wound dressing tools such as bandages, alcohol pads, and gauze swabs. Dr. Esraa emphasized on the importance of antiseptic techniques during every step to prevent wound complications.

Finally, the students were divided into small groups to practice these techniques under supervision. Our team gathered students’ feedback about the activities throughout the day. We had positive responses that reflected the effectiveness of our lecture and activity.

(B) Benha University Visit

Overview :

As there is an ongoing collaboration protocol between our college and Benha University, there was a scheduled visit from Benha University students to our college. We took the chance and gave our visitors a general overview of our team’s project and the applications of synthetic biology in regenerative medicine. Interestingly, they were more curious to know further on how we validate the genetic circuits and how our product reaches the market. Here, an idea enlightened our minds! A synthetic biology course that involves three main sections starting from general principles as central dogma, passing by the scientific complex concepts, reaching to the real world application.

Furthermore

We started our talk with a synthetic biology introduction in which a simplification of the protein synthesis process and the capabilities of adding new genes to any cell through genetic circuit were demonstrated. After that, we presented a lecture about the main components of genetic circuits and the function of each component. Furthermore, we have presented the different applications of synthetic biology in regenerative medicine.

Then, we exhibited software tools used in designing the genetic circuits and simulating the protein interactions. We clarified the meaning of dry lab and its ability to predict the protein’s interactions in normal physiological conditions similar to those of the human body.

Also, we introduced different laboratory techniques used in preparation, amplification, and validation of the genetic circuits. Additionally, we stressed on the role of the reporter genes in the wet lab result visualization.

To translate those ideas from the lab to the market, bio-entrepreneurship basics were explained. Starting by the identification of the problem and the unmet needs reaching the marketing strategy. Additionally, the lecture included the basis of how to formulate market analysis, unique value among competitors identification and the commercialization of the product.

(C) Educational Course

Overview :

We prepared an online free course going through synthetic biology principles from multiple aspects. We wanted to provide a journey in the complex scientific concepts of synthetic biology tools, biosafety, metabolic engineering, logic gates and mathmatical modeling.

Furthermore

This course was made using certified references and recent data and revised by the research department at AFCM College. The course is divided into 3 main sections.

The first section includes an introduction to synthetic biology and molecular biology. It starts with definitions of DNA, RNA, transcription, and translation for protein production in our bodies. Then, it delves deeper into the concepts, methods, and tools of metabolic engineering.

The second section covers some principles of gene editing and gene regulation using riboswitches. Moreover, it simplifies the definitions of genetic circuit, its components such as terminators, promoters, and other different segments. At the end of this section, it explains logic gates and some ethical considerations towards synthetic biology.

The last section involved real-world applications of synthetic biology, filling the knowledge gap between theory and practice. Finally, the course ends with a mathematical modeling sector. These models help in representing complex chemical reactions in the form of mathematical equations.

Our team depended on many assistive learning procedures such as diagrams, illustrations, and tables. At the end of the course, there was a feedback questionnaire that helped us get students' opinions for improving course materials for additional plans. We provided references, educational websites, and other free online courses that were specialized with each concept involved in the course.

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Outcomes

For Our Team :

- Outreaching the potential benefits of our new treatment”SONG-H” for the public.

- Interuniversity collaboration allows future collaboration and partnership.

For College Students :

- Collaboration workshops encouraged students to express empathy for patients and explore the emotional impact of burns.

- Enhanced understanding of wound healing and synthetic biology.

- Providing valuable practical skills of wound dressing techniques.

- Understanding some concepts such as synthetic biology, mathematical modeling, and entrepreneurship.

PUBLIC

Our team held a variety of educational activities such as podcasts, guidebooks and videos, to educate the public about the impact of fire on climate change, how to construct fire-resistant cities, and the proper management of burn injuries.

(A) Podcasts Episodes

Overview :

In our journey to achieve a more sustainable world, we made three educational podcasts that promote awareness to SDGs & fire accidents preventative measures. We uploaded the episodes to Spotify platform.

Furthermore

Episode 1 :

In the first episode "Building a Better World", our team discussed the impact of the 17 SDGs on global problems and how they address the majority of global issues. Moreover, our team illustrated the role of these goals in introducing a sustainable world by pushing countries, organizations, and individuals to collaborate to promote working by SDG targets, thus achieving a better future.


Episode 2 :

"Fire Safety and Burn Prevention" was our title for the second episode. We found that the 17 SDGs have no direct impact in addressing burn problems and fire-related issues. Thus, we decided to create a new goal (SDG 18) for addressing fire problems that have a significant impact on the world. We have made this episode to illustrate our point of view about our new goal (SDG 18) and publish knowledge about the urgent need to solve fire problems.


Episode 3 :

After we met with Eng. Amir, an expert in firefighting systems, our team has gained invaluable information about designing and constructing fire-resistant cities. As a result, we have decided to spread this knowledge in our society to make the public aware of fire safety measures while constructing their homes or buildings. Our team emphasized on the use of fire-resistant building materials and paints during construction, as well as the urgent need for fire extinguishers and fire detection systems in high-risk areas of fire.


(B) Cities and Homes Guidebook

Overview :

Cities and Homes Guidebook educates the public about the suitable city architecture to reduce possible fire accidents. This guidebook insists on the application of appropriate fire-resistant materials and an effective ventilation system. It also, encourages urban planners, architects, and policymakers to introduce fire-safe design principles across entire city infrastructures.

All these factors reduce the chances of fire outbreaks and allow safe evacuations in case of fire. We have shared this guidebook on multiple social platforms. Additionally, we have made a podcast episode to illustrate the content of this guidebook and uploaded the podcast episode on Spotify platform.

For further information read our cities guidebook.

Cities and Homes Guidebook

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(C) Burn Guidebook

Overview :

In an attempt to raise public awareness about burn injuries types, causes and treatments, our team has created a burn guidebook. This guide book offers valuable information about burn injuries and first aid steps. We have shared it on online social platforms, we receive some feedback, as a result we added sections like non- pharmacological treatment of burns and specific nutritional diet for burn patients. Additionally, we distributed the final edit of our guidebook through our educational events this year.

Furthermore

We found that many people lack basic information about burn wounds, first aid techniques, and proper management of burn injuries. This ignorance is reflected in common misconceptions spread between people regarding immediate burn management, which may result in further injury.

Our guidebook educates the readers about the types and severity of burn injuries. Thus, it enhances the awareness of readers and helps them identify risk factors. The guidebook provides step-by-step first aid instructions for major and minor burn injuries, offers practical tips for preventing burn injuries, and promotes a safer environment at home and work. Therefore, it reduces the impact of fire injuries and saves lives.

In addition to pharmacological treatment, it offers complementary therapies for burns, such as physical therapy and nutritional suggestions that promote the healing process. In general, our team guidebook acts as a tool for promoting safety and ensuring effective response and treatment for burn injuries.

We distributed this guidebook during our visits to healthcare systems and hospitals. We printed many copies and left them in the reception of the hospitals. In addition, we distributed copies through our visits to high-risk occupations like bakeries, iron welding workers, and brick factories. Lastly, we uploaded the guidebook to multiple social media platforms.

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(D) Animal Shelter

A tragic fire broke outat an animal shelter in our town; it resulted in severe burn injuries to many animals. Some of our team members had the opportunity to reach the place of the fire. It turned out that the accident happened due to a lack of basic knowledge about fire safety in our town.

We met the owner, Mr. Khalid, and asked him about the cause of this tragic accident. He said “A farmer was smoking a cigarette while resting near the animal shelter. After he finished the cigarette, he threw it on the ground near a haystack. The haystack is easily flammable and so a huge fire broke out.

For that, our team discussed with the village people burn prevention methods and fire safety measures to protect their animals. Moreover, we emphasized the importance of proper storing of flammable materials like dry plants, which are very flammable, that the animals feed on away from animal shelters and highlighted the urgent need for a near water source to ensure fire safety.

(E) Educational Video

To promote public awareness about burns and first aid procedures, our team decided to make an educational video on social media. This video briefly discusses our project SONG-H and basic first aid tips for burns. Thus, we contacted a content creator on social media named ‘Tarek Mohamed’. We made an integrated video with him, as we provided him with the scientific data about our project and burn first aid. He edited his script to provide this valuable data in an attractive way to reach his large audience on many platforms like Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok. We have received some positive feedback from Tarek's followers.

Outcomes

For Our Team :

- Our team gained a deeper understanding about burn prevention and treatment.

- Our team acquired invaluable information about designing and constructing fire-resistant cities from Eng. Amir meeting.

- We expanded our network by collaborating with other organizations and individuals to reach a wider audience.

- From comments on our education video, we have specified the needs of public people

For Public :

- Increase awareness about the importance of fire safety and burn prevention.

- Provide the shepherd of animals with the basic safety needs for achieving a safe shelter for animals.

- Removing old misconceptions about burn injury treatments through online and offline events.

- Enhance knowledge about constructing safe homes using fire-resistant materials.

BURN SURVIOURS AND GENERAL PATIENTS

To be more involved in burn patients' problems and their treatment journey, we visited Helmeya Military Hospital and Ahl-Masr Hospital. Through these visits, we learned more about burn injuries types, causes and complications. After a period from the first visit, we conducted a second one to share the knowledge we gained through educating patients and their relatives about first aid procedures and fire prevention methods.

(A) Helmeya Military Hospital

Overview :

The Helmeya military hospital is a prominent institution in the plastic surgery field. We had visited the hospital two times. The first time we met with many experts in plastic surgery and the burn care field, they provided our team with a lot of information about burn injuries and burn patients.

On the second visit, we started to distribute the knowledge we gained from the first visit. We had prepared a burn guidebook and distributed it in the hospital. Besides that, we educate patients and their relatives about first aid procedures for burn injuries and fire prevention methods.

For more details visit our integrated Human Practices PAGE click here

(B) Ahl-Masr Hospital

We visited the principal hospital in burn care in Egypt, AHL Masr, to be more involved in burn patients' accidents and patients' journeys. We have visited the hospital two times. On the first visit, we met with a lot of experts like Dr. Naeem, Dr. Ahmed Rizk, and Nurse Abdelfattah. Those experts taught us invaluable information about burn prevention and burn injuries.

Additionally, the general hospital managers provided us with a brief description of the educational programs that the hospital shared on its website. These programs raise awareness about burn prevention. Moreover, the programs offer economic empowerment programs for burn survivors who lost their jobs. Thus, our team conducted an educational plan for the public to decrease the incidence of burn injuries in Egypt.

As a result, we decided to conduct our second visit to educate patients and their relatives with the knowledge we gained and also listen to patients' stories. We have printed numerous copies of our burn guidebook. Finally, we left many copies of this guidebook in the reception to reach the maximum number of patients.

For more details visit our integrated HP PAGE click here

Outcomes

For us :

- Our team gained knowledge from experts in plastic surgery and the bure care field.

- Experts educated us with invaluable information about burn prevention and burn injuries.

- Listened to patient stories and better understand their experiences.

For Patients :

- Patients and their families gain knowledge about burn prevention, reducing the risk of future injuries.

- Patients feel supported through sharing stories and experiences.

HIGH RISK GROUPS

We have divided this part into two sub-titles: the high-risk people and high-risk occupations. After we listed the high-risk occupations with frequent burn injuries, we conducted many visits to these places as brick factories, welding workers, and bakeries to educate them on basic safety measures and how to deal with minor burns. Additionally, we published a brochure for women to reduce burn accidents among females, as they are considered one of the high-risk groups.

(A) Women

Women account for 80% of burn injuries in some countries. We have designed a brochure for women that aims to reduce burn accidents among women and children under 5, as they are not old enough to manage things. Our brochure discusses three major titles: cooking safety procedures, child safety, and first aid procedures for minor burns.

Furthermore

By promoting awareness, our brochure aims to reduce the incidence of burn accidents among women and children less than 5 and additionally minimize the impact of minor burns on them by following proper first aid steps. Finally, we distributed this brochure on various social media platforms. We have received positive feedback on our social platforms.


(B) High Risk Occupations

Overview :

After we conducted a comprehensive study on the statistics of burn injuries in Egypt, we found that a significant number of workers are exposed to burn injuries in specific industries like bakeries, iron welding, and brick factories. Thus, we decided to visit the workers, provide them with basic knowledge about burns, first aid procedures, and remove misconceptions about the healing of burn injuries.

Team Visit to Brick Factories.

Team Visit to Iron Welding Factories.

Team Visit to Local Bakeries.

Outcomes

For our team :

- Understanding traditional misconceptions about dealing with burn injuries.

For workers :

- Raised awareness among workers about the importance of burn prevention.

- Workers learned proper first aid procedures, which reduce the severity of injuries and prevent further complications.

- Enhance safety by wearing fire-resistant clothing, gloves, and glasses.

- Reduced misconceptions lead to better treatment outcomes.

ARMED FORCES COLLEGE OF MEDECINE
AFCM EGYPT iGEM 2024

Awards

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