Trainings

Training Workshop on Surveillance and Prevention of Birth Defects and Preterm Births

The topics to be covered in this training workshop include:

1. An overview of the epidemiology and prevention of birth defects, preterm births, intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), stillbirth, and other adverse pregnancy outcomes including lifestyle, nutrition, vitamins, maternal conditions and medications.

2. Practical information and small groups discussion on:
a. how to develop a surveillance programme with a focus on neural tube defects in low-to-middle income countries, classification and coding, evaluation of clusters and data presentation;
b. how to implement a preconception programme to prevent birth defects and other adverse pregnancy outcomes; and
c. how to establish a worldwide collaboration.

The main objectives of this training workshop are that participants:

1. Understand the principles and practice of surveillance of birth defects, premature births and other adverse pregnancy outcomes, including on-going monitoring and cluster investigation.

2. Understand disease risk, health impact, and prevention strategies for common modifiable risk factors such as diabetes, nutrition, medications, and environmental factors in different parts of the world.

3. Develop a prototype monitoring system and prevention program for folate-preventable neural tube defects that can serve as a model for activities in their home countries.

How are participants chosen?
Due to high demand and to allow extensive interaction and practice, openings in 2012 are limited. Preference will be given to professionals who are:
• from low and middle resource countries
• directly involved in the development and/or enhancement of surveillance and prevention programs in their countries (participants are encouraged to bring data and be able to address issues relevant to their countries)
• nominated or sponsored by country or local health authorities (preferable)
• strongly committed to long term surveillance programs

Note: Small teams from individual countries are encouraged to apply, particularly if these combine multiple disciplines and skill sets (e.g., medical professional with epidemiologist or analyst).

Who is the faculty?
Faculty includes distinguished medical and public health professionals with decades of practical experience, from leading global public health organizations and academic centers.

What is the cost?
The registration fee is USD 500, and includes training materials and certificate of completion. Participants from lower resource countries may request a payment exemption.

How to apply?
Contact the head office of the International Clearinghouse for Birth Defects Surveillance and Research. Email: icbd@icbd.org. Write ‘Training Program 2012' in the subject line.

Participants will be encouraged to bring data and issues of particular interest to their countries. Further opportunities for interaction will be provided after the course, as participants return to their countries to implement and expand local activities of surveillance and prevention.

For more information regarding the training workshop and program please click here.

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