Worried about the quality of the air and water in Memphis? Interested in learning about new programs that are focused on improving health in memphis? Dr. Rebecca Krukowski (UTHSC), a weight management expert, will give us some insight into her new clinical trial for smoking cessation with a focus on preventing weight gain during the process. Then, Dr. Cem Akkus (UofM) will tell us a bit about Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and how he uses GIS to study health in Memphis.
Timeline
6:30PM
Doors will be open at 6:30pm. Cafe Eclectic, as the name would suggest, has an eclectic variety of eats and drinks, but doesn't sell alcohol. Have no fear, you are welcome to BYOB if that's what your heart desires. Enjoy while chatting with new friends!
7:00-9:00PM
Following a brief introduction to taste of science and thanks to our sponsors, we will hear from our speakers with plenty of time between for questions and refills.
Seating is limited; only a limited number of tickets will be available for purchase at the door.
Quit Smoking, Gain Weight-- Is It Inevitable?
Rebecca Krukowski
Dr. Becca Krukowski is a behavioral scientist and an Associate Professor at University of Tennessee Health Science Center (Preventive Medicine).
Most people gain a substantial amount of weight when they quit smoking. But does this weight gain negate the health benefits of smoking? Why does weight gain occur when quitting smoking? Is this weight gain inevitable? Are both men and women vulnerable to post-cessation weight gain? Dr. Krukowski will discuss promising approaches to post-cessation weight management being tested in a National Institute of Health-funded research study, which is currently enrolling participants in the Memphis area.
How I Use Geographical Information Systems to Study Health in Memphis
Cem Akkus, PhD
Research Assistant @ University of Memphis School of Public Health | #AJPHThinkTank Member
My research focuses on finding the underlying causes of health problems and ways to identify trends in different populations. I use a technology called Geographical Information Systems that allows me to map health disparities and find spatial correlations. My research helps to shed light on health disparities such as childhood lead poisoning.
Meet our hosts...
AISHA SOUQUETTE
I am a PhD student at the University of TN Health Science Center and St Jude. Most adults have 3-5 herpesviruses, such as chickenpox. I study how these viral squatters affect your immune response to common infections, such as a cold or the flu. I'm very passionate about science advocacy and enjoy sharing science with others to raise awareness of science topics important for the general public and to encourage students to pursue STEM careers!
DANIEL BASTARDO BLANCO
I'm a Venezuelan PhD student at St. Jude with a genuine love for Memphis. My work focuses on understanding the mechanisms of immune signaling and cell metabolism that control the differentiation and function of T cells. I'm the President of the Grad. Student Exec. Council of the University of TN Health Science Center. I am a runner and social media enthusiast with a passion for science advocacy.