The University of Hong Kong has introduced an HKU Centennial Distinguished Chinese Scholars Scheme that brings to the University outstanding researchers from Mainland China to further strengthen our scientific exchange with them.

On 14 June 2019 (Friday), The HKU School of Public Health will host a public lecture entitled “70 Years of Disease Control and Prevention in China” by Professor George F. Gao, HKU Centennial Distinguished Chinese Scholar 2018-19. Professor Gao is Director-General of the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Dean of Savaid Medical School of University of Chinse Academy of Sciences, Vice President of National Natural Science Foundation of China, and Foreign Associate of the National Academy of Sciences.

Abstract:

Over the past 70 years, China has witnessed notable achievements on disease prevention and control.

The disease surveillance system initiated in the 1950s is a continuing effort on disease prevention. It has incorporated internet-based real-time reporting technology to improve the sensitivity of the data report. Monitoring of disease control progresses is also available through the system.

Commenced in 1978, the Programme on Immunisation has extended to 15 diseases with 90% coverage at township level in 2007. China’s Surveillance of Adverse Events Following Immunization has also passed the WHO assessment. A number of vaccine-preventable diseases have been eradicated or reached historic low in China.

China is also committed to the prevention of non-communicable diseases. A pilot study on NCD was conducted in the 1990s. Currently, 365 counties and districts have reached the national standard. Apart from strengthening the surveillance system relating to NCD, the government has initiated healthy lifestyle programmes and mobilised participation across sectors.

Multiple national surveillance systems were set up to cover other areas of public health, such as drinking water quality and environmental hazards. National nutrition surveys were conducted every decade. Other efforts include the establishment of public health standard systems and enhancement of the monitoring network.

Details of the public lecture are as follows:

Please click here to view Professor Gao’s bio.

The lecture will be conducted in English, followed by a Q&A session. Please register online by noon, 13 June 2019 (Thursday).