In March, medical research is stepping outside the laboratory and into the public sphere across the Grand Est region of France. The annual “À votre santé!” (To Your Health!) initiative, now in its 15th year, aims to demystify scientific advancements and combat misinformation by bringing researchers and the public together in a variety of accessible settings – from libraries and cultural centers to cinemas and even local bars. This year’s event, running throughout March, will feature 22 events across twelve communes in Alsace, from Strasbourg to Saint-Louis.
The initiative, coordinated by the Inserm Est and the Nef des sciences of Mulhouse, is particularly timely given the proliferation of health-related misinformation online. “The objective is to make the advances of medical research in the region known and to share scientifically validated data,” explains Anne-Gaëlle Le Perchec, project manager at the Nef des sciences. “’À votre santé!’ is hunting down false information disseminated on social networks.” The program seeks to foster a more informed public discourse around health and science, bridging the gap between complex research and everyday understanding.
The event officially launched on Tuesday, February 24th, at L’Aronde in Riedisheim with an evening combining a scientific conference and a tango demonstration. This unique pairing highlights the growing body of research exploring the therapeutic potential of dance, specifically tango, in managing the symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. France Mourey, a professor emerita at the Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté, is leading research in this area, investigating how the structured movement and social interaction inherent in tango can benefit cognitive function and quality of life for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease. Inserm Est provides further details on the program.
Debunking Myths About Nutrition in Mulhouse
On Thursday, March 5th, a participatory afterwork event in Mulhouse will tackle common misconceptions about nutrition. Émilie Crouchet, a researcher at the Institut de recherche en médecine translationnelle et maladie hépatiques (IRMT), will lead the session, utilizing quizzes, workshops, and a conference format to help participants distinguish fact from fiction. This event addresses a critical need for evidence-based nutritional information, as dietary choices significantly impact public health. The IRMT focuses on translational research, aiming to bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical applications in the field of liver disease and related metabolic disorders.
Also on March 5th, at the Salle de la Monnaie in Molsheim, attendees will have the opportunity to explore the fascinating world of platelet production through three-dimensional scientific imaging. This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into the intricate processes that occur within the human body, fostering a deeper appreciation for the complexity of biological systems. Platelets are essential for blood clotting and wound healing, and understanding their formation is crucial for developing effective treatments for bleeding disorders.
Laboratories Open Their Doors in Strasbourg
Families in Saint-Louis can participate in “Santé en jeux” (Health in Games) on Wednesday, March 25th, at the local library. This playful event, requiring advance registration at 03 89 69 52 43, will feature cooperative games focused on epidemics, hands-on experiments with DNA, and workshops exploring viruses and blood, led by Catherine Strassel, a research director at the Établissement français du sang (EFS). The EFS, France’s national blood service, plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and availability of blood products for transfusion and therapeutic use. The Nef des sciences details the event schedule.
A highlight of the program is the open house at the Centre de recherche en biomédecine (CRB) in Strasbourg on Saturday, March 21st. This rare opportunity allows the public to meet the researchers working on cutting-edge projects related to the brain, pain, and other critical areas of biomedical research. The CRB is a leading regional research center, typically closed to the public, making this event particularly special. Guided tours are available with advance reservation. The CRB contributes significantly to advancements in understanding and treating neurological and chronic pain conditions.
The Inserm, or Institut national de la santé et de la recherche médicale, is a French public research institution dedicated to biological and medical research and public health. Its regional delegation for the East, located on the site of the Nouvel Hôpital civil de Strasbourg, building eXplora, campus NextMed, plays a central role in coordinating research efforts across the Grand Est and Bourgogne Franche-Comté regions. The University of Strasbourg and the Inserm collaborate on numerous research projects, sharing eight joint research units, one joint service unit, and three labeled research teams. The University of Strasbourg details its partnership with Inserm.
The Grand Est region is emerging as a hub for medical excellence, with initiatives like the IHU Strasbourg (Institute of Image-Guided Surgery) bringing together researchers and clinicians around a unique clinical theme. Operational since 2016, the IHU focuses on innovative surgical techniques and image-guided interventions. The region also boasts strong research capabilities in materials science and nanotechnology, contributing to innovation in areas like biosourced materials for food and non-food applications. The NextMed Campus, home to the IHU, serves as a focal point for training, research, and economic activity in biotechnology and medical technologies.
Key Takeaways
- The “À votre santé!” initiative brings medical research to the public in accessible formats.
- The program aims to combat health misinformation and promote scientifically validated data.
- Events include conferences, workshops, immersive experiences, and open house tours of research facilities.
- The Grand Est region is a growing center for medical research and innovation.
The “À votre santé!” program underscores the importance of public engagement in science and the need for accessible, reliable health information. By opening the doors of research institutions and fostering dialogue between scientists and the community, the initiative aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. The program’s continued success relies on the collaboration between the Inserm Est, the Nef des sciences, and local communities.
The full program schedule and registration details are available on the websites of the Nef des sciences and the Inserm Est. We encourage readers to explore these resources and participate in this valuable opportunity to learn more about the exciting advancements happening in medical research.
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