ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s first ever national scientific congress to be held in the capital on Dec 15-16 would sensitise the citizens on how their health data was collected by international organisations through the use of smart devices.

This was stated by health experts at a press conference at the National Press Club on Monday.

Organised by Shifa Tameer-i-Millat University in partnership with the Association of Physicians of Pakistani Descent of North America and Association of Pakistani Physicians and Surgeons of UK, the congress would be held at the Pak-China Friendship Centre.

National Scientific Congress (NSC) Chairman Prof Dr Mohammad Iqbal Khan said a number of people used smart watches which noted their heartbeat, blood pressure etc., and sent the readings to its manufacturers.

“In the end, these readings are used for global surveys and policymaking.” He said the participants would be informed how such data can also be used for local research.

“We would hold 40 pre-event workshops to create awareness among the citizens. Moreover, workshops would also be held on the issues of nursing, pharmacy, surgical methods, etc.”

He said a large number of local and foreign experts would participate in the congress.

Oncologist Dr Hadi Khan said Pakistan lacked health data due to which policies cannot be made.

“For policymaking, our reliance is on international data. Some of the organisations and institutes such as the Aga Khan University (AKU) have been doing research work but even their data is integrated. We will try from the platform of the NSC to make a national hub or combine pool for the data,” he said.

Cardiologist Dr Saeedullah Shah said there were a large number of misconceptions due to which the patients further suffered.

“There is a general impression that headache is caused by blood pressure. People start using vinegar to control their blood pressure and for the treatment of heart issues rather than going for proper treatment. As a result, their problems become complicated,” he said.

Prof Dr Tausif Ahmed Rajput said during congress features regarding digital health would also be introduced.

“We have called a number of heads of companies which deal in digital health and they would sensitise the citizens,” he said.

Published in Dawn, December 11th, 2018