Research in travel medicine is actively conducted at both a national and international level but is arguably in its infancy, with many research questions currently being identified and an evidence base that is sometimes quite actively debated. Research in this area in the UK has been somewhat piecemeal with a few individuals conducting pieces of work in relative isolation, although this may be a reflection of the relatively low level of funding such work attracts. This is particularly true of the work that attempts to investigate the activity of practitioners and the behaviour and attitudes of travellers.
To address this issue the BGTHA has now set up a research network amongst its own members. The principle aim of the network is to gather data to help answer specific questions in travel medicine that have been identified as relevant to practice by the membership of the BGTHA.
In addition the network hopes of be able to support the research activities BGTHA members on their own projects through the on line web forum that will form part of the new website. There are currently just over 100 members who have expressed an interest in the new network. Results from the survey of members were presented as a poster at the BGTHA conference and can be viewed on the link below. There is also collaboration with the Irish Society of Travel Medicine which makes this the beginning of a truly unique international project
If you are interested in joining the network then please complete the survey here.
Alternatively email Prof. Larry Goodyer lgoodyer@dmu.ac.uk. The first research project concerns a survey of travellers on bite avoidance measures and will commence in the New Year.