Reducing Skin Disease
The work of Assoc Prof Asha Bowen (previous Chair of ANZPID and the 2022 recipient of the Frank Fenner Award) to reduce skin disease has driven breakthrough knowledge and policy change and improved health outcomes in WA and through National Guidelines informed by evidence, across Australia.
As the lead investigator for the SToP Trial to “see, treat and prevent” skin infections, a large cluster randomised trial with a stepped wedge design recruiting from 2019-2021 throughout the Kimberley region in Western Australia, Assoc Prof Bowen (Head, Healthy Skin and ARF Prevention, Program Head of END RHD at The Telethon Kids Institute) has shown what can be achieved through community engagement ensuring the study was guided by the Aboriginal co-investigators and community members. The trial identified children with skin infections and referred them to local clinics for treatment, and Assoc Prof Bowen and team members worked with local services to enhance skin health practice and prevention. The team even developed a Hip Hop video featuring school kids participating in the trial!
Achieving healthy skin is even more important for remote living Aboriginal children as part of preventing the deadly heart condition, rheumatic heart. Her work is making a meaningful difference to the lives of children, families, and communities.
