Text by: Jennifer F. Manongdo
Photo by: Joseph A. Bautista

The Institute of Child Health and Human Development (ICHHD) conducted a symposium on April 16, 2024, that tackled the latest advancements in vaccination and the impact of chemicals on fetal and infant development. The event, held at Henry Sy, Sr. Building, was a crucial platform for researchers, experts, and stakeholders to converge and share invaluable insights, fostering a deeper understanding of the intricate dynamics shaping child health.

Fetal Exposure to Environmental Toxins

Dr. Enrique M. Ostrea discussed how he was able to develop the meconium test which detects fetal exposure to environmental pesticides and its long-term effect on the neurobehavioral development of infants and children. His study indicates that meconium stands out as the optimal matrix for assessing fetal and infant exposure to tetrabiotic agents consumed or encountered by the mother.

The Exposomes Paradigm in Human Development: Addressing the Challenges of Maternal and Perinatal Health

Findings from Dr. Erlidia F. Llamas-Clark’s unique research unveiled a significant association between polycystic ovaries and environmental factors among single, non-pregnant women aged 18 to 40. The study revealed compelling evidence linking the prevalence of polycystic ovaries to the frequent use of household products such as cleaning agents, scented candles, floor and furniture waxes, and thermal papers. Dr. Clark, a professor of Medicine at UP Manila and Attending Consultant in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), also found a higher prevalence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) diagnosis among women who regularly use water vapor products, microwaves, processed foods, and food wrappers. These seemingly innocuous items exhibited a strong association with PCOS, underscoring the intricate interplay between environmental exposures and reproductive health.

Violence Against 13- to 17-year-Old Children in Valenzuela City

A survey on violence against children aged 13 to 17 on July to September 2021 in Valenzuela City highlighted the stark impact of violence on children. Presented by Dr. Sandra Hernadez, the study found that even among children who had not experienced violence in the past 12 months, a significant portion reported mental distress and self-harm. However, for those who had experienced physical and emotional violence, rates were much higher, reaching up to 95-98% for mental distress. Notably, the elevated rates of self-harm were particularly pronounced among females who experienced violence. Similarly, rates of suicidal thoughts and attempts were significantly higher among those who had experienced violence in the past 12 months.

Cost-Effectiveness of HPV

Vaccination in the Philippines The conclusions drawn from the research indicate that both bivalent and quadrivalent HPV vaccines are cost-effective compared to no vaccination, from both government and societal perspectives, Dr. Cecilia Llave explained.

Additionally, the bivalent HPV vaccine is more cost-effective than the quadrivalent vaccine. However, a nonavalent vaccination program is not deemed cost-effective. The study demonstrates significant health and economic benefits associated with implementing nationwide HPV vaccination programs, including the reduction of cervical cancer cases, hospitalizations, and deaths, leading to cost savings.

Effectiveness of an Inactivated COVID-19 Vaccine (CoronaVac) in the Philippines

The study found that a primary series of CoronaVac vaccinations provided protection against severe outcomes, with booster doses significantly increasing effectiveness in preventing hospital admissions and critical illness. According to Dr. Kristal An Agrupis, the study team plans to conduct genome sequencing analysis through the help of the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) to assess vaccine effectiveness against specific SARS-CoV-2 variants and disseminate the results widely.

Long-Term Outcomes of TB in a Rural Community in the Philippines

Dr. Josephine Aldaba presented a study on the long-term outcomes of tuberculosis (TB) in San Juan, Batangas. The study found that there is a greater possibility for recurrence among older patients and adults are more likely to experience a recurrence of TB compared to pediatric patients. Moreover, patients with lower socioeconomic status were associated with recurrence compared to patients with higher income levels. The study underscored the importance of longterm monitoring and addressing risk factors for TB recurrence.

Early Stunting and Neurodevelopment Outcomes

Dr. Ma. Esterlita Uy’s research revealed that children stunted at 2 years old had a higher risk of developing a low IQ at 6 years old, particularly if stunting persisted. This underscores the importance of addressing malnutrition early in life to prevent adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Dr. Uy proposed using moringa-based snacks to improve nutritional status, growth, and neurobehavioral development in 3- to 4-yearold children attending daycare centers.

Effect of Prior Dengue Infection and Single-Dose Dengue Vaccination on the Risk of Subsequent Virologically Confirmed Dengue

Dr. Michelle Ylade’s discussion centered on the findings from a five-year cohort study in Cebu on the impact of prior dengue infection on single-dose dengue vaccination and subsequent risk of virologically confirmed dengue. The study showed that one dose of Dengvaxia conferred significant protection against severe dengue to participants with two or more previous dengue infections. “So those who had a multitypic dengue infection were protected against dengue,” she said.

Dr. Ylade provided recommendations for clinicians, policymakers, program managers, and researchers, emphasizing the importance of enhanced detection and management of dengue, careful evaluation of future vaccine candidates, and the development of reliable diagnostic tools.

Breaking Barriers to Vaccine Hesitancy

Dr. Lulu Bravo highlighted the critical importance of vaccination in global health. Reflecting on historical child mortality rates and the impact of vaccination programs, she stressed the need to combat vaccine hesitancy and prioritize immunization efforts. She called for a concerted effort to engage with vaccine-hesitant individuals, employing techniques like motivational interviewing and debunking myths. She underscored the urgency of vaccination in preventing diseases and improving quality of life. ■