#InternationalWomensDay
Dr dr. Helda, M, Kes. – Faculty Member, Public Health Department and Head of the COVID 19 Seroepidemiological Study, University of Indonesia
"I am passionate about epidemiology because it is critical to inform effective health policy-making. I teach epidemiology at the University of Indonesia and currently I am leading the seroepidemiological study, a collaboration between WHO and the Ministry of Health, to better understand SARS-CoV-2 infection among the general population. As the research lead, I supervise young researchers in the field and motivate them".
Epidemiology is the art of combining health studies, behavioural patterns, and community engagement. At times, some community members are apprehensive about research because they do not understand the purpose, so we need to help them see how it may benefit them. When my students face a challenging situation in the field, I encourage them to think of the health outcomes they are aiming for, so that they are not easily discouraged. My proudest moment is when my students have produced a good research, present it at a conference or to influence policymakers.
Doing epidemiological research is like going on a long and arduous journey. We have to collect volumes of data, sometimes faced with rejection and failure. As a mother, it is not always easy to leave my family for weeks to do research. I am grateful for
my family’s support to share domestic tasks while I am away. On this International Women's Day, my wish is for women, especially women from poor households, to have equal access to health care and health information, so that they can live
a meaningful and healthy life.”
