It was an exciting feeling for me to receive an invitation from Dr. Yasushi Mariya, Vice President, Department Chief of Radiation Oncology, Aomori Rosai Hospital in Hachinohe, Japan to deliver a citizen public talk on “Adverse effect smoking on Radiotherapy efficacy” at the satelight campus of Hirosaki University at Hachinohe on 21 September 2024.
Giving talks to the science students, scientists, and researchers are kind of a life I had experienced several times during various seminars and conferences. However, giving a citizen public talk was special. I highlighted the serious issue of smoking kills and how smoking cause deadly cancer in the human body. The most important point of my talk for the citizens was awaring them about the adverse effect of smoking on radiotherapy. I presented some of the latest research findings from different studies. It was satisfying to answer several questions from the citizens from Hachinohe city. especially a couple of questions from older age (60+) persons. Their quest for proper knowledge and scientific information was remarkable and appreciable.
The Citizen public lecture was also special with the interesting talk by Prof. Andrzej Wojcik on “Biological Basis and Advances in Radiation Therapy” and “High-precision radiation therapy – Recent efforts” by Dr. Yasushi Mariya.
The Japanese culture of humbleness and respect is something that is extraordinary to remember forever. Below is a copy of the appreciation certificate I received. The appreciation also included a memento from Aomori prefecture (not in picture).
The purpose of science is always to make life of common people better interms of knowledge and scientific tools. I am overwhelmed with the efforts of local press and news agencies taking into this. The event was well covered by local newspapers. Although it was surprising for me to see my picture in a japanese newspaper, this is also an extraordinary memory. The citizen pubic lecture was also widely circulated via the hospital’s website.
It was special and will always be a special one talk in my career. As a researcher, it made me feel good that I interacted with common citizens of Aomori, young high school students from Japan school.
I must thank Prof. Andrzej Wojcik and Dr. Yasushi for making this happen. Not to forget all your silent blessings as always. Thank you very much!✨️❤️🙏
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Prabodha
Dr. Prabodha Kumar Meher 