Black History Month Seminar Series Day 1
As part of our programming for Black History Month, the EDIIA Committee is hosting a seminar highlighting Black excellence in scientific research. We are thrilled to spotlight the remarkable achievements of three renowned Black scientists in our community!
Black History Month Seminar Series Day 1
Guest Speaker: Dr. Andrea Knight
Date: Thurs Feb 22, 3:00 PM-4:30 PM
Location: Myhal Centre (MY 315)
Register here
Dr. Andrea Knight
Dr. Andrea Knight is a Pediatric Rheumatologist and Clinician-Investigator based at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto. Dr. Knight’s extensive interdisciplinary career spans across medicine, neuroscience, and mental health, making her a prominent figure in pediatric rheumatology.
Academic and Professional Background:
After completing her bachelor’s degree at U of T, Dr. Knight moved to New York, where she earned her medical degree from the Columbia College of Physicians and Surgeons. Her journey then led her through a pediatric residency and pediatric rheumatology fellowship at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. She also obtained a Master of Science in Clinical Epidemiology from the University of Pennsylvania during her fellowship.
Seminar Title: Improving Mental Health for Children with Chronic Disease: Insights from Lupus Research
Abstract: Mental health problems are common in children with chronic disease, and addressing mental health challenges is critical to improving health outcomes. Patients with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus (cSLE), a chronic autoimmune disease, can experience mental health problems due brain inflammation as well as psychosocial stress. Additionally, health disparities can additionally contribute to adverse mental health and overall health outcomes. Optimizing care and outcomes requires a multi-disciplinary team approach tailored to the needs of individual patients and families. The objectives of the session are to discuss: i) research advances in understanding the mental health impact and contributing factors for youth with cSLE, and ii) opportunities for personalized care and precision medicine to improve mental health for youth with cSLE.