What is the full name of the institution, and what is its common acronym?

The full name of the institution is the Instituto Conmemorativo Gorgas de Estudios de la Salud, commonly known by its acronym, GMI. In English, it is referred to as the Gorgas Memorial Institute for Health Studies.

What is the primary focus and mission of the Gorgas Memorial Institute for Health Studies (GMI)?

The GMI is a medical research institution dedicated for over 80 years to investigating diseases prevalent in the tropics and advancing the field of preventive medicine. Its mission is to develop health research, function as a national public health laboratory, and provide education to healthcare workers in the region, ultimately aiming to improve the health of Panama and Central America.

When was the Gorgas Memorial Institute established?

The Gorgas Memorial Institute was established in the year 1921.

In what year and city was the GMI's building inaugurated?

The building for the Gorgas Memorial Institute was inaugurated in Panama City in 1928.

How has the administration of the GMI changed since its establishment?

The Gorgas Memorial Institute was administered by the United States until 1990. Since 1990, it has been integrated into the Ministry of Health of the Government of Panama.

To which government ministry does the GMI belong currently?

Currently, the GMI is a part of the Ministry of Health of the Government of Panama.

Describe the image associated with the article.

The source material includes an image identified as the Gorgas Memorial Institute, showing its laboratory building.

Who was instrumental in the creation of the GMI, and why was it established?

Dr. Belisario Porras was instrumental in the creation of the institute in 1921. It was established to honor Dr. William Crawford Gorgas for his critical work in eradicating yellow fever in Panama.

What significant public health achievement by Dr. William Crawford Gorgas is mentioned in relation to the institute's founding?

Dr. William Crawford Gorgas is honored for his achievement in eradicating yellow fever in Panama, a success that was crucial for enabling the construction of the Panama Canal.

How did Dr. Gorgas's success in eradicating yellow fever impact Panama?

Dr. Gorgas's success in eradicating yellow fever was a pivotal achievement that facilitated the construction of the Panama Canal, a monumental engineering project.

From what historical necessity did the GMI's expertise in tropical diseases originate?

The GMI's expertise in studying tropical diseases originated from the critical need to eradicate yellow fever and control malaria during the construction of the Panama Canal in the cities of Panama and Colon.

Which two specific diseases were initially targeted for eradication or control in Panama City and Colon due to the Panama Canal construction?

The initial focus for eradication and control was on yellow fever and malaria in Panama City and Colon, driven by the health challenges during the Panama Canal construction.

How is Dr. William C. Gorgas's public health intervention described in terms of its historical significance?

Dr. William C. Gorgas's triumph in public health during the early 20th century is described as one of the largest and most successful community-level public health interventions ever recorded in the history of medicine.

What types of diseases does GMI study?

GMI studies many emerging and reemerging diseases, contributing significantly to tropical medicine.

What are some of the specialized laboratories within GMI mentioned in the text?

GMI is known for its high-quality laboratories specializing in parasitology, immunology, genomics, entomology, water and food chemistry, bacteriology, and virology.

Beyond infectious diseases, what other areas does GMI conduct research in?

In addition to infectious diseases, GMI conducts research in epidemiology, biostatistics, health administration, chronic diseases, and human reproduction.

What function does GMI serve as a reference laboratory for?

GMI serves as a reference laboratory to diagnose various diseases, thereby contributing to better health outcomes in Panama and Central American countries.

Name at least five specific diseases that GMI helps diagnose as a reference laboratory.

GMI helps diagnose diseases such as yellow fever, malaria, measles, arbovirus febrile illness, viral encephalitides, influenza, dengue, and hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome.

Who served as the Director General of GMI between 2004 and 2008?

Dr. Jorge Motta served as the Director General of GMI from 2004 to 2008.

Who is the present director of GMI?

The present director of the Gorgas Memorial Institute is Dr. Nicanor Obaldia.

With which Panamanian health entities does GMI maintain close contact?

GMI maintains close contacts and rapid communication with Panama's Ministry of Health, the health installations of the Social Security System, and the main private hospitals in the country.

What significant agreement did GMI sign in 2006 with a U.S. department?

In 2006, GMI signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

What is the primary goal of the Regional Training Center established by GMI?

The Regional Training Center is an educational facility dedicated to preparing community health care workers and clinicians in Central America to deliver improved primary and preventive health care, particularly in underserved areas.

Who are the primary recipients of training at the GMI's Regional Training Center?

The primary recipients of training at the Regional Training Center are community health care workers and clinicians from Central America.

What key health areas are emphasized in the training provided by the Regional Training Center?

The training emphasizes preparedness for infectious diseases, response to pandemic illnesses, and the attainment of Millennium Development Health Goals, focusing on the health needs of underserved rural, poor urban, and indigenous populations.

Name at least three universities with which GMI has research agreements.

GMI has research agreements with academic centers including Johns Hopkins University, George Washington University, and the University of South Florida.

Which major international health organizations does GMI collaborate with?

GMI collaborates with international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), specifically its Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR) and influenza program, and the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO).

Which U.S. health agencies are listed as collaborators or partners of GMI?

GMI collaborates with U.S. agencies including the Centers for Disease Control of the United States (CDC-USA) and CDC-MERTU-G, and the Walter Reed Institute of Research.

With which specific Smithsonian institution does GMI have links?

GMI has developed strong links with the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI).

How is GMI described in terms of its current operational status and relationship with the Ministry of Health?

Today, GMI operates as an autonomous public institution that works closely with the Ministry of Health, aiming to provide the best available evidence for public health policy development.

What is the stated vision of the Gorgas Memorial Institute?

The vision of the Gorgas Memorial Institute is to improve the health of Panama and the broader Central American region.

What are the key components of GMI's mission?

GMI's mission encompasses developing health research in Panama, fulfilling the functions of a national public health laboratory, and providing essential education to healthcare workers throughout the region.

How is GMI expected to evolve in the future regarding public health in Panama?

GMI is evolving to become Panama's national public health institute, continuing its service to the Ministry of Health by informing public health policy with robust evidence.

Where are a collection of the institute's papers held?

A collection of the institute's papers is archived and held at the National Library of Medicine in Bethesda, Maryland.

What language is the official website of GMI primarily in?

The official website of the Gorgas Memorial Institute is primarily in Spanish.

What are the geographic coordinates provided for the institute?

The geographic coordinates provided for the institute are approximately 8°58′14″N 79°32′02″W, or 8.97042°N 79.53393°W.

Which international databases list authority control information for GMI?

International databases that list authority control information for GMI include ISNI and VIAF.

Which national authority control database is mentioned for GMI?

The United States Library of Congress is mentioned as a national authority control database for GMI.

What is preventive medicine?

Preventive medicine is a branch of medicine focused on safeguarding and promoting health and well-being, and preventing disease, disability, and death. It emphasizes proactive measures rather than reactive treatment.

What are tropical diseases?

Tropical diseases are infectious diseases that are common in or unique to tropical and subtropical regions of the world. They often thrive in warm, humid climates and can be spread by vectors like mosquitoes.

Genomics is a field of biology focused on the comprehensive study of an organism's genome, which includes all of its genetic material (DNA). It involves understanding the structure, function, evolution, mapping, and editing of genomes.

Entomology is the scientific study of insects. This field examines insects' biology, ecology, behavior, and their impact on humans and the environment.

Virology is the scientific study of viruses and their properties. It encompasses their structure, classification, genetics, replication, and their interactions with host organisms.

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. It is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (also known as T cells), which are crucial for fighting off infections.

What is the Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO)?

The Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) is an international public health agency that works to improve the health and living conditions of the people of the Americas. It serves as the regional office for the Americas of the World Health Organization (WHO).

What is the World Health Organization (WHO)?

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Its primary role is to direct and coordinate international health efforts, setting standards, and providing guidance.

The CDC refers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a national public health agency of the United States. It is tasked with protecting public health and safety through the control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability.

What is hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome?

Hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome is a severe, potentially fatal respiratory disease caused by infection with hantaviruses. It is typically transmitted to humans through contact with rodent droppings, urine, or saliva.

Instituto Conmemorativo Gorgas De Estudios De La Salud Wiki: Gorgas Institute: Pioneering Tropical Health Research

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About the Institute

Mission and Focus

The Gorgas Memorial Institute for Health Studies (GMI) is a distinguished medical research institution with a profound, eighty-year legacy. Its primary dedication lies in the investigation of diseases prevalent in tropical regions and the advancement of preventive medicine.^[1]

Establishment and Administration

Established in 1921, GMI's foundational building was inaugurated in Panama City in 1928. For a significant period, from its inception until 1990, the institute operated under the administration of the United States. Subsequently, it transitioned to become an integral part of the Ministry of Health within the Government of Panama.^[2]

Historical Significance

Honoring a Public Health Pioneer

The institute was conceived in 1921 by Dr. Belisario Porras, a visionary leader, with the express purpose of commemorating Dr. William Crawford Gorgas. Dr. Gorgas achieved the monumental feat of eradicating yellow fever in Panama, a critical accomplishment that paved the way for the successful construction of the Panama Canal.^[3]

Genesis of Tropical Medicine Expertise

The Gorgas Memorial Laboratories were officially inaugurated in 1928 on Arosemena Avenue. The institute's deep-rooted expertise in studying the complex diseases of the tropics emerged directly from the urgent public health necessities during the construction of the Panama Canal, specifically the eradication of yellow fever and the control of malaria in the burgeoning cities of Panama and Colón.^[3]

Areas of Research

Specialized Laboratories

GMI is renowned for its state-of-the-art laboratories, encompassing a wide spectrum of critical disciplines essential for modern health research. These include advanced facilities for:

Parasitology
Immunology
Genomics
Entomology
Water and Food Chemistry
Bacteriology
Virology

Diverse Research Domains

Beyond infectious diseases, GMI's research portfolio extends to crucial public health areas such as:

Health Administration
Chronic Diseases
Human Reproduction
Epidemiology and Biostatistics

Disease Surveillance and Diagnosis

GMI serves as a vital reference laboratory, contributing significantly to the health of Panama and Central American nations. It plays a key role in diagnosing challenging diseases, including:

Yellow Fever
Malaria
Measles
Arbovirus Febrile Illnesses
Viral Encephalitidies
Influenza
Dengue
Hantavirus Cardiopulmonary Syndrome

Most recently, GMI has been designated as a World Bank-Pan-American Health Organization reference laboratory for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) within the Central American region.

Regional Impact & Collaborations

Academic Partnerships

GMI fosters robust research collaborations with leading academic institutions, enhancing its capacity and reach. These include significant partnerships with:

Johns Hopkins University
George Washington University
University of South Florida
University of New Mexico
Walter Reed Institute of Research

Global Health Networks

The institute maintains strong ties with national and international health organizations, facilitating coordinated efforts in disease control and research. Key collaborations include:

Ministry of Health of Panama
Social Security System of Panama
Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO)
World Health Organization (WHO), particularly its Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR) and Influenza program
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC-USA and CDC-MERTU-G)
Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (STRI)

These extensive networks ensure rapid communication and effective responses to public health challenges across the region.

Education and Training

Regional Training Center

In 2006, GMI established a significant educational initiative by signing an MOU with the Department of Health and Human Services. This led to the development of a Regional Training Center dedicated to community health care workers and clinicians throughout Central America.

This center aims to equip healthcare providers with the skills necessary to deliver effective primary and preventive healthcare, particularly to underserved rural, poor urban, and indigenous populations. Training focuses on:

First-line response to community health needs.
Management of infectious diseases.
Pandemic illness response strategies.
Achieving established Millennium Development Health Goals.

Capacity Building

GMI received grants to enhance its virology diagnostic capacity and strengthen influenza virus surveillance in Panama and Central America. This capacity building is crucial for early detection and response to emerging health threats, safeguarding regional public health.

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References

The Gorgas Memorial Institute for Health Studies

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This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not medical advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concerns. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of information obtained from this website.

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Gorgas Institute: Guardians of Tropical Health

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About the Institute ℹ️

⚕️ Mission and Focus

⏳ Establishment and Administration

Historical Significance ⏳

📜 Honoring a Public Health Pioneer

🌍 Genesis of Tropical Medicine Expertise

Areas of Research ⚗️

🔬 Specialized Laboratories

📊 Diverse Research Domains

🦠 Disease Surveillance and Diagnosis

Regional Impact & Collaborations 🌍

🤝 Academic Partnerships

🌐 Global Health Networks

Education and Training 🎓

🧑‍🏫 Regional Training Center

💡 Capacity Building

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

About the Institute

Mission and Focus

Establishment and Administration

Historical Significance

Honoring a Public Health Pioneer

Genesis of Tropical Medicine Expertise

Areas of Research

Specialized Laboratories

Diverse Research Domains

Disease Surveillance and Diagnosis

Regional Impact & Collaborations

Academic Partnerships

Global Health Networks

Education and Training

Regional Training Center

Capacity Building

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice