Author: Jessica Fagerstrom, Juliana Ama Kplorfia, Abigail N.M. Quaye, Mercy T Schandorf, Bishwambhar Sengupta, Peniel T Twum, Afua A. Yorke 👨🔬
Affiliation: University of Ghana Medical Center, University of Washington, Department of Radiation Oncology, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, University of Washington, Medical Equipment and Ancillary Services, Girls Excellence Movement, Global Communities 🌍
Purpose: To empower and promote diversity in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), an educational presentation and hands-on session were organized to raise awareness of STEM career opportunities among girls. This initiative aimed to introduce high school students in Accra, Ghana to the field of medical physics.
Methods: The study involved 65 first-year Senior High School girls, aged 13-16, pursuing general science at a high school in Accra, Ghana. This initiative, organized by the Girls Excellence Movement (GEM) in collaboration with a US institution, implemented the ‘heroes in radiation oncology’ program, which included a relatable presentation and hands-on experience in simulation to treatment planning activities using single CT slice of anatomical sites of brain, breast, esophagus, testicular, larynx, oral cavity, pancrease and prostate. A star was placed in the target as the isocenter and the target and organs-at-risk were drawn on a transparent plastic colored A4 sheet to guide them in creating their treatment plans. The program’s effectiveness was assessed through pre-and post-assessment surveys, and a thematic analysis of student feedback.
Results: Participants' awareness of career fields showed an interest in traditional healthcare professions (92%) and engineering (73.8%), with minimal medical physics awareness (12.3%). Post-presentation survey showed a significant change in participants' perception of medical physics (87.3%). Thematic analysis revealed increased awareness, understanding, and interest; and dispelled misconceptions about radiation safety while highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of the field and diverse career opportunities. The presentation was successful in inspiring participants and expanding their perspectives on medical physics
Conclusion: The program raised awareness of medical physics among participants, many of whom were previously unfamiliar with the field. Participants reported a newfound understanding of the interdisciplinary nature of medical physics, as well as its connections to biology, mathematics, and engineering. This program can easily be reproduced in community and school outreaches.