Semmelweis University’s most prestigious scientific event was held this past week, on the 4th and 5th of November. Dedicated to the topic of solid organ transplantation, the 20th annual Semmelweis Symposium featured lectures from close to 30 distinguished doctors and researchers – over half of them from abroad.
“Science doesn’t know borders, science can only be international, which is why our symposium is an international one,” Rector Tivadar Tulassay related at the opening ceremony. “We are very proud that, due to our international reputation, worldwide known experts and scientists have accepted our invitation and join us now to discuss this important topic,” he added.
Dr. Róbert Langer, vice-rector and director of the Department of Transplantation and Surgery spoke about the life and work of the University’s namesake, Ignác Semmelweis, using statistical data to illustrate how Dr. Semmelweis’s discovery of the importance of proper handwashing techniques reduced the occurrence and death rate of puerperal fever in the 19th century. He also spoke about the so-called Semmelweis-reflex, “a metaphor for the reflex-like tendency to reject new evidence or knowledge because it contradicts established norms, beliefs or paradigms,” adding that “the Semmelweis Symposium is proof that we continue to fight against this reflex.”
More than 130 registered participants attended the two-day conference.
For more information on the symposium, please visit its official website.
Pálma Dobozi
Translated by Gina Gönczi
