Key takeaways from Prof Adam Dubis' Inaugural Lecture

GBSH student ambassador Esther recaps Prof Adam Dubis' impactful inaugural lecture on eyecare innovation, highlighting his work on macular degeneration and advanced retinal imaging research. A fusion of technology and healthcare insights made this a not-to-miss event.

GBSH was blessed with the inaugural lecture by our Professor, Adam Dubis, who selflessly shared his experience in embarking on the journey of exploring eyecare innovation. The lecture hall was packed with a broad swath of people from different backgrounds interested in this trailblazing session. During the session, he shared his insights on his notable research project on developing high-resolution imaging and visual function testing for clinical trials at Moorfields Eye Hospital. 

The eye is the window to the brain. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which, as its name suggests, is an eye condition that affects the macula and happens more frequently in the elderly. The macula is the sensitive part of the retina, and it is essential for the central vision. Unfortunately, AMD is a common, vision-stealing disease that affects around 40,000 people developing AMD each year in the UK. Macular disease is devastating and is associated with an increased risk of falls, depression, poor quality of life and social isolation. Professor Adam Dubis shared that vision in people with AMD will gradually decrease, and sometimes they might not be aware of the vision change. Patients with AMD will notice changes when looking at the Amsler grid in which the lines may appear blurry, wavy, dark or blank. 

 

Structure of the eye

 

Amsler grid is often used to test the patient’s field of vision.

 
The Amsler grid will appear as wavy lines or blank spots for patients with AMD. 

    
Professor Adam shared that his research mainly focuses on the deep learning algorithm in retinal image analysis. The study aimed to develop a translational image protocol using data science and image analysis. This will help in early diagnosis and prediction of the progression of AMD. Besides, he led a research team to study the retina's physiology and investigate retinal vascular function in systemic and neurological diseases. He also unravelled how his research led to commercialisation and digital workflow solutions. His contribution to ophthalmic imaging is highly inspirational and pitched to the audience.

After the exclusive talk, we had a great networking session with the professors and experts. The event space is abuzz with eminent professors, renowned researchers, healthcare professionals and students in the digital health realm. We can engage with these experts and ask Professor Adam some follow-up questions. This talk has enabled us to gain a deeper understanding of this rapidly evolving field., We felt empowered by Professor Adam's enthusiasm and unique story angle. 

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