Organization: Weill Bugando Medical Centre
Joanna spent two months in rural villages in Tanzania working on schistosomiasis research. The research project, led by Dr. Downs, aims to characterize schistosome-induced alterations in cervical gene expression, cervical cell populations, and cervicovaginal microbiota in women. When she was not assisting in data collection and patient enrollment, Joanna spent time in the clinics of Weill Bugando Medical Centre. The experience provided exposure to the Tanzania healthcare system and revealed the importance of cultural competence, with physicians balancing the respect of local customs and religious norms with the science of clinical medicine.