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PolyU School of Nursing hosts Healthy Ageing Conference 2025, experts from 15 countries and regions join forces to promote healthy ageing

(29 May 2025) The world is facing the challenge of an ageing population, making the maintenance of health and quality of life for the elderly an urgent issue. As a World Health Organization (WHO) Collaborating Centre for Community Health Service, the School of Nursing at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), in collaboration with the PolyU Research Institute of Smart Ageing (RISA), is hosting the Healthy Ageing Conference 2025 from 29 – 30 May. The conference aims to promote healthy ageing efforts in the Western Pacific region and beyond, bringing together over 200 experts from 15 countries and regions. Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, President of PolyU, stated that the conference provides a platform for policymakers, the healthcare industry, academics, and stakeholders to jointly promote healthy ageing. He said, "With PolyU’s extensive experience in the education of healthcare professionals, we have submitted a forward-looking and innovative proposal to the Government for the establishment of Hong Kong’s third medical school, aiming to leverage the University’s robust capabilities in medical science, medicine and engineering integration, and AI-driven medicine to nurture a new generation of medical doctors who are socially responsible and technologically proficient." Ms Xinjie QI, Second Class Counsel (Deputy Director-General Level) of the Department of Ageing and Health, National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China, stated in her speech that China and the WHO have conducted a series of collaborations on integrated medical and elderly care, the establishment of age-friendly medical institutions, and the development of geriatric medicine, achieving positive results. She expressed willingness to strengthen exchanges with other countries and share innovative experiences. She also emphasised that advancing the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area is a national strategy, and the National Health Commission will continue to enhance exchanges and cooperation with Hong Kong and Macao in areas such as healthy ageing.  Dr Libby LEE, the Acting Secretary for Health of the Government of HKSAR, stated that the HKSAR Government is actively reforming the healthcare system, including enhancing the primary healthcare services. As outlined in the Primary Healthcare Blueprint released in December 2022, the Government’s strategy adopts a prevention-focused, community-based approach. It aims at supporting and equipping people to lead a healthy life in the community, thereby improving the overall health status of the population. This conference serves as a valuable platform for knowledge exchange across healthcare disciplines, experience sharing, partnership building, as well as innovative solutions exploration. It definitely will contribute to the enhancement of the wellbeing of older persons in Hong Kong and beyond. Dr Hiromasa OKAYASU, Director of the Division of Healthy Environments and Populations at the WHO Western Pacific Regional Office (WPRO), reaffirmed that the conference offered an exceptional platform for policymakers, stakeholders, practitioners, researchers, and academics to come together and address the pressing trends and challenges related to population ageing in the region. He stated, "PolyU’s School of Nursing made significant efforts to facilitate a wide range of discussions, encompassing research and practical ideas, all with the aim of enhancing healthy ageing." In 2019, WHO introduced the Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) framework, transitioning from a disease-centred approach to one that assesses the intrinsic capacities of older adults—encompassing both physical and mental abilities. This comprehensive, person-centred model is designed to identify early signs of decline in intrinsic capacity, enabling timely interventions to mitigate, halt, or reverse frailty and dependence in older individuals. Building on expert feedback and the latest research, WHO has recently launched ICOPE 2.0, featuring the following key enhancements: Inclusion of Three Essential Factors in Ageing: In addition to evaluating six intrinsic capacities—cognition, mobility, nutrition, vision, hearing, and mental health—ICOPE 2.0 now incorporates "urinary incontinence management", "social care and support", "carer support" and vaccination advocacy, thus providing a more accurate representation of older adults' health status and quality of life. Introduction of Three Filter Questions: To streamline the assessment process for cognitive, hearing, and vision capabilities, a rapid screening system has been established. If an older adult responds "yes" to any of these questions, they will be referred directly for a comprehensive evaluation. Provision of Immediate Recommendations and Interventions: Following the completion of the ICOPE 2.0 assessment, the responsible assessor is equipped to offer tailored health advice and community support based on the individual needs of the older adult. Prof. Angela LEUNG, Director of the WHO Collaborating Centre for Community Health Services, remarked, "ICOPE 2.0 enhances the entire assessment and intervention process, facilitating the early identification of older adults in need of support and care. This approach helps to mitigate or slow the decline in quality of life associated with ageing. Additionally, the HKSAR Government has been actively reinforcing support for caregivers in recent years, which aligns seamlessly with the inclusion of caregiver elements in ICOPE 2.0. This underscores the importance of recognising that caring for older adults involves not only the individuals themselves but also the necessity of bolstering support for caregivers, as this is crucial for sustainable solutions." To enhance the understanding of ICOPE 2.0 among healthcare professionals and stakeholders in elder care, the WHO Collaborating Centre for Community Health Services has developed comprehensive online and offline educational materials for ICOPE 2.0, with a training video premiered at the conference. The video not only elucidates the ICOPE 2.0 framework but also demonstrates its application through real-life case studies. Additionally, the conference featured an ICOPE Community Practice Workshop which attracted experts from various countries to explore the updates in the new version, share insights, and discuss community application strategies. This initiative aims to benefit older adults globally and foster cross-regional knowledge sharing and technology transfer. Beyond promoting the implementation of ICOPE 2.0 in communities, the conference addressed a variety of topics related to healthy ageing, including policies on elderly health, technological innovations, and the latest developments in community care. Key areas of focus encompassed geriatric medicine, mental health, and smart ageing technologies, while also highlighting the latest research findings and practical examples of ageing studies from the Western Pacific region. Prof. Leung envisioned that the conference and resource-sharing initiatives will inspire more community organisations, healthcare professionals, and policymakers to actively promote healthy ageing initiatives. The School of Nursing at PolyU will continue to uphold its leadership role as a WHO Collaborating Centre, driving the development and implementation of innovative solutions for elder health, thereby making a significant contribution to the global goal of achieving healthy ageing. ***END*** About the WHO Collaborating Centre for Community Health Services at the School of Nursing, Hong Kong Polytechnic University Since December 2007, the World Health Organization (WHO) has designated the School of Nursing of Hong Kong Polytechnic University as a WHO Collaborating Centre for Community Health Services (WHO CC). Committed to advancing the WHO’s mission, the School actively promotes evidence-based community health services, aiming to enhance health outcomes at local, regional, and global levels. In 2023, the School was redesignated by WHO, with a focus on key indicators related to ageing and health. It is dedicated to promoting and implementing the WHO’s Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) guidelines, while also providing a platform for interdisciplinary collaboration to foster initiatives in healthy ageing. About the Healthy Ageing Conference 2025 The theme of the conference is "Progressing the Healthy Ageing Agenda: Translating and Implementing Healthy Ageing Programmes and Initiatives in Our Communities." Organised by the WHO Collaborating Centre for Community Health Services (WHO CC) at the School of Nursing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, this event is strongly supported by the Title Sponsor, AIA Hong Kong, which is committed to empowering people to live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives. The conference aims to unite stakeholders, practitioners, researchers, policymakers, and other relevant individuals from around the globe to collaboratively advance the healthy ageing agenda. By translating and implementing healthy ageing programs and initiatives across the region, the conference aspires to contribute to the United Nations' Decade of Healthy Ageing goals. For more information, please visit the official conference website: https://events.polyu.edu.hk/hac2025.

PolyU hosts 2025 International Conference on Primary Health Care to explore interdisciplinary collaboration

The Joint Research Centre for Primary Health Care of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) recently co-hosted the “2025 International Conference on Primary Health Care” with the Schools of Nursing of Fudan University, Sun Yat-sen University, and Tianjin Medical University. The Conference explored trends, issues and strategies in interdisciplinary collaboration in primary health care. Over 500 experts from 14 countries and regions participated in the Conference. Dr PANG Fei Chau, Commissioner for Primary Healthcare of the Health Bureau of the HKSAR Government, said the Conference facilitated exchanges and interdisciplinary collaboration among researchers, educators, healthcare professionals and other stakeholders. He emphasised that “The Primary Health Commission (PHC Commission) of the Health Bureau is committed to enhancing district-based primary healthcare services, with the aim of shifting the emphasis of the present healthcare system and people’s mindset from treatment-oriented to prevention-oriented and family-centric primary health care. The PHC Commission is dedicated to enhancing co-ordination among various sectors and across different levels of care, and to strengthening district-level PHC services in the community.” Prof. Christopher CHAO, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, highlighted the important role research was playing in the paradigm shift of health care. He stated, “The findings of healthcare researchers are leading to a better understanding of the gap between the current state of primary health care and a possible future of interdisciplinary collaboration. In this regard, PolyU’s key research strategy for building interdisciplinary research has been very successful. We create synergy in life sciences, healthcare and technology to bring about higher impact in society and support governments in promoting better health and well-being.” Prof. Frances WONG, Director of the Joint Research Centre for Primary Health Care, Chair Professor of Advanced Nursing Practice and Associate Dean of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences of PolyU, outlined the development and work of the Joint Research Centre for Primary Health Care. She emphasised the Centre’s focus on research, knowledge translation, nurturing the next generation of scientists and healthcare professionals, and collaborating with stakeholders to provide research data and scientific evidence to improve patient health and to promote policy and social change. Several distinguished guests delivered keynote speeches at the Conference, including (in alphabetical order by surname): Prof. Rebecca IVERS, Head of the School of Population Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of New South Wales; Dr Rob LAWSON, Chairman of the British Society of Lifestyle Medicine, and President of the European Lifestyle Medicine Council; Dr Pang Fei Chau, Commissioner for Primary Healthcare of the Health Bureau of the HKSAR Government; Prof. Leiyu SHI, Director and Co-founder of the Johns Hopkins Primary Care Policy Centre; Professor of Health Policy and Health Services Research, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health; Prof. Sabrina WONG, Science Lead, Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research Primary and Integrated Health Care Innovation Network, The University of British Columbia; Prof. Xifeng WU, Dean, School of Public Health; Vice President, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine; Director, National Institute for Data Science in Health and Medicine, Zhejiang University; Prof. Paul YIP, Chair Professor of Population Health, Department of Social Work and Social Administration; Associate Dean, Faculty of Social Sciences, The University of Hong Kong The Joint Research Centre for Primary Health Care was jointly established by PolyU’s School of Nursing and the Schools of Nursing of Fudan University, Sun Yat-sen University, and Tianjin Medical University last year. The Centre aims to promote disease prevention through innovative interventions and service models, apply advanced technology to provide continuous and integrated care.

PolyU Nursing ranked 16th according to the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University continues to be a leading institution in Hong Kong for nursing studies, as per the 2025 QS World University Rankings by Subject (Nursing). PolyU’s nursing program has consistently risen in numerous rankings and has steadily advanced on a global scale, rising from 31st in the world in 2024 to 16th worldwide this year, second in HK and third among nursing schools in Asia.    According to Prof. Janelle YORKE, Chair Professor of Nursing & Head of the School of Nursing of PolyU, “These rankings are based on the School’s globally recognized excellence in nursing research, leadership, and clinical practice. The ongoing progress indicates that our faculty and students are genuinely creating something remarkable for the nursing field that enhances the health and welfare of people in Hong Kong and beyond.”   “We continue to attract the most talented and skilled individuals to our nursing programmes. Our strong link with the industry in education, research, and patient care fosters students to evolve into the nursing leaders of the future. I would like to thank and congratulate all our dedicated academic staff for providing students with an enriching and supportive learning environment, and for the outstanding practice changing research that they do,” states Prof. YORKE.   The QS World University Rankings by Subject highlight the world's top universities in individual subject areas, covering 55 subjects as of 2025. It aims to help prospective students identify the world’s leading schools in their chosen field. The rankings are based on academic reputation, employer reputation and research impact.    Data retrieved from https://www.topuniversities.com/university-subject-rankings/nursing.

PolyU’s School of Nursing ranks 40th in the 2024 ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects

In the 2024 ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects (GRAS), PolyU School of Nursing ranked 40th globally, 2nd in Hong Kong and we are one of the only 6 Asian nursing schools in the top 50. The 2024 GRAS contains rankings of universities in 55 subjects across Natural Sciences, Engineering, Life Sciences, Medical Sciences, and Social Sciences. More than 1,900 out of 5,000 universities across 96 countries and regions are finally listed in the rankings. The GRAS rankings use a range of objective academic indicators and third-party data to measure the performance of world universities in respective subjects, covering in 5 major evaluation categories such as World-Class Faculty, World-Class Output, High Quality Research, Research Impact and International Collaboration.   School of Nursing, PolyU Ranking in 2024 40th Total Score 178.3 World-Class Faculty 13.3 World-Class Output 52.8 Research Output 59.5 Research Influence 39.2 International Collaboration 13.6   Data retrieved from: https://www.shanghairanking.com/rankings/gras/2024/RS0404

PolyU establishes eight JC STEM Labs to attract outstanding R&D talent and support Hong Kong’s development into an international I&T hub

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) has received a generous donation of over HKD 74 million from The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust (the Trust) to establish eight Jockey Club (JC) STEM Labs. Spearheaded by distinguished PolyU scholars selected for the HKSAR Government-initiated Global STEM Professorship Scheme, these JC STEM Labs aspire to advance innovative research in the fields of machine learning and computer vision, healthy built environment, innovative light therapy for eye diseases, quantum technology, 2D quantum materials, earth observations, digital oncology care enhancement and genomics in healthcare. PolyU held an inauguration ceremony for the JC STEM Labs yesterday to express its gratitude and appreciation to the Trust. The ceremony was officiated by Prof. Jin-Guang TENG, PolyU President; Prof. Wing-tak WONG, PolyU Deputy President and Provost; and Ms Elsie TSANG, Executive Manager, Charities (Talent & Sector Development) of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, together with eight JC STEM Lab Directors. Prof. Wing-tak Wong remarked, “We would like to express our immense gratitude to The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust for their generous support in establishing the state-of-the-art JC STEM Labs. These advanced labs will spearhead research across a range of innovative fields, reinforcing Hong Kong’s standing as an international innovation and technology hub. As PolyU commemorates its 30th anniversary of achieving university status, these new facilities not only represent a pivotal milestone in the University’s development but also underscore our unwavering commitment to academic excellence and technological advancement.” Ms Elsie Tsang said, “By investing in the research endeavours of these JC STEM Labs, The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust aims to assist in the creation of an enabling environment that supports the development of STEM talents and strengthens their capacity in applied research and knowledge transfer. Our commitment to this initiative underscores the Club’s purpose of acting continuously for the betterment of society.” The eight JC STEM Lab Directors also presented their Labs’ founding objectives, research areas, key projects and anticipated outcomes, with the aim to create a positive impact on Hong Kong and the world. A brief introduction to the JC STEM Labs is featured below: Lab Lab Director Research focus JC STEM Lab of Machine Learning and Computer Vision Prof. CHAU Lap-pui Professor, Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, PolyU Explore key technologies in 3D vision, general world models, spatial intelligence, trustworthy AI and robotics, as well as advancing innovations in AI perception, to empower smart manufacturing, mobility, education, entertainment and community wellness. JC STEM Lab of Healthy Built Environment Prof. CHEN Qing-yan Director, PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary; and Chair Professor of Building Thermal Science, Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering Develop innovative solutionstoevaluate and design healthy and energy-efficient environments, with applications in airborne infectious disease control and thermal comfort in buildings, transportation and urban areas, aiming to set a precedent for sustainable urban development on a global scale. JC STEM Lab of Innovative Light Therapy for Eye Diseases Prof. HE Mingguang Chair Professor of Experimental Ophthalmology; Henry G. Leong Professor in Elderly Vision Health; and Director, Research Centre for SHARP Vision, PolyU Transform the treatment landscape for ocular diseases, including theenhancement ofinvasive Repeated Low-Level Red-Lighttechnology by refining light intensity, duration and delivery mechanisms, and extending indications beyond myopia to other eye conditions. JC STEM Lab of Quantum Technology Prof. LIU Ai-Qun Chair Professor of Quantum Engineering and Science; and Director, Research Institute for Quantum Technology, PolyU Develop the quantum computers, quantum communication networks, quantum algorithms and software, quantum machine learning, as well as metrology and quantum sensing. The quantum computing microprocessors “HK-o1”, demonstrated by PolyU, is the first quantum computer in Hong Kong that is making a significant impact on the city. JC STEM Lab of 2D Quantum Materials Prof. LOH Kian-ping Chair Professor of Materials Physics and Chemistry, Department of Applied Physics, PolyU Develop new 2D quantum materials that can reduce energy consumption in spintronic devices, paving the way for faster and more efficient computers and memory storage devices. This will help underpin the rapid progress of information and communication technology. JC STEM Lab of Earth Observations Prof. WENG Qi-hao Associate Director, Research Institute for Land and Space; and Chair Professor of Geomatics and Artificial Intelligence, Department of Land Surveying and Geo-Informatics, PolyU Advance Earth Observation technologies by integrating space-air-ground sensing, AI-powered image processing and urban sensor networks. The labis pioneering geomatics solutions that revolutionise urban monitoring and environmental management. JC STEM Lab of Digital Oncology Care Enhancement Prof. Janelle YORKE Head, School of Nursing; Angel S. P. Chan Lau Professor in Health and Longevity; and Chair Professor of Nursing, PolyU     Develop a platform for a virtual oncology hospital to enable real-time monitoring of cancer patients’ symptoms related to treatment toxicities, including those from chemotherapy and radiotherapy, to facilitate effective clinical decision-making. This can improve patient outcomes and experiences, increase treatment completion rates, enhance survival rates, and lead to significant efficiencies in healthcare. JC STEM Lab of Genomics in Healthcare Prof. ZHANG Weixiong Associate Director, PolyU Academy for Interdisciplinary Research; and Chair Professor in Bioinformatics and Integrative Genomics, Department of Health Technology and Informatics Develop innovative AI and genomic technologies, including the creation of foundational models,for studying diseases andidentifyingdiagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targetsfor disease diagnosis and management. This will help revolutionise personalised diagnosis and therapy for cancers and psychiatric disorders, advancing medical care for all. The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust established the JC STEM Lab Initiative in 2021 to support the laboratory set-up for scholars selected for the Government-initiated Global STEM Professorship Scheme. The initiative aims to nurture STEM talent in Hong Kong and promote the translation of new science and technology to social impact. The JC STEM Lab of Quantum Technology showcased Hong Kong’s first quantum computer called “HK-o1”. This groundbreaking technology is set to make a significant impact in the field of quantum computing. Besides, the JC STEM Lab is actively engaged in quantum research, including quantum communication chips and quantum sensors and more. Ms Elsie Tsang (5th from right, front row), Executive Manager of Charities (Talent and Sector Development) of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Dr Laura Lo (5th from left, front row), PolyU Associate Vice President (Institutional Advancement)visited the lab. Prof. Zhang Weixiong, Director of the JC STEM Lab of Genomics in Healthcare introduced projects that combine artificial intelligence computing, genomics, and cellular and molecular biology to study the mechanisms of depression and develop treatment solutions. Ms Elsie Tsang (right), Executive Manager of Charities (Talent and Sector Development) of The Hong Kong Jockey Club visited The JC STEM Lab of Genomics in Healthcare.

New Global Nursing Leader Distinction for high achieving DSE students

In order to attract more high calibre DSE applicants for the two undergraduate programmes offered by the School, the new Global Nursing Leader Distinction will be launched starting from 2025/26 cohort. With the highest DSE scores, students will join the Global Nursing Leader Distinction while they are studying either the BSc in Nursing (JS3648) or BSc in Mental Health Nursing (JS3337) programmme.   Students who join this programme, they will be able to: 1. Participate in WHO Collaborating Centres and other global exposure: They will have one internship or study trip in WHO Collaborating Centers in Europe, North America, or Australia. They can have up to two exchanges, including clinical visits and other exposures in Europe, North America, or Australia. 2. Support for advanced nursing pathway during undergraduate study: They can have sponsorship from the School for up to six transferable credits (two subjects) to study in the Master of Science in Nursing programme at PolyU. They can have special mentoring by both senior staff and alumni to shed light on the promotional paths for nursing as clinicians, academics, and entrepreneurs. 3. Other credentials: They can obtain a Certificate of Global Nursing Leader Distinction upon completion of the programme. They can obtain a Certificate in specialisation in Traditional Chinese Medicinal Nursing (TCM) and the opportunity to practice Traditional Chinese Medicinal Nursing (TCM) in North America.   This programme is eligible for students with the highest DSE scores in the BSc in Nursing or BSc in Mental Health Nursing programme and they should maintain a minimum cGPA of 3.2 throughout their study. 

PolyU partners up with AIA to promote advanced nursing practice

PolyU and AIA Life Insurance signed an MOU on 22 October to jointly explore and apply advanced nursing practice. Under the collaboration, Prof. Frances Wong, Chair Professor of Advanced Nursing Practice & Associate Dean of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, will assist AIA to adopt the Omaha System to create a standardised health management service system.   Here is the full press release in Traditional Chinese and Simplified Chinese.

IVR Motor-Cognitive Training System is commercialised

Prof. Justina Liu, Principal Investigator [Associate Head (Postgraduate Education) & Professor] and her team# have taken a major step forward in the commercialisation of their Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) Motor-Cognitive Training System [Patent no: HK30085570] through the MedSim Healthcare Education, which has been appointed by PolyU as the authorized distributor of the system.    An agreement was signed between the PolyU Technology & Consultancy Co. Limited and the MedSim Healthcare Education on 12 August to consolidate the partnership. Under the terms of the agreement, MedSim will be responsible for marketing and customer service of the system. They will introduce the system to the wider market to benefit more older adults, particularly those with cognitive frailty. If the system is sold on the market and is able to reach consumers effectively, it will be one of the few nursing research studies that can generate income for the School as a marketable gerontechnological product.     Cognitive frailty is characterised by the presence of both physical frailty and cognitive impairment. Prof. Liu, Co-Leader of the School’s Research Area of Excellence: Healthy Ageing through Innovations, found that cognitive frailty is common among community-dwelling older people in Hong Kong. To address this health issue, she led a research team to collaborate with Pok Oi Hospital and other academic institutes for designing and developing the Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) Motor-Cognitive Training System to help older adults, especially those with cognitive frailty, maintain their cognitive functions and simultaneously improve their motor abilities for performing activities of daily living.    Prof. Liu’s team evaluated the effectiveness of the system and found that it can significantly improve various cognitive functions, such as calculation, memory, reaction and attention. The system received a merit certificate in the Smart People (Smart Ageing) in the Hong Kong ICT Awards 2023 in recognition of its effectiveness in promoting healthy aging.    Earlier, the Yuen Long District Health Centre under the Health Bureau, purchased 12 sets of the IVR Motor-Cognitive Training System. The centre is planning to integrate this gerontechnological innovation into their regular programmes to help older adults enhance cognitive and psychosocial well-being.    For those who are interested in the IVR Motor-Cognitive Training System, please contact MedSim Healthcare Education at +852 3568 9009 or email to info@medsimhealth.com.   # Team members of the IVR Motor-Cognitive Training System: Prof. Justina Liu, Associate Head (Postgraduate Education); Prof. Harry Qin, Professor; Claudia Lai, Honorary Professor; Prof. Kenneth Fong, Professor, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences; Prof. Rick Kwan, Associate Dean (Programmes) & Professor, Tung Wah College; Ms Olive Sin, Social Service Coordinator (Social Services) Pok Oi Hospital. 

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University & Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance Jointly Launch the FIRST Electronic Painting for Breast Cancer (EPBC) Platform to Foster Emotional Well-Being Through Art and Technology

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Hong Kong. In addition to improving treatment options for better disease management and survival rates, the medical community is increasingly prioritizing the enhancement of patients' emotional well-being.   The School of Nursing of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance (GCBCOA) jointly launched the Electronic Painting for Breast Cancer (EPBC) platform which seamlessly combines technology and art.  With support from biopharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences, PolyU and GCBCOA are conducting the first citywide study focused on breast cancer patients.  Preliminary findings suggest that the EPBC has a significant positive effect on patients' emotional health, effectively reducing feelings of anxiety and distress.   In 2021, Hong Kong reported 5,565 new cases of female breast cancer. Thanks to advancements in medical treatment, the five-year survival rate for early-stage breast cancer patients has now surpassed 90%. However, research reveals that over 30% of breast cancer patients begin to experience emotional turmoil following their diagnosis, a condition that can persist throughout their treatment journey.   Furthermore, breast cancer treatments—including surgery, radiation therapy, and medication—can result in side effects such as fatigue, pain, negative self-image, and sexual dysfunction, all of which contribute to increased mental stress. The lingering effects of treatment, along with ongoing concerns about recurrence, also impact patients' emotional well-being. Additionally, different types of breast cancer present unique challenges; for instance, hormone receptor-positive patients may face the risk of recurrence after extended periods of being disease-free, while HER2-positive breast cancer tends to grow and spread more rapidly. Meanwhile, patients with triple-negative breast cancer often have limited treatment options, all of which can create considerable psychological burdens.   Research from previous large-scale studies has revealed that breast cancer patients experiencing depressive symptoms have a mortality risk of approximately 30% higher than their counterparts without such symptoms, underscoring the vital link between psychological and physical health. Dr Wong Lai-shan, Specialist in Clinical Oncology, emphasized, "If these distressing emotions are not adequately addressed, they can significantly affect the patient's mental well-being and physical health, daily functioning, and social interactions.   The emotional well-being of breast cancer patients has increasingly come into focus, prompting many organisations to provide a diverse array of comprehensive support services. Among them is the Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance (GCBCOA). Led by the chairman, Mrs Mary Wong-Hemrajani, a breast cancer survivor, GCBCOA offers profound insights into the physical and emotional challenges patients encounter during their cancer journeys. In addition to delivering valuable educational resources, GCBCOA offers numerous programs and activities tailored to meet the emotional needs of breast cancer patients, ensuring they receive the necessary support without falling into despair.   In June 2024, in collaboration with the School of Nursing at PolyU, GCBCOA launched the EPBC platform to support members experiencing mental distress. This innovative platform enables breast cancer patients to create art using computers or smart devices while conducting emotional assessments to better understand their emotional health. Furthermore, it includes social features that promote connection and communication among users, fostering a supportive and enriching community.   The joint study included 52 breast cancer patients who exhibited signs of anxiety or depression during initial evaluations. Participants were randomly assigned to either an Intervention Group or a Control Group, both of which utilized the EPBC platform for eight consecutive weeks. Emotional assessment scales were administered both before the study began and after its completion, enabling researchers to evaluate the emotional impact of the EPBC platform on the participants.   Study findings highlight the benefits of the EPBC platform as follows: Improved Emotional Health for Breast Cancer Patients, Particularly in Addressing Depressive Symptoms: The use of the EPBC platform significantly enhanced participants' emotional well-being, especially in alleviating symptoms of depression. Changes in self-rated emotional assessment scores indicated an overall improvement in emotional health, with negative emotion scores decreasing by approximately 20% and the depression index dropping by nearly 30%. Enhanced Self-Rated Health Assessment: Participants reported significant improvements in their self-assessment of health, reflecting an enhanced quality of life that is likely associated with better personal health conditions.   Numerous studies have demonstrated that art therapy, as a non-pharmacological treatment, effectively alleviates emotional distress. For example, painting has a positive impact on the quality of life, coping skills, and mental health of cancer patients. Throughout the art therapy process, patients can recognize and accept their emotions, and this emotional processing may help reduce both depressive symptoms and physical discomfort.   Prof. Leung Yee-man, Associate Head (Research) of the School of Nursing at PolyU, observed that previous research has largely focused on traditional art therapies, with relatively few studies exploring the impact of electronic technology in this field. However, the findings of this study demonstrate that using computers or smart devices for artistic expression can significantly reduce depression among breast cancer patients.  Prof. Leung stated, "In Hong Kong, the prevalence of smart communication devices is exceptionally high, with nearly everyone owning a smartphone. This research shows that artistic expression is no longer constrained by tools, time, or location. Smart devices empower patients to engage in creative activities anytime and anywhere, making it easier to alleviate mental stress."   She added, "We are thrilled to see that the EPBC platform is effectively helping breast cancer patients manage emotional distress and achieve positive outcomes. Moving forward, we aim to expand this initiative into hospitals and community settings to support even more needy individuals."   Mrs Mary Wong-Hemrajani concluded by urging breast cancer patients to prioritize their emotional well-being. She emphasized the wealth of resources available in society to support them, along with the many fellow survivors who are eager to share their experiences and provide companionship. She encourages patients to face their cancer journey with courage and resilience, reminding them not to retreat into isolation or despair.

PolyU promotes new mental wellness initiative on campus, strengthening student resilience with gamified training programme

Young people are experiencing more stress and struggles with their mental health than ever before. The School of Nursing and the Mental Health Research Centre of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) have jointly developed the Resilient Students Training Hub (ReST Hub), a research-driven service and education initiative, with the vision to transform university campuses into mental health and resilience-promotive ecosystems. ReST Hub hosted its first campus-wide promotion event between 26 August and 3 September, which attracted around 3,000 students. Findings from previous PolyU research showed that nearly three-in-four university students in Hong Kong had experienced at least one serious and potentially traumatic adversity in their childhood, which negatively impacts their sense of self and ability to manage emotions and form healthy relationships. Although the numbers are concerning, researchers have found an antidote – resilience. Made possible by generous funding from “Seal of Love Charitable Foundation Health and Service Impact Fund” supported by the Seal of Love Charitable Foundation, ReST Hub adopts a strengths-based, trauma-informed, and preventative approach to promoting youth mental health. It achieves this by empowering the PolyU community with a shared language to talk about mental health and equipping students with essential skills to strengthen their resilience in a safe, engaging, and accessible environment. Joined by Dr Laura LO, PolyU Associate Vice President (Institutional Advancement), and Prof. David SHUM, Dean of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, Mr Lawrence CHAN, Chairman of Seal of Love Charitable Foundation Limited, and Ms Dee Dee CHAN, Director of Seal of Love Charitable Foundation Limited, visited the event to show their support. Ms Chan said, “The mental crisis we are facing now with our young people is unprecedented. British author Warsan Shire once said of refugees, ‘You have to understand that no one leaves home unless the water is safer than the land.’ May we, as a community, create a place together for our students where the land feels safer than the water.” During the event, students were recruited to experience some of ReST Hub’s activities, including “Mission ReST,” a gamified resilience-building programme co-created with over 200 PolyU students. Through self-discovery, game-based challenges, and collaborating and connecting socially with peers, the programme aims to equip students with the tools and essential skills to bounce back from challenges, take care of their mental wellbeing, and face the future with a meaningful outlook. Students were also introduced to “How are you, PolyU?”, an online self-assessment screening platform designed to help users gain a better understanding of themselves and their overall wellbeing in terms of emotions, behaviours and relationships via evidence-based tools, and to provide them with immediate feedback and resources for further support if indicated. Both activities aimed to raise awareness about mental health, encourage support-seeking, and ultimately create a more compassionate and resilient community. The first year at university is a vital transition period between secondary and tertiary education, and can be challenging and stressful for many students. Dr Grace W.K. HO, Principal Investigator of ReST Hub and Associate Professor of PolyU School of Nursing said, “It is important to engage students in the mental health conversation at the beginning of their university journey, and provide them with ample opportunities to strengthen their resilience along the way. Our week-long promotion event targets incoming freshmen and conveys a simple yet reassuring message: Your mental health matters and you don’t have to face life’s challenges alone.” For more information about ReST Hub and its activities, please visit the ReST Hub website and follow ReST Hub on social media.