This year, we have six students participating in the Hong Kong Secondary School Health Exhibition Presentation Competition 2024, organized by the Medical Society of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). The theme for this year’s competition is respiratory diseases, and our students have chosen to focus their research on obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The competition consists of four stages: the Screening Round, a workshop, the Preliminary Round, and the Grand Final Round.
In July, our students prepared a project statement for the Screening Round. To develop this statement, they conducted extensive research and literature reviews, as well as a survey to assess public awareness of OSA. We were pleased to progress to the next round.
In August, the students attended a seminar at the CUHK that provided insights into medical career paths. Following the seminar, they engaged in a consultation session where they had the opportunity to discuss their OSA research with a doctor, who expressed admiration for their survey results. They also had hands-on experiences with various medical equipment, including an endoscope, and conducted tests to measure lung volume, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels. It was a joyful and informative afternoon.
In September, the students presented their OSA research before three doctors serving as judges at the CUHK. Their five-minute presentation was clear and accessible, effectively presenting the risk factors and treatment options for OSA. As a result, we advanced to the next round from 30 participating schools and received the Gold Award in the Preliminary Round.
In October, only ten schools qualified for the Grand Final Round. Our students were required to present their OSA research for ten minutes at Yue Man Square, this time delivering in Cantonese. They created various video clips highlighting the risk factors of OSA and the proper use of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines, and they also performed a drama to convey OSA information to the public. Ultimately, our students received high distinction for their efforts.
Through this competition, students not only deepened their understanding of OSA but also enhanced their communication, collaboration, IT skills, and creativity.