National Pathology Week 1-7 November 2010

Consultant Histopathologist Dr Joanne Wilkinson with the information stall for National Pathology Week 2010

The third National Pathology Week 2010 is being held from 1-7 November and is an opportunity for everyone to learn about the vital role that pathology plays in their healthcare. The week is organised by the Royal College of Pathologists and is sponsored by Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics. During the week thousands of pathologists and scientists from the nineteen different pathology specialties will be holding events to increase understanding of the science behind the diagnosis of disease.

The theme of National Pathology Week 2010 is the building blocks of life, focusing on the role that pathologists and scientists play in the health of mothers and babies. From IVF and blood tests during pregnancy to newborn screening and childhood vaccinations, the work of pathology professionals is essential to give children the best start in life.

Dr Joanne Wilkinson, Consultant Histopathologist is setting up a display at the Cumberland Infirmary to help promote a greater understanding of pathology. She said: “More understanding of the services we provide will enable members of the public to make informed decisions about their own health and lifestyles and also encourage members of staff to use pathology services appropriately.

Dr Suzy Lishman, Registrar of the Royal College of Pathologists and National Pathology Week Lead, said: “We are delighted that around 500 events are taking place around the country to celebrate National Pathology Week 2010. This is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to find out how pathology contributes to their healthcare and to catch a fascinating glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes in the pathology lab. Feedback from previous years has been overwhelmingly positive, with audiences of all ages and backgrounds enjoying the wide range of events available and keen to learn more.”

Pathology facts:

• There are 19 different pathology specialties, including histopathology, chemical pathology, microbiology and haematology
• The majority of pathologists work for the benefit of the living, with less than 1% working in forensics
• You don’t have to be a doctor to work in pathology. The majority of people who work in the specialty are scientists, with over 20,000 in the UK.
• Over 70% of all diagnoses in the NHS involve pathology
• An average of 14 pathology tests are performed for every man, woman and child in the country every year