It is alarming to see how many cardiovascular-related deaths are attributed to excessive salt consumption. These are the words of Michél Strauss who received the National Research Foundation’s (NRF’s) prestigious Young Science Communicator award.
“I entered the competition as I wanted to highlight the health risks associated with a high salt diet on a platform that would be able to reach many people,” says Michél, a PhD student in physiology at the North-West University (NWU).
As winner of this competition, an article about Michél’s research will be published in various popular media channels to reach a wide audience.
Her research places the spotlight on a better understanding of the development of cardiovascular disease, with the focus on black South African populations.
“I was fortunate to be welcomed into a research group at the Hypertension in Africa Research Team (HART). There I was able to meet experts, including Prof Alta Schutte, who are committed to understanding the complex physiological mechanisms contributing to cardiovascular disease,” says Michél.
“My research forms part of the African-PREDICT study which aims to identify and highlight early cardiovascular risk factors in the youth, aiming to assist in the implementation of more successful prevention strategies.
“Seeing how many individuals were unaware of how their lifestyle choices could influence their health, motivated me to enter the competition. I love doing research, and it is amazing to know how our findings could positively impact the lives of others,” she adds.
Michél’s research focuses on a novel biomarker - marinobufagenin – which strongly relates to salt intake.
“I am ecstatic about this award! There are so many excellent young researchers in our country, and it is a privilege to have my work recognised. I am grateful to be able to share my research on this platform,” says Michél.
Each year, the South African Agency for Science and Technology Advancement - a business unit of the NRF - hosts its Young Science Communicator’s Competition to encourage young scientists and science students in higher education institutions and science councils to communicate their science and research to the broader public community.
Michél Strauss is the winner of the National Research Foundation’s Young Science Communicator award.
