The Power of Information

 "Knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit, but wisdom is not putting it in the fruit bowl".

Today it's mind boggling how much information is accessible at our finger tips. But there is a difference in having information and how you choose to use it. It is all very well studying for a degree and hopefully gaining knowledge. But what are you going to do with that knowledge?

I like to share much of what I learn, especially if it's something I'm fascinated by. Another key point is sharing  knowledge and information. Sharing can inspire and influence other peoples views and generate further questions to be answered. A single question can have a domino effect (Unless you find yourself in a 'Which came first, the chicken or the egg?' scenario).

Hopefully I've made my point: sharing information and how you use your finding is important in any kind of research.

So what got me thinking about this?
I was reading the Association of Medical Charities (AMRC) blog. One particular post: How Data saves lives. If researchers had access to patients data, could it help to speed up the research process? It's clear the public want to get involved in research. But lack of communication about the research to the patients is resulting in the lack of public awareness. Would you give your medical details to researchers?

It would be a huge task to open up NHS patient data to researchers. But the question is would the public trust the security of sharing such information? Imagine being able to use your medical information to help move research along! It has already been done in research into bowel cancer treatment-which has made leaps and bounds in recently! This truly emphasises the power of information!

Another ARMC blog post that caught my attention: Clearing the Path to the cure for Type 1
This post excited me! It showed me how researchers are aware of the barriers that are holding back research. The need for more research in type 1 diabetes is being taken to the Government. Awareness is being raised. Scientists are collaborating to give an overall picture of the UK research into Type 1 diabetes.

The only way forward with this research is to raise awareness, work together and SHARE information. Then the challenges could be overcome!

Just think when you next find out a new piece of information.....are you going to keep it to yourself? Share it? What are you going to do with it? Will you change someone's view with it? Change the world perhaps?


Links to the blogs if you're interested.

AMRC- How Data Saves Lives: http://policyblog.amrc.org.uk/2012/07/16/how-data-saves-lives/?blogsub=confirming#blog_subscription-2
2

AMRC-Clearing the Path to the cure for Type 1: http://policyblog.amrc.org.uk/2013/06/12/clearing-the-path-to-the-cure-for-type-1/