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Science World Spotlights: Misinformation and the Toxic Drug Crisis

Please join us for the next Science World Spotlights event “Misinformation and the Toxic Drug Crisis”.

Science World has teamed up with SFU Public Square for a thought-provoking panel discussion on addressing misinformation surrounding the toxic drug crisis in B.C. Our expert panelists will delve into the latest research, scientific insights, and community-based learnings to address common misconceptions and foster informed dialogue. 

Since the provincial government’s declaration of a public health emergency on toxic drug crisis in 2016, British Columbia continues to experience the highest number of overdose deaths among Canadian jurisdictions. The number of lives lost to this crisis has reached alarming levels, with devastating consequences for individuals, families, and communities. Misinformation exacerbates this crisis as it perpetuates stigma, hinders access to life-saving resources, and undermines efforts to implement evidence-based interventions. And misinformation related to equity deserving people in the context of the toxic drug crisis can exacerbate disparities and hinder effective responses. 

At this free event, learn ways to contribute to informed dialogue and thoughtful action in addressing this crisis in our communities. Don't miss this opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of this pressing public health issue. 

Panel Presenters

Bohdan Nosyk is a Professor and St. Paul’s Hospital CANFAR Chair in HIV/AIDS Research at the Faculty of Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University, and leads the Health Economic Research Unit at the Centre for Advancing Health Outcomes (formerly the Center for Health Evaluation & Outcome Sciences).

Dr. Nosyk’s research seeks to inform complex policy decisions surrounding the prevention and management of HIV/AIDS and substance use disorders.

He has led population-level evaluations in these disease areas in China, in the state of California and across urban centers in the US, and locally in British Columbia. He combines simulation modeling methods and cost-effectiveness analyses with econometric and biostatistical analyses of health administrative data to address these issues.

What Are Science World Spotlights?

Science World Spotlights is an engaging event series for adults where curiosity meets expertise. Explore the pressing issues of our time with a hopeful and STEAM-focused lens (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Design, and Mathematics). Through thought-provoking discussions, we confront global challenges while spotlighting the scientific advancements and solutions that inspire optimism for our future.

And don’t worry, you don’t have to be an expert. These events are accessible and open to everyone. Gain a deeper understanding of these serious subjects and discover pathways forward at Science World Spotlights.

Community Partner:

Thank You to our Sponsors

This event was made possible by financial support provided by the Canadian Association of Science Centres (CASC) and ScienceUpFirst

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Artist: Jeff Kulak

Jeff is a senior graphic designer at Science World. His illustration work has been published in the Walrus, The National Post, Reader’s Digest and Chickadee Magazine. He loves to make music, ride bikes, and spend time in the forest.

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Michelle is a designer with a focus on creating joyful digital experiences! She enjoys exploring the potential forms that an idea can express itself in and helping then take shape.

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Michelle is a designer with a focus on creating joyful digital experiences! She enjoys exploring the potential forms that an idea can express itself in and helping then take shape.

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Michelle is a designer with a focus on creating joyful digital experiences! She enjoys exploring the potential forms that an idea can express itself in and helping then take shape.

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