Course

Drugs & Society

University of Houston

The "Drugs & Society" course offers an in-depth examination of the critical relationship between pharmacological advancements and societal impacts, particularly in the field of bone marrow transplantation. Conducted by Dr. Morton Cowan, this course features 14 detailed modules, each focusing on the latest research and innovations in the area of immunology and transplant medicine.

Key topics addressed include:

  • The biological basis of bone marrow transplantation
  • Innovative techniques to reboot the immune system
  • The ethical considerations surrounding drug use in medical treatments
  • Societal implications of drug advancements

Additionally, the course includes two engaging extra lectures featuring Sergeant Frank Miller, providing unique insights into the societal impacts of drug-related issues. These sessions are designed to help students understand the broader context of drug use and its effects on communities.

By the end of the course, participants will have a comprehensive understanding of:

  1. The latest developments in bone marrow research
  2. The impact of drugs on individual and public health
  3. How society shapes and is shaped by pharmacological advancements

This course is ideal for students interested in medicine, sociology, and public health, offering valuable knowledge applicable to various professional fields.

Course Lectures
  • In this introductory module, Dr. Morton Cowan delves into the groundbreaking field of bone marrow transplantation. This innovative medical procedure aims to reboot the immune system, offering hope to patients with various immune disorders and cancers. By exploring the latest techniques and advancements, participants will gain an understanding of how bone marrow transplantation can replace damaged cells with healthy ones, ultimately restoring immune function.

    • Overview of bone marrow transplantation
    • Latest advancements and techniques
    • Benefits for immune disorder and cancer patients
  • This module continues the exploration of bone marrow transplantation, focusing on the specific medical conditions that can benefit from this treatment. Dr. Cowan discusses the criteria for patient eligibility and the potential outcomes of the procedure.

    • Medical conditions treated
    • Patient eligibility criteria
    • Potential outcomes and patient stories
  • In this module, Dr. Cowan provides a detailed look at the preparation process for bone marrow transplantation. Participants will learn about the pre-transplant evaluations and tests necessary to ensure the best possible outcome.

    • Pre-transplant evaluations
    • Necessary tests and preparations
    • Ensuring successful treatment outcomes
  • This module delves into the actual procedure of bone marrow transplantation. Dr. Cowan explains each step, from harvesting the bone marrow to the infusion process, ensuring participants have a thorough understanding of the treatment.

    • Step-by-step procedure overview
    • Harvesting and infusion process
    • Key considerations for a successful transplant
  • Focusing on post-transplant care, this module covers the critical recovery period following a bone marrow transplant. Dr. Cowan outlines the necessary monitoring and care required to ensure a successful recovery.

    • Post-transplant care and monitoring
    • Recovery period considerations
    • Ensuring long-term success
  • This module highlights the potential complications and risks associated with bone marrow transplantation. Dr. Cowan discusses how these risks are managed and the strategies employed to mitigate them.

    • Understanding potential risks
    • Managing complications
    • Strategies for risk mitigation
  • In this module, Dr. Cowan explores the impact of bone marrow transplantation on the patient's quality of life. Participants will learn about the potential improvements and challenges faced by patients post-transplant.

    • Impact on quality of life
    • Potential improvements and challenges
    • Patient experiences and testimonials
  • This module focuses on the future of bone marrow transplantation, including emerging technologies and research. Dr. Cowan discusses potential advancements that could revolutionize this field.

    • Emerging technologies in transplantation
    • Current research and developments
    • Future prospects and innovations
  • Dr. Cowan presents a comprehensive overview of the ethical considerations in bone marrow transplantation during this module. Participants will explore the challenges and dilemmas faced by professionals in the field.

    • Ethical challenges in transplantation
    • Professional dilemmas
    • Case studies and discussions
  • This module covers the historical development of bone marrow transplantation, tracing its evolution from early experiments to modern practices. Dr. Cowan provides insight into key milestones and breakthroughs.

    • History of bone marrow transplantation
    • Key milestones and breakthroughs
    • Evolution of techniques and practices
  • In this module, participants will learn about the different types of bone marrow transplants, including autologous, allogeneic, and haploidentical transplants. Dr. Cowan explains the distinctions and applications of each type.

    • Types of bone marrow transplants
    • Autologous, allogeneic, and haploidentical
    • Applications and distinctions
  • This module examines the role of bone marrow transplantation in treating pediatric patients. Dr. Cowan discusses the unique considerations and approaches for treating children with this procedure.

    • Bone marrow transplantation in pediatrics
    • Unique considerations and challenges
    • Approaches for treating children
  • Focusing on donor selection, this module explores the criteria and process involved in identifying suitable bone marrow donors. Dr. Cowan explains the importance of matching and the significance of donor registries.

    • Donor selection criteria
    • Importance of matching
    • Role of donor registries
  • This module explores the psychosocial aspects of bone marrow transplantation, highlighting the emotional and mental health challenges faced by patients and their families. Dr. Cowan discusses strategies for support and coping.

    • Psychosocial challenges in transplantation
    • Emotional and mental health support
    • Coping strategies for families
  • In this extra lecture, Sergeant Frank Miller shares his personal experiences with bone marrow transplantation. Dr. Cowan provides insights into the patient's journey and the role of healthcare professionals in supporting recovery.

    • Sergeant Frank Miller's journey
    • Patient experiences and insights
    • Role of healthcare professionals in recovery
  • Continuing from the previous lecture, Sergeant Frank Miller delves deeper into his transplantation journey, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. Dr. Cowan offers professional perspectives on patient resilience.

    • Challenges and triumphs in transplantation
    • Patient resilience and perseverance
    • Professional perspectives and support