e-Bulletin June 2025

Socrates said, “Wisdom begins in wonder.” Wonder goes beyond simple curiosity with continuous humble questioning of why and how. Wonderers can never be sure that the case is closed. Wondering can go on for a lifetime as long as we stay open and persuadable.

Our careers require the fuel of confidence to persist despite difficulty. However, over-confidence can kill wonder when it is built on self-deception. Thinking we already know the answer because we learned it years ago makes our mind a closed door. Unless scholars stay open to being persuaded—unless they can wonder—there cannot be scientific progress. I wish all peer reviewers were “wonder-full” and I hope we are full of wonder when we help each other as colleagues.

Every day at the University of Hong Kong brings a torrent of facts. Some lie on a road to wisdom if we choose that journey. We each must preserve our shared ability to always become persuaded by evidence. This sense of wonder will allow us to grow professionally as a community and to share our wisdom to light up the path for those who follow.

Professor David Bishai
Director and Clinical Professor
School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong

Welcoming Professors Manuel Espinoza and Željko Pedišić
Strengthening Our Academic Community

We are delighted to announce the arrival of two exceptional scholars who joined our School of Public Health: Professor Manuel Espinoza and Professor Željko Pedišić in May 2025.

Professor Manuel Espinoza is joining as Associate Professor in the Division of Health Economics, Policy and Management. As a physician-economist, he specialises in health technology assessment and equitable health policy design, with work influencing healthcare systems across Latin America. His advisory roles with the World Bank, leadership positions in the International Society of Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR) and the Latin America Policy Forum of Health Technology Assessment International (HTAi) highlight his ability to translate research and make real-world policy impact. His expertise aligns well with the newly established Preparatory Office for Hong Kong Centre for Medical Products Regulation.

Professor Željko Pedišić is joining as Associate Professor in the Division of Kinesiology. With his expertise in behavioural epidemiology and physical activity research, Professor Pedišić has transformed the field through his innovative frameworks including the Comprehensive Analysis of Policy on Physical Activity (CAPPA) and the Activity Balance Model. As President of the International Network of Time-Use Epidemiologists, he can help Hong Kong’s public health community objectively study the links between how people spend their time and how healthy they are.

Both colleagues embody our School’s commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, excellence in scholarship, teaching and finding evidence-based solutions to public health challenges.

The School extends our warm welcome to Professor Manuel Espinoza and Professor Željko Pedišić. We encourage you to connect with them and explore potential collaborations.

World No Tobacco Day
Unmasking the Appeal

Visual credit: World Health Organization (WHO)

The persistent tactics of the tobacco industry to undermine public health make World No Tobacco Day’s 2025 theme, “Unmasking the appeal”, particularly significant. This theme aligns with the School of Public Health’s legacy of combating tobacco through science, policy and community action. Our work has transformed Hong Kong into a regional leader in tobacco control and continues to set benchmarks for effective interventions.

Since the 1990s, the School’s research has provided the scientific foundation for Hong Kong’s tobacco policies. Professor TH Lam and his team conducted critical studies demonstrating the health impacts of second-hand smoke, which became the scientific basis for the landmark indoor smoking ban in 2007. This policy achievement protects millions from involuntary exposure to tobacco smoke.

The School’s contributions extend beyond policy to practical solutions for smoking cessation. The highly successful “Quit to Win” Contest, conducted in partnership with the Hong Kong Council on Smoking and Health (COSH), represents one of our most impactful community initiatives. It has received overwhelming response from the public, and has successfully integrated scientific research and social marketing to raise public awareness on smoking hazards and smoking cessation.

Our scholars continue to break new ground in tobacco control. A recent study published in Addiction in February 2025 has demonstrated the effectiveness of an innovative chat-based smoking cessation support for employees with mental health symptoms. The randomised controlled trial found participants receiving real-time digital interventions were 37% more likely to quit smoking, with many reporting improved mental well-being. These findings highlight how accessible, personalised support can address the unique challenges faced by vulnerable populations.

As trusted advisors to the HKSAR government, we have shaped numerous tobacco control measures including graphic health warnings, taxation policies, and regulations on emerging nicotine products. Our evidence-based approach to “unmask the appeal” has consistently countered industry strategies while protecting public health interests. The School’s research has been particularly crucial in addressing new threats like e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products.

Looking ahead, the School of Public Health remains committed to achieving a smoke-free Hong Kong. We will continue to develop innovative strategies to reduce tobacco use, particularly among persistent smokers and vulnerable groups. On World No Tobacco Day 2025, we reaffirm our dedication to exposing harmful industry tactics and creating environments where tobacco-free living becomes the norm for all residents.

Learn more from our researchers’ publication:

Personalized chat-based support for smoking cessation among smokers with mental health symptoms in the workplace: A randomized controlled trial
Addiction
Yao, Ying; Luk, Tzu Tsun; Lau, Oi Sze; Wu, Yongda Socrates; Weng, Xue; Ng, Chak Hang; Cheung, Yee Tak Derek; Lam, Tai Hing*; Wang, Man Ping

Remarks:

* Member of School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong

HKUSPH Joins WHO Health Inequality Monitoring Network
Partnering to Reduce Health Disparities Globally

We are pleased to announce that our School has been selected to participate in the World Health Organization (WHO) Health Inequality Monitoring (HIM) Network. This network allows us to continue measuring health disparities and promote evidence-based strategies that narrow gaps in health.

As a partner in this global initiative, our School will identify training needs and develop targeted educational programmes. We will provide technical expertise to strengthen monitoring tools and methodologies, while also offering valuable insights on policies to address inequities.

Our collaboration builds on the multi-faceted strengths of our faculty in teaching research and practice to achieve health for all. For more information, please contact RPg student Ms Wu Jiewen at jiewenwu@connect.hku.hk.

Seven SPH Staff Received Long Service Awards
Celebrating Decades of Dedication, Commitment and Loyalty

The University of Hong Kong held a Long Service Awards Presentation Ceremony at Loke Yew Hall on June 20, 2025, recognising nearly 200 awardees for their years of commitment and loyalty to the University. Among these distinguished awardees were seven valued colleagues from our School of Public Health.

We are proud to announce that one of our long-serving staff members received the prestigious 25-year service award, marking a remarkable career milestone. Additionally, six of our colleagues were honoured for 15 years of dedicated service (in alphabetical order of surnames): Mr Choy Ka-tim, Senior Technical Officer; Ms Teresa So, Nursing Officer; Dr Dana Vackova, Principal Lecturer; Professor Yen Hui-ling, Professor; Mr Wong Hoi-wa, Senior IT Manager; and Ms Wendy Yu, Assistant Technical Manager.

Mr Wong Hoi-wa shared, “I am grateful for the incredible opportunities to contribute to impactful research led by Professor TH Lam and Professor Michael Ni over the years. My time here has been enriched by inspiring colleagues, meaningful collaborations, and the shared mission of advancing public health for the betterment of society.” Dr Vackova also shared, “Working with colleagues and students at the School of Public Health of HKUMed has truly inspired me, and I am grateful to receive this long service award. Beyond the years, this recognition reflects the trust and teamwork we have built, and it has strengthened my dedication to teaching, learning, knowledge sharing and research. I am looking forward to making further contribution to our School.”

The School extends our warmest congratulations to all our award recipients. This recognition honours their years of dedication to HKU and to the field of public health.

Hospital Authority Convention 2025
Discussing Clinical Developments and Healthcare Solutions

Our School is delighted to participate in this year’s Hospital Authority (HA) Convention at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. During the event, we connected with healthcare professionals, academics, and executives from Hong Kong, Mainland China, and overseas to exchange knowledge on cutting-edge clinical advances and innovative healthcare solutions.

The convention provided an excellent platform to learn about the latest developments in healthcare and to exchange insights with multidisciplinary experts. These interactions provided valuable insights as we explore opportunities to contribute to healthcare improvements.

HKU JC Nursing Leadership Development Fellowship Programme (Cohort II)
Empowering the Future of Healthcare

On May 24, 2025, the HKU JC Nursing Leadership Development Fellowship Programme (Cohort II) was officially launched with an Opening Ceremony and Orientation Day at the LKS Faculty of Medicine of the University of Hong Kong. The event gathered over 100 senior nurse leaders beginning their journey in the Postgraduate Certificate in Healthcare Leadership and Management (PCHLM), a flagship programme under the Fellowship.

The ceremony commenced with a welcome speech by Professor Sophia Chan, PCHLM Programme Director, followed by opening remarks delivered by distinguished guests including Ms Elsie Tsang, Executive Manager (Charities – Talent & Sector Development) of the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust; Professor Ian Holliday, Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Teaching and Learning), HKU; Professor Eric Tse, Acting Dean of HKUMed; and Professor David Bishai, Director and Clinical Professor of our School. Their remarks reflected the University’s strong institutional support — from senior management to academic leadership — for advancing nursing leadership in Hong Kong.

A keynote speech on “Nursing Leadership: Sharing from Nursing Leader” was delivered by Dr Danny Tong, Chief Manager (Nursing) at the Hospital Authority, who shared inspiring insights on leading healthcare teams amidst resource and systemic challenges.

Funded generously by the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, the HKU JC Nursing Leadership Development Fellowship aims to nurture 500 nursing leaders over three years. Through overseas intensive training, local leadership modules, and an evidence-based capstone project, the part-time 1.5-year PCHLM programme empowers fellows to foster innovation, advocate for policy change, and drive system transformation in healthcare.

Heat Health Summit
Cross-Sector Dialogue on Heatwave Resilience in Hong Kong

Our School hosted the impactful “Heat Health Summit – Cross-Sector Dialogue on Heatwave Resilience in Hong Kong” on May 29, 2025, bringing together experts across sectors to address urban heat challenges. The event featured presentations by Professor Chao Ren from HKU Faculty of Architecture, who discussed urban heat mitigation, and Mr Chris Beattie, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Officer of the South Australia State Emergency Service, sharing Adelaide’s innovative heat adaptation strategies.

Through engaging discussions, participants contributed valuable insights to shape Hong Kong’s “Heat Health Action Plan”, combining global best practices with local solutions. This collaborative effort marks an important step toward a more resilient and sustainable future for our city.

SPH Training Workshops
Expanding Horizons in Personal and Technological Growth

Our School recently hosted two enriching training programmes to enhance our staff’s interpersonal skills and technological competencies. These initiatives reflect our commitment to supporting staff development and fostering a culture of continuous learning.

Enneagram and Team Dynamics – Enhancing Team Collaboration and Motivation

Our staff recently participated in an insightful Enneagram training that explored the profound connections between personality types and workplace dynamics. The session guided participants through understanding the nine core personality frameworks, helping them recognise how these patterns influence communication styles, decision-making processes, and stress responses within teams. The training emphasised strategic task assignment based on individual strengths, helping supervisors and team members work together more effectively. Participants left with enhanced self-awareness and concrete strategies for improving workplace relationships and productivity. Many reported applying these insights right after the training to improve collaboration in their daily work, noting how this framework enhances mutual understanding in multidisciplinary public health work.

Introduction to Generative AI Workshop

Our forward-looking Introduction to Generative AI workshop offered fresh insights into the role of technology in the workplace, equipping our staff with both the understanding and practical skills to leverage this transformative technology in their daily work.

Participants learned basic prompt engineering techniques to interact effectively with AI tools, along with simple strategies for applying these technologies to daily tasks. The workshop equipped staff with basic skills to begin exploring AI tools safely and effectively, while emphasising the importance of professional judgment. The positive response suggests interest in future opportunities to build on these fundamentals.

HKUMed’s Global Collaborative Study Finds Single-dose Baloxavir Reduces Household Influenza Transmission
Breakthrough in Curbing Seasonal Influenza Spread

A landmark study published in the New England Journal of Medicine [link to the publication] reveals that a single oral dose of baloxavir marboxil (baloxavir) significantly reduces the transmission of influenza within households, marking a major advancement in influenza management. Conducted by an international team of researchers including the LKS Faculty of Medicine, the University of Hong Kong (HKUMed), the CENTERSTONE trial provides the first robust evidence that an antiviral treatment can curb the spread of influenza to close contacts.

The phase 3b, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial enrolled 1,457 influenza-positive index patients and 2,681 household contacts across 15 countries from 2019 to 2024. The index patients, aged 5 to 64, were assigned to receive either baloxavir or a placebo within 48 hours of symptom onset. The primary endpoint was laboratory-confirmed influenza transmission to household contacts by day 5.

Key Findings:

• Treatment with baloxavir reduced the odds of untreated household members contracting the virus by 32%.
• Transmission resulting in symptomatic influenza was lower with baloxavir (5.8% vs. 7.6%), though the difference was not statistically significant (P=0.16).
• Baloxavir led to a faster reduction in viral titers, with a mean reduction of 2.22 log₁₀ TCID₅₀/mL by day 3 compared to 1.85 log₁₀ TCID₅₀/mL for placebo.
• Drug-resistant viruses emerged in 7.2% of baloxavir-treated index patients but were not detected in household contacts, suggesting limited transmission risk.
• No new safety concerns were identified, with adverse events reported in 4.6% of baloxavir-treated patients compared to 7.0% in the placebo group.

‘These results highlight baloxavir’s potential not only to treat influenza but also to reduce its spread within communities,’ said Professor Benjamin Cowling, co-author of the study and Helen and Francis Zimmern Professor in Population Health, Chair Professor of Epidemiology, and Head of the Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health, HKUMed. ‘This dual effect could transform how we manage seasonal influenza and prepare for future pandemics.’

The study underscores the complementary role of antiviral drugs alongside vaccination, particularly in unvaccinated populations or during pandemics when vaccines may not be immediately available.

NAM-HKU Fellowship in Global Health Leadership
Nurturing Future Global Health Leaders

We are delighted to welcome Ms Julianna Yeung as our NAM-HKU Global Health Leadership Fellow (2025/26 Cohort). Ms Julianna Yeung is an accomplished global health professional with over 15 years of experience at the intersection of healthcare and technology. She holds dual master’s degrees in Public Health (HKU) and Bioengineering (UC San Diego). Throughout her career, she has implemented responsible AI solutions in clinical systems and developed health technology initiatives.

Julianna brings this extensive experience to her board position at Carers Hong Kong, a non-profit organisation dedicated to transforming Hong Kong’s culture regarding employed caregivers. The organisation focuses on reducing stigma and advocating for enhanced support for those caring for the sick.

Through the Fellowship training, Ms Yeung aims to shape equitable AI solutions in global health, learning from past technological revolutions. Drawing on her clinical AI experience, she will address ethical and regulatory challenges while collaborating with experts from the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) to craft sustainable policies that translate AI innovations into tangible health improvements.

Publications in April and May 2025
Scholars’ Output Highlighted

The following are research papers published by SPH researchers in April and May 2025:

Remarks:

      * Member of School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong

• This list is compiled by searching in Scopus using the keywords “School of Public Health, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong” for April and May 2025
• Arranged by date of publication