As a PhD student, I have developed a deep appreciation for the Norwegian health care system. Recently, I experienced firsthand the importance of having health insurance. I required Tuberculosis immunization screening tests, and the expenses without insurance are evident.
In addition to exploring walk-in clinics in Toronto, I have been fortunate to receive access to virtual teaching sessions for resident doctors at SickKids. This has proven to be an invaluable opportunity for me while awaiting my credentials. I had the opportunity to expand my knowledge about the Pierre Robin sequence (PRS). PRS is a condition characterized by mandibular micro- or retrognathia (abnormally small or receding lower jaw) and glossoptosis (downward displacement or backward positioning of the tongue), with or without a cleft palate. Clinically, it manifests as intermittent upper airway obstruction (UAO), potentially causing breathing difficulties.
In approximately half of the cases, PRS is accompanied by other malformations. However, when PRS occurs in isolation without other malformations, it does not seem to directly impact neurodevelopment. Nonetheless, it is important to actively intervene and address the UAO to mitigate the risk of neurocognitive impairment.
