"Humanitarian spirit is the act of support to establish equal starting lines for disadvantaged communities." 

Support Children from disadvantaged background

As a paediatrician, Dr Patrick Ip's ambition is not only to cure seriously ill children with his excellent medical skills but to prevent its occurrence in the first place, through the use of scientific research. Enabling children equal opportunity to have a healthy life to which they can pursue their dreams.

"Our findings and clinical experience suggest that environment and relationships, in particular the parent-child relationship have a significant impact on the child's behaviour and the treatment progress of their disease." Dr Ip believes that early recognition and intervention are crucial. Conditions such as early developmental delay and hyperactivity are difficult to recognize, but they can have detrimental effects on children. If we can intervene early, building a solid foundation for their early development, their life can be greatly improved. "I met many children who were never given the opportunity to develop their social skills due to illness, early intervention can help them develop their ability to communicate effectively and socialize with others changing their life; physically, mentally and socially."

Cohort Studies and the “One-Click” Platform

To learn more about children's development in Hong Kong, Dr Ip's team has focused on undertaking cohort studies on children's health, "Our team found that children from disadvantaged background have slower cognitive development and more behavioural problems. Their families receive less support, so I hope these studies can raise public concern and bring hope to the families that need it most." To improve the future of children from disadvantaged background, Dr Ip wishes to make the public and the government aware of the importance of early intervention thereby allowing them to develop and support relevant social policies.

Disadvantaged groups often have difficulties in accessing appropriate support, Dr Ip set up a "One-Click" website to provide a cross-sectoral platform to overcome this. "Children are highly mouldable in comparison to adults. If we can identify problems earlier and provide the support needed at this early stage, we can give them the ability to grow up happily and healthily." Dr Ip encourages us to support children from disadvantaged background and eliminate the inequalities they suffer from, allowing them to have the same opportunities as others, "Let our children realize their potential and pursue their dreams."