Who they are
The German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) is one of the largest research institutes worldwide dedicated to neurodegenerative diseases. Its mission is to prevent neurodegeneration and improve the quality of life of affected individuals. DZNE’s research spans all aspects of these diseases – from molecular mechanisms to population health. Within the Department of Population Health Sciences, research focuses on understanding what determines people’s health across their lifespan and on promoting health awareness across society.
Who represents DZNE in PREWAPHARM
Dr Dianna de Vries, a pharmacoepidemiologist with over 10 years of experience in population health research, leads pharmacoepidemiological studies within the Population Health Sciences department. She works on the project together with Julia Kaudewitz, a pharmacist with a background in toxicology. Both see PREWAPHARM as an outstanding opportunity to increase awareness of the effects of pharmaceutical residues in water in the general public and among pharmacists in Germany, by learning from and working closely with partners across Northwest Europe.
Their role in PREWAPHARM
DZNE contributes expertise in the pharmacy sector and population research in Germany. Within PREWAPHARM, the team is involved in several subprojects in the pharmaceutical area, including the creation of a tailored toolkit of specific risk mitigation strategies and the development of a citizen survey on pharmaceutical residues.
Why this topic matters
DZNE’s mission is to understand and improve health over the lifespan. Many neurodegenerative and other age-related diseases develop over decades through a complex interplay of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental factors. Supporting the reduction of pharmaceutical waste in water is therefore of utmost importance to DZNE.
Looking ahead
Through PREWAPHARM, DZNE aims to raise awareness among pharmacists, general practitioners, and the general public about the impact of pharmaceutical pollution. The transnational collaboration allows partners to compare challenges, share best practices, and develop effective, practical solutions. Together, they strive to inspire new EU-wide strategies and contribute to future guidelines that support both environmental protection and healthy ageing.
Bildquelle: DZNE/Küffner