World Health Forum

Abstract

A principal challenge for scientist and practitioner in this multidisciplinary era is to successfully communicate beyond the boundaries of one's expertise. This is demanded of individuals pursuing careers in tropical medicine and hygiene because it is so highly multidisciplinary. Crystallization of scientific wisdom or enlightened inspiration required to solve problems relating to laboratory research or disease control often occurs not alone by solitary workmanship, but through the intellectual intercourse effected by means of scientific dialogue with one's peers and colleagues who share similar interests and goals but whose training and experience provide a perspective different from one's own.The American Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene states that the purpose of the Society shall be “the advancement of tropical medicine and hygiene including medicine, nursing, engineering, entomology, parasitology, and allied specialities in this field.” This purpose clearly defines an interdisciplinary society, the purpose of which is advancement of tropical medicine and hygiene.