McMaster University to Host Expert on Reproductive Health in Prisons
McMaster University’s Faculty of Health Sciences has announced that it will host Dr. Martha Paynter for the 2026 Gairdner Connects lecture series. Dr. Paynter is a registered nurse and researcher known for her work in public health and social justice.
The upcoming event is organized in partnership with The Gairdner Foundation, a prestigious organization that celebrates excellence in medical research. The lecture series aims to connect academic experts with the public to discuss important health topics in Canada.
Dr. Paynter’s presentation will focus on the theme of "Advancing Sexual and Reproductive Health Equity of People in Prisons." Her research explores how to improve healthcare access and quality for individuals who are currently incarcerated, a group that often faces significant barriers to medical care.
By highlighting this topic, the university hopes to encourage a deeper conversation about health equity within the Canadian justice system. The event serves as an opportunity for students, healthcare professionals, and the community to learn about the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
This lecture is part of the Gairdner Connects program, which highlights the work of early-career investigators. Through these events, the foundation and its partners aim to inspire future researchers and promote evidence-based solutions to complex health issues.