Emmanuel Peprah

Associate Professor of Global and Environmental Health

Professional overview

Dr. Emmanuel Peprah’s research interests lie at the confluence of understanding what, why, and how some evidence-based interventions work in some populations and not others. The programattic focus of his research is understanding the contextual factors that influence the burden of co-morbidity in people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH), with a particular focus on cardiovascular disease risk factors and mental health. As the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) continues to increase, there is an opportunity to integrate NCD management into HIV care with implemention strategies that leverage the global infrasturcture designed to improve care delivery for PLWH. Dr. Peprah has built collaborations with multidisciplinary teams of investigators, both nationally and internationally, to address the high burden of comorbidity in PLWH globally.  He is also the founder of the Baakoye Foundation, a nonprofit philanthropic organization dedicated to serving people in sub-Saharan Africa, and co-founder of the Washington Leaders Index (WLI), which aims to empower the next generation of emerging leaders through active, innovative, and inclusive leadership programs. Both nonprofit organizations serve the needs of children and people globally within the domains of education and health.

Before joining GPH, Dr. Peprah was a senior program official at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), where he worked with senior leadership to oversee strategic planning, initiative development, and implementation of research priorities in the areas of translational research, implementation science, and global health. He led and managed HIV/AIDS programs and a $10 million portfolio as part of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s Trans-Omics for Precision Medicine Program. He was instrumental in launching the Human, Heredity, and Health in Africa (H3Africa) Initiative, a multimillion trans-NIH program, and served on its executive board. Dr. Peprah has received several awards for strategic planning, management, and implementation of large-scale NIH programs.

Education

BS, Biology, Texas A&M University, Commerce, TX

PhD, Molecular Biology & Biomedical Science, Meharry Medical College, Nashville, TN

Honors and awards

NIH Director’s Award for Leadership H3Africa Stage II Team: For exceptional leadership and dedication in implementing Stage II of the Human Heredity and Health in Africa program (2018)

NHLBI’s Director's for Outstanding Service (2018)

NHLBI’s Director's for Outstanding Service Partnership/Collaboration Award for bringing multiple disciplines together to understand HIV-related co-morbidities and prepare for the challenges presented by the complex conditions of the new HIV era (2018)

NHLBI’s Director's for Outstanding Translational Science Award for demonstrating exemplary leadership and service in advancing translation research (2017)

Federal Service Career Promotion (2016)

NHLBI’s Director's for Outstanding Translational Science Award as part of the Center for Translational Research and Implementation Science (CTRIS) Leadership Team for demonstrating exemplary leadership and service in advancing CTRIS’s translation (2016)

NHLBI’s Director's for Breath of Fresh Air (Innovation) award for exemplary work evaluating NHLBI’s support for multi-project research grants and proposing creative and innovative enhancements to the NHLBI’s program project grants (PPG) (2016)

NHLBI’s Director's for Learning Environment Award for fostering a learning environment through effective administration, knowledge sharing, and thoughtful implementation of the NHLBI R35 Program (2016)

NHLBI’s Director's for Partnership/Collaboration in recognition of outstanding collaborative efforts in developing a conceptual framework for the NHLBI R35 program to provide greater funding stability and flexibility to investigators (2015)

NIH Director's Common Fund Leadership Award for the NIH Common Fund Early Independence Award Program (2013)

NIH Director's Award as a member of the Common Fund Global Health Leadership Team for outstanding service in the coordination of the Common Fund Global Health Initiatives (2012)

Certificate of Appreciation for Invited Presenter, NIH Seminar Series, STEM Careers (2012)

Certificate of Appreciation for Invited Presenter, Washington Mathematics Science Technology Public Charter High School, Washington, DC (2012)

Leadership Award, Postdoctoral Fellows Research Symposium Committee, Emory University, Atlanta, GA (2008)

Areas of research and study

Dissemination and Implementation of Evidence-based Programs

HIV/AIDS

Implementation science

Inter-organizational Networks

Translational science

Publications

Publications

Depression Risk and Urban Environmental Determinants in a Rapidly Urbanising African City: A Spatial Bayesian Analysis in Accra, Ghana

Amegbor, P. M., Agyabeng, K., Yang, X., Fanshun, S., Quansah, R., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2026

Journal title

Health & Place

Abstract

Abstract

~

Geographic and Temporal Differences in Sickle Cell Disease Hospitalizations in New York State

Iloegbu, C., Odumegwu, J., Gyamfi, J., Patena, J., Vieira, D., Wang, X., Amesimeku, E., Amegbor, P., Campbell, A., Ogunlesi, F., Ozoh, U., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2026

Journal title

JAMA network open

Volume

9

Issue

5

Page(s)

e2610045

Abstract

Abstract

Sickle cell disease (SCD) disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minority groups in the US and is associated with high levels of morbidity and health care utilization. However, population-level geographic differences and temporal variation in SCD hospitalization outcomes remain incompletely characterized.

Geographic and Temporal Differences in Sickle Cell Disease Hospitalizations in New York State from 2009–2022.

Iloegbu,, E., Odumegwu, J., Gyamfi, J., Patena, J., Vieira, D., Wang, X., Amesimeku, E., Amegbor, P. M., Campbell, A., Ogunlesi, F., Ozoh, U., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2026

Journal title

JamaNewtworkOpen,

Volume

9

Issue

5

Page(s)

e2610045

Abstract

Abstract

~

Mapping Hypertension Risk and Its Socioecological Determinants in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA): A Spatial Bayesian Analysis.

Amegbor, P. M., Quansah, R., Agyabeng, K., Yang, X., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2026

Journal title

Spatial and Spatio-temporal Epidemiology

Abstract

Abstract

~

SickleInAfrica Consortium: A Seven-Country Study Evaluating the Performance of Dried Blood Spot Point-of-Care Testing in Newborn Screening for Sickle Cell Disease

Nnodu, O. E. E., Mupfururirwa, W., Kiguli, S., Chirande, L., Toure, B. A. A., Sarfo, F. S. S., Kuona, P., Guindo, A., Louden, A., Nguweneza, A., Balandya, E., Chunda-Liyoka, C., Nembaware, V., Oosterwyk, C., Jonas, M., Morrice, J., Kengne, A. P. P., Nkya, S., Masamu, U., … Wonkam, A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2026

Journal title

Hemoglobin

Volume

50

Issue

2

Page(s)

111-120

Abstract

Abstract

Sickle cell disease (SCD) remains a major public health concern in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where approximately 200,000 newborns are affected annually. Without early diagnosis and access to care, up to 50% of these children may die before the age of five. Although newborn screening (NBS) programs have proven effective in improving survival, their implementation across Africa is constrained by logistical barriers associated with standard diagnostic methods such as isoelectric focusing (IEF), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and cellulose acetate electrophoresis. Dried blood spot point-of-care testing (DBS-POCT) offers a potentially scalable alternative due to its stability, simplicity, and suitability for centralized analysis. We evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of DBS-POCT using the HemoTypeSC test compared to both standard POCT and reference laboratory testing across 705 newborns (0-3 months old) in seven countries within the SickleInAfrica Consortium. DBS-POCT demonstrated high sensitivity and specificity for detecting HbAA and HbAS, moderate sensitivity for HbSS, and lower sensitivity for HbAC, with some variability across countries. In several countries, DBS-POCT outperformed standard POCT, particularly in detecting SCD subtypes. Our findings support the utility of DBS-POCT for expanding newborn screening programs in resource-limited settings.

A call to integrate mental health support into Sickle Cell Disease care: The value of task-sharing in low- and middle-income countries

Patena, J., Lai, A. Y. Y., Sweetland, A. C., Gyamfi, J., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

PLOS mental health

Volume

2

Issue

7

Page(s)

e0000360

Abstract

Abstract

~

An implementation trial to mAnage siCkle CELl disEase through incReased AdopTion of hydroxyurEa in Nigeria (ACCELERATE): Study protocol

Peprah, E., Gyamfi, J., Patena, J., Kayalioglu, H., Hameed, T., Ogedegbe, G., Do, H., Ojji, D., Adenikinju, D., Ajaye Oba, T., Nwegbu, M., Isa, H., Shedul, G., Sopekan, A. Y., & Nnodu, O. E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

PloS one

Volume

20

Issue

1

Page(s)

e0311900

Abstract

Abstract

Despite the proven efficacy of evidence-based healthcare interventions in reducing adverse outcomes and mortality associated with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD), a vast majority of affected individuals in Africa remain deprived of such care. Hydroxyurea (HU) utilization among SCD patients in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) stands at less than 1%, while in Nigeria, approximately 13% of patients benefit from HU therapy. To enhance HU utilization, targeted implementation strategies addressing provider-level barriers are imperative. Existing evidence underscores the significance of addressing barriers such as inadequate healthcare worker training to improve HU adoption. The ACCELERATE study aims to evaluate the adoption of HU among providers through the Screen, Initiate, and Maintain (SIM) intervention, facilitated by healthcare worker training, clinical reminders, and task-sharing strategies, thereby enhancing patient-level SCD management in Nigeria.

Barriers and facilitators to implementing a task-sharing mental health intervention for Sickle Cell Disease populations in low- and middle-income countries: a qualitative analysis using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR)

Patena, J., Elster, L., Hameed, T., Kulkarni, S., Lai, A. Y. Y., Sweetland, A. C., Gyamfi, J., Ojo, T., Odoms-Young, A., Royal, C., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

Frontiers in public health

Volume

13

Page(s)

1607771

Abstract

Abstract

People living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) experience higher rates of common mental disorders (CMD). There is an alarming treatment gap in the provision of adequate mental health services for CMDs in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). One solution is the implementation of task-sharing interventions such as the Friendship Bench which utilizes concepts of problem-solving therapy (PST). This investigation uses a qualitative study design to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of implementing a PST-based task-sharing mental health intervention for SCD populations in LMICs using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR).

Burden of hemoglobinopathies and hemolytic anemias in the World Health Organization African region, 2000-2021: Findings from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 study

Failed generating bibliography.

Publication year

2025

Journal title

PLOS global public health

Volume

5

Issue

9

Page(s)

e0005197

Abstract

Abstract

Hemoglobinopathies and hemolytic anemias (HHA) are genetic blood disorders associated with diverse clinical complications, affecting an estimated 2.1 billion people worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) African Region accounts for approximately 425.8 million individuals, or 20% of the global HHA prevalence, yet comprehensive assessments of this burden have been lacking. We present the first systematic analysis of HHA burden in the WHO African Region from 2000-2021 using data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study. We estimated regional, sex-, and age-specific rates (per 100,000 population) of mortality, incidence at birth, and years lived with disability (YLDs) in five-year intervals. Mortality estimates were generated using the Cause of Death Ensemble model (CODEm), supplemented with spatiotemporal Gaussian process regression. Incidence at birth was estimated using DisMod-MR 2.1, a Bayesian meta-regression tool, while YLDs were calculated by multiplying prevalence by disability weights reflecting severity and duration. Between 2000 and 2021, the WHO African Region experienced persistently higher age-standardized death rates from HHA compared to global levels, although regional mortality declined over the period. Sickle cell disorder (SCD) was the predominant contributor, with the highest mortality [3.68 deaths (95% UI 2.04-6.29) per 100,000] and disability burden [41.08 YLDs (95% UI 26.09-58.61)], while thalassemias contributed the least. Disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) were concentrated in western sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for 71.3% of the regional burden. Age-specific estimates revealed that children under five years faced a disproportionate share of mortality and disability. Despite overall declines in mortality, the WHO African Region continues to bear a disproportionate global burden of HHA, particularly affecting young children. These findings underscore the urgent need for strengthened newborn screening, early treatment, and health system interventions to reduce preventable deaths and disability.

Downward accountability mechanism effectiveness by non-governmental organizations in low- and middle-income countries : A qualitative systematic review

Noble, E., Moinul, D., Sylla, O. K., Friedmann, S., Amick, K., Rowhani, N., Dua, R., Mannan, N., Seaman, C., Ayo, O., Pant, S., Osoko, O., Gogineni, S., Malburg, C., Dickey, C., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

PloS one

Volume

20

Issue

5 May

10.1371/journal.pone.0324098

Abstract

Abstract

Background Downward accountability, defined as being answerable to beneficiaries for actions and giving affected populations influence in aid processes, remains unstandardized and underinvested across the humanitarian sector. Currently, numerous accountability mechanisms are being utilized by humanitarian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, the different mechanisms have varying degrees of effectiveness in providing true accountability to affected populations due to significant barriers or strengths in implementation. Objective To conduct a qualitative systematic review investigating the various downward accountability mechanisms employed by non-governmental organizations in LMICs, and to assess the effectiveness of these mechanisms in delivering downward accountability for populations in low-resource settings. Results We searched 10 databases, including PubMed, Medline, Embase, Ovid, Web of Science, Global Health, EBSCO SocINDEX, ABI/INFORM, ALNAP, and Sociological Abstracts from 2008–2023. Grey literature was searched on Google Scholar. To capture any additional articles, the search was updated in November 2024. Our search produced 1521 articles. After applying our exclusion criteria and screening, 38 articles comprised our final dataset. Each article reported on the effectiveness of five downward accountability mechanisms, including participation, ownership, transparency, program auditing, and social auditing. Associated barriers to accountability included implementation, power asymmetry, and fragmentation within the humanitarian sector. Conclusions There are significant gaps in research on the effectiveness of downward accountability mechanisms amongst humanitarian NGOs in LMICs. This research deficit adversely affects the sustainability of local development initiatives and, on a broader scale, undermines overall organizational effectiveness. Implementing balanced accountability mechanisms that promote equality in power dynamics is pivotal to achieving meaningful outcomes for affected populations.

Downward accountability mechanism effectiveness by non-governmental organizations in low- and middle-income countries: A qualitative systematic review

Noble, E., Moinul, D., Khairy Djim Sylla, O., Friedmann, S., Amick, K., Rowhani, N., Dua, R., Mannan, N., Seaman, C., Ayo, O., Pant, S., Osoko, O., Gogineni, S., Malburg, C., Dickey, C., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

PloS one

Volume

20

Issue

5

Page(s)

e0324098

Abstract

Abstract

Downward accountability, defined as being answerable to beneficiaries for actions and giving affected populations influence in aid processes, remains unstandardized and underinvested across the humanitarian sector. Currently, numerous accountability mechanisms are being utilized by humanitarian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, the different mechanisms have varying degrees of effectiveness in providing true accountability to affected populations due to significant barriers or strengths in implementation.

Ethical and regulatory requirements for conducting researcher-driven large-scale multinational genetic haematological studies: the INHERENT experience

Failed generating bibliography.

Publication year

2025

Journal title

Health research policy and systems

Volume

23

Issue

1

Page(s)

101

Abstract

Abstract

The International Hemoglobinopathy Research Network (INHERENT) focuses on studying genetic modifiers through large, multi-ethnic genome-wide association studies involving paediatric and adult patients with haemoglobinopathies. The growing integration of genetics and genomics into global healthcare has highlighted the need for standardized policies on biospecimen and data handling. This study describes the necessary ethical and regulatory framework for conducting multinational, researcher-driven genetic studies on humans.

Evaluating implementation research outcomes for a task-sharing mental health intervention : A systematic review of the Friendship Bench

Patena, J., Adenikinju, D., Lanka, P., Hameed, T., Kulkarni, S., Osei-Tutu, N., Zuniga, S., Ruan, C., Shivani, S., Thakkar, D., Noble, E., Angulo, B., Vieira, D., Gyamfi, J., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

Global Mental Health

10.1017/gmh.2025.10025

Abstract

Abstract

Common mental disorders (CMDs) are a leading cause of burden and disability globally. Approximately 75% of those living with CMDs reside in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and up to 90% of those needing mental health care do not receive it. The Friendship Bench is a task-sharing mental health intervention delivered by lay health workers (LHWs) that utilizes concepts of Problem-Solving Therapy. The aim of this systematic review is to identify and evaluate the barriers and facilitators to the implementation research outcomes of the Friendship Bench and understand its systematic uptake to narrow the CMD treatment gap. We conducted a systematic review of articles that reported on the Friendship Bench in LMICs, CMDs, implementation research outcomes, and studies that utilized experimental, observational, or qualitative study designs. We identified articles using medical subject headings and keywords from APA PsycINFO, Cochrane, CINAHL, EMBASE, Global Health, OVID, PubMed/Medline, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Google Scholar in February 2023 and again in December 2023 to capture any additional articles. We screened 641 articles and a total of 7 articles were included in the final analysis. All studies were conducted in Zimbabwe within the past 8 years and between all the studies, all implementation research outcomes were reported. There is strong evidence that the Friendship Bench is acceptable, appropriate, and feasible to address the CMD treatment gap in Zimbabwe. Facilitators include that the Friendship Bench is culturally adaptable, utilizes trusted LHWs, and has relatively strong community and political buy-in. Conversely, barriers include a lack of a reliable mental health system, limitation in its ability to treat more serious mental conditions, and mental health stigma. There is an opportunity to explore the application of the Friendship Bench for CMDs in other countries and as a basis for novel task-sharing interventions for other health conditions.

Evaluating implementation research outcomes for a task-sharing mental health intervention: A systematic review of the Friendship Bench

Patena, J., Adenikinju, D., Lanka, P., Hameed, T., Kulkarni, S., Osei-Tutu, N., Zuniga, S., Ruan, C., Shenoy, S., Thakkar, D., Noble, E., Angulo, B., Vieira, D., Gyamfi, J., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

Global mental health (Cambridge, England)

Volume

12

Page(s)

e65

Abstract

Abstract

Common mental disorders (CMDs) are a leading cause of burden and disability globally. Approximately 75% of those living with CMDs reside in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and up to 90% of those needing mental health care do not receive it. The Friendship Bench is a task-sharing mental health intervention delivered by lay health workers (LHWs) that utilizes concepts of Problem-Solving Therapy. The aim of this systematic review is to identify and evaluate the barriers and facilitators to the implementation of research outcomes of the Friendship Bench and understand its systematic uptake to narrow the CMD treatment gap. We conducted a systematic review of articles that reported on the Friendship Bench in LMICs, CMDs, implementation research outcomes, and studies that utilized experimental, observational, or qualitative study designs. We identified articles using medical subject headings and keywords from APA PsycINFO, Cochrane, CINAHL, EMBASE, Global Health, OVID, PubMed/Medline, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Google Scholar in February 2023 and again in December 2023 to capture any additional articles. We screened 641 articles, and a total of 7 articles were included in the final analysis. All studies were conducted in Zimbabwe within the past 8 years, and across all the studies, all implementation research outcomes were reported. There is strong evidence that the Friendship Bench is acceptable, appropriate, and feasible to address the CMD treatment gap in Zimbabwe. Facilitators include that the Friendship Bench is culturally adaptable, utilizes trusted LHWs, and has relatively strong community and political buy-in. Conversely, barriers include a lack of a reliable mental health system, limitations in its ability to treat more serious mental conditions, and mental health stigma. There is an opportunity to explore the application of the Friendship Bench for CMDs in other countries and as a basis for novel task-sharing interventions for other health conditions.

Evaluating the feasibility, adoption, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability of telemedicine interventions in managing COVID-19 within low-and-middle-income countries (LMICs): A systematic review

Okafor, N. M., Thompson, I., Venkat, V., Robinson, C., Rao, A., Kulkarni, S., Frerichs, L., Ndiaye, K., Adenikinju, D., Iloegbu, C., Pateña, J., Lappen, H., Vieira, D., Gyamfi, J., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

PLOS digital health

Volume

4

Issue

4

Page(s)

e0000771

Abstract

Abstract

COVID-19 has tragically taken the lives of more than 6.5 million people globally, significantly challenging healthcare systems and service delivery, especially in low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). This systematic review aims to: (1) evaluate the feasibility of telemedicine interventions for COVID-19 management; (2) assess the adoption of telemedicine interventions during the COVID-19 pandemic; (3) examine the cost-effectiveness of telemedicine implementation efforts and (4) analyze the sustainability of telemedicine interventions for COVID-19 disease management within LMIC service settings. We reviewed studies from selected public health and health science databases, focusing on those conducted in countries classified as low and middle-income by the World Bank, using telemedicine for confirmed COVID-19 cases, and adhering to Proctor's framework for implementation outcomes. Of the 766 articles identified and 642 screened, only 3 met all inclusion criteria. These studies showed reduced reliance on antibiotics, prescription drugs, and emergency department referrals among telemedicine patients. Statistical parity was observed in the length of stay, diagnostic test ordering rates, and International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-10 diagnoses between telemedicine and in-person visits. Telemedicine interventions designed for post-COVID physical rehabilitation demonstrated safety, sustainability, and enhanced quality of life for patients without requiring specialized equipment, proving adaptable across contexts with appropriate technology. These interventions were also economically sustainable and cost-effective for healthcare systems as a whole. Proposed strategies to bridge implementation gaps include community-level assessments, strategic planning, multisectoral partnerships of local hospital administration and lawmakers, legal consultations, and healthcare informatics improvements. Increased investment in telemedicine research focusing on infectious disease management is crucial for the continued development and refinement of effective strategies tailored to resource-constrained regions.

Global, Regional, and National Burden of Nontraumatic Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: The Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

Failed generating bibliography.

Publication year

2025

Journal title

JAMA neurology

Volume

82

Issue

8

Page(s)

765-87

Abstract

Abstract

Nontraumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) represents the third most common stroke type with unique etiologies, risk factors, diagnostics, and treatments. Nevertheless, epidemiological studies often cluster SAH with other stroke types leaving its distinct burden estimates obscure.

Nature’s toll: The effect of climate anomalies and ambient air pollution on spontaneous miscarriage in Ghana. Journal: Communications Earth & Environment

Amegbor, P. M., Yankey, O., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

Nature Communications Earth & Environment

Abstract

Abstract

~

Strengthening global partnerships for sustainable sickle cell disease care : insights from SickleInAfrica at the 77th United Nations General Assembly and the US-Africa Leaders’ Summit

Minja, I. K., Nkya, S., Bukini, D., Mahenge, N., Masamu, U., Manongi, J., Mgaya, J., Mtiiye, F., Nkanyemka, M., Kisali, E. P., Mahawi, I. M., Rifai, A., Jonathan, A., Nembaware, V., Jonas, M., Mulder, N., Namazi, R., Munube, D., Paintsil, V., … Makani, J. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

BMJ Global Health

Volume

10

Issue

3

10.1136/bmjgh-2024-017154

Abstract

Abstract

Background Addressing sickle cell disease (SCD) is crucial for achieving health-related Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in Africa. The region is significantly affected, with 78.7% of patients with SCD residing in sub-Saharan Africa and over 515 000 newborns diagnosed annually. Historically, African health systems have struggled to provide optimal care for patients with SCD, resulting in high under-5 mortality and severe childhood morbidity. Scientific innovations and stakeholder engagement offer hope for improving SCD outcomes. Objective To explore the role of high-level partnerships and scientific innovation in advancing SCD care and research in Africa, focusing on the contributions and strategic engagements of the SickleInAfrica, as highlighted at the 77th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and the US-Africa Leaders’ Summit. Approach SickleInAfrica, comprising eight countries, leverages a robust infrastructure for SCD research and care. The consortium has established a comprehensive SCD database and a patient registry in each of the consortium sites that includes demographic details, clinical diagnosis, management details and follow-ups/visits. Currently, over 34 000 patients with SCD are enrolled, making it the largest globally. It has also contextually adapted clinical guidelines for managing SCD for all levels of care. The high-level engagements at the 77th UNGA held in September 2022 in New York and the US-Africa Leaders’ Summit held in December 2022 in Washington DC promoted SCD awareness and partnerships. The UNGA session emphasised biomedical science, implementation research and partnerships in therapeutic development, while the US-Africa Leaders’ Summit session focused on Global Partnerships for SCD: Advancing Science and Technology for Health in Africa. Conclusions High-level engagements facilitate cross-border dialogues, underscoring the importance of partnerships from grassroots to global alliances. Key outcomes include increased awareness, policy advocacy and the establishment of SCD Centres of Excellence and genomics capacity-building initiatives. Sustainable efforts require robust partnerships, government involvement, community awareness and equitable access to advanced therapies.

Strengthening global partnerships for sustainable sickle cell disease care: insights from SickleInAfrica at the 77th United Nations General Assembly and the US-Africa Leaders' Summit

Minja, I. K. K., Nkya, S., Bukini, D., Mahenge, N., Masamu, U., Manongi, J., Mgaya, J., Mtiiye, F., Nkanyemka, M., Kisali, E. P. P., Mwinchande Mahawi, I., Rifai, A., Jonathan, A., Nembaware, V., Jonas, M., Mulder, N., Namazi, R., Munube, D., Paintsil, V., … Makani, J. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

BMJ global health

Volume

10

Issue

3

Abstract

Abstract

Addressing sickle cell disease (SCD) is crucial for achieving health-related Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in Africa. The region is significantly affected, with 78.7% of patients with SCD residing in sub-Saharan Africa and over 515 000 newborns diagnosed annually. Historically, African health systems have struggled to provide optimal care for patients with SCD, resulting in high under-5 mortality and severe childhood morbidity. Scientific innovations and stakeholder engagement offer hope for improving SCD outcomes.

Syndemic interactions between HIV/AIDS, mental health conditions, and non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa: A scoping review of contributing factors

Karbasi, A. B., Iloegbu, C., Ruan, C., Osei-Tutu, N., Patel, K., Frerichs, L., Patena, J., Vieira, D., Adenikinju, D., Samuels, L., Gyamfi, J., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

PloS one

Volume

20

Issue

8

Page(s)

e0328515

Abstract

Abstract

The syndemic framework provides a critical lens for understanding the complex interplay between HIV/AIDS, mental health (MH) conditions, and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Africa. This scoping review explores how these conditions converge to form a syndemic that disproportionately affects vulnerable populations - particularly people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWH). Contextual factors such as stigma, lower socioeconomic resulting in poverty, gender, resource limitations, and fragmented healthcare systems exacerbate these interrelated conditions, posing significant challenges to individuals and their health.

The CATALYTIC tool to assess feasibility of implementing evidence-based interventions for cardiovascular diseases in 46 low- and middle-income countries: survey outcomes and tool reliability testing

Ojo, T., Yassin, H., Sowunmi, E., Hameed, T., Ryan, N., Gyamfi, J., Shelley, D., Ogedegbe, O., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

Frontiers in public health

Volume

13

Page(s)

1597996

Abstract

Abstract

Evidence-based interventions (EBI) for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) may face feasibility challenges due to the inadequacy of existing instruments. To address this, researchers developed the Contextual Index of Feasibility on Early-Stage Implementation in LMIC (CATALYTIC) tool, which integrates contextual factors into the assessment of feasibility.

The importance of funding and investment to strengthen data science in Africa

Kayalioglu, H., Pateña, J., Sangeda, R. Z., Masamu, U., Mmbando, B., Njiro, B., Iyegbe, C., Gyamfi, J., Vieira, D., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

Communications medicine

Volume

5

Issue

1

Page(s)

293

Abstract

Abstract

Currently Africa is not fully realizing the potential of data science (DS) to improve health outcomes. In this comment we advocate for policymakers to make concerted and strategic efforts that complement existing strategies to enhance DS and propel Africa into a prominent role in the global DS arena.

The importance of funding and investment to strengthen data science in Africa

Kayalioglu, H., Pateña, J., Sangeda, R. Z., Masamu, U., Mmbando, B., Njiro, B., Iyegbe, C., Gyamfi, J., Vieira, D., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2025

Journal title

Communications Medicine

Volume

5

Issue

1

10.1038/s43856-025-01001-7

Abstract

Abstract

Currently Africa is not fully realizing the potential of data science (DS) to improve health outcomes. In this comment we advocate for policymakers to make concerted and strategic efforts that complement existing strategies to enhance DS and propel Africa into a prominent role in the global DS arena.

Acceptability, barriers and facilitators of using dried blood spots-point-of-care testing for sickle cell disease in Africa : an implementation science protocol for a multinational qualitative study

On behalf of the SickleInAfrica Consortium, A., Nnodu, O. E., Munung, N. S., Chirande, L., Chunda-Liyoka, C., Kiguli, S., Sarfo, F. S., Touré, B. A., Balandya, E., Guindo, A., Kuona, P., Esoh, K., Jonas, M., Nwegbu, M., Masamu, U., Morrice, J., Moru, P. O., Bitoungui, V. N., Nembaware, V., … Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2024

Journal title

BMJ open

Volume

14

Issue

11

10.1136/bmjopen-2024-089056

Abstract

Abstract

Background Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a prevalent inherited blood disorder. Globally, approximately 515 000 babies are born with SCD annually, with 75% of these births occurring in Africa. Integrating newborn screening (NBS) for SCD into primary healthcare structures, such as immunisation programmes, holds significant promise, with dried blood spots (DBS)-point-of-care technologies (POCT) like HaemoTypeSC offering cost-effective screening solutions. However, scaling up DBS-POCT for NBS of SCD in Africa remains challenging. Objective This study aims to explore individual, organisational and external factors that may influence the reliability, feasibility, acceptability, adoption and sustainability of using DBS-POCT with HaemoTypeSC for NBS of SCD at primary healthcare centres in African countries. Method This qualitative study will be conducted in seven African countries that are part of the SickleInAfrica consortium sites. The study design is informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and the Implementation Outcome Model. Participants will be mothers whose babies have been diagnosed with SCD, healthcare professionals and policy-makers. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions will be used for data collection. Data analysis will be through thematic analysis. Ethics and dissemination Research ethics approvals have been obtained from the seven countries. Written informed consent will be obtained from all participants. The study results will be disseminated in peer-reviewed scientific journals, scientific conferences, reports to national ministries of public health and webinars.

Acceptability, barriers and facilitators of using dried blood spots-point-of-care testing for sickle cell disease in Africa: an implementation science protocol for a multinational qualitative study

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Publication year

2024

Journal title

BMJ open

Volume

14

Issue

11

Page(s)

e089056

Abstract

Abstract

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a prevalent inherited blood disorder. Globally, approximately 515 000 babies are born with SCD annually, with 75% of these births occurring in Africa. Integrating newborn screening (NBS) for SCD into primary healthcare structures, such as immunisation programmes, holds significant promise, with dried blood spots (DBS)-point-of-care technologies (POCT) like HaemoTypeSC offering cost-effective screening solutions. However, scaling up DBS-POCT for NBS of SCD in Africa remains challenging.