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

Big data science : Opportunities and challenges to address minority health and health disparities in the 21st century

Zhang, X., Pérez-Stable, E. J., Bourne, P. E., Peprah, E., Duru, O. K., Breen, N., Berrigan, D., Wood, F., Jackson, J. S., Wong, D. W., & Denny, J. (n.d.).

Publication year

2017

Journal title

Ethnicity and Disease

Volume

27

Issue

2

Page(s)

95-106

10.18865/ed.27.2.95

Abstract

Abstract

Addressing minority health and health disparities has been a missing piece of the puzzle in Big Data science. This article focuses on three priority opportunities that Big Data science may offer to the reduction of health and health care disparities. One opportunity is to incorporate standardized information on demographic and social determinants in electronic health records in order to target ways to improve quality of care for the most disadvantaged populations over time. A second opportunity is to enhance public health surveillance by linking geographical variables and social determinants of health for geographically defined populations to clinical data and health outcomes. Third and most importantly, Big Data science may lead to a better understanding of the etiology of health disparities and understanding of minority health in order to guide intervention development. However, the promise of Big Data needs to be considered in light of significant challenges that threaten to widen health disparities. Care must be taken to incorporate diverse populations to realize the potential benefits. Specific recommendations include investing in data collection on small sample populations, building a diverse workforce pipeline for data science, actively seeking to reduce digital divides, developing novel ways to assure digital data privacy for small populations, and promoting widespread data sharing to benefit under-resourced minority-serving institutions and minority researchers. With deliberate efforts, Big Data presents a dramatic opportunity for reducing health disparities but without active engagement, it risks further widening them.

Biomedical research, a tool to address the health issues that affect African populations

Peprah, E., & Wonkam, A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2013

Journal title

Globalization and Health

Volume

9

Issue

1

10.1186/1744-8603-9-50

Abstract

Abstract

Traditionally, biomedical research endeavors in low to middle resources countries have focused on communicable diseases. However, data collected over the past 20 years by the World Health Organization (WHO) show a significant increase in the number of people suffering from non-communicable diseases (e.g. heart disease, diabetes, cancer and pulmonary diseases). Within the coming years, WHO predicts significant decreases in communicable diseases while non-communicable diseases are expected to double in low and middle income countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The predicted increase in the non-communicable diseases population could be economically burdensome for the basic healthcare infrastructure of countries that lack resources to address this emerging disease burden. Biomedical research could stimulate development of healthcare and biomedical infrastructure. If this development is sustainable, it provides an opportunity to alleviate the burden of both communicable and non-communicable diseases through diagnosis, prevention and treatment. In this paper, we discuss how research using biomedical technology, especially genomics, has produced data that enhances the understanding and treatment of both communicable and non-communicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa. We further discuss how scientific development can provide opportunities to pursue research areas responsive to the African populations. We limit our discussion to biomedical research in the areas of genomics due to its substantial impact on the scientific community in recent years however, we also recognize that targeted investments in other scientific disciplines could also foster further development in African countries.

Building a Platform to Enable NCD Research to Address Population Health in Africa : CVD Working Group Discussion at the Sixth H3Africa Consortium Meeting in Zambia

Peprah, E., Wiley, K., Troyer, J., Adebamowo, S. N., Adu, D., Mayosi, B. M., Ramsay, M., Motala, A. A., Adebamowo, C., Ovbiagele, B., & Owolabi, M. (n.d.).

Publication year

2016

Journal title

Global Heart

Volume

11

Issue

1

Page(s)

165-170

10.1016/j.gheart.2015.11.002

Abstract

Abstract

~

Building on the HIV chronic care platform to address noncommunicable diseases in sub-Saharan Africa : A research agenda

Vorkoper, S., Kupfer, L. E., Anand, N., Patel, P., Beecroft, B., Tierney, W. M., Ferris, R., El-Sadr, W. M., Bacon, M., Berman, J., Berzon, R., Bongomin, P., Bremer, A., Castor, D., Collins, P., Dirks, R., Dominguez, G., Ejigu, A. A., Engelgau, M., … Yonga, G. (n.d.).

Publication year

2018

Journal title

AIDS

Volume

32

Page(s)

S107-S113

10.1097/QAD.0000000000001898

Abstract

Abstract

Objective: The remarkable progress made in confronting the global HIV epidemic offers a unique opportunity to address the increasing threat of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). However, questions remain about how to enhance the HIV platforms to deliver integrated HIV and NCD care to people living with HIV (PLHIV) in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). We aimed to develop a priority research agenda to advance this effort. Methods: Researchers, policymakers, and implementers from the United States and SSA conducted three scoping reviews on HIV/NCD prevention and care focused on clinical, health system, and community levels. Based on the review findings and expert inputs, we conducted iterative consensus-development activities to generate a prioritized research agenda. Results: Population-level data on NCD prevalence among PLHIV in SSA are sparse. The review identified NCD screening and management approaches that could be integrated into HIV programs in SSA. However, few studies focused on the effectiveness, cost, and best practices for integrated chronic care platforms, making it difficult to derive policy recommendations. To address these gaps, we propose a prioritized research agenda focused on developing evidence-based service delivery models, increasing human capacity through workforce education, generating data through informatics platforms and research, managing the medication supply chain, developing new financing and sustainability models, advancing research-informed policy, and addressing other crosscutting health system issues. Conclusion: Based on collaborative, interdisciplinary efforts, a research agenda was developed to provide guidance that advances efforts to adapt the current health system to deliver integrated chronic care for PLHIV and the population at large.

Burden of diarrhea in the eastern mediterranean region, 1990-2013 : Findings from the global burden of disease study 2013

Khalil, I., Colombara, D. V., Forouzanfar, M. H., Troeger, C., Daoud, F., Moradi-Lakeh, M., El Bcheraoui, C., Rao, P. C., Afshin, A., Charara, R., Abate, K. H., Abd El Razek, M. M., Abd-Allah, F., Abu-Elyazeed, R., Kiadaliri, A. A., Akanda, A. S., Akseer, N., Alam, K., Alasfoor, D., … Mokdad, A. H. (n.d.).

Publication year

2016

Journal title

American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene

Volume

95

Issue

6

Page(s)

1319-1329

10.4269/ajtmh.16-0339

Abstract

Abstract

Diarrheal diseases (DD) are leading causes of disease burden, death, and disability, especially in children in low-income settings. DD can also impact a child's potential livelihood through stunted physical growth, cognitive impairment, and other sequelae. As part of the Global Burden of Disease Study, we estimated DD burden, and the burden attributable to specific risk factors and particular etiologies, in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) between 1990 and 2013. For both sexes and all ages, we calculated disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), which are the sum of years of life lost and years lived with disability. We estimate that over 125,000 deaths (3.6% of total deaths) were due to DD in the EMR in 2013, with a greater burden of DD in low-and middle-income countries. Diarrhea deaths per 100,000 children under 5 years of age ranged from one (95% uncertainty interval [UI] = 0-1) in Bahrain and Oman to 471 (95% UI = 245-763) in Somalia. The pattern for diarrhea DALYs among those under 5 years of age closely followed that for diarrheal deaths. DALYs per 100,000 ranged from 739 (95% UI = 520-989) in Syria to 40,869 (95% UI = 21,540-65,823) in Somalia. Our results highlighted a highly inequitable burden of DD in EMR, mainly driven by the lack of access to proper resources such as water and sanitation. Our findings will guide preventive and treatment interventions which are based on evidence and which follow the ultimate goal of reducing the DD burden.

Burden of disease scenarios by state in the USA, 2022–50 : a forecasting analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021

GBD 2021 US Burden of Disease and Forecasting Collaborators, A., Mokdad, A. H., Bisignano, C., Hsu, J. M., Bryazka, D., Cao, S., Bhattacharjee, N. V., Dalton, B. E., Lindstedt, P. A., Smith, A. E., Ababneh, H. S., Abbasgholizadeh, R., Abdelkader, A., Abdi, P., Abiodun, O. O., Aboagye, R. G., Abukhadijah, H. J., Abu-Zaid, A., Acuna, J. M., … Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2024

Journal title

The Lancet

Volume

404

Issue

10469

Page(s)

2341-2370

10.1016/S0140-6736(24)02246-3

Abstract

Abstract

Background: The capacity to anticipate future health issues is important for both policy makers and practitioners in the USA, as such insights can facilitate effective planning, investment, and implementation strategies. Forecasting trends in disease and injury burden is not only crucial for policy makers but also garners substantial interest from the general populace and leads to a better-informed public. Through the integration of new data sources, the refinement of methodologies, and the inclusion of additional causes, we have improved our previous forecasting efforts within the scope of the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) to produce forecasts at the state and national levels for the USA under various possible scenarios. Methods: We developed a comprehensive framework for forecasting life expectancy, healthy life expectancy (HALE), cause-specific mortality, and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) due to 359 causes of disease and injury burden from 2022 to 2050 for the USA and all 50 states and Washington, DC. Using the GBD 2021 Future Health Scenarios modelling framework, we forecasted drivers of disease, demographic drivers, risk factors, temperature and particulate matter, mortality and years of life lost (YLL), population, and non-fatal burden. In addition to a reference scenario (representing the most probable future trajectory), we explored various future scenarios and their potential impacts over the next several decades on human health. These alternative scenarios comprised four risk elimination scenarios (including safer environment, improved behavioural and metabolic risks, improved childhood nutrition and vaccination, and a combined scenario) and three USA-specific scenarios based on risk exposure or attributable burden in the best-performing US states (improved high adult BMI and high fasting plasma glucose [FPG], improved smoking, and improved drug use [encompassing opioids, cocaine, amphetamine, and others]). Findings: Life expectancy in the USA is projected to increase from 78·3 years (95% uncertainty interval 78·1–78·5) in 2022 to 79·9 years (79·5–80·2) in 2035, and to 80·4 years (79·8–81·0) in 2050 for all sexes combined. This increase is forecasted to be modest compared with that in other countries around the world, resulting in the USA declining in global rank over the 2022–50 forecasted period among the 204 countries and territories in GBD, from 49th to 66th. There is projected to be a decline in female life expectancy in West Virginia between 1990 and 2050, and little change in Arkansas and Oklahoma. Additionally, after 2023, we projected almost no change in female life expectancy in many states, notably in Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, Iowa, Maine, and Wisconsin. Female HALE is projected to decline between 1990 and 2050 in 20 states and to remain unchanged in three others. Drug use disorders and low back pain are projected to be the leading Level 3 causes of age-standardised DALYs in 2050. The age-standardised DALY rate due to drug use disorders is projected to increase considerably between 2022 and 2050 (19·5% [6·9–34·1]). Our combined risk elimination scenario shows that the USA could gain 3·8 additional years (3·6–4·0) of life expectancy and 4·1 additional years (3·9–4·3) of HALE in 2050 versus the reference scenario. Using our USA-specific scenarios, we forecasted that the USA could gain 0·4 additional years (0·3–0·6) of life expectancy and 0·6 additional years (0·5–0·8) of HALE in 2050 under the improved drug use scenario relative to the reference scenario. Life expectancy and HALE are likewise projected to be 0·4–0·5 years higher in 2050 under the improved adult BMI and FPG and improved smoking scenarios compared with the reference scenario. However, the increases in these scenarios would not substantially improve the USA's global ranking in 2050 (from 66th of 204 in life expectancy in the reference scenario to 63rd–64th in each of the three USA-specific scenarios), indicating that the USA's best-performing states are still lagging behind other countries in their rank throughout the forecasted period. Regardless, an estimated 12·4 million (11·3–13·5) deaths could be averted between 2022 and 2050 if the USA were to follow the combined scenario trajectory rather than the reference scenario. There would also be 1·4 million (0·7–2·2) fewer deaths over the 28-year forecasted period with improved adult BMI and FPG, 2·1 million (1·3–2·9) fewer deaths with improved exposure to smoking, and 1·2 million (0·9–1·5) fewer deaths with lower rates of drug use deaths. Interpretation: Our findings highlight the alarming trajectory of health challenges in the USA, which, if left unaddressed, could lead to a reversal of the health progress made over the past three decades for some US states and a decline in global health standing for all states. The evidence from our alternative scenarios along with other published studies suggests that through collaborative, evidence-based strategies, there are opportunities to change the trajectory of health outcomes in the USA, such as by investing in scientific innovation, health-care access, preventive health care, risk exposure reduction, and education. Our forecasts clearly show that the time to act is now, as the future of the country's health and wellbeing—as well as its prosperity and leadership position in science and innovation—are at stake. Funding: Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Burden of musculoskeletal disorders in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, 1990-2013 : Findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2013

Moradi-Lakeh, M., Forouzanfar, M. H., Vollset, S. E., El Bcheraoui, C., Daoud, F., Afshin, A., Charara, R., Khalil, I., Higashi, H., Abd El Razek, M. M., Kiadaliri, A. A., Alam, K., Akseer, N., Al-Hamad, N., Ali, R., Almazroa, M. A., Alomari, M. A., Al-Rabeeah, A. A., Alsharif, U., … Mokdad, A. H. (n.d.).

Publication year

2017

Journal title

Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases

Volume

76

Issue

8

Page(s)

1365-1373

10.1136/annrheumdis-2016-210146

Abstract

Abstract

Objectives We used findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2013 to report the burden of musculoskeletal disorders in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR). Methods The burden of musculoskeletal disorders was calculated for the EMR's 22 countries between 1990 and 2013. A systematic analysis was performed on mortality and morbidity data to estimate prevalence, death, years of live lost, years lived with disability and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs). Results For musculoskeletal disorders, the crude DALYs rate per 100 000 increased from 1297.1 (95% uncertainty interval (UI) 924.3-1703.4) in 1990 to 1606.0 (95% UI 1141.2-2130.4) in 2013. During 1990-2013, the total DALYs of musculoskeletal disorders increased by 105.2% in the EMR compared with a 58.0% increase in the rest of the world. The burden of musculoskeletal disorders as a proportion of total DALYs increased from 2.4% (95% UI 1.7-3.0) in 1990 to 4.7% (95% UI 3.6-5.8) in 2013. The range of point prevalence (per 1000) among the EMR countries was 28.2-136.0 for low back pain, 27.3-49.7 for neck pain, 9.7-37.3 for osteoarthritis (OA), 0.6-2.2 for rheumatoid arthritis and 0.1-0.8 for gout. Low back pain and neck pain had the highest burden in EMR countries. Conclusions This study shows a high burden of musculoskeletal disorders, with a faster increase in EMR compared with the rest of the world. The reasons for this faster increase need to be explored. Our findings call for incorporating prevention and control programmes that should include improving health data, addressing risk factors, providing evidence-based care and community programmes to increase awareness.

Characterisation of medical conditions of children with sickle cell disease in the USA : findings from the 2007-2018 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS)

Gyamfi, J., Tampubolon, S., Lee, J. T., Islam, F., Ojo, T., Opeyemi, J., Qiao, W., Mai, A., Wang, C., Vieira, D., Ryan, N., Osei-Tutu, N. H., Adenikinju, D., Meda, S., Ogedegbe, G., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2023

Journal title

BMJ open

Volume

13

Issue

2

10.1136/bmjopen-2022-069075

Abstract

Abstract

Objectives We used the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data set to examine the prevalence of comorbid medical conditions; explore barriers to accessing healthcare and special educational services; and assess the associations between sickle cell disease (SCD) status and demographics/socioeconomic status (SES), and social determinants of health (SDoH) on comorbidities among children in the USA. Design Cross-sectional. Setting NHIS Sample Child Core questionnaire 2007-2018 data set. Participants 133 481 children; presence of SCD was determined by an affirmative response from the adult or guardian of the child. Main outcome measures Multivariate logistic regression was used to compare the associations between SCD status, SES and SDoH for various medical conditions for all races and separately for black children at p

Characterisation of medical conditions of children with sickle cell disease in the USA: findings from the 2007-2018 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS)

Peprah, E., Gyamfi, J., Tampubolon, S., Lee, J. T., Islam, F., Ojo, T., Opeyemi, J., Qiao, W., Mai, A., Wang, C., Vieira, D., Ryan, N., Osei-Tutu, N. H., Adenikinju, D., Meda, S., Ogedegbe, G., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2023

Journal title

BMJ open

Volume

13

Issue

2

Page(s)

e069075

Abstract

Abstract

We used the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data set to examine the prevalence of comorbid medical conditions; explore barriers to accessing healthcare and special educational services; and assess the associations between sickle cell disease (SCD) status and demographics/socioeconomic status (SES), and social determinants of health (SDoH) on comorbidities among children in the USA.

Characterization of Medical Conditions of Children with Sickle Cell Disease in the United States : Findings from the 2007-2018 National Health Interview Surveys (NHIS)

Peprah, E., Gyamfi, J., Tampubolon, S., Lee, J., Islam, F., Ojo, T., Opeyemi, J., Qiao, Y., Mai, A., Vieira, D., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2021

Journal title

Blood

Volume

138

Page(s)

1908-+

10.1182/blood-2021-148796

Abstract

Abstract

~

Characterization of Neurological Complications Among Children with Sickle Cell Disease in the United States : Findings from the 2007-2018 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS)

Peprah, E., Gyamfi, J., Lee, J., Islam, F., Opeyemi, J., Tampubolon, S., Ojo, T., Qiao, Y., Mai, A., Vieira, D., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2021

Journal title

Blood

Volume

138

Page(s)

1909-+

10.1182/blood-2021-148849

Abstract

Abstract

~

Characterization of the mitochondrial inner membrane protein translocator Tim17 from Trypanosoma brucei

Singha, U. K., Peprah, E., Williams, S., Walker, R., Saha, L., & Chaudhuri, M. (n.d.).

Publication year

2008

Journal title

Molecular and Biochemical Parasitology

Volume

159

Issue

1

Page(s)

30-43

10.1016/j.molbiopara.2008.01.003

Abstract

Abstract

Mitochondrial protein translocation machinery in the kinetoplastid parasites, like Trypanosoma brucei, has been characterized poorly. In T. brucei genome database, one homolog for a protein translocator of mitochondrial inner membrane (Tim) has been found, which is closely related to Tim17 from other species. The T. brucei Tim17 (TbTim17) has a molecular mass 16.2 kDa and it possesses four characteristic transmembrane domains. The protein is localized in the mitochondrial inner membrane. The level of TbTim17 protein is 6-7-fold higher in the procyclic form that has a fully active mitochondrion, than in the mammalian bloodstream form of T. brucei, where many of the mitochondrial activities are suppressed. Knockdown of TbTim17 expression by RNAi caused a cessation of cell growth in the procyclic form and reduced growth rate in the bloodstream form. Depletion of TbTim17 decreased mitochondrial membrane potential more in the procyclic than bloodstream form. However, TbTim17 knockdown reduced the expression level of several nuclear encoded mitochondrial proteins in both the forms. Furthermore, import of presequence containing nuclear encoded mitochondrial proteins was significantly reduced in TbTim17 depleted mitochondria of the procyclic as well as the bloodstream form, confirming that TbTim17 is critical for mitochondrial protein import in both developmental forms. Together, these show that TbTim17 is the translocator of nuclear encoded mitochondrial proteins and its expression is regulated according to mitochondrial activities in T. brucei.

Chukwuemeka Iloegbu, Cong Wang, Deborah Adenikinju, Sukruthi Thunga, Etornam Amesimeku, Kahini Patel, John Patena, Dorice Vieira, Joyce Gyamfi, Juliet Iwelunmor, Oliver Ezechi, Emmanuel Peprah. Examining stigma, substance use, and food insecurity in people living with HIV in Nigeria; Incorporating the syndemic framework for comorbid diseases. APHA 2023. Nov 12-16 2023: Atlanta, GA (Poster)

Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2023

Abstract

Abstract

~

Daliya Ali, Kiera Bloch, Marsha Williams, Dorice Vieira, Deborah Adenikinju, Chukwuemeka Iloegbu, Joyce Gymafi, Emmanuel Peprah.Evidence-based interventions for hypertension among displaced persons in low- and middle-income countries: A systematic review of the facilitators and barriers to implementation research outcomes. APHA 2023. Nov 12-16 2023: Atlanta, GA (Poster)

Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2023

Abstract

Abstract

~

Data resource profile : Cardiovascular H3Africa innovation resource (Chair)

Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2019

Journal title

International Journal of Epidemiology

Volume

48

Issue

2

Page(s)

366-367g

10.1093/ije/dyy261

Abstract

Abstract

~

Deconstructing syndemics : The many layers of clustering multi-comorbidities in people living with HIV

Peprah, E., Caler, E., Snyder, A., & Ketema, F. (n.d.).

Publication year

2020

Journal title

International journal of environmental research and public health

Volume

17

Issue

13

Page(s)

1-7

10.3390/ijerph17134704

Abstract

Abstract

The HIV epidemic has dramatically changed over the past 30 years; there are now fewer newly infected people (especially children), fewer AIDS-related deaths, and more people with HIV (PWH) receiving treatment. However, the HIV epidemic is far from over. Despite the tremendous advances in anti-retroviral therapies (ART) and the implementation of ART regimens, HIV incidence (number of new infections over a defined period of time) and prevalence (the burden of HIV infection) in certain regions of the world and socio-economic groups are still on the rise. HIV continues to disproportionally affect highly marginalized populations that constitute higher-risk and stigmatized groups, underserved and/or neglected populations. In addition, it is not uncommon for PWH to suffer enhanced debilitating conditions resulting from the synergistic interactions of both communicable diseases (CDs) and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). While research utilizing only a comorbidities framework has advanced our understanding of the biological settings of the co-occurring conditions from a molecular and mechanistic view, harmful interactions between comorbidities are often overlooked, particularly under adverse socio-economical and behavioral circumstances, likely prompting disease clustering in PWH. Synergistic epidemics (syndemics) research aims to capture these understudied interactions: the mainly non-biological aspects that are central to interpret disease clustering in the comorbidities/multi-morbidities only framework. Connecting population-level clustering of social and health problems through syndemic interventions has proved to be a critical knowledge gap that will need to be addressed in order to improve prevention and care strategies and bring us a step closer to ending the HIV epidemic.

Determinants of hydroxyurea use among doctors, nurses and sickle cell disease patients in Nigeria

Isa, H. A., Nnebe-Agumadu, U., Nwegbu, M. M., Okocha, E. C., Chianumba, R. I., Brown, B. J., Asala, S. A., Peprah, E., & Nnodu, O. E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2022

Journal title

PloS one

Volume

17

Issue

11 November

10.1371/journal.pone.0276639

Abstract

Abstract

Background Hydroxyurea (HU) is an evidence-based therapy that is currently the most effective drug for sickle cell disease (SCD). HU is widely used in high-income countries with consequent reduction of morbidity and mortality. In Nigeria, HU is prescribed by physicians while nurses are mainly involved in counseling the patients to ensure adherence. The extent of utilization and the determinant factors have not been sufficiently evaluated in Nigeria. Objective To assess the frequency of use of HU and factors affecting utilization among healthcare providers, patients, and caregivers for SCD. Methods A questionnaire was administered online and in- person to assess the frequency of HU use and the factors that promote and limit its use. The data were analyzed by descriptive statistics using IBM SPSS software version 23 and the result was presented in frequency tables and percentages. Result A total of 137 physicians, 137 nurses, and 237 patients/caregivers responded to the survey. The rate of prescription of HU by doctors in the past 6 months was 64 (46.7%), 43 (31.4%) nurses provided counseling and 36 (15.6%) patients were on HU. Among doctors, adequate knowledge (91.3%), clinical benefits and safety (94.8%), and inclusion of HU in management guidelines (86.9%) were motivators for prescribing it while inadequate knowledge (60.9%) and unawareness of treatment guidelines (68.6%) constituted barriers. Among nurses, reduction of crisis (91.6%) and safety (64.8%) were the major motivators while barriers were high cost (79.1%) and intensive monitoring (63.1%) of HU treatment. Among the patients, the major motivator was the reduction of crises (80.3%) while poor knowledge (93.2%), high cost of the drug (92.2%) while monitoring (91.2%), non-availability (87.7%) and side effects (83.9%) were the major barriers for the utilization of HU. Conclusion HU prescription and utilization are still poor among healthcare providers and patients. Inadequate knowledge, non-availability and high cost of HU as well as unawareness of treatment guidelines constitute major barriers to prescription and utilization.

Development of the ASSESS tool : a comprehenSive tool to Support rEporting and critical appraiSal of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods implementation reSearch outcomes

Ryan, N., Vieira, D., Gyamfi, J., Ojo, T., Shelley, D., Ogedegbe, O., Iwelunmor, J., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2022

Journal title

Implementation science communications

Volume

3

Issue

1

10.1186/s43058-021-00236-4

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Several tools to improve reporting of implementation studies for evidence-based decision making have been created; however, no tool for critical appraisal of implementation outcomes exists. Researchers, practitioners, and policy makers lack tools to support the concurrent synthesis and critical assessment of outcomes for implementation research. Our objectives were to develop a comprehensive tool to (1) describe studies focused on implementation that use qualitative, quantitative, and/or mixed methodologies and (2) assess risk of bias of implementation outcomes. Methods: A hybrid consensus-building approach combining Delphi Group and Nominal Group techniques (NGT) was modeled after comparative methodologies for developing health research reporting guidelines and critical appraisal tools. First, an online modified NGT occurred among a small expert panel (n = 5), consisting of literature review, item generation, round robin with clarification, application of the tool to various study types, voting, and discussion. This was followed by a larger e-consensus meeting and modified Delphi process with implementers and implementation scientists (n = 32). New elements and elements of various existing tools, frameworks, and taxonomies were combined to produce the ASSESS tool. Results: The 24-item tool is applicable to a broad range of study designs employed in implementation science, including qualitative studies, randomized-control trials, non-randomized quantitative studies, and mixed methods studies. Two key features are a section for assessing bias of the implementation outcomes and sections for describing the implementation strategy and intervention implemented. An accompanying explanation and elaboration document that identifies and describes each of the items, explains the rationale, and provides examples of reporting and appraising practice, as well as templates to allow synthesis of extracted data across studies and an instructional video, has been prepared. Conclusions: The comprehensive, adaptable tool to support both reporting and critical appraisal of implementation science studies including quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods assessment of intervention and implementation outcomes has been developed. This tool can be applied to a methodologically diverse and growing body of implementation science literature to support reviews or meta-analyses that inform evidence-based decision-making regarding processes and strategies for implementation.

DNA repair/replication transcripts are down regulated in patients with Fragile X Syndrome

Xu, H., Rosales-Reynoso, M. A., Barros-Núñez, P., & Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2013

Journal title

BMC research notes

Volume

6

Issue

1

10.1186/1756-0500-6-90

Abstract

Abstract

Background: Fragile X Syndrome (FXS) and its associated disorders are caused by the expansion of the CGG repeat in the 5' untranslated region of the fragile X mental retardation 1 (FMR1) gene, with disease classification based on the number of CGG repeats. The mechanisms of repeat expansion are dependent on the presence of cis elements and the absence of trans factors both of which are not mutually exclusive and contribute to repeat instability. Expansions associated with trans factors are due to the haploinsuffient or reduced expression of several DNA repair/metabolizing proteins. The reduction of expression in trans factors has been primarily conducted in animal models without substantial examination of many of these expansion mechanisms and trans factors in humans. Results: To understand the trans factors and pathways associated with trinucleotide repeat expansion we have analyzed two microarray datasets which characterized the transcript expression in patients with FXS and in controls. Conclusion: We observed significant down regulation of DNA damage/repair pathway transcripts. This observation was consistent in both datasets, which used different populations. Within these datasets, several transcripts overlapped in the direction of association and fold change. Further characterization of these genes will be critical to understand their role in trinucleotide repeat instability in FXS.

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.

DS-Connect : A Promising Tool to Improve Lives and Engage Down Syndrome Communities Worldwide

Peprah, E., Parisi, M. A., Kaeser, L., Bardhan, S., Oster-Granite, M. L., & Maddox, Y. T. (n.d.).

Publication year

2015

Journal title

Global Heart

Volume

10

Issue

4

Page(s)

337-340

10.1016/j.gheart.2015.04.001

Abstract

Abstract

Down syndrome (DS) is the most common genetic cause of intellectual and developmental disabilities in the United States with an estimated birth prevalence of 1:691 births; however, worldwide estimates of the number of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including DS, remain speculative. Little is known about the global health impact of DS, such as heart defects, gastrointestinal malformations, and other medical and behavioral issues. Further research is needed to develop the next generation of novel therapies and compounds aimed at improving cognition, reducing dementia, and mitigating other manifestations of DS. To address these challenges, the National Institutes of Health has created the first web-based, voluntary registry and data resource called DS-Connect: The Down Syndrome Registry to collect demographic and health information about individuals with DS.

Endothelial dysfunction : A unifying hypothesis for the burden of cardiovascular diseases in sub-Saharan Africa

Sampson, U. K., Engelgau, M., Peprah, E., & Mensah, G. A. (n.d.).

Publication year

2015

Journal title

Cardiovascular Journal of Africa

Volume

26

Issue

2

Page(s)

S56-S60

10.5830/CVJA-2015-043

Abstract

Abstract

It is well established that the leading causes of death and disability worldwide are cardiovascular diseases (CVD), chief among which is ischaemic heart disease. However, it is also recognised that ischaemic heart disease frequently coexists with other vascular conditions, such as cerebrovascular, renovascular and peripheral vascular disease, thus raising the notion of a common underlying pathobiology, albeit with differing manifestations, dictated by the implicated vascular bed. The understanding that common metabolic and behavioural risk factors as well as social determinants and drivers are convergent in the development of CVD evokes the idea that the dysfunction of a common bio-molecular platform is central to the occurrence of these diseases. The state of endothelial activation, otherwise known as endothelial dysfunction, occurs when reactive oxygen signalling predominates due to an uncoupled state of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). This can be a physiological response to stimulation of the innate immune system or a pathophysiological response triggered by cardiovascular disease risk factors. The conventional wisdom is that the endothelium plays an important role in the initiation, progression and development of CVD and other non-communicable diseases. Consequently, the endothelium has remarkable relevance in clinical and public health practice as well as in health education, health promotion, and disease- and risk-factor prevention strategies. It also presents a plausible unifying hypothesis for the burden of CVD seen globally and in sub-Saharan Africa. Importantly, the heterogeneity in individual responses to metabolic, behavioural, and social drivers of CVD may stem from a complex interplay of these drivers with genomic, epigenetic and environmental factors that underpin eNOS uncoupling. Therefore, further biomedical research into the underlying genetic and other mechanisms of eNOS uncoupling may enlighten and shape strategies for addressing the burden of CVD in sub-Saharan Africa and other regions of the world.

Erratum : Estimates of global, regional, and national incidence, prevalence, and mortality of HIV, 1980-2015: The Global Burden of Disease Study 2015 (The Lancet HIV (2016) 3 (e361-e387) PII: S235230181630087X DOI: 10.1016/S2352-3018(16)30087-X)

Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2016

Journal title

The Lancet HIV

Volume

3

Issue

9

Page(s)

e408

10.1016/S2352-3018(16)30125-4

Abstract

Abstract

GBD 2015 HIV Collaborators. Estimates of global, regional, and national incidence, prevalence, and mortality of HIV, 1980–2015: the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015. Lancet HIV 2016; 3: e361–87—In this Article, Kerrie E Doyle and David M Pereira have been added to the list of collaborators and Claudia C Pereira has been removed. These corrections have been made as of Aug 22, 2016.

Estimates of global, regional, and national incidence, prevalence, and mortality of HIV, 1980–2015 : the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015

Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2016

Journal title

The Lancet HIV

Volume

3

Issue

8

Page(s)

e361-e387

10.1016/S2352-3018(16)30087-X

Abstract

Abstract

Background Timely assessment of the burden of HIV/AIDS is essential for policy setting and programme evaluation. In this report from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2015 (GBD 2015), we provide national estimates of levels and trends of HIV/AIDS incidence, prevalence, coverage of antiretroviral therapy (ART), and mortality for 195 countries and territories from 1980 to 2015. Methods For countries without high-quality vital registration data, we estimated prevalence and incidence with data from antenatal care clinics and population-based seroprevalence surveys, and with assumptions by age and sex on initial CD4 distribution at infection, CD4 progression rates (probability of progression from higher to lower CD4 cell-count category), on and off antiretroviral therapy (ART) mortality, and mortality from all other causes. Our estimation strategy links the GBD 2015 assessment of all-cause mortality and estimation of incidence and prevalence so that for each draw from the uncertainty distribution all assumptions used in each step are internally consistent. We estimated incidence, prevalence, and death with GBD versions of the Estimation and Projection Package (EPP) and Spectrum software originally developed by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS). We used an open-source version of EPP and recoded Spectrum for speed, and used updated assumptions from systematic reviews of the literature and GBD demographic data. For countries with high-quality vital registration data, we developed the cohort incidence bias adjustment model to estimate HIV incidence and prevalence largely from the number of deaths caused by HIV recorded in cause-of-death statistics. We corrected these statistics for garbage coding and HIV misclassification. Findings Global HIV incidence reached its peak in 1997, at 3·3 million new infections (95% uncertainty interval [UI] 3·1–3·4 million). Annual incidence has stayed relatively constant at about 2·6 million per year (range 2·5–2·8 million) since 2005, after a period of fast decline between 1997 and 2005. The number of people living with HIV/AIDS has been steadily increasing and reached 38·8 million (95% UI 37·6–40·4 million) in 2015. At the same time, HIV/AIDS mortality has been declining at a steady pace, from a peak of 1·8 million deaths (95% UI 1·7–1·9 million) in 2005, to 1·2 million deaths (1·1–1·3 million) in 2015. We recorded substantial heterogeneity in the levels and trends of HIV/AIDS across countries. Although many countries have experienced decreases in HIV/AIDS mortality and in annual new infections, other countries have had slowdowns or increases in rates of change in annual new infections. Interpretation Scale-up of ART and prevention of mother-to-child transmission has been one of the great successes of global health in the past two decades. However, in the past decade, progress in reducing new infections has been slow, development assistance for health devoted to HIV has stagnated, and resources for health in low-income countries have grown slowly. Achievement of the new ambitious goals for HIV enshrined in Sustainable Development Goal 3 and the 90-90-90 UNAIDS targets will be challenging, and will need continued efforts from governments and international agencies in the next 15 years to end AIDS by 2030. Funding Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and National Institute of Mental Health and National Institute on Aging, National Institutes of Health.

Etornam Amesimeku, Himani Chhetri, Brian Angulo, Christina Ruan, Cong Wang, Judy Fordjuoh, Chukwuemeka Iloegbu, John Patena, Joyce Gyamfi, Jonathan Odumegwu, Nessa Ryan, Emmanuel Peprah. Association between the level of concern for COVID-19 and information sources among college students. APHA 2023. Nov 12-16 2023: Atlanta, GA (Poster)

Peprah, E. (n.d.).

Publication year

2023

Abstract

Abstract

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