Clinical Research
We embark on clinical research to evaluate medical treatments, procedures, drugs, and devices on human participants in other to improve healthcare practices, develop new therapies, and enhance medical knowledge. Our research includes various study types such as observational studies, trials, and outcomes research, with the aim to generate evidence-based data for informed medical decisions, benefiting patients and public health.
Breast Cancer and Genetic Factors
Breast cancer is a major health issue in the Western world, especially among American women aged 40-55. Genetic factors contribute to about 5-10% of all cases, but around 25% of cases diagnosed before age 40. Black women in the US have a lower risk of breast cancer than White women, but their survival rate is poorer. African-American women are more likely to have breast cancer at a younger age and with more aggressive characteristics. In West Africa, where most African Americans have their roots, breast cancer is considered a rare and fatal disease among young women. The average age at diagnosis in Nigeria is 43 years, which is 10-15 years younger than in White women, with 74% of cases occurring in pre-menopausal women. Unlike in White women, breast cancer incidence in Africa does not increase with age after menopause. We have recently established collaborations within the University of Ibadan to study the genetic and environmental factors which contribute to breast cancer in the African diaspora.
Asthma
There has been a rise in asthma and allergic diseases in the last four decades, possibly due to improved hygiene and healthcare in industrialised societies. Factors in early life may play a role in childhood asthma, while environmental factors are more important for atopy and hay fever. The impact of genes, allergen sensitivity, and environment on asthma in Nigeria is unclear, and there is a lack of credible information on asthma prevalence and its impact on quality of life.
We aim to improve understanding and treatment of asthma through collaborative research in urban and rural areas of Nigeria.
Sickle Cell
Sickle cell disease is a major health concern in Nigeria, especially in areas where malaria is common. Premarital counseling could help reduce its prevalence, but this service is not widely available. While there have been improvements in managing the disease with medications like hydroxyurea, they are expensive and not easily accessible to those who need them. As a result, sickle cell disease continues to affect many Nigerians, leading to increased morbidity and shortened life expectancy.
We are positioned to foster research in Sickle Cell Disease through collaboration, and strategic partnerships with support groups and organisations such as Sickle Cell Foundation of Nigeria to assist patients and relatives in dealing with this prevalent disease.
Malaria and HIV/AIDS
Malaria is a significant threat in Sub-Saharan Africa, causing over 300 million acute cases and 1 million deaths annually. It particularly affects young children, pregnant women, and those with sickle cell disease. The region also faces a growing prevalence of HIV/AIDS, with over 25 million cases, further complicating the situation. HIV weakens immunity to malaria, while malaria activates immune function that can promote HIV replication. The combination poses a serious threat, especially due to potential treatment interactions.
Through established scientific and collaborative research; ability to educate and train medical personnel, public health practitioners and the populace through workshops and advocacy programs we are well positioned to make a substantial difference in stemming the potential threat of malaria and HIV/AIDS.
Breast cancer is a major health issue in the Western world, especially among American women aged 40-55. Genetic factors contribute to about 5-10% of all cases, but around 25% of cases diagnosed before age 40. Black women in the US have a lower risk of breast cancer than White women, but their survival rate is poorer. African-American women are more likely to have breast cancer at a younger age and with more aggressive characteristics. In West Africa, where most African Americans have their roots, breast cancer is considered a rare and fatal disease among young women. The average age at diagnosis in Nigeria is 43 years, which is 10-15 years younger than in White women, with 74% of cases occurring in pre-menopausal women. Unlike in White women, breast cancer incidence in Africa does not increase with age after menopause. We have recently established collaborations within the University of Ibadan to study the genetic and environmental factors which contribute to breast cancer in the African diaspora.
By actively engaging with communities, we build trust and transparency. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and empowers communities to take charge of their health.
Community partnerships ensure our research and interventions are culturally appropriate and sustainable in the long run. Local knowledge helps us develop solutions that integrate seamlessly into community practices.
At Healthy Life for All (HLF), we believe community involvement is the cornerstone of successful research and impactful interventions. Here’s why:
Communities are the experts in their own health challenges. Their voices and experiences guide our research questions and intervention design, ensuring they address real-world concerns.
By actively engaging with communities, we build trust and transparency. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of ownership and empowers communities to take charge of their health.
Community partnerships ensure our research and interventions are culturally appropriate and sustainable in the long run. Local knowledge helps us develop solutions that integrate seamlessly into community practices.
