Enhancing Research capacity for Sickle Cell Disease and related NCDs across the Lifespan in Uganda. ''Enrich Project''

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Project Abstract: Chronic Non-communicable Diseases and Disorders (NCDs) are the leading cause of global mortality, accounting for 71% of all deaths. It is projected that by 2030, deaths from NCDs in Africa will exceed deaths due to communicable, maternal, perinatal, and nutritional diseases combined. Sub-Saharan Africa is home to 90% of the 300,000 children born worldwide with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) annually and SCD in Sickle Cell Anemia SSA is associated with 16% of childhood mortality . SCD is both an NCD and a recognized as a significant cause of NCD-related morbidity and mortality in persons with (SSA). SCD related NCDs have been observed in the brain, kidneys, heart, and lungs. The overall objective of the work that is proposed in this application is to enhance the SCD associated NCD research capacity in Uganda. This has been informed by the following observations: (a) SCD is very common, affecting over 350,000 people in Uganda, and accounts for 18% of all childhood morbidity . SCD is also associated with reduced life expectancy and poor health related quality of life for survivors. (b) Previous studies on children and adults with SCD in Uganda have highlighted a high prevalence of stroke (6.8%), neurocognitive impairment (21.5%), acute chest syndrome (22.7%), micro-albuminuria, and acute kidney injury. The team will work to achieve the overall objective through the following aims: Aim 1: To train a multi-disciplinary team of research scientists. Aim 2: To increase SCD and associated NCD research capacity across the lifespan. Aim 3: To strengthen local and regional partnerships for advancing SCD and associated NCD research training and advocacy. The activities in this application innovatively exploit the access to large numbers of SCD patients and the multi-disciplinary/inter professional education expertise at Makerere University College of Health Sciences and Busitema University, both in Uganda to increase the local SCD associated NCD research capacity. It is anticipated that by the end of the 5-years support, a critical mass of local research scientists will have been created to support the further growth of a high quality SCD associated NCDs research and clinical care portfolio, focused on low-cost sustainable interventions for SCD affected populations in Uganda and other settings including the USA. 1