LUTH, American varsity partner to combat chronic diseases
By Sodiq Adelakun
Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) has announced a strategic collaboration with the University of Maryland School of Medicine (UMSOM) to enhance the management of chronic diseases in Nigeria.
The partnership, unveiled during a news conference on Monday in Lagos, focuses on improving oncogenic health, research, and overall management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) across the country.
Dr. Mark Gladwin, Professor and Dean at UMSOM, highlighted the partnership’s objectives, stating, “Over the next ten years, this collaboration will explore opportunities in NCD management and significantly enhance capacity development in Nigeria.”
The partnership will involve multiple health institutions, including LUTH, Lagos College of Medicine, and the Institute of Human Virology, Nigeria (IHVN).
Non-communicable diseases, such as cancer, hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, and chronic lung conditions, pose substantial health challenges globally. They often require long-term management and significantly impact quality of life and healthcare systems.
Professor of Oncology at UMSOM, Dr. Taofeek Owonikoko, emphasised the urgent need for improved NCD management in Nigeria, one of the countries with a high burden of these diseases.
“Our goal is to build institution-to-institution partnerships in Africa to advance the management of NCDs, particularly sickle cell and cancer,” Owonikoko said.
He noted that research forecasts an 80 percent increase in NCDs in Africa by 2040, underscoring the need for enhanced local management capabilities.
LUTH’s Chief Medical Director, Prof. Wasiu Adeyemo, welcomed the partnership, noting its potential to address gaps in healthcare delivery and professional training.
“The collaboration with UMSOM will help develop capacity in crucial areas and support the development of young professionals who will contribute to our healthcare system,” Adeyemo said.
He pointed out that while the Federal Government has invested heavily in healthcare infrastructure, a shortage of qualified personnel remains a significant challenge.
Adeyemo also mentioned that LUTH is preparing to perform Nigeria’s first sickle cell transplant, a milestone that will benefit from the new collaboration.
