Research and Training Programs

Primary Prevention of Stroke in Children With SCD in Sub-Saharan Africa II (SPRING)

Strokes in sickle cell anemia (SCA), particularly in children living in Africa, are associated with significant morbidity and an increased risk of premature death. In the US, primary stroke prevention in children with SCA involves screening for elevated transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD) velocity coupled with regular blood transfusion therapy for those with elevated velocities. However, regular blood transfusion therapy is not feasible in Africa due to inadequate supply of safe blood and the reluctance of parents to accept regular blood transfusion therapy for their children.

Stroke Prevention in Young Adults With Sickle Cell Anemia (SPIYA)

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common genetic disease, affecting about 25 million people worldwide. Approximately 150,000 Nigerian children are born each year with sickle cell disease (SCD), making it the country with the largest burden of SCD in the world. Recent advancements in care for children with SCA have translated into improved survival of children in both high and low-resource settings. However, more complications of SCD are seen in those who survive to adulthood.

Vanderbilt Institute for Research Development and Ethics (VIRDE)

VIRDE is an annual intensive research training program designed to facilitate trainee research productivity in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). This month-long program is intended to bolster and further develop the skill sets necessary for conducting responsible human subjects’ research and developing a grant proposal for submission. Attendees participate in a series of grant writing, research ethics/scientific integrity, and career development seminars and workshops.