UCH CMD advocates collaborative research to tackle dementia in Africa
The Chief Medical Director of the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Prof. Jesse Otegbayo, has underscored the importance of collaborative research in addressing the growing burden of dementia across Africa.
- From Segun Showunmi, Ibadan
The Chief Medical Director of the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, Prof. Jesse Otegbayo, has underscored the importance of collaborative research in addressing the growing burden of dementia across Africa.
He called for stronger partnerships between local and international institutions to improve dementia care and patient outcomes on the continent.
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Otegbayo spoke at a one-day interactive workshop organised by the International Dementia Academy Africa in collaboration with the University of Ibadan College of Medicine. The event focused on advancing brain health through research, training, and advocacy.
Describing dementia as a chronic brain disease requiring a multi-dimensional approach, he noted that collaboration with global experts is exposing young healthcare professionals in Nigeria to best practices in care delivery.
“This knowledge transfer is critical for expanding expertise across Africa,” he said.
In her remarks, the Founder of Brain Health Initiative Nigeria and convener of the programme, Dr. Temitope Farombi, said a significant proportion of dementia cases can be prevented.
“Research indicates that up to 40 per cent of dementia risk can be reduced through lifestyle interventions and medical management,” she said, highlighting regular exercise, adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, cognitive stimulation, and proper management of conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol as key preventive measures.
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Also speaking, Dr. Rufus Akinyemi, Professor of Geriatric Neurology at UCH, emphasised the potential of digital health and artificial intelligence in improving dementia screening and management.
He noted that, when properly deployed, AI and digital tools can accelerate research, enhance learning, and expand the reach of brain health initiatives.
Professor Iracema Leroi of Trinity College Dublin stressed the role of prevention through lifestyle choices, noting that many cases of dementia are avoidable with proper diet, regular exercise, and effective management of chronic conditions.
