The Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research has led impactful studies on malaria, one of Ghana’s most pressing public health issues.
On Thursday, October 24, 2024, Prof. Kwadwo Ansah Koram, a Professor of Epidemiology and former Director of the institute, delivered an in-depth lecture focusing on five key research areas the institute has used in controlling and eventually seeks to eliminate malaria in Ghana.
These areas include Epidemiology, Behavioural Studies, Entomology, Molecular Biology, and Immunology.
Prof. Koram emphasized that malaria remains endemic across many parts of Ghana, with varying prevalence in different regions. The institute’s epidemiological research tracks parasite prevalence across regions, highlighting differences between coastal and forest zones and the effect of seasonal variations.
“Parasite prevalence was higher in the forest zones compared to the coastal zones, and the spore levels were also higher in the forest zones.”
Prof. Koram highlighted that human practices and responses to malaria interventions significantly influence outcomes.
He noted that the studies at Noguchi have shown the importance of personal habits in managing exposure to mosquitoes and the usage of bed nets, adding that behavioural aspects of malaria transmission are just as important as biological factors, adding that
“People’s behaviour, such as when they take off their nets, can create opportunities for mosquitoes to bite. This was particularly noted when nets were used, with biting patterns shifting to the early morning hours.”
With regards to Entomology, Prof. Koram highlighted the institute’s engagement in studying mosquito behavior and resistance to insecticides, for effective vector control.
He believes that this research has helped to track how mosquito populations respond to insecticide pressure and has informed strategies to prevent the spread of malaria.
“We need to be ahead of the changes, otherwise the whole effect doesn’t work. Resistance to insecticides is increasing, which is why we must continually monitor vector populations.”
He further spoke about how molecular studies have provided insight into drug resistance, allowing Noguchi Researchers to track the genetic mutations in malaria parasites that lead to resistance.
“Molecular studies are now allowing us to pool samples and use advanced sequencing to detect resistance more cost-effectively, with 99% concordance results.”
The final research area used to control and eventually eliminate the disease is immunological research which looks into how the human immune system interacts with malaria parasites and potential vaccines.
Prof. Koram stated that studies into immune responses, especially in children and pregnant women, are inclusive in the future of malaria prevention.
“Understanding the immune responses, especially in different groups such as pregnant women, is key to developing vaccines and interventions.”
Story by: Joycelyn Glory | univers.ug.edu.gh