A 2026 First HRA Issue Rooted in African Health Research Realities

Un Premier Numéro HRA de 2026 Ancré dans les Réalités de la Recherche en Santé en Afrique

Abstract

This first issue of year 2026 comprises twenty-one original articles, three clinical cases, and one qualitative study, reflecting the diversity of African scientific production. The original articles cover several key domains. Infectious and tropical diseases are addressed in seven studies: ACT surveillance for malaria (Guinea), tolerance of MDR-TB regimens (Guinea), HIV disclosure (Cameroon), quality of life of adolescents living with HIV (Cameroon), post-Ebola sequelae (Guinea), and a Rift Valley Fever outbreak (Niger). Non-communicable diseases are the subject of six articles: oral carcinoma (Senegal), vitamin D deficiency in hypertension (Côte d'Ivoire), glaucoma/sleep apnea association (Côte d'Ivoire), causes of childhood blindness (Gabon), and normative optic disc parameters (Chad) and disc herniation on transitional vertebra (Côte d'Ivoire). Three studies focus on health systems and surgery: follow-up of preterm infants in kangaroo mother care (Cameroon), chest trauma (Cameroon), and childhood appendicitis (Togo). Finally, two studies explore social determinants: psychological distress among hygiene agents (DRC) and knowledge of cosmetic vendors (Burkina Faso).
For policymakers, three articles provide immediately actionable data: the very high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency (71.7%) argues for its routine screening in hypertensive patients; the confirmed efficacy of ACTs (>98%) justifies maintaining these policies while strengthening PCR surveillance; and the distinct toxicity profile of MDR-TB regimens guides the adaptation of side-effect management protocols.
For researchers, studies on modifiable determinants of HIV status disclosure (support groups, OR=4.9) and on the long-term clinical and social burden of Ebola survivors (sequelae in 99%, stigmatization in 68%) open crucial avenues for interventional research.
The clinical cases illustrate rare conditions (pheochromocytoma, single ventricle, hemimelia) and the qualitative case study documents the synergistic impact of water insecurity and catastrophic health expenditure.
We invite you to explore these contributions which, through their diversity and rigor, illuminate the paths towards a more effective, and contextually grounded African research.