Vol. 4 No. 2 (2026): Health Research in Africa

THIS ISSUE AT A GLANCE This new issue brings together more than thirty original works, showcasing the vitality of clinical research in sub-Saharan Africa. Studies from Cameroon, Gabon, Côte d'Ivoire, and Benin address priority health challenges with a resolutely action-oriented approach. Several notable advances emerge in oncology and genetics. A Cameroonian study identifies a polymorphism of the TP53 gene as a potential marker for early-onset colorectal cancer, paving the way for personalized screening. Another, in Gabon, describes the epidemiological profile of lung cancer, revealing a high proportion of adenocarcinomas in non-smokers, pointing to other risk factors that need investigation. The burden of chronic diseases and their management is widely documented. Research determines stage 4 of chronic kidney disease as the critical threshold for systematic anemia screening in Cameroon. A decisive economic analysis demonstrates that magistral morphine is 6 to 11 times cheaper than commercial forms, providing a strong argument for improving access to palliative care. The management of diabetes and hypertension is also examined, revealing an alarming aggregation of cardiovascular risk factors and poor follow-up adherence in Benin. Infectious challenges and antimicrobial resistance remain central. A study warns of the concerning contamination of hospital surfaces by multidrug-resistant bacteria in Cameroon. Other work documents the massive circulation of SARS-CoV-2 in Gabon, the high prevalence of urogenital mycoplasmas, or the limited effectiveness of simply extending anti-tuberculosis treatment for non-converters. Finally, innovations in surgery and specialized care are presented, from laparoscopic myomectomy to the management of complex trauma, consistently highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach integrating rehabilitation and psychosocial support. Collectively, this issue provides crucial data for adapting clinical practices and health policies to local realities. It argues for strengthening surveillance systems, more targeted screening, and expanded access to essential diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. We strongly encourage clinicians, researchers, and decision-makers to discover the wealth of data and the depth of analysis contained in each article of this issue.