Toluwani Adekunle | Cervical Cancer Prevention | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Global Diseases Research

Dr. Toluwani Adekunle | Cervical Cancer Prevention | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor | Calvin University | United States

Dr. Toluwani Elizabeth Adekunle is a dedicated public health scholar and educator whose work bridges health equity, global health, and structural determinants of health with a strong focus on trust, cancer disparities, and the lived experiences of marginalized populations. She holds a Ph.D. in Public Health from the University of Louisville, along with advanced degrees in public health, business administration, and international development. As an Assistant Professor of Public Health at Calvin University, Dr. Adekunle teaches courses in global health, program design, and evaluation while mentoring future leaders in health research and practice. Her ongoing research programs investigate medical mistrust in healthcare, the role of artificial intelligence in care provision, and cervical cancer screening uptake among underserved communities. She has received multiple grants, including funding from the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Foundation and the Calvin Center for Christian Scholarship, underscoring her innovative approaches to addressing structural inequities in health. Dr. Adekunle’s scholarly contributions include national and international conference presentations and publications that illuminate critical issues in cancer prevention, HIV care, and maternal health. Her professional experience extends to humanitarian work with the United Nations, health program management with the African Resource Center, and policy analysis with RAND Corporation, reflecting her commitment to bridging research and practice. Recognized with fellowships, awards, and leadership roles, she exemplifies excellence in scholarship, teaching, and community engagement. Her publications are gaining scholarly impact, with 16 documents indexed in Scopus, 26 citations across 25 documents, and an h-index of 2 (Scopus ID: 57801018500), highlighting her growing influence in global public health research.

Profiles: Scopus | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

1. Fwelo, P., Nwosu, K. O. S., Adekunle, T. E., Afolayan, O., Ahaiwe, O., Ojaruega, A. A., … (2023). Racial/ethnic and socioeconomic differences in breast cancer surgery performed and delayed treatment: Mediating impact on mortality. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, 199(3), 511–531.
Cited by: 18

2. Adekunle, T. E., Ahmed, M., & Afifi, R. (2021). A qualitative study to understand cervical cancer awareness and prevention among African immigrant women (AIW) in Iowa City, Iowa. International Journal of Women’s Health and Wellness, 7(1).
Cited by: 6

3. Fwelo, P., Afolayan, O., Nwosu, K. O. S., Ojaruega, A. A., Ahaiwe, O., Olateju, O. A., … (2023). Racial and ethnic differences in colon cancer surgery type performed and delayed treatment among people 45 years old and older in the USA between 2007 and 2017: Mediating effects. Surgical Oncology, 50, 101983.
Cited by: 5

4. Fwelo, P., Li, R., Heredia, N. I., Nyachoti, D., Adekunle, T. E., Adekunle, T. B., … (2025). Disparities in thyroid cancer mortality across racial and ethnic groups: Assessing the impact of socioeconomic, clinicopathologic, and treatment variations. Annals of Surgical Oncology, 32(2), 1158–1175.
Cited by: 3

5. Ewing, A. P., Alalwan, M. A., Brown, J. A., Adekunle, T. E., Korley, N. D., Nafiu, T. C., … (2022). Physically fit with a higher cancer risk? Influences of cervical cancer screening among a sample of physically active women ages 21–49 living in the United States. Preventive Medicine Reports, 30, 101978.
Cited by: 3

Marie Amougou Atsama | Gastroenteritis | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Global Diseases Research

Dr. Marie Amougou Atsama | Gastroenteritis | Best Researcher Award 

Research Officer at Research Center on Emerging and Re-merging ,Cameroon

Dr. Amougou Atsama Marie is a highly accomplished public health manager and virologist with extensive expertise in research, biosafety, and disease prevention. She currently serves as Biosafety Officer and Public Health Manager at the Research Center for Emerging and Re-Emerging Infectious Diseases in Yaoundé, Cameroon. With a strong focus on viral hepatitis and other infectious diseases, she has led numerous initiatives aimed at prevention, surveillance, and control within Central Africa. Her work spans laboratory research, public health program coordination, and stakeholder engagement at national and regional levels. Dr. Marie has played a key role in developing diagnostic protocols, improving health systems, and fostering community-based prevention strategies. Her leadership extends to advocacy, capacity building, and integrating innovative approaches, such as the use of improved traditional medicine in disease management. Dedicated, results-oriented, and deeply committed to public health, she continues to advance impactful research and healthcare improvement in underserved communities.

Professional Profile

Scopus

Education

Dr. Amougou Atsama Marie possesses a strong academic background in virology, biotechnology, and biochemistry, built through rigorous studies and advanced research training. She completed her doctoral and postdoctoral work at the renowned Centre Pasteur of Cameroon, where she specialized in the molecular and epidemiological aspects of various viral pathogens. She earned her master’s degree in biotechnology and development from the University of Yaoundé I, developing a foundation in molecular biology, diagnostics, and public health applications. Her undergraduate degree in biochemistry further strengthened her understanding of biological systems and analytical methods. Over the years, she has complemented her formal education with specialized certifications in good clinical laboratory practice, human research ethics, quality control management, and advanced genomic sequencing techniques. These academic achievements, coupled with hands-on research experience, have equipped her with both theoretical knowledge and practical expertise, enabling her to design, implement, and oversee complex public health and laboratory research programs effectively.

Experience

Dr. Amougou Atsama Marie has established herself as a leader in public health management and virology through diverse roles in research, biosafety, and quality control. As Biosafety and Research Officer, she has coordinated regional efforts for the elimination of viral hepatitis B and C across multiple Central African countries, facilitating capacity-building workshops and advocacy programs. She has developed and optimized diagnostic protocols for a range of viruses, including hepatitis B, C, D, E, Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika, while implementing robust surveillance and monitoring systems. Her work involves close collaboration with national and international health partners to strengthen healthcare delivery and integrate innovative solutions into disease prevention strategies. She has also led research on vaccine response, genetic diversity of hepatitis viruses, and the integration of traditional medicine in treatment. In addition to her technical expertise, she actively engages in community education, raising awareness about infectious disease prevention among students and the public.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Amougou Atsama Marie has received multiple recognitions for her outstanding contributions to virology research, biosafety, and public health initiatives. Her leadership in hepatitis elimination programs across Central Africa has earned her commendations from national health authorities and regional stakeholders. She has been honored for her innovative approaches in integrating traditional medicine into viral hepatitis management and for developing advanced diagnostic protocols for various infectious diseases. Her work in facilitating high-impact workshops, mentoring healthcare professionals, and contributing to national health guidelines has been acknowledged by both academic and public health institutions. She is respected for her role in promoting cross-border collaboration in disease control and for her dedication to building local capacity in laboratory diagnostics and biosafety management. Through these recognitions, Dr. Marie’s influence extends beyond research, highlighting her as a key figure in advancing evidence-based, community-centered health solutions in Cameroon and the broader Central African region.

Research Focus

Dr. Amougou Atsama Marie’s research centers on the prevention, diagnosis, and control of viral hepatitis and other emerging infectious diseases. She is particularly focused on understanding the genetic diversity of hepatitis viruses and its impact on vaccine response and treatment outcomes. Her work involves developing and optimizing molecular and serological diagnostic protocols for a wide range of viruses, including arboviruses such as Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika. She also investigates strategies to integrate traditional medicine into viral hepatitis management, aiming to improve accessibility and cultural acceptance of treatment in local communities. Dr. Marie is actively involved in operational research that strengthens health systems, enhances biosafety measures, and improves outbreak preparedness. Her approach combines laboratory-based research with community engagement, ensuring that scientific advancements translate into practical, sustainable health solutions. By bridging research, policy, and public health action, she contributes to regional and global efforts to control infectious diseases effectively.

Publication Top Notes

Title: First molecular detection of five gastroenteritis viruses in untreated wastewater and impact of seasonal change on their distribution in Cameroon
Journal: One Health (2025)
Summary:
This study presents the first molecular evidence of five major gastroenteritis-causing viruses detected in untreated wastewater in Cameroon. Using molecular techniques, researchers identified the presence of these pathogens and assessed how their distribution varies across different seasons. The findings reveal a clear influence of seasonal patterns on virus prevalence, highlighting the importance of wastewater surveillance as an early warning system for community health risks. The research supports the One Health approach by linking environmental monitoring to public health interventions, offering valuable insights for disease prevention and control strategies in the region.

Conclusion

Dr. Amougou Atsama Marie embodies a rare combination of scientific expertise, leadership, and dedication to public health improvement. Her career reflects a consistent commitment to advancing research, enhancing diagnostic capabilities, and promoting evidence-based interventions for infectious disease control. Through her work in laboratory innovation, biosafety, and community engagement, she has significantly contributed to the fight against viral hepatitis and other infectious threats in Central Africa. Her ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, from policymakers to grassroots organizations, underscores her holistic approach to healthcare solutions. By integrating modern scientific methods with culturally sensitive strategies, she ensures that her work is both impactful and sustainable. Dr. Marie’s professional journey serves as an inspiring example of how research excellence and public health service can intersect to create lasting change, improving the lives of individuals and strengthening health systems across regions.

Daouda SAMA | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Global Diseases Research

Dr. Daouda SAMA | Public Health | Best Researcher Award

Adjunct Professor at University of Lomé ,Togo

Dr. Daouda Sama is an Adjunct Professor at the Department of Earth Sciences, University of Lomé, Togo. Specializing in environmental geochemistry, his work focuses on pollutant dispersion, health risk assessments, and sustainable coastal management. He has significantly contributed to West African environmental science by modeling industrial emissions and their ecological and human health impacts. His research incorporates advanced tools like AERMOD and Delft3D, bridging scientific understanding and practical application. Dr. Sama has led or contributed to over 40 consultancy projects, guiding environmental impact assessments for major industrial and government clients across West Africa. His academic contributions include 8 peer-reviewed articles in international journals, and he serves as a certified peer reviewer. Actively collaborating with local and international partners, he plays a pivotal role in projects addressing marine pollution, groundwater quality, and regulatory compliance. His work is shaping environmental policy and enhancing ecosystem resilience in developing regions.

Professional Profiles

Scopus | Orcid

Education 

Dr. Daouda Sama has pursued an academically rich path rooted in earth and environmental sciences. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Geology, followed by a Master’s degree in Hydrology and Hydrogeology from the University of Lomé. He later completed his Ph.D. in Systemic Geochemistry and Multimodal Modeling from the same institution. His doctoral research focused on integrating pollutant dispersion modeling with geochemical assessments to evaluate the health risks of industrial emissions and water contamination. Throughout his studies, he demonstrated a strong interdisciplinary approach, merging geological sciences with public health and environmental policy. His academic journey has been guided by prominent mentors, particularly Prof. Kissao Gnandi, under whose leadership he developed innovative frameworks for environmental monitoring and adaptive quality standards. His educational background has provided a solid foundation for his dual roles in academia and consultancy, allowing him to contribute to both research and applied environmental management.

Experience 

Dr. Daouda Sama brings extensive professional experience from academia, consultancy, and field-based research. As an Adjunct Professor at the University of Lomé, he has taught both undergraduate and graduate courses in earth sciences and has led significant research on geochemistry and pollution assessment. Beyond academia, he has participated in numerous consultancy projects addressing environmental impact assessment, pollution monitoring, geospatial mapping, and water resource management. His clients span national and international institutions, including GIZ, the World Bank, and industrial entities like Dangote and Contour Global. He has worked on projects involving mining waste, coastal pollution, and aquifer contamination across Togo, Benin, Niger, and Congo. His technical roles have included lead analyst, hydrogeologist, and geospatial expert. He is skilled in AAS, spectrophotometry, and modeling software such as Delft3D and AERMOD. His work has directly contributed to policy frameworks, regulatory compliance, and sustainable environmental management in West Africa.

Research Focus 

Dr. Sama’s research centers on environmental geochemistry and its implications for public health and ecosystem resilience. He specializes in modeling the dispersion of pollutants from industrial sources using advanced tools such as AERMOD and Delft3D, enabling receptor-specific risk evaluations near vulnerable sites like schools and clinics. His studies assess the geochemical behavior of mining waste and the bioavailability of contaminants in aquatic systems, particularly along the Gulf of Guinea. He is currently advancing adaptive frameworks for air and water quality that are contextually suited for West African environments. His projects range from modeling the hydrodynamic effects of phosphate discharge to tracking metal pollution in fish and agricultural products. Dr. Sama’s interdisciplinary work integrates geochemistry, public health, and environmental policy, offering practical solutions for pollution mitigation and sustainable development. His research directly supports national and regional efforts to monitor environmental risks, promote regulatory compliance, and protect both ecosystems and communities.

Publication Top Notes

Title: Toxic Trajectories: Modeling Heavy Metal-Laden Phosphate Dust Dispersion and Multi-Receptor Health Risks Near Kpémé’s Industrial Zone

Journal: Results in Engineering

Summary:
This study presents an environmental modeling approach to trace the dispersion of phosphate dust contaminated with heavy metals from industrial activities in Kpémé, Togo. Using advanced atmospheric and geographic modeling tools, the research evaluates how toxic particles travel and affect various environmental and human receptors. The findings reveal elevated risk zones, highlighting vulnerable populations and ecosystems exposed to chronic contamination. The work contributes to industrial pollution management and public health risk assessment by offering a spatially explicit framework for multi-receptor analysis.

Conclusion 

Dr. Daouda Sama exemplifies the synergy of research, teaching, and field-based environmental consultancy. Through a decade of academic and professional contributions, he has established himself as a leader in environmental geochemistry in West Africa. His innovative methods for pollutant dispersion and health risk modeling have shaped environmental policies and regulatory practices in Togo and beyond. As an educator, he fosters critical scientific thinking and environmental responsibility among students. As a consultant, he has provided actionable insights to major stakeholders in industry, government, and international organizations. His scholarly publications and peer review activities reflect his commitment to scientific excellence. Looking ahead, Dr. Sama aims to deepen regional collaborations, expand his geochemical modeling research, and advocate for sustainable industrial practices grounded in data-driven environmental science. His work continues to bridge scientific knowledge and public policy, contributing to a healthier, more resilient future for West African communities and ecosystems.