Medway joins national research drive to improve Black health outcomes

Medway Maritime Hospital is encouraging members of Black communities to take part in a pioneering new research programme aimed at tackling health inequalities and improving healthcare outcomes.

The programme, called Improving Black Health Outcomes (IBHO), is led by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) BioResource. It aims to improve understanding of how health conditions uniquely affect Black communities across the UK.

Taking part is simple – participants consent to provide a blood or saliva sample and complete a health and lifestyle questionnaire.

Dr Jenny Teke, Head of Research and Innovation smiles into the camera standing outside the hospital

Dr Jennifer Teke, Head of Research and Innovation at Medway NHS Foundation Trust said: “We’re proud to be one of 46 NHS trusts involved in this important programme, which has already seen more than 4,000 people sign up across England.

“Health research has historically underrepresented Black communities, and we’re keen to change this by encouraging people to take part and shape future care.

“It’s a simple process, and we’re really grateful to everyone who gets involved.”

Those eligible to take part include:

people aged 16 and over from Black ethnic backgrounds, with or without a health condition
anyone with a diagnosis of sickle cell disease or thalassaemia (any ethnic background)
children under 16 with sickle cell disease.

To take part or find out more, contact Laura Adams, Senior Clinical Research Nurse on 01634 976750 or email lauraadams3@nhs.net.

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