Legacy Clinic teams up with Johnson & Johnson and Ghent University for Tuberculosis research in Rwanda

The two-year pilot project aims to assess the prevalence of TB and the effectiveness of efforts to combat the disease, with plans for expansion to other sub-Saharan African countries.

Dr. Kabayiza Jean Claude, the study’s lead researcher, highlighted that the research would provide a comprehensive overview of TB in the region and help identify strategies to address the rising cases.

“Despite improvements in medication availability and the decline of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, we have seen a significant increase in TB cases in both Rwanda and sub-Saharan Africa. This research will help us understand why these numbers are climbing,” Dr. Kabayiza said.

The study aims to collect data from all TB patients treated in Rwanda since the introduction of treatment services. Researchers will specifically focus on 240 patients with multi-drug-resistant TB (MDR-TB), exploring factors such as medication adherence and co-existing health conditions.

“We want to understand their experiences, treatment adherence, and other health challenges they may face. This data will be pivotal in shaping future strategies,” Dr. Kabayiza added.

The research will span 16 hospitals across Rwanda, with a focus on gathering data from TB patients. Among these, 240 MDR-TB patients will undergo tests to identify the factors contributing to the rise in TB cases.

The study will employ the “OMOP CDM” technology to collect and store data, which will be accessible to the Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) for further analysis.

Professor Dr. Twagirumukiza Marc, a medical lecturer at Ghent University, commended Legacy Clinic for its pioneering role in this research, praising its commitment to advancing healthcare.

“Collaborating with international organizations ensures that we gather reliable data, which can inform decision-making and improve healthcare policies,” he said.

Healthcare professionals from participating hospitals expressed the importance of accurate data collection.

Muhawenimana Janvière, data manager at Ntarama Health Centre, emphasized, “By using technology to centralize data, we ensure its completeness and reliability. This will enable authorities to take informed action.”

Xavier Nkundimana, IT officer at Muhima Hospital, noted that the research will provide policymakers with essential data to guide efforts toward eliminating TB.

The Rwanda Biomedical Centre (RBC) reported that between 2022 and 2023, the country recorded 9,417 new TB cases, including 90 multi-drug-resistant cases. This marked a significant increase from the previous year, when there were only 5,538 new TB cases.