Using mobile technology to improve malaria diagnosis in Uganda
Official title: Automated Mobile Microscopy for Malaria Diagnosis and surveillance in Uganda
Funded at Makerere University College of Health Sciences · NIH-10930926 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new, easy-to-use smartphone tool that helps quickly diagnose malaria in Uganda, making it simpler for people in the field to get accurate results without needing a lot of trained lab technicians.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Makerere University College of Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kampala, Uganda) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $248,962 |
| NIH project number | 5U01EB035483-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930926 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals in Uganda who are at risk of malaria or have been diagnosed with the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients living outside of Uganda or those with conditions other than malaria may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to enhance the diagnosis of malaria in Uganda by developing an automated mobile microscopy system. By leveraging machine learning and smartphone technology, the project seeks to create a low-cost and user-friendly diagnostic tool that can be used in the field. The approach involves testing and validating image analysis models to provide real-time diagnostics and surveillance for malaria, addressing the shortage of trained lab technicians in the region. The project builds on previous work at Makerere University, utilizing innovative 3D printing techniques to create necessary equipment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the accuracy and accessibility of malaria diagnosis, leading to better patient outcomes and reduced drug resistance.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using mobile technology and machine learning for disease diagnosis, indicating a potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Makerere University College of Health Sciences
Kampala, Uganda Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nakasi, Rose — Makerere University College of Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Nakasi, Rose
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.