University of Manchester Showcases Groundbreaking HPV Research in Kenya

05 Mar 2025

The visit focused on strengthening partnerships that address major health challenges, with particular emphasis on cancer research and women’s health.

The University of Manchester has launched its Africa Strategy with a visit to Kenya, reinforcing its commitment to collaborative research and global health equity. A key highlight of the visit was the presentation by Professor Emma Crosbie, whose research on urine self-sampling for high-risk HPV detection as a non-invasive alternative to traditional cervical cancer screening, is making a significant impact in women’s health.

Led by Professor Nalin Thakkar, Vice-President for Social Responsibility, the delegation included leading academics such as Professor Keith Brennan and Professor Samuel Hickey. The visit focused on strengthening partnerships that address major health challenges, with particular emphasis on cancer research and women’s health.

At Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral & Research Hospital, Professor Crosbie presented her pioneering work on HPV screening and cervical cancer prevention. Her research aims to improve early detection methods, particularly in low-resource settings, where cervical cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women. Discussions explored the potential for implementing new screening techniques and expanding access to life-saving interventions across Kenya.

The delegation also visited Kisii University, where they engaged in discussions on medical education, emergency medicine, and breast cancer screening research. The University’s partnerships in these areas highlight its commitment to addressing global health challenges and ensuring equitable healthcare solutions.

Environmental and public health were also key themes of the visit, with discussions at Kitengela focusing on clean water access, air quality, and disease prevention. These projects align with the University’s broader mission to improve health outcomes through multidisciplinary research and innovation.

Reflecting on the visit, Professor Thakkar said: “Our Africa Strategy is built on long-term, equitable partnerships that drive real-world impact. Professor Crosbie’s research exemplifies the kind of work that can transform lives, particularly for women at risk of cervical cancer.”

The Africa Strategy underscores the Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health’s commitment to global health research and collaboration. By fostering strong international partnerships, Manchester researchers like Professor Crosbie continue to make meaningful contributions to improving health outcomes worldwide.

To find out more, please visit our Global Health pages and watch our new Africa film.