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MEETING SCHEDULE DAY 1 Tuesday 30th July 2019 07:00 – 09:15 hrs Registration and Poster Set-up 09:15 – 10.00 hrs Opening Ceremony 10:00 – 11:00 hrs Keynote Address 11:00 – 11:10 hrs Chairman’s closing remarks & Vote of Thanks 11:10 – 11:50 hrs Break 11:50 – 12:50 hrs Parallel Sessions A1 & B1 – Oral Presentation 13:00 – 14:00 hrs Parallel Sessions A2 & B2 – Oral Presentation 14:00 – 14:50 hrs Lunch 14:50 – 15.50 hrs Parallel Sessions C1 & C2 – Oral Presentation

DAY 2 Wednesday 31st July 2019 07:00 – 08:50 hrs Registration 08:50 – 09:00 hrs Announcements 09:00 – 10:00 hrs Keynote Address 10:00 – 10:50 hrs Break 11:00 – 12:00 hrs Parallel Session D1 & E1 – Oral Presentation 12:10 – 13:10 hrs Parallel Session D2 & E2 – Oral Presentation 13:10 – 14:10 hrs Lunch 14:10 – 15:10 hrs Session F 16:00 – 17:30 hrs POSTER SESSION 17:30 – 18:00 hrs CHS Closing Ceremony 18:00 hrs Cocktail and Networking

DAY 3 Thursday 1st August 2019 07:00 – 08:50 hrs Registration 08:50 – 09:00 hrs Announcements 09:00 – 10:00 hrs Keynote Address 11:00 – 12:30 hrs Session G1 – Oral Presentation 11.00 – 12.30 hrs Session G2 – Oral Presentation 12.30 – 13:15 hrs Lunch 13.30 – 14:30 hrs Bussiness meeting 14:30 – 14:50 hrs Closing Ceremony 15.00 hrs Board Meeting

CONFERENCE ANNOUNCEMENTS Preconference workshops (Sunday 28th & Monday 29th July): i. PCR & post amplification techniques ii. Liquid handling techniques Venue: Department of Clinical Microbiology, SMS-KNUST iii. Tour of the KNUST Central Laboratory & Satellite Labs Venue: KNUST Central Laboratory Registration: Registration begins on Monday 30th July from 15:00hrs onwards at the KNUST Business School, and will continue from Tuesday, 30th July to Wednesday, 1st August 2019. Transport: Participants will bear their own cost of transportation to and from Kumasi. Transport arrangements will be made to transport participants arriving and departing at the Kumasi Airport and the Bus terminal, and also to and from their Hotels at no extra cost. Catering: Teas/cocoa/coffee breaks and Lunch will be served within the conference venue during the breaks. You will be required to produce a meal coupon before you will be served. Cocktail & Networking events: This will take place from 18:00hrs on Wednesday night. Information Desk: A registration and information desk will be situated in the KNUST Business School. This will be opened for registration and queries at the following times: Tuesday 30th July – 1st August between the hours of 08:00hrs and 17:00hrs. All information related to accommodation and travels should be lodged there. First Aid: This will be available on site. Indemnity: While every effort will be made to take care of every conference participant, the organizers will not be held responsible for any mishaps during the conference period. Delegates must make their own personal insurance arrangement. Delegates must also take responsibility for any precious item lost during the conference. CPD Accreditation: Continuous Professional development accreditation has been applied for. Delegates will be required to sign the attendance register on a daily basis, and delegates’ CPD Certificates will be given. Scientific Sessions/Commissions: Each day begins with a 1-hour Keynote presentation for all participants. Following the break, there will be parallel sessions in conference rooms 1 and 2. The poster sessions will be held in the foyer on Tuesday and Wednesday after lunch. Photographs: The University’s accredited Photographers will be around to take pictures of events and conference moments. Participants can arrange to take pictures at their own cost.

SOLIDARITY/GOODWILL MESSAGES

WELCOME ADDRESS BY THE PROVOST OF THE COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES, KNUST On behalf of the Board of the College of Health Sciences, KNUST, I welcome you all to the 8th Biennial Conference of the College. This year, the Conference is being held jointly with the Convention of Biomedical Research, Ghana (CoBReG). Both CoBReG and the CHS have agreed on the conference theme “Universal Access to Health Care – The role of the Health Scientist”. Presentations at this conference will showcase what we, as health scientists, bring to the table to complement the work of the health service in addressing issues of universal health care in the country. As a College of Health Sciences, our traditional role has been to produce the necessary human resources for health, engage in extension services within and without the country and undertake research to address important health issues in the country and globally to address SDG 3. It is my hope that this conference will enable us network with COBREG and the Ghana Health Service to address health research challenges to support Universal health care. Do enjoy our hospitality and our beautiful campus.

Prof. Yaw Adu-Sarkodie

WELCOME ADDRESS BY THE PRESIDENT OF CoBReG

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the 2019 annual conference of the Convention for Biomedical Research, Ghana (CoBReG). This is our first ever conference where we are partnering with the KNUST College of Health Sciences to organize a joint conference. The theme this year is ‘Universal Access to Healthcare – the role of the Health Scientist’. This year’s conference features exceptional keynote lectures, oral and poster presentations of original research and promises to provide an expanded platform for creating new, as well as strengthening existing collaborations with researchers and colleagues from local and international institutions. The lineup of presentations promises to provide an avenue for creative thinking as well as provides the opportunity for researchers to share their amazing experiences and results. For delegates who are not members, this is an excellent opportunity to join the CoBReG in order to contribute to advancing biomedical and health developments in Ghana in particular and Africa as a whole. The continuing support from Inqaba Biotech, WACCBIP, and other sponsors is acknowledged, and very well appreciated. The hard work of the Board of Directors together with the Scientific and the Local Organising Committees in planning and putting the conference program together is also acknowledged. This conference promises to be amazing, don't miss out on the fun. I look forward to your enthusiastic participation and wish you a successful conference.

Linda E Amoah, PhD (NMIMR-UG)

MESSAGES FROM SCIENTIFIC COMMITTEE

It is with great pleasure that I welcome you all to CoHS/CoBReG 2019. This is the first time CoBReG is having a joint Conference and we are hoping for more of such to foster collaborations especially between Scientists and Clinicians. It is our desire that the collaborative and interactive discussions will go beyond this meeting and next year, we will see joint abstracts from many faculties. We also hope that this meeting will lay the foundation where our discussions can translate into scientific policies for regional and national development.

Akwasi Anyanful

This year we have three renowned keynote speakers who will highlight accomplishments in their areas of expertise. We also had over 140 abstracts for review and we therefore had to use the parallel session system to accommodate the numerous requests for oral presentations. Public Health talks will thus partner with Bioinforatics/Genomics on the first day and Clinical Research will partner with Plant Medicine/Chemistry on the second day. Due to the proximity of the Conference halls, one can easily move from a particular talk to the other depending on one’s interest. Daniel Ansong

We are still maintaining strictly the allotted time slot of 12 minutes oral presentation with 3 minutes questioning. We insist oral presenters stick strictly to this time to enable the successful progression of the meeting. There will be two interactive poster sessions and if all show up we will have over 80 posters. To this effect, all should be mounted on the first day before the meeting. Poster presenters with an even number should be by their posters on Tuesday during the poster session and all those with odd numbers on Wednesday. Posters can be mounted on the first day and kept for the duration of the program. The Committee also encourages students to seek out mentors and should be bold to approach such persons and we also respectfully request our Senior Members to be open to students so we can inspire and mentor the next batch of Scientists, impressing on the difficulty and often non- rewarding nature of our work. Finally, our heartfelt gratitude goes out to everyone for making the time to be with us and your support and encouragement is very much appreciated. Please interact during the breaks and socialization to establish collaborations. It is our hope that we will all leave this conference with refined ideas and new collaborations that will further enhance our collective output and proceed forward as one team.

WELCOME ADDRESS FROM THE CONFERENCE CHAIR

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you to the 8th edition of the Biennial Scientific Conference of the College of Health Science (CHS), of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi. This year’s conference focuses on an important aspect of Health Care that is pivotal for improving Global Health Care Delivery but most importantly countries in our sub-region that are bedevilled with limited resources including financial, human, material and technological. This year’s theme; “Achieving Universal Health Care, the Role of Health Scientists” has been carefully chosen to reflect the need to go back in history to the original ideals of primary health care (PHC) following the Alma Atta declaration of 1978. We bring together scientists with varying backgrounds from across the divide of academia and service industry. In 1948, the World Health Organisation declared health care access as a fundamental human right and has since followed up with series of indicators and programmes for achieving this right. Three key areas that are critical in achieving UHC, include equity in access to health services - everyone who needs services should get them, not only those who can pay for them; The quality of health services should be good enough to improve the health of those receiving services; and People should be protected against financial-risk, ensuring that the cost of using services does not put people at risk of financial harm. This conference will accept scientific communication that seeks to tackle each of these areas while focusing on the unique role of health scientists. The uniqueness of this year’s conference is that the College of Health Sciences is organising this year’s conference in collaboration with colleagues from the Convention for Biomedical Research Ghana (CoBReG). These are a conglomerate of scientists (Biomedical Scientists, Laboratory experts, biologists, clinicians etc.,), some of whom are based in the diaspora and will be sharing their experience and expertise in their unique vantage positions and respective contributions to the attainment of universal health care. Finally, we shall seek at this conference to elucidate in particular the role of the health scientists at improving universal health care. Therefore, the College of Health Sciences with its six schools and faculties will attempt to showcase the contribution of various experts in the field and their respective roles that they do and can play in achieving all the pillars of universal health care. UHC cuts across all of the health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and brings hope of better health and protection for the world’s poorest. That means you have a very unique opportunity as a scientist with healthcare background to make a contribution to the attainment of universal health care. Our expectation is to draw on your depth of experience to make this conference a memorial. I do count on your active participation and thank all sub-committee organisers, students and faculty as well as donors for making this conference a success.

Akwaaba! Welcome! Bienvenue! De Rien! Graag Gedaan!

Ellis Owusu-Dabo, (KNUST, School Public Health)

Organizing Committee Members

Chair: Ellis Owusu-Dabo Daniel Ansong, Adam Gyedu, Mohamed Mutocheluh, Alexander Yaw Debrah, Otchere Addai- Mensah, Berko Panyin Anto, David Darko Obiri, Cynthia Amaning Danquah, Tony Opoku- Agyemang, Kofi A. Karikari, Felix Obeng Boateng, Harley Anane, Ofeibea Asare

SUB COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP I. Scientific Daniel Ansong (Chair) Berko Panyin Anto, George Acquah-Mensah, Mohamed Mutocheluh, Edmund Ekuadzi, John Amuasi, Akwasi Anyanful, Veronica M. Dzomeku, George Kwaw Ainooson, Steven Sarfo, M. Babatunde Duduyemi, Linda Batsa Debrah, Paul P. Adade

II. Finance /Sponsorships David Darko Obiri (Chair) Anthony Kwaku Edusei, Alexander Oti Acheampong, Cynthia Amaning Danquah, Michael Owusu, Joseph Atawlana, Christian Birikorang, Nicholas Titiloye, Felix Obeng Boateng, Kofi Appiah Koranteng III. Publicity, Logistics and Protocol Alex Yaw Debrah (Chair) Chrissie S. Abaidoo, Tony Opoku- Agyemang, Yaa Asantewaa Osei, Linda A. Fondjo, Max Efui Annani-Akollor, Mariam El Boakye-Gyasi, Adwoa Bimah Bonsu, Mary Agyemang, Ofeibea Asare, Clara Sam- Woode

Editors: Ofeibea Asare, Linda Batsa Debrah and Akwasi Anyanful Chief Editor: Mohamed Mutocheluh

KEYNOTE SPEAKER [1] PROFILE

Dr. Anarfi Asamoa Baah was the Deputy Director General of the World Health Organisation from 2007 to 2017. Prior to his appointment as Deputy Director General, he held many senior positions in WHO. He served as Assistant Director General of four different clusters (HIV, TB, Malaria; Communicable Diseases, Health Technology and Pharmaceutical and Governing Bodies, Partnership and Country Support between 1998 and 2006. Dr Anarfi Asamoa Baah or AB as is well known was the Director of Medical Services and Pioneer Director of the Policy, Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Directorate of the Ministry of Health in the 1990s. He was instrumental in the health reforms that led to the establishment of the Ghana Health Service, National Health Scheme, strengthening district health systems, and the first five-year programme of work with the sector wide budget support with direct disbursements to districts. Though retired, he is currently a member of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation; Chairman of the Interim Management Committee of the University of Ghana Medical Centre; Chairman of the Drugs Committee of the Food and Drugs Authority and Standards Ambassador of the Ghana Standards Authority.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER [2] PROFILE Professor Evans Afriyie-Gyawu is currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, Division Coordinator of Environmental Health Sciences, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health at Georgia Southern University (GSU). He completed his Ordinary and Advanced Levels Secondary education at Kumasi Academy, Ashanti Region. Prof. Afriyie-Gyawu started his University education in Poland, and after two academic years, he moved to the United States where he completed his Undergraduate degree in Biomedical Science, Master of Public Health (Epidemiology and Biostatistics) and PhD in Toxicology at Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. Prof. Afriyie-Gyawu has been able to combine his backgrounds in Public Health and Toxicology to conduct research activities including those that involved human and animal subjects. He has presented his research at various scientific conferences and meetings in Ghana, many states in the U.S, Bangkok (Thailand), and Istanbul (Turkey). In fact, activities of the conference were featured as Health News on Ghana News Agency, and received coverage on the National Television Station (GTV). Overall, he has published and co-authored 21 peer-reviewed articles, three (3) book chapters and over 60 abstracts and proceedings to major scientific conferences and meetings. Prof. Afriyie-Gyawu’s current research involves a combination of his professional backgrounds in Toxicology and Public Health, which has led to multiple Environmental/Occupational Health and Food Safety/Toxicology studies in Ghana and the U.S.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER [3] PROFILE Professor Winfried Amoaku is a Clinical Academic in Ophthalmology, whose research complements his clinical practice, and described as an international expert on retinal diseases [including age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy], and medical retinal services design. His research is recognised nationally and internationally as indicated by publications and membership of advisory boards to different pharmaceutical companies, expert advice to DH, NICE and Horizon Scanning, and invitations to speak at different meetings and conferences. He has developed research collaborations with colleagues from other Universities in the UK, US and Ghana. He has supervised, and examined research theses from different universities, and led on guidelines for The Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth) that are appreciated and referred to internationally. Professor Winfried Amoaku serves on the editorial boards and review panels of several international journals. He is Associate Editor for Eye, BMC Ophthalmology. He leads undergraduate ophthalmology teaching in Nottingham University (UoN), and Chair the Dermatology, Ophthalmology and ENT Module Committee of UoN, and was external examiner for Cardiff and Sheffield Medical Schools. Professor Winfried Amoaku provided leadership in The RCOphth, including Acting President (2010-11), Vice President and Chairman of Scientific Committee (2007-11). He went on to serve as Chair, The RCOphth Medical Retinal Service Provisions Subcommittee, Chair, RCOphth Equality and Diversity Committee and Member Examinations, Professional Standards, Training, Education and Finance Committees. He was the founding Vice President, and President of the Ghana Biomedical Convention (GBC) as well President of the Convention for Biomedical Research Ghana (CoBReG) (2014-16). Professor Winfried Amoaku served as Medical Advisor, Member of Scientific Committee of Macular Society UK, Chair of VISION 2020 UK Macular Group (2008-date) (consisting professionals, patient and voluntary groups) supporting change and advocacy, developments in treatments for macular disease, aimed at reducing preventable vision loss, as well as served as External AMD Service Reviewer for NHS Trusts. Last but not the least, he served as General Medical Council Associate (Appeals) since 2009. Professor Winfried Amoaku attended Mawuli School at Ho and later the University of Ghana Medical School. He completed his House Officer programme at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in 1980 and was immediately employed as Medical Officer (Ophthalmology), Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital & Hon Demonstrator in Anatomy, UGMS. He presented his PhD thesis titled: ‘The effects of Ionising Radiation on the retina (clinical and experimental)’ in 1990 and was admitted into the British Council for the Prevention of Blindness Research Fellowship based at the Queen’s University of Belfast in the same year.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

PRE-CONFERENCE ACTIVITIES 28 – 29 July 2019

Sunday 28 July 2019 10:00 – 17:00 hrs Amplifying yeast gene (S. cerevisiae BMH1). Registered participants only Extract DNA from S. cerevisiae colonies on agar plate, PCR amplify using standard protocol, stain PCR amplicons with ethidium bromide and resolve on 2% agarose gel. Capture images and analyse using the DigiGenius Image software package.

Monday 29 July 2019: 10:00 hrs Recapitulations of the previous day’s work and start of the day’s work. 12:30 hrs Visit to KNUST Central Laboratory facilities.

16:00 –18:00 hrs Chairpersons and planning committee members meet

PROGRAMME LINE-UP DAY 1 TUESDAY, 30 JULY 2019 07.00 – 09.15 hrs Registration and Poster Set-up

09:15 – 10:00 hrs OPENING CEREMONY Charles Ansah, Chair

WELCOME AND INTRODUCTION Ellis Owusu-Dabo, Chair, Organising Committee Linda Amoah, President, Convention of Biomedical Research Daniel Ansong, Dean, School of Medicine and Dentistry Yaw Adu-Sarkodie, Provost, College of Health Sciences Kwasi Obiri-Danso, Vice Chancellor, KNUST

10:00 – 11:00 hrs KEYNOTE ADDRESS Yaw Adu-Sarkodie, Chair Anarfi Asamoa Baah, Board Chair, University of Ghana Medical Centre, Accra

“Universal access to health care – The role of the health scientist”

11:00 – 11:10 hrs Chairman’s closing remarks and vote of thanks 11:10 – 11:30 hrs Photographs 11:10 – 11:50 hrs Break

11:50 – 12:50 hrs PARALLEL SESSION A1 – PUBLIC HEALTH Conference Room 1 Chairs: Frances Thelma Owusu Daako and John Amuasi 11:50 – 12:05 hrs Agbedinu, K Department of Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana Improving access to universal health care-role of local surgical mission [1] 12:05 – 12:20 hrs Peasah, B.S.O Counseling Center, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana

Subjective wellbeing and psychosocial support among cancer patients in a Ghanaian setting [2]

12:20 – 12:35 hrs Asare, A Department of Optometry and Visual Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science Technology, Kumasi, Ghana Prevalence and pattern of amblyopia among patients attending the Westphalian Medical Centre, Ghana: a retrospective study [3] 12:35 – 12:50 hrs Gyamfi, P. A. Department of Clinical Microbiology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana

Impact of 15 Years of Mass Drug Administration on Lymphatic Filariasis Control Efforts in the Kassena Nankana East Municipal [4] 13:00 – 14:00 hrs PARALLEL SESSION A2 – PUBLIC HEALTH Conference room 1 Chairs: Peter Donkor and Linda Batsa Debrah 13:00 – 13:15 hrs Ofosu, D. N Department of Clinical Microbiology, School of Medical Sciences, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana Haematological profile of HIV patients in relation to immune status in Kumasi, a case study in Ashanti Region [5] 13:15 – 13:30 hrs Acquah-Gyan, E School of Public Health- Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana. Usefulness and challenges of an mhealth intervention in rural communities in the Asante Akim North of Ghana: A qualitative study [6] 13:30 – 13:45 hrs Kpiinfoor, T Department of Community Medicine and Health, Anglican University College of Technology, Nkoranza.

Factors influencing contraceptive use among adolescents in the Techiman municipality, Ghana [7]

13:45 – 14:00 hrs Osei, F. A School of Medical Sciences, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana. Mobile app to support efficient hospital communication and patient care in tertiary hospitals in Ghana - Proof of concept study in Komfo AnokyeTeaching Hospital [8]

11:50 – 12:50 hrs PARALLEL SESSION B1 – BIOINFORMATICS & GENOMICS Conference Room 2 Chairs: Pandam Salifu and Patrick W. Narkwa 11:50 – 12:05 hrs Adabor, E School of Technology, GIMPA, Accra, Ghana;

Restricted-derestricted dynamic Bayesian Network inference of transcriptional regulatory relationships among genes in cancer [9] 12:05 – 12:20 hrs Anninagyei, E Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana

Transfusing malaria-infected donor blood stored beyond 7 days may be equivalent to infusing undesirable quantities of IL-6, IL-12 and TNF-α to recipients [10]

12:20 – 12:35 hrs Acquaah-Mensah, G Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, USA Missense Mutations of the E3 Ubiquitin Ligase HUWE1 and Prognosis in Younger Breast Cancer Patients [11] 12:35 – 12:50p hrs Barnes, P Department of Physician Assistant, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast

Expression of Ras and Rab Interactor 1 (RIN1), EGFR and NOTCH1 in Head and Neck Tumours at selected hospitals in Ghana [12] 13:00 – 14:00 hrs PARALLEL SESSION B2 BIOINFORMATICS & GENOMICS Conference room 2 Chairs: Theophius Benjamin Kwofie and Emmanuel Ntim 13:00 – 13:15 hrs Darko-Boateng, A Dept. of Physiology and Cellular Biophysics, Columbia University, New York, USA.

Molecular Determinants of Low voltage-activated Calcium Channel Ubiquitination [13]

13:15 – 13:30 hrs Addo-Fordjour, F Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine (KCCR).Department of Clinical Microbiology, School of Medicine and Dentistry/ Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology Assessing the Involvement of Nuclear Kappa Light Chain Enhancer of Activated B cell Inhibitor-Alpha in Filarial Lymphedema Development [14] 13:30 – 13:45 hrs Acheampong, G Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kumasi, Ghana

Chromosomal and Plasmid-Mediated Fluoroquinolone Resistance in Human Salmonella enterica Infection in Ghana [15]

14:45 – 14:00 hrs Donu, D Malaria Group Consortium- University of Ghana

Probing into the composition of Plasmodium parasites contained in asymptomatic malaria infections in the Eastern Region of Ghana [16]

14:00 – 14:50 hrs Lunch 14:50 – 15:50 hrs PARALLEL SESSION C1– CLINICAL RESEARCH Conference Room 1 Chairs: Patrick Feglo and Linda Ahenkorah Fondjo 14:50 – 15:05 hrs Ofosu, D. N Department of Clinical Microbiology, School of Medical Sciences, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana. Evaluating the efficacy of Giemsa stain used for malaria parasite detection; a case study of selected diagnostic laboratory facilities in Ashanti region of Ghana [17]

15:05 – 15:20 hrs Bedu, K Department of Theoretical and Applied Biology- KNUST, Kumasi HIV and Toxoplasma gondii Co-Infection among Pregnant Women and Children in the Ashanti Region, Ghana [18]

15:20 – 15:35 hrs Anninagyei, E Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana

Detecting asymptomatic P. falciparum in blood donors: evaluation of microscopy, rapid test, 18s-rRNA LAMP and selective whole genome amplicon sequencing assays [19] 15:35 – 15:50 hrs Annani-Akollor, M. E Department of Molecular Medicine, School of Medicine and Dentistry, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana Population-specific cut-off for HbA1c improves identification of metabolic syndrome among non-diabetic population in Ghana [20]

14:50 – 15:50 hrs PARALLEL SESSION C2– DISABILITY AND FOOD SCIENCE Conference room 2 Chairs: Pius Agbenoku and Kwadwo Asamoah - Kusi 14:50 – 15:05 hrs Gyaase, D Department Community Health, KNUST, Kumasi Perceived causes of Epilepsy among Community Members in the Berekum Municipality [21] 15:05 – 15:20 hrs Vampere, H Center for disability and rehabilitation studies, CEDRES-KNUST

Understanding the causes of Autism: Perceptions among parents of children with autism in the Tamale Metropolis [22]

15:20 – 15:35 hrs Kwarteng, J. O Department of Applied Biology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University for Development Studies, Navrongo campus, Ghana.

Characterization of Bacteriocin of Lactic Acid Bacteria Originating from Traditional African Fermented Milk Product, Nunu [23]

15:50 – 15:05 hrs Sarfo, J Department of Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Ghana Mitigating the adverse effects of nutrition transition associated with urbanization. New perspectives of rural Ghana nutrition [24]

DAY 2 WEDNESDAY 31ST JULY 2019 07:30 – 08:50 hrs Registration 08:50 – 09:00 hrs Announcements KEYNOTE ADDRESS Akwasi Anyanful, Chair 09:00 – 10:00 hrs Afriyie-Gyawu, E Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, USA Addressing Environmental/Occupational Health Challenges to Improve Quality of Healthcare in Ghana and other African Countries 10:00 – 10.:50 hrs Break 11:00 – 12:00 hrs PARALLEL SESSION D1 – CLINICAL RESEARCH Conference Room 1 Chairs: Tsiri Agbenyega and Linda Amoah 11:00 – 11:15 hrs Manu, E. A Department of Physiology and Pathology, SMD, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana.

Expression of MUC1 is a poor prognostic marker in breast cancer in Kumasi, Ghana [25]

11:15 – 11:30 hrs Ameh-Mensah, C Department of Physiology and Pathology, SMD, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana.

The expression of Bcl2 among breast cancer patients in a tertiary hospital in sub-Saharan Africa [26] 11:30 – 11:45 hrs Addai- Mensah, O Dept of Medical Diagnostics, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, KNUST Fetal Rhesus D Genotyping from Rhesus D Negative Antenatal Population at Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Ghana [27] 11:45 – 12:00 hrs Ankoh, S.E Department of Restorative dentistry, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi Ghana Autotransplantation of a Maxillary Incisor Tooth to Improve Aesthetics and Occlusal Setting at a Minimal Cost. [28]

12:10 – 13:10 hrs PARALLEL SESSION D2 – PUBLIC HEALTH Conference Room 1 Chairs: Alex Yaw Debrah and Ama Amuasi 12:10 – 12:25 hrs Kyei-Frimpong, F Department of Pharmacy Practice, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

Adherence to Guidelines for Severe Malaria Therapy in Children and Patient Outcomes at New Edubiase Government Hospital. [29]

12:25 – 12:40 hrs Mohamed, A Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, School of Public Health, Kumasi, Ghana

Mobile Phone Short Message Service (SMS) as a Malaria Control Tool: a Quasi-Experimental Study [30]

12:40 – 12:55 hrs Dassah, S Department of Biomedical Sciences, Navrongo Health Research Centre, Navrongo, Ghana.

Antibody responses against GMZ2 Vaccine Antigens in Relation to the Risk of Malaria in Burkinabe and Ghanaian Children [31].

12:55 – 13:10 hrs Opoku, F. Department of Physiology and Pathology, SMD, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana Tumour Suppressor gene P53 and its regulator MDM2 among breast cancer patients in a tertiary hospital in Ghana [32].

11:00 – 12:00 hrs PARALLEL SESSION E1 – PLANT MEDICINE & CHEMISTRY Conference Room 2 Chairs: Marcel Tunkumgnen Bayor and Marian El Boakye Gyakye 11:00 – 11:30 hrs Kombian, S Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics. Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kuwait University, Kuwait.

Screening of oxazolidinone derivatives for anticonvulsant activity [33]

11:30 – 11:45 hrs Okine, M Department of Chemistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Anthelmintic Activities of Alchornea cordifolia [34] 11:45 – 12:00 hrs Domfeh, S West African Centre for Cell Biology of Infectious Pathogens, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana

Cryptolepine activates type 1 interferon response pathway through STAT1 suggesting a potential substitute for interferon-based therapy [35]

12:10 – 13:10 hrs PARALLEL SESSION E2 – PLANT MEDICINE & CHEMISTRY Conference Room 2 Chairs: David Darku Obiri and James Oppong - Kyekyeku 12:10 – 12:40 hrs Annang, F Fundación MEDINA, Avda. del Conocimiento 34, 18016, Armilla, Granada, Spain

Bioassay-Guided Isolation of Four New Antiprotozoal Compounds from Two Ghanaian Mushrooms [36].

12:40 – 12:55 hrs Wireko, B. M Department of Physiology, KNUST, Kumasi.

Potential Aphrodisiac Effect of Khaya Senegalensis on Male Wistar Rats. [37] 12:55 – 13:10 hrs Edusei, E. B. A Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana Resistance Modulation effects And Time-Kill Kinetics Assay of Plumbagin from Plumbago Zeylanica Linn [38] 13:10 – 14:10 hrs Lunch 14:10 – 15:10 hrs SESSION F - CLINICAL RESEARCH Conference Room 1 Chair: Francis Agyeman Yeboah and Adwoa Bemah Bonsu 14:15 – 14:30 hrs Asamoah-Sakyi, S Department of Molecular Medicine. School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology

Profiling immuno-metabolic and biochemical risk factors in metformin treated type 2 diabetes patients in Ghana [39] 14:30 – 14:45 hrs Kusi, S Department of Immunology, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, College of Health Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana

Antigenic interaction between P. falciparum sexual stage antigens Pfs230.pro and Pfs48/45.6C in combined immunization alters the antibody kinetics in favour of anti-Pfs230.pro antibodies [40] 14:45 – 15.00 hrs Amissah, G Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, KNUST, Kumasi Urinary Iodine Concentration and Thyroid Volume of pregnant women attending Antenatal Care in two selected hospitals in Ashanti Region, Ghana: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study [41].

16:00 – 17:30 hrs POSTER SESSION

17:30 – 18:00 hrs CHS Closing Ceremony 18:00 pm Cocktail and Networking

DAY 3 THURSDAY 1ST AUGUST 2019 07:30 – 08:50 hrs Registration 08.50 – 09.00 hrs Announcements KEYNOTE ADDRESS Chair: George Acquaah-Mensah 09:00 – 10:00 hrs Winfried Amoaku Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Nottingham, UK. The Window of an Eye in Diabetes 10:00 – 11:00 hrs Break 11:00 – 12:30 hrs PARALLEL SESSION G-CLINICAL RESEARCH AN DISABILITY Chair: Isaac Owusu and Yeetey Enuameh 11:00 – 11:15 hrs Conference room 1 Braimah, I School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Ghana, Eye Centre, Korle- Bu Teaching Hospital. Korle- Bu Baseline prospective study of the incidence and risk factors for retinopathy of prematurity in Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital [42] 11:15 – 11:30 hrs Kyei-Baafour, E Immunology Deparment, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana Naturally acquired IgG to Plasmodium falciparum MSP3 is associated with protection against febrile malaria in a cohort of Ghanaian children living in a low transmission area [43] 11:30 – 11:45 hrs Agyemang, A. O Dept. of Pharmacognosy, KNUST, Kumasi; Quality Assessment and Clinical Evaluation of the Safety and Effectiveness of a Ghanaian Hepatorestorative Polyherbal Product (Hpk) at the Wa Regional Hospital [44] 12:00 – 12:15 hrs Asamoah-Sakyi, S Department of Molecular Medicine. School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology Assessment of biochemical and neurological risk factors among metformin-treated type 2 diabetes in Ghana [45] 12:15-12:30 hrs Dangyi, P Centre for Disability and Rehabilitation Studies Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi

Perception of Health Workers on the reproductive health of women with disabilities in Jirapa, Ghana [46]

11:00 – 12:30 hrs PARALLEL SESSION H - PUBLIC HEALTH Conference room 2

Chairs: Samuel Newton and Emmanuel Appiah Brempong

11:00 – 11:15 hrs Abnory, M School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana Implementation challenges of Quality Assurance (QA) initiatives: a qualitative assessment in Public University Hospitals in Ghana [47] 11:15 – 11:30 hrs Adu, P Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Ghana

Depleted iron stores in voluntary blood donors: a three-centre cross- sectional study in Ghana [48]

11:30 – 11:45 hrs Darko, E Dept. of Clinical Microbiology, School of Medical Sciences and Dentistry, KNUST, Ghana

Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus carriage among Healthcare workers at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Ghana [49] 12:00 – 12:15 hrs Nkrumah, M Department of Clinical Microbiology, KNUST, Kumasi Evaluation of the Dynamiker® Cryptococcal Antigen Lateral Flow Assay (CrAg LFA) in the diagnosis of Cryptococcosis in HIV patients in Ghana [50]

12:15 – 12:30 hrs Dzomeku, V. M Department of Nursing, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana,

“When I [hit]…I tell the mother, I am sorry…I wouldn’t have hit you if not for your baby's life:” Exploring Midwives’ views on Disrespect and Abusive Care. [51] 12:30 – 13:15 hrs Lunch 13:30 – 15:00 hrs Business Meeting 14:30 – 14.50 hrs Closing Ceremony and Farewell 15:00 hrs Board Meeting

KEYNOTE [I] Universal Access to Health Care – The Role of the Health Scientist Anarfi Asamoa Baah Board Chair, University of Ghana Medical Centre, Legon, Accra. Email. [email protected] Universal Health Coverage is defined by the World Health Organisation as where all people, regardless of who and where they live, are able to access high quality essential health services without suffering financial hardship. The philosophy underpinning UHC is not completely new. It builds on the primary health care concept and the Health for All movement of the 1970s. But it also emphasizes a number of new concepts and lessons from decades of implementing Health for all and in recent times, the Milliniuem Development Goals. Some of these concepts and implementation lessons challenge current and existing health orthodoxy and conventional wisdom. Key among them is the concept of universality (leaving no one behind); the need to give more practical meaning to the broader definition of health; the need to move from a disease centred to a people centred health system and the need to ensure paying for health care does not push people into poverty. Implementing UHC therefore cannot be just about doing more of the same. It calls for a new paradigm shift, a change in mindset, a new culture and a new way of business model. The achievement of UHC is dependent on national governments taking ownership and establishing policies, plans, systems and appropriate programmes. Ghana has committed itself to achieving universal health coverage by 2030 and has redefined universal health coverage in the Ghanaian context, where all people in Ghana have timely access to high quality interventions and services, irrespective of the ability to pay at the point of use. Of the major health threats that Ghana faces, none challenges the very foundations of the health system as profoundly as the rise of chronic non communicable diseases. The traditional approach to health that relies on the biomedical model, focussed on the cure of individual diseases is inadequate. The essential emphasis on prevention requires a greater reliance on the social and life sciences. Science is crucial to the achievement of universal health coverage. Health Scientists/Academia are already contributing to Ghana's health objectives through training, research and consultancy support. Health Scientists/ Academia in Ghana have a special leadership role to play in bringing about the new paradigm shift required for successful implementation of universal health coverage in Ghana. In the area of training of future leaders, more cross disciplinary and experiential learning is called for. Academia need to get more involved in the policy making process, in helping to design, shape, influence and advocate for evidence based UHC inspired policies. The pursuit of research should help solve problems and not just for publishing or academic promotion.

Academia can incubate new businesses such as hosting start up high tech companies. Academic institutions are powerful convening platforms for fostering multi-stakeholder engagements. These enhanced and/or new roles will require strong, meaningful, institutionalized partnership and dialogue between academia and governments, local communities and industry and more sustainable funding for health scientists/academia.

KEYNOTE [II] Addressing Environmental/Occupational Health Challenges to Improve Quality of Healthcare in Ghana and other African Countries Evans Afriyie-Gyawu Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Environmental Health Sciences, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Georgia Southern University, USA Email. [email protected] Life expectancy for Ghanaians has been increasing since 1960 (~46 years) compared to 2017 (~63 years) (World Bank, 2017). This suggests perhaps Ghana has been working hard to improve quality of healthcare delivery and reduce health risks. However, environmental hazards present persistent challenges to clinicians and public health professionals. WHO estimates that 12.6 million (~23%) of all global deaths are attributable to the environment – air, water, and soil pollution; chemical exposures; etc. (WHO, 2016). Additionally, about 90–95% of all cancer cases are linked to the environment and lifestyle; e.g., diet (30-35%), tobacco (25-30%) and infections (15-20%) (Anand et al., 2008). The objective of this presentation is to emphasize the role of health scientists in addressing environmental/occupational health challenges, reducing preventable illnesses/injuries/deaths, and improving quality of healthcare in Ghana and beyond. One challenge is the utilization of scrap automobile tires for meat singeing at slaughter houses/slabs (SLH/SLS). Our recent study on “scrap tire burning-meat singeing” practice has recently been completed. Levels of CO, benzene, SO2, and particulate matter emitted from liquefied petroleum gas (LPG- control), firewood, and tire-derived smoke during meat singeing were quantified in real-time. Also, workers’ urine samples were analyzed (using HPLC-MS) for 1-hydroxypyrene (1-OHP), biomarker of short-term exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Results indicated the “tire burning-meat singeing” practice generates pollutant levels significantly higher (p<0.001) vs. LPG. Urinary 1-OHP measurements showed the SLH/SLS workers using tires were exposed to higher levels of PAHs vs. LPG, but not significant (p= 0.246). Results suggest that SLH/SLS operators and nearby residents may be at high risk for adverse health outcomes linked to emitted pollutants. Thus, all stakeholders must come together to sustainably address this issue by promoting comprehensive research, creating awareness among academicians and clinicians, intensify educational interventions, and ultimately improving quality of healthcare in Ghana and other African countries.

KEYNOTE [III] The Window of an Eye in Diabetes Winfried Amoaku Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Nottingham, UK. Email. [email protected], [email protected] Diabetes mellitus is a disease of glucose metabolism by the body. Previous estimates diabetes occurred in 5% of the Ghanaian population. Recent evidence suggests that diabetes is more common in Sub-Saharan Africa (including Ghana) than previously reported. This increased prevalence of diabetes may be associated with changing lifestyles e.g. diet, and reduced physical exertion/exercise. Diabetes is the commonest cause of preventable visual loss in the working age population, and was previously thought to be problematic in the developed, western world. Emerging evidence suggests that this is not the case, and that visual loss due to diabetes is common and severe in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Ghana. Diabetes effects all tissues of the eye, although the most common devastating complication is diabetic retinopathy. Uncontrolled diabetes results in reduced turnover of vascular endothelial cells in the retinal vasculatures (as in other tissues). This leads to retinal vascular closure, vascular leakage or both, with consequences, including the paradoxical abnormal blood vessel growth. Associated risks of cardiovascular disease influence progression of diabetic eye disease. An overview of diabetic eye disease and visual loss, and how common it is will be discussed. A summary of how diabetic eye disease develops (mechanisms/pathways), and manifests will be provided, as well how it relates to state of the individual’s general health and wellbeing and society. Protection against the devastating consequences of diabetic eye disease, and management of diabetic eye disease (especially retinopathy) and diabetic retinopathy screening will be discussed.

ORAL PRESENTATIONS

[#1] Improving Access to Universal Health Care-Role of Local Surgical Mission A. Gyedu1, K. Agbedinu2 , C. E. Gaskill3, G. Boakye4, F. Abantanga5

1Department of Surgery, School of Medical Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana. 2Department of Surgery, Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Kumasi, Ghana. 3Department of Surgery, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA. 4School of Public Health, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana 5School of Medicine and Health Sciences, University for Developmental Studies, Tamale, Ghana.

Email: [email protected] Many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) have a high prevalence of unmet surgical need as a result of barriers to surgical care that many LMIC communities face. Until the resources required to adequately meet this need are realized, one method to ensure that affected communities receive the surgical care they need is the provision of operations through outreach missions. A large majority of these missions are spearheaded by foreign organizations with international travel and logistics adding to the cost of such efforts thereby decreasing their overall cost-effectiveness. Alternatively, local outreach groups may be able to address the problem in an equally effective manner. We sought to assess the cost-effectiveness of surgical outreach missions provided by a wholly local organization in Ghana to highlight the role local groups might play in reducing the unmet surgical need of their communities. Outreach missions to northern Ghana by ApriDec Medical Outreach Group (AMOG), from December 2011 to April 2016, were analyzed for total number of surgeries, disability-adjusted life years (DALY) averted, and total cost of the missions. Assessment of cost-effectiveness of the missions was then made. We analyzed 2008 patients who had been operated upon by AMOG. Operations performed included hernia repairs (824 patients, 41%) and excision biopsy of soft tissue masses (364 patients, 18%). More specialized operations included thyroidectomy (103 patients, 5.1%), urological procedures (71 patients, 3.5%), and plastic surgery (26 patients, 1.3%). Total cost of the outreach trips was $283,762, and 2079 DALYs were averted; cost per DALY averted was $136.49. The mission trips were ‘‘very cost-effective’’ per WHO parameters. Our findings suggest that providing surgical services through wholly local surgical mission trips to underserved LMIC communities might represent a cost-effective and viable option for countries seeking to reduce the growing unmet surgical needs of their populations.

[#2] Subjective Wellbeing and Psychosocial Support Among Cancer Patients in a Ghanaian Setting. F. E. Owusu-Ansah1,2 B. S. O. Peasah1, A. A. Addae 1, B.Wiafe-Addae3 1Counseling Center, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, 2Department of Behavioral Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, 3Breast Care International (BCI) & Peace and Love Hospitals, Kumasi, Ghana.

Email: [email protected]; [email protected] Cancer patients experience emotional distress including depression and anxiety which are moderated or alleviated by familial and psychosocial support interventions. Patients who receive counselling and adequate socioemotional support report less distress, improved mood and better pain management. The objectives of this study were twofold: First, the study examined the levels of psychological distress and subjective wellbeing among the patients. Two, it investigated the sources and availability of familial, psycho-social and emotional support for patients with a prediction of greater subjective wellbeing and less psychological distress among those who received more support. A total of hundred (100) patients, within the ages of 25 to 80 (SD = 10.7) participated in the study. A mixed method approach (quantitative measures plus interviews) was used to collect data. Correlational analyses were performed on the quantitative data while thematic content analysis was used for the qualitative data. As predicted, there was a significant negative correlation between psychological distress and subjective wellbeing (r = -.50, p<.001). Other results showed that a significant number of patients perceived lack of support from their social networks. In addition, there was a general report of severe financial constraints for which many patients received no support from expected sources such as immediate family and faith communities. However, majority of the patients reported positive benefits from the counselling they had received. Our findings corroborate previous works that breast cancer patients in Ghana are not receiving satisfactory emotional support; a situation with potential negative impact on patients’ emotional health and physical recovery. Adequate context-specific psychosocial interventions need to be implemented to address these issues and thus facilitate greater patient wellbeing and speedy recovery.

[#3] Prevalence and pattern of amblyopia among patients attending the Westphalian Medical Centre, Ghana: a retrospective study A. K. Asare, K. O. Akuffo, D. B. Kumah, E. Agyei-Manu, E. Addo, C. K. Darko Department of Optometry and Visual Science, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science Technology, Kumasi. Email: [email protected] Childhood blindness affects 1.4 million children globally. Amblyopia is the leading cause of monocular visual impairment in children, affecting about 1% to 5% of the general population. The presence of amblyopia, predominantly in children, is mainly due to refractive errors and strabismus (misalignment of the eyes). The management of amblyopia is expected to be take place within an age window (from birth till age 9) after which treatment may no longer be effective. It is of global public health concern because of the reduced quality of life and relatively long number of blind person-years that it presents. This study aimed to determine the pattern of amblyopia in patients attending the Westphalian Medical Centre, Oyoko, Ghana. In this retrospective study, clinical folders were reviewed for patients who visited the clinic between January 2014 and December 2018. Of the 12,860 records reviewed, 258(2.04%) amblyopic cases were identified. In persons with amblyopia, 185(71.7%) and 73(28.3%) had unilateral and bilateral amblyopia, respectively. The overall mean age of amblyopic patients was 24.27±16.11 years, with majority being females (52.3%). There was no statistically significant difference (p>0.05) in the prevalence of amblyopia by age or sex. The highest (2.57%) and lowest (1.96%) point prevalence were recorded in 2014 and 2018 respectively. Refractive amblyopia (1.42%) was the most prevalent form of amblyopia. Spectacle correction (54.3%) was the most common treatment regimen for amblyopia. Amblyopia affects 1 in 50 patients visiting the Westphalian Medical Centre. Proper management of refractive errors may reduce the prevalence of amblyopia and its contribution to childhood blindness in the Ghanaian population.

[#4] Impact of 15 Years of Mass Drug Administration on Lymphatic Filariasis Control Efforts in the Kassena Nankana East Municipal P. A. Gyamfi1, 3, A.Y. Debrah1, 2, J. Osei-Mensah3, V. S. Opoku1, 3, D. Adu-Mensah1, 3, Y. Mubarik3, A. Horeauf 4, L. B. Debrah1, 3

1Department of Clinical Microbiology, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi , Ghana, 2Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi , Ghana, 3Kumasi Centre for Collaborative Research in Tropical Medicine, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana. 4Institute of Medical Biometry, Informatics and Epidemiology, University of Bonn, Germany