In response to the rising incidence of kernicterus caused by untreated neonatal jaundice, the Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA) hosted a two-day Co-Creation Workshop on November 12-13, 2024. The workshop, held in collaboration with our esteemed technical partners, the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, NEST360, and Solina, finalized strategic plans for the Nigerian launch of Project Oscar, an initiative dedicated to combating neonatal jaundice.
Neonatal jaundice, a common condition affecting newborns, can escalate into kernicterus, a severe and lifelong brain injury when left untreated. Project Oscar, inspired by the advocacy of disability champion Oscar Anderson MBE, is set to change this narrative in Nigeria.
A Global Initiative with Proven Impact
Project Oscar is a global initiative to combat neonatal jaundice, a preventable cause of infant mortality and disability. Since its launch in Vietnam in 2019, it has successfully reduced jaundice-related deaths through interventions like phototherapy for early detection and treatment, benefiting over 10,000 children and families.
In December 2024, the project will expand to Nigeria, led by WBFA, to address neonatal jaundice and kernicterus. This expansion will focus on upskilling healthcare workers in Lagos State. Neonatal jaundice affects over 60% of full-term neonates and 80% of preterm neonates, with the highest incidence in Africa and Southeast Asia. In Nigeria, it is a leading cause of neonatal morbidity, contributing to 10-35% of neonatal admissions.
Project Oscar’s proven success offers the potential to reduce neonatal jaundice in Nigeria by training healthcare workers, donating equipment, and conducting awareness campaigns to prevent preventable complications and save lives.
Partners in Progress
Supported by Reckitt, Project Oscar will leverage the expertise of WBFA’s trusted partners, including the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Lagos University Teaching Hospital, NEST360, and Solina. By utilizing cutting-edge phototherapy technology, this initiative is poised to deliver innovative and effective solutions. Through this collaboration, thousands of Nigerian newborns will gain access to timely, life-saving care, reducing the risk of disabilities and paving the way for a healthier, brighter future.
A Healthier Future for Nigeria
During the workshop, key stakeholders came together to discuss strategies for scaling Project Oscar’s interventions, ensuring alignment with Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure. By fostering collaboration among local health professionals, policymakers, and global experts, WBFA is committed to creating a lasting impact on neonatal care. Project Oscar is not just a medical intervention; it is a beacon of hope for families, communities, and the nation as a whole.