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Evon has been working on chronic diseases research, primarily hypertension and diabetes studies, for over two years and her research interests are in missing data and causal inference methods
Evon Okidi is a Biostatistician at the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) research centre.
She received her Sc.M. in Biostatistics from Brown University where she did research on missing data methods in a hypertensive HIV infected population. She has since been working on chronic diseases research, primarily hypertension and diabetes studies, for over two years. Her research interests are in missing data and causal inference methods.
What do you hope to achieve through your research?
I hope that the results from these studies provide answers that can be used in decision-making processes that improve patients’ lives. One main objective is finding effective ways to link and retain patients to care in the hope of improving their CVD risk profiles.
Tell us a little more about the project you are working on
I am currently on two GACD projects as a biostatistician. The first one is Optimizing Linkage and Retention to Hypertension Care in Rural Kenya (LARK) a randomized controlled trial investigating whether community health workers, equipped with tailored behavioural communication strategies and smartphone technology, can increase linkage and retention of hypertensive individuals to care programs, and thereby improve blood pressure control. This project is in its final stages of data collection.
The second is Bridging Income Generation with group Integrated Care (BIGPIC), which is trial to assess whether microfinance and group medical visits can improve health outcomes, assessed through improved diet, increased physical activity, medication adherence and ultimately reduction in cardiovascular risk. Pilot study has been conducted and we are gearing up for rollout.
How has being part of GACD helped your research?
Through the funding that GACD has provided for the hypertension and diabetes studies, I have been in a unique position of working with a very diverse and highly experience team. My view of research has widened as I learn and interact with people with different skills and research backgrounds.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
I am always up for a challenge and the projects I’m involved in give me new and unexpected challenges that require unique statistical solutions. I am naturally curious so I am glad my career gives me the opportunity to research and learn new things. I also get to work with an amazing team. Never a dull moment.
Apart from the project, what are your other passions in life?
I really enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and camping. I recently finished a half marathon; I hope to eventually finish a full marathon.
Can you name someone who has inspired you in your life and work?
My family has always been my core support and I wouldn’t be doing all this without their help. They are my biggest cheerleaders and motivators.