Tisu Mvalo, MD, assistant professor of pediatrics and in-country pediatric director of UNC Project Malawi, has been appointed Lancet Global Health Commissioner for Oxygen Security.
Medical oxygen security refers broadly to all the policy, economic, infrastructure, technology, supply chain, logistics, clinical guidelines and health workforce required to ensure that pulse oximetry and medical oxygen therapy are routinely available and consistently used for those who need them, including during pandemics and other crises. Medical oxygen security is a critical global health concern for millions of newborns, children, adolescents, and adults – particularly in lower-income and disadvantaged populations.
The Lancet Global Health Commission on Medical Oxygen Security was conceived to identify and address the major evidence gaps related to hypoxaemia burden, oxygen access, oxygen solution, financing, and identity priorities for future research. It aims to mobilize a broad coalition to promote best practice in addressing the gaps in medical oxygen delivery systems, facilitating and conducting the relevant research to inform implementation, and accelerate investment, efforts and impact towards stronger oxygen systems and reduced mortality and morbidity globally.
Dr. Mvalo practices at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Lilongwe, Malawi. He also provides on-the-ground mentorship for the rotating learners and is the PI for several ongoing research studies at UNC Project Malawi, including the Empirical trial (investigating treatment against cytomegalovirus and tuberculosis in HIV-infected infants with severe pneumonia) and malaria vaccine implementation evaluation.