Inflammatory markers associated with hypertension in a rural Malawian cohort
Supervisors:
Professor Mia Crampin, School of Health & Wellbeing
Dr Pierpaolo Pellicori , School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
Professor Pasquale Maffia, School of Infection & Immunity
Dr Owen Nkoka , School of Health & Wellbeing
Summary:
This PhD project, based between the University of Glasgow MVLS College and the Malawi Epidemiology and Intervention Research Unit (MEIRU) and integrated with the Wellcome-funded 'Healthy Lives Malawi' project, aims to investigate the link between systemic inflammation and hypertension in rural Malawi. Using data and samples from the 2013-2016 NCD cohort and follow-up surveys, the study will focus on markers like CRP, IL-6, and white cell counts to assess their association with hypertension.
The project has three key objectives:
Investigate the relationship between inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6) and the development of hypertension.
Examine how sociodemographic and behavioral factors (age, gender, socioeconomic status, diet, activity, tobacco use) influence this association.
Identify which inflammatory markers are most predictive of hypertension risk.
This research will enhance our understanding of how inflammation drives hypertension and could inform targeted interventions to reduce its burden in rural communities.