THINK Highlights at the Union World Conference on Lung Health
15 – 18 November 2023
THINK, in collaboration with USAID, will present its work on the TB LON project during a satellite session titled “SS-13 Improving Tuberculosis (TB) Recovery Plan in South Africa: Strategies and Lessons Learned.”
In addition to the satellite session, THINK will be presenting 3 oral presentations, 2 e-posters and participant in an oral abstract session. See the profiles of the speakers below.
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Speaker Profiles
Dr Abraham Lucky Malaza PhD (UCT) MPH(UP), is a seasoned public health professional with expertise in HIV molecular diversity, epidemiology, and health systems. His impactful career includes improving M&E data systems in Ghana, authoring articles, and presenting at local and international conferences. He now focuses on TB control data analytics with AI integration, dedicated to advancing public health.
Title of Abstract: Drug-resistant Tuberculosis (DR-TB) short-term treatment regimen associated with favourable treatment outcomes in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: 2015 – 2020
“My primary goal for this year’s conference is to immerse myself in the world of TB, seeking inspiration from recent developments and innovations, and acquiring fresh insights. I’m also committed to knowledge sharing, and representing our organisation and country by disseminating our research findings on a global platform.”
Dr Louisa Dunn MBBS (UEA), a UK-trained medical doctor, developed a deep passion for TB care in South Africa in 2010 when she began working with people with TB. With speciality GP training in the UK and a diploma in HIV management, Dr Dunn joined THINK in 2017 as an Investigator on drug-resistant TB trials. In 2021, she transitioned to Health System Strengthening. Currently, as the Provincial TB Technical Lead in KwaZulu-Natal for the USAID TB LON programme, she’s dedicated to enhancing patient care and minimising the impact of TB.
Title of Abstract: High Prevalence of Severe Adverse Events Identified During Treatment Among Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis (DR-TB) Deaths in KwaZulu-Natal, (KZN) South Africa, 2020
“My hope for this year’s Union Conference is to connect with like-minded people, and to share experiences and gain knowledge.”
Dr Lynette Duckworth MBChB (UCT); DA (SA), a seasoned medical doctor with three decades of experience, excels in diverse health sectors, including public, private, and NGOs. Over the last decade, her focus has been on TB programs and Drug-Resistant TB clinical trials, fostering deep insights into innovative TB treatments.
Title of Abstract: Digital X-Ray with CAD Implementation and Algorithm Development in KwaZulu Natal, South Africa
“My primary hopes for this year’s conference are to stay updated on the latest TB diagnostics and management, explore new drugs and regimens, and connect with like-minded individuals to collaborate in the fight against tuberculosis.”
Masingita Lambane holds a bachelor’s degree in social science from the University of Limpopo and has pursued post-graduate studies at prestigious institutions, with expertise in New Business, Stakeholder Engagement, and Strategic Communication. Masingita’s actively involved in launching the KZN TB Caucus at THINK, focusing on community-led interventions to tackle tuberculosis challenges.
Title of Abstract: Community-led TB Interventions: Improving Tuberculosis Services in Rural South Africa
“I’m looking forward to a conference that fosters knowledge exchange, collaboration, and networking with experts. I aim to find innovative solutions, drive positive change, and inspire action in our work and communities.”
Riyadh Manesen is a field epidemiologist with a background in laboratory science and a Master’s in public health. With over a decade of experience, I’m dedicated to improving disease surveillance and outbreak response. As THINK’s M&E advisor, I’ve established a strong data reporting system for the TB LON program.
Title of Abstract: The impact of COVID-19 on key TB recovery plan indicators in KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa, 2019 – 2022
“It is the first in-person conference following the COVID-19 pandemic, and I am looking forward to vibrant interactive discussions. I also greatly emphasise the commitment to the END TB strategy by all stakeholders.”
