Research, Education and Development
Advancing patient-centered research and innovation
VIONA RED is where science, care, and innovation meet. We lead research that deepens understanding of Africa’s health challenges, train the next generation of health workers, and build technology that transforms care at home. Our work turns data into solutions, informing policy, improving patient outcomes, and empowering communities across Ghana and beyond.
Research Briefs
Our research briefs highlight insights from high-priority areas that affect millions across Africa. Using data from our digital health platform, electronic health records, and field programs across all 16 regions of Ghana and beyond, we are building the evidence to guide better care delivery and policy decisions
Adolescent Health
Adolescence is often considered a healthy stage of life, yet choices made during this time can set the stage for future illnesses. At Viona, our research explores youth mental health, risk behaviors, accidents, obesity, nutrition, and physical activity, helping create preventive strategies for healthier adulthood
Aging
By 2050, Africa’s population aged 60+ is projected to triple. Our research focuses on geriatric health, including frailty, falls, dementia, and management of multiple chronic diseases. We also study home-based elderly care and dignified end-of-life support, creating care models rooted in family and community.
Breast Cancer
Breast cancer remains one of the leading cancers affecting African/black women. We investigate local risk factors, early detection strategies, treatment pathways, and patient outcomes, working to ensure women across Ghana can access timely, life-saving care.
Cardiovascular Disease
Heart disease and stroke are among the top killers globally, and Africa is no exception. Our studies focus on prevention, management, and rehabilitation of cardiovascular disease, including hypertension and heart failure, with an emphasis on lifestyle and home-care interventions.
Diabetes
Diabetes is rising rapidly across Ghana. Viona RED studies who is at greatest risk, prevention methods, treatment strategies, and associated health risks. Our diabetes home-care programs combine nurse support, medication guidance, and lifestyle education to improve long-term outcomes.
HIV & AIDS
Despite global progress, HIV continues to affect thousands each year in Africa. We research prevention strategies, treatment access, and stigma reduction, while also generating data to guide national HIV policy and improve community-based care.
Maternal & Child Health
Pregnancy and childbirth remain risky in many African settings. Our research examines prenatal risk factors, safe delivery practices, and maternal and newborn outcomes. We also focus on postpartum recovery and early child development.
Men's Health
African men face unique risks for conditions like prostate cancer, infertility, cardiovascular disease, and substance abuse. Viona RED studies these issues, while also exploring men’s mental health and access to preventive services.
Women's Health
African women encounter significant health challenges including maternal mortality, breast and cervical cancers, reproductive system disorders, and gender-based health disparities. Viona RED investigates these issues while advancing solutions in women’s mental health, preventive screenings, and access to quality maternal and gynecological care.
Obesity
Obesity is growing across urban Africa. We study its drivers, including diet and lifestyle, and test interventions that improve nutrition, physical activity, and community awareness to prevent chronic disease.
Substance Use Disorders
Tobacco, alcohol, and drug misuse remain challenges across Ghana. Our research evaluates prevention, treatment, and policy approaches while working to integrate addiction care into primary health services.
Vaccines & Immunization
Vaccination saves lives, yet coverage gaps remain. We study vaccine uptake, community hesitancy, and strategies to strengthen immunization systems, ensuring protection against preventable diseases from childhood through adulthood.
Special Care
Children and adults living with developmental and neurological conditions like Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, and cerebral palsy often face barriers to diagnosis, therapy, and inclusive care. Viona RED studies these gaps and develops models for early intervention, supportive therapies, caregiver training, and policies that promote dignity and inclusion.
Reproductive Health
Reproductive health affects individuals and families across all stages of life. Challenges such as infertility, family planning, sexually transmitted infections, and safe pregnancy outcomes remain pressing. Viona RED focuses on innovative approaches to reproductive education, treatment access, and interventions that safeguard reproductive rights and improve long-term wellbeing.
Mental Health
Anxiety, depression, and stress-related disorders are under-diagnosed but widespread. Our research seeks to understand their burden in Ghana and test community-based interventions that reduce stigma and improve access to care.
Ongoing Research
How to Participate
At Viona Health, research is not something done to people, it is done with them. Every patient, caregiver, and community member is a partner in building the knowledge that shapes Africa’s healthcare future.
By participating, you help us generate evidence that informs better care, stronger policies, and healthier lives, not just for Ghana, but for the continent and beyond.
Education & Home Support Programs
At Viona Health, we believe knowledge is as important as medicine. Our education programs equip patients and families with the skills to manage chronic conditions confidently at home, backed by our trained nurses and digital tools.
Stroke Recovery at Home
Living After a Stroke
A stroke can change speech, movement, and daily independence. Our stroke educators support recovery with home-based rehabilitation, safety planning, and caregiver training.
What We Teach:
- Recognizing early warning signs of another stroke
- Medication management (blood thinners, blood pressure control)
- Safe mobility exercises and fall prevention
- Speech and memory exercises with caregiver support
- Adapting the home for independence (bathroom safety, assistive devices)
Who Benefits?
Patients recovering from a stroke who want structured rehabilitation at home with consistent monitoring and guidance.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Understanding Hypertension
High blood pressure often has no symptoms but is a leading cause of stroke and heart disease in Ghana. Our program focuses on lifestyle changes, medication support, and regular monitoring to bring blood pressure under control.
What We Teach:
- How to check blood pressure at home with digital devices
- Reducing salt, alcohol, and stress
- Building a daily exercise routine
- Understanding medications and side effects
- Spotting warning signs like dizziness, chest pain, or headaches
Who Benefits?
Adults with newly diagnosed or uncontrolled high blood pressure, or those with a family history of cardiovascular disease.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
Living With Kidney Conditions
CKD often develops silently, linked to diabetes or hypertension. Our educators support patients in slowing disease progression and managing symptoms at home.
What We Teach:
- Dietary adjustments (low sodium, low protein where advised)
- Staying hydrated and monitoring swelling or changes in urination
- Managing medication and follow-up labs
- Preventing complications such as infections
- Emotional support for patients on dialysis or approaching dialysis
Elderly Care & Frailty
Supporting Healthy Aging
Older adults face unique health challenges, from falls to memory decline. Our education programs empower families to care for loved ones while preserving dignity.
What We Teach:
- Safe mobility and fall prevention
- Cognitive exercises and memory care support
- Medication organization and adherence
- Nutrition guidance for older adults
End-of-life care discussions with compassion
Heart Failure
Managing Heart Conditions at Home
Heart failure can make daily activities exhausting. Viona’s home-care educators teach patients and families how to manage symptoms and avoid hospital readmissions.
What We Teach:
- Monitoring weight and fluid retention
- Recognizing shortness of breath or chest pain early
- Following a low-salt diet
- Medication adherence and lifestyle changes
Energy conservation techniques
Clinical Care Research
Wound Care
Poorly healing wounds, whether from diabetes, infection, or circulatory issues are a major burden. Our wound care program combines home visits, education, and technology to monitor healing. We train patients and families on safe care while working alongside doctors for integrated treatment.
Common wounds we address:
- Pressure ulcers
- Diabetic ulcers
- Surgical wounds
- Traumatic wounds
- Circulatory and autoimmune-related wounds
We use digital monitoring tools, photos, and secure electronic records to track wound healing and improve outcomes.
