Associate Professor of Hematology
University of Calabar, Nigeria
Calabar, Cross River
Dr. Patience Antigha Ubong Akpan is an accomplished Associate Professor of Haematology at the University of Calabar, Nigeria, with a distinguished career dedicated to advancing the fields of haematology and blood transfusion science. She holds a Ph.D. in Blood Physiology and an M.Sc. in Haematology, both from the University of Calabar, underpinning her deep expertise. Her primary research investigates platelet physiology and its role in immunity, haemostasis, and inflammation, with a specific focus on interactions with major infections such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV prevalent in resource-limited settings. This research is critical for understanding and improving transfusion safety and patient outcomes in these contexts.
Her work is characterized by a strong commitment to addressing local public health challenges through rigorous scientific inquiry. Dr. Akpan has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications examining haematological parameters in various at-risk groups, from street children and pregnant women to workers exposed to environmental chemicals. She has also presented significant findings at major international conferences, including recent presentations on commercial blood donors and platelet activation in infectious diseases at the British Blood Transfusion Society and British Society for Haematology annual meetings in 2025. Her research provides essential, on-the-ground data that informs evidence-based strategies for donor health monitoring and safe blood transfusion practices.
Recognized as a leader in her field, Dr. Akpan has received multiple prestigious awards and travel grants, including the British Blood Transfusion Society George W. Bird Travel Scholarship and a Tertiary Education Trust Fund research grant. Her professional memberships span key organizations such as the International Society for Thrombosis and Haemostasis, Haematology and Blood Transfusion Scientists Society of Nigeria and British Blood Transfusion Society. Combined with her extensive teaching experience and role as Chairman of the Postgraduate Board, her expertise makes her an authoritative voice on the intersection of laboratory science, infectious disease, and transfusion medicine in Africa, directly aligning with the session's goal of building sustainable, safe blood systems.
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