12/05/2026
Africa is home to about 20% of the world’s population, yet only about 3% of global clinical trials happen here. In pulmonary hypertension, it is even more limited, with most research on the continent taking place in South Africa.
As someone living with pulmonary hypertension in Nigeria, I have never had the opportunity to participate in a clinical
trial The causes of pulmonary hypertension here often differ from those in high-income countries. Conditions like sickle cell disease, HIV, congenital heart disease, schistosomiasis, and rheumatic heart disease play a major role in our communities.
These realities are still underrepresented in global research.
When I read about clinical trials, new treatments, and promising results, there is a quiet awareness that we are not yet included in the story. That patients like me are still waiting at the door of progress.
But I hold on to hope. Because the future I believe in is one where every patient, regardless of where they live, is included in clinical trials, represented in the data, and able to share in the breakthroughs that can save lives. That future is worth fighting for.
And I truly believe it is coming.”
Ayotunde Omitogun
