Who we are

PATS is a respiratory society made up of healthcare professionals from across the continent and beyond. Formed in 2003, we now have over 1,000 members from 65 countries.  

PATS aims to promote lung health in Africa, the continent most afflicted by morbidity and death from respiratory diseases, by promoting education, research, advocacy, optimal care and the development of African capacity to address respiratory challenges in the continent. 

PATS is a registered Non-Profit Organisation (221-195-NPO).

We continuously partner with other regional and international respiratory organisations in global efforts to improve lung health.

PATS is overseen by an Executive Committee with members who are influential in the field of African thoracic medicine.


Dr. Joseph Aluoch

Dr. Joseph Aluoch

Immediate Past President

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Dr. Obianuju Ozoh

Dr. Obianuju Ozoh

Vice President - Anglophone

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Prof. Mbatchou Ngahane Bertrand Hugo

Prof. Mbatchou Ngahane Bertrand Hugo

Vice President - Francophone

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Prof. Heather Zar

Prof. Heather Zar

Executive Member

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Dr. Ivan Schewitz

Dr. Ivan Schewitz

Executive member

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Dr. Kevin Mortimer

Dr. Kevin Mortimer

PATS MECOR Deputy Director

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Dr. Charl Verwey

Dr. Charl Verwey

Executive Member

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Prof. Marco Zampoli

Prof. Marco Zampoli

JPATS Editor in Chief

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