ATS MECOR Kenya 2025 Course

The ATS MECOR (Methods in Epidemiologic, Clinical and Operations Research) course in Kenya, held from September 1-5, 2025, was a resounding success, fostering significant advancements in lung health research capacity across Africa. The program featured intensive training, practical workshops in spirometry and air quality monitoring, and invaluable mentoring sessions by experts MAMA MECOR –  Sonia Buist and Stephen Gordon. A special highlight was the visit by ATS President Raed Dwein, underscoring the global importance of the initiative. Supported by ATS, Cambridge Africa, and Chiesi Foundation, the course provided participants from Level 1, 2, and 3 classes with comprehensive education and numerous opportunities for continued professional development, ultimately strengthening regional capabilities in addressing respiratory diseases.

Pre-Course Workshops

Prior to the main course, on August 31, 2025, participants had the opportunity to engage in practical, hands-on pre-course workshops. These workshops were specifically designed to provide essential skills tailored to the realities of field research in Africa.

Spirometry Training

Spirometry Training This training began with a 6weeks online training prior practical on site training. provided participants with practical knowledge and skills in performing and interpreting spirometry tests, crucial for accurate assessment of lung function in various clinical and research settings. Led by Lindsay Zurba

Air Quality Monitoring

The second pre-course workshop addressed air quality monitoring- led by Prof Sean Semple and Prof Ben Nemery. Given the significant impact of environmental factors on respiratory health, this session equipped participants with methods and techniques to monitor air quality. This training is vital for understanding the burden of disease and developing interventions related to air pollution in African communities.

4. Course Structure and Content

The ATS MECOR course in Kenya offered a structured learning experience across three distinct levels, catering to participants with varying levels of research experience. The comprehensive curriculum ensured that all attendees, from beginners to advanced researchers, received relevant and impactful training throughout the week.

Level 1 Classes: Measuring the Burden of Disease

Level 1 focused on foundational epidemiologic concepts, providing participants with the skills to measure the burden of respiratory diseases. This included understanding disease prevalence, incidence, and mortality, as well as basic statistical methods essential for public health research.

Level 2 Classes: Advanced Epidemiologic Methods

Building upon Level 1, the Level 2 classes delved into more advanced epidemiologic methods. Participants explored complex study designs, data analysis techniques, and interpretation of research findings, preparing them for more sophisticated research projects.

Level 3 Classes: Operations Research and Implementation Science

Level 3 was dedicated to operations research and implementation science, focusing on how to translate research findings into effective public health interventions. This level equipped participants with the skills to design and evaluate programs that improve healthcare delivery and outcomes in real-world settings.

5. Mentoring Sessions

A significant component of the ATS MECOR course was the provision of dedicated mentoring sessions, offering participants invaluable personalized guidance and support. These sessions were a unique opportunity for attendees to interact closely with leading experts in the field.

Dr. Sonia Buist

Dr. Sonia Buist, a distinguished past ATS president and the visionary founder of the MECOR program, led several impactful mentoring sessions. Her extensive experience and profound insights into lung health research provided students with critical perspectives on study design, data interpretation, and career development. Through both one-on-one and group interactions, Dr. Buist fostered an environment of learning and encouraged participants to pursue high-quality, impactful research.

Stephen Gordon

Stephen Gordon, a prominent figure known for his research in the prevention and treatment of lung infections, also contributed significantly to the mentoring aspect of the course. His sessions focused on practical challenges and innovative approaches in respiratory health research, particularly within the context of African healthcare settings. Professor Gordon’s involvement underscored the program’s commitment to building robust research capacity and addressing region-specific health challenges.

Pictures accessible here – https://photos.app.goo.gl/yjcR9U2gCTdWvjD99

Visit by ATS President Raed Dwein

The ATS MECOR Kenya 2025 course was honoured by a special visit from the current ATS President, Raed Dwein. President Dwein’s presence highlighted the American Thoracic Society’s deep commitment to global lung health initiatives and its support for capacity building in regions like Africa. His address to the participants served as an inspiration, reinforcing the importance of their work in advancing respiratory health and research.

7. Acknowledgements

The success of the ATS MECOR Kenya 2025 course would not have been possible without the generous support and collaboration of several key organizations. The American Thoracic Society (ATS), Cambridge Africa and CHIESI Foundation

Special thanks are extended to all faculty members, mentors, and administrative staff whose tireless efforts and dedication ensured a high-quality and impactful learning experience for all attendees.