Every year in sub-Saharan Africa over 11 million people die, primarily due to infectious diseases. With over 25 million people living with HIV disease in this region, the burden of infectious diseases is even more apparent.  Laboratory capacity is a critical component of any successful strategy to address that crisis: quality laboratory testing is crucial to confirm clinical diagnoses, conduct accurate infectious disease surveillance, and direct public health policy.  The current laboratory infrastructure in Africa is insufficient to meet the needs of a population with increasing access to medicines and other therapies. 

The Laboratory Training Program is currently training leading African laboratory personnel in advanced techniques and quality assurance methods.  By the end of 2008 the program will have graduated nearly 50 trainees from the intense 2-week course and supervised laboratory placement.  Those trainees receive on-site support once back in their own HIV-related laboratories, enabling them to more effectively build capacity and mentor others. 

For more information on the Laboratory Training Program and other Accordia programs please contact Kelly Willis, Director of Program Development.