The American University of Antigua (AUA) Sickle Cell Association was a major contributor to the 2013 Antigua and Barbuda National Conference on Sickle Cell, which took place October 18-19.

The conference was hosted by the Antigua and Barbuda Sickle Cell Association. This year’s theme was “Hoping for a Brighter Future; Living Longer, Managing Sickle Cell.” Conference presenters included the founder of the AUA Sickle Cell Association Dr. Regina Vincent Clark and local and regional professionals including physicians, insurance brokers, and a nutritionist.

The AUA Sickle Cell Association was represented by husband and wife team Amisha and Avinash Oza, both of whom presented research on the incidence and prevalence of sickle cell in Antigua and Barbuda.  Director of the AUA Emergency Medical Training Department Vernon Solomon, and Assistant Professor, Physiology Dr. Elias B. Jackson served as moderators for the first two sessions of the conference.

Assistant Professor, Clinical Medicineand Faculty Advisor to the Sickle Cell Association Dr. Shari Jackson commended the national association for hosting an excellent event. Dr. Jackson applauded the Ozas for being exceptional representatives for AUA College of Medicine and commended them for their diligence and hard work. She stated that their research will assist local authorities in making informed decisions on the disease.