In the fight against Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infections – the most prevalent bacterial pathogen responsible for stomach ulcers – Africa was once overlooked by global medical guidelines, but thanks to the vision and leadership of Prof Stella Ifeanyi Smith, a distinguished basic medical scientist with interests in molecular biology and biotechnology, that narrative is changing. 

Prof Smith, a Fellow of the African Academy of Sciences, Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science and Fellow of Academy of Medical Specialties has dedicated her career to understanding and combating H. pylori infections, which affect a significant portion of the African population. 

Through the years Prof Smith has led Africa’s charge against the H. pylori menace. Recognizing that existing medical guidelines on management and treatment of H. pylori fail to address Africa’s unique challenges-including limited resources, poor access to healthcare, and underdeveloped diagnostic facilities, Smith established the African Helicobacter and Microbiota Study Group (AHMSG) on 27 June 2022 in Lagos, Nigeria. 

As the founding President, Prof Smith spearheaded efforts to create an Africa-specific strategy to tackle one of the world’s most prevalent bacterial infections. The group brings together leading experts from across Africa and Europe to develop tailored diagnostic, treatment, and prevention strategies. 

Her contributions have earned her international recognition, including an appointment as the sole African consultant for the European Maastricht VI/Florence Italy Consensus project and the Real-World Gastritis Initiative project, which spans 29 countries. 

With 220 publications and 6,221 citations, Smith’s work continues to shape global perspectives on ulcer treatment. 

After years of relentless advocacy, Prof Smith and AHMSG have made undeniable impact, paving the way for policy changes, mobilizing top experts, and giving Africa a seat at the global table in H. pylori research. With continued efforts, Africa is reshaping global health conversations on H. pylori, in ensuring that treatment, prevention, and diagnosis are tailored to its realities. 

Original article written by Sola Ogundipe and published in Vanguard Nigeria.