Busitema University and Mbale Clinical Research Institute (MCRI), in collaboration with the University of Bergen, have secured a grant of 1.1 million USD to investigate the potential of sunflower seed oil massage in improving the survival of premature infants in Uganda. 

Premature birth affects approximately 15 million newborns annually, predominantly in low- and middle-income countries like Uganda. Among the extremely premature babies (weighing less than 1.5 kilograms), nearly 40% succumb before the age of one. 

The urgent need for interventions to reduce mortality among premature babies is highlighted by the Sustainable Development Goal targets. One promising intervention is the topical application of sunflower seed oil, administered via gentle skin massage. 

Premature babies have delicate skin that promotes excessive water and heat loss, while also serving as an entry point for bacteria. Sunflower seed oil application strengthens the skin's barrier, aiding in weight gain, preventing infection, and reducing mortality. Interestingly, some cultures in Eastern and Northern Uganda traditionally apply shea butter, locally known as "Mooyao," to the skin of their newborns, with reported positive outcomes. However, routine newborn massage is not widely practiced. 

The research will be conducted at the Mbale Regional Hospital Neonatal Unit. Principal investigators from Uganda include Prof. David Mukunya and Dr. Kathy Burgoine, who will collaborate with Prof. Thorkild Tylleskar and Prof. Ingunn Engebretsen from the University of Bergen. Prof. Gary Darmstadt from Stanford University will also contribute as a key collaborator. Other co-investigators include Prof. Peter Olupot Olupot (Busitema University and MCRI), Prof. Milton Musaba, Dr. Agnes Napyo, Prof. Peter Waiswa (Makerere University), Andrew Clarke, and Sarah Williams from Save the Children UK. 

This collaborative study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of sunflower seed oil in enhancing survival rates among premature infants in Uganda. The findings could provide a safe and cost-effective intervention, especially in resource-limited settings, to reduce premature infant mortality and improve global health outcomes.