In an effort to address the significant burden of Neonatal Jaundice (NNJ) in Nigeria, Reckitt, a globally recognised leader in health, hygiene, and nutrition, has formed a partnership with Oscar Anderson, a distinguished Member of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE), and the Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA). Together, they have introduced the Project Oscar ‘Light for Life’ initiative, aimed at combating this critical health issue.
At the launch event, speakers emphasised the urgent need for such a program, highlighting that every child deserves a healthy and fair start in life. Unfortunately, for countless families, neonatal jaundice continues to pose a silent and often deadly threat.
It is frequently overlooked or left untreated until the condition becomes life-threatening. Toyin Saraki, the Founder and President of the Wellbeing Foundation Africa, commended this initiative, acknowledging the impact it would have on improving neonatal health outcomes in the country.
This groundbreaking program is specifically designed to tackle the urgent challenges posed by neonatal jaundice in Nigeria, a condition that affects approximately 60% of full-term newborns and nearly all preterm infants. The initiative focuses on three key areas: early screening, effective treatment, and the prevention of kernicterus, a severe form of brain damage caused by untreated jaundice.
The program was officially launched in Lagos, coinciding with the global observance of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, further underscoring the importance of addressing preventable conditions that contribute to lifelong disabilities.
Through this collaboration, Reckitt, Oscar Anderson, and the WBFA aim to make a lasting difference in the lives of newborns and their families, ensuring healthier futures and raising awareness about this preventable condition.
As Project Oscar embarks on its transformative mission in Nigeria, Reckitt and the Wellbeing Foundation Africa are calling on all stakeholders, including healthcare providers, policymakers, and community leaders, to unite and actively support the cause. Their shared goal is to drive sustainable improvements in neonatal care, ensuring better health outcomes for newborns across the nation.
The Progress of Project Oscar.
Since its inception in 2019, Project Oscar has successfully treated over 150,000 newborns, making a tangible impact on reducing neonatal jaundice-related complications and deaths. With this expansion to Nigeria, the program takes a significant step forward in its broader mission to combat neonatal mortality and prevent lifelong disabilities caused by untreated jaundice.
Despite these successes, numerous challenges persist in addressing neonatal jaundice effectively. Inadequate diagnostic tools limit the early identification of the condition, while unreliable phototherapy equipment hampers consistent and effective treatment.
Moreover, widespread misconceptions and a lack of awareness about neonatal jaundice further complicate efforts to manage the condition appropriately. Recognising these barriers, the initiative seeks to not only improve access to advanced screening and treatment methods but also to educate communities and healthcare professionals.
By fostering a deeper understanding of the condition, Project Oscar aims to dismantle the myths surrounding neonatal jaundice and establish a stronger foundation for comprehensive neonatal care in Nigeria. This expansion represents a call to action for all involved in the healthcare ecosystem, emphasizing the collective responsibility to protect the youngest and most vulnerable members of society.
Through collaboration and sustained advocacy, Project Oscar aspires to create lasting change in neonatal healthcare practices, ensuring every newborn has a chance to thrive.
