Most Pressing Health Issues in South Sudan

Our health research program conducts evidence-based studies to inform policies, enhance healthcare services, and tackle South Sudan's unique health challenges, driving positive change and impactful solutions for communities.

1. Infectious Diseases

Malaria accounts for 45% of outpatient visits and 30% of hospital admissions (WHO, 2022). Malaria, tuberculosis (TB), and HIV/AIDS remain leading causes of morbidity and mortality. 15,000 people are affected by TB annually (WHO, 2021).

2. Maternal and Child Health

The maternal mortality ratio is 1,150 deaths per 100,000 live births, and the under-five mortality rate is 96 deaths per 1,000 live births (UNICEF, 2023).

3. Malnutrition and Food Security

Over 60% of the population faces acute food insecurity, and 31% of children under five suffer from chronic malnutrition (WFP, 2023).

4. Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH)

Only 41% of the population has access to clean water, and 11% have access to basic sanitation (WHO/UNICEF, 2023). Oxfam reports that only 55% of people in Juba have access to safe drinking water (n.d.).

5. Mental Health and Psychosocial Support

Years of conflict have left over 40% of South Sudanese with symptoms of PTSD, yet there are fewer than 5 psychiatrists serving the entire country (WHO, 2022). Stigma and lack of services further exacerbate the crisis.

5. Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)

Urban areas are witnessing a rise in NCDs like hypertension and diabetes. Preliminary data suggests 10-15% of adults in urban centers may have hypertension (Ministry of Health, South Sudan, 2021).

Nation at a Brink

The Need for Tailored Research

A one-size-fits-all approach is insufficient. South Sudan’s diverse environments—from arid regions to flood-prone areas—require context-specific solutions. Our researches will also consider the social fabric shaped by decades of conflict and cultural practices.

At HASS, we would like to carry out research that:

• Engages Communities: Ensures solutions are culturally appropriate and sustainable.

• Focuses on Environmental Adaptability: Addresses challenges like flooding and drought.

• Builds Local Capacity: Empowers local researchers and healthcare workers.

Health Research

Innovative research to improve healthcare and inform policy-making.

Research Initiatives

Health Action in South Sudan (HASS) focuses on research in:

• Maternal and Child Health: Barriers to maternal care, malnutrition, and vaccination coverage.

• Infectious Diseases: Malaria, HIV/AIDS, TB, and waterborne diseases.

• Health Quality and Systems: Access in rural areas, workforce training, and financing.

• Mental Health: Impact of conflict and community-based support.

• Non-Communicable Diseases: Rising NCDs and risk factors.

• Gender-Based Violence: Prevalence and response.

• Emergency Medical Services: Emergency responses and IDP health needs.

• Health Education: Improving health literacy… And many more.

Impact Studies

We conduct impact studies to assess the effectiveness of healthcare interventions, ensuring that our findings lead to tangible improvements in health outcomes across South Sudan.