Dr Sarah Saleem, a distinguished public health expert and epidemiologist, has been appointed to the International Advisory Board (IAB) of the Lancet Global Health, one of the world’s most influential medical journals. This prestigious role recognizes her extensive experience in global health and exceptional contributions to maternal and reproductive health, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Why This Matters:
The Lancet Global Health plays a pivotal role in shaping global health policies and practices, publishing research that addresses critical health challenges. Dr Saleem's expertise and leadership will help guide the journal's editorial direction, ensuring it remains at the forefront of global health discourse.
As a member of the IAB, Dr Saleem will play a vital role in reviewing key research, offering guidance on editorial policies, and advocating for the journal within her professional circles. She will review high-impact research addressing the most pressing health challenges in low-resource settings and help ensure that the journal publishes cutting-edge studies that influence global health policy and improve health outcomes worldwide. Her responsibilities will also include providing strategic feedback on the journal's policies and promoting its work within her professional networks.
A Leader in Global Health Initiatives:
As a professor and head of the Population & Reproductive Health Section at AKU, Dr Saleem has dedicated her career to advancing maternal and reproductive health, particularly in low-resource settings. Her work spans research, policy development, and capacity-building, all aimed at improving health systems for vulnerable populations.
In addition to her role at Aga Khan University, Dr Saleem serves as the Director of the WHO Collaborating Center for Research, Policy, and Development in Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR). She also leads the HRP Hub for the WHO Eastern Mediterranean region, strengthening research capacity in sexual and reproductive health. Her research has had a profound impact on global health policy, particularly through her leadership in large-scale studies, such as her role as International Principal Investigator for the Global Network for Women’s and Children’s Health Research.
Championing Future Leaders:
Committed to nurturing the next generation of public health leaders, Dr Saleem emphasizes mentorship in health research. Reflecting on her career and this new appointment, she stated, “It is essential to nurture and empower the next generation of leaders. The future of global health lies in their hands, and we must make way for their ideas, innovation, and leadership.” This philosophy aligns with The Lancet Global Health's commitment to advance equity and inclusivity in research, ensuring emerging voices are central to shaping the future of global health.