Our Research

The science behind Nurafya's diabetes management platform

Evidence-Based Approach

Nurafya's services are built on peer-reviewed epidemiological research and validated clinical tools, adapted specifically for African populations.

Risk Screening Methodology

Our diabetes risk screening is based on the Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC), a validated screening tool used globally. We've adapted this tool for African populations using:

  • Regional anthropometric data (BMI cutoffs adjusted for African populations)
  • Local risk factor prevalence from IDF Africa Region data
  • Cultural factors affecting dietary patterns and physical activity

African Nutritional Database

Our nutritional guidance draws from authoritative regional food composition databases:

  • FAO/INFOODS West African Food Composition Table (WAFCT 2019)

    509 food entries covering Nigerian, Ghanaian, and West African dishes with detailed nutritional composition.

  • Kenya Food Composition Tables (2018)

    Data on indigenous East African vegetables and traditional preparations.

  • South African Food Data System (SAFOODS)

    Comprehensive database managed by the SA Medical Research Council.

  • BioFoodComp

    Biodiversity database for differentiating between food cultivars and their nutritional profiles.

Glycemic Index Research

Our understanding of how African foods affect blood glucose is informed by published GI research on traditional African foods, including:

  • Cassava processing methods and glycemic response
  • Fermentation effects on starch digestibility
  • Composite meal studies in African contexts

Key Statistics Sources

The epidemiological data we reference comes from:

  • International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Atlas, 10th Edition - Primary source for diabetes prevalence statistics
  • WHO African Region Health Reports - Regional health infrastructure data
  • Peer-reviewed journals - Including The Lancet, BMJ Global Health, and African health journals

Ongoing Research

We are committed to continuous improvement through:

  • Crowdsourced glycemic response data (with user consent)
  • Academic partnerships with African universities
  • Validation studies of our screening algorithms

Research Partnerships

We welcome collaboration with academic institutions, public health organizations, and researchers working on diabetes in Africa. Contact us at research@nurafya.com.