From Community Studies to Surveillance Innovation
Each project represents not only scientific inquiry but also practical solutions for communities. Through epidemiological studies, operational health system evaluations, and environmental surveillance, we aim to strengthen health programs and build evidence-based strategies for disease prevention and control.
Community-Based Epidemiological Studies
Research focusing on population-level disease prevalence, risk factors, and determinants.
Assessment of Childhood Pneumonia Prevalence and Factors Associated With it in Puri District, Odisha
(2022-23)
Focus: Prevalence of acute respiratory infections (ARI) and pneumonia among under-five children.
Description: A community-based cross-sectional study conducted across urban and rural households in Puri. The research measured indoor air pollution, ventilation, cooking fuel use, overcrowding, and socio-economic determinants, linking them to ARI/pneumonia prevalence. It also studied nutritional and feeding practices to understand childhood vulnerability. Findings were crucial in shaping recommendations for improving indoor environments and child health programs. Role: Co-PI Funded by: NHM, Odisha
🫁 Operational Research on TB-DM Collaborative Activities
Studies examining implementation, integration, and effectiveness of public health programs.
An Operational Research on “National Framework for joint TB-Diabetes Collaborative Activities” in the District of Puri, Odisha (2023-24)
Focus: Evaluating India’s “National Framework” for TB–Diabetes collaboration.
Description: An operational research project analyzing the integration of bidirectional TB–diabetes screening and referral systems at the district level. It identified gaps in resources, coordination, and patient follow-up through system-level assessments and stakeholder input. Recommendations were made to strengthen health system linkages between TB and diabetes programs, both recognized as dual epidemics in India. Role: PI cum Guide Funded by: ICMR-STS 2023
🌍 Environmental & Public Health Surveillance Studies
Studies that use environmental data to detect and predict disease outbreaks.
Water Based Epidemiology For Early Detection and Developing Warning System for Covid19 Outbreak By Surveillance Of Sars-Cov-2 Virus In Lucknow,
Uttar Pradesh (2022-24)
Focus: Wastewater-based surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 as an early warning system.
Description: A doctoral thesis project employing wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA in sewage samples across Lucknow. With over 700 samples analyzed using RT-PCR, the study mapped geospatial distribution of viral loads and demonstrated that WBE can predict case surges days to weeks before clinical data. The findings show WBE’s potential as a cost-effective, scalable surveillance system for pandemics and future infectious disease threats. Role: Co-PI & Co-Gide Funded by: Swosthi Group