We recently celebrated a significant moment in our journey, the close-out ceremony of the IVON clinical trial that took place on January 18th, 2024 at Radisson Blu Hotel, GRA, Ikeja. In attendance were stakeholders from the Minister of Health, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Kano State Ministry of Health, Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), Lagos State Health Service Commission, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA). While the official end of the trial occurred on October 31st, 2023, the ceremony allowed us to reflect on the immense accomplishment we achieved.
The IVON clinical trial stands as a major milestone, marking the completion of the largest study worldwide on intravenous versus oral iron in pregnancy. The IVON trial aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of IV iron (intravenous ferric carboxymaltose) to oral ferrous sulfate for the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia in pregnant Nigerian women. Conducted across 11 health facilities in Kano and Lagos states, a total of 1,056 pregnant women at 20–32 weeks’ gestational age with moderate or severe anaemia were randomised into two groups. The intervention arm received one dose of intravenous ferric carboxymaltose(IV iron) at enrollment, while the control arm received thrice-daily oral ferrous sulfate tablets from enrollment until 6 weeks postpartum. All participants were followed up until 6 weeks post-partum.
The results showed that in comparison to oral iron, intravenous iron is safe and more effective in correcting iron deficiency anaemia.
Our success is a testament to the dedication and hard work of an extraordinary team. With over 80 co-investigators, statisticians, data managers, coordinating doctors, research nurses, research assistants, administrative staff, finance officers, legal advisers, consultants, and supervisors, each individual played a crucial role in the project’s success. Their collective effort and expertise propelled us to achieve what was once deemed impossible.
A heartfelt expression of gratitude goes to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation for entrusting us with this vital work. Their support and partnership have been instrumental in realising the goals of the IVON clinical trial, reinforcing the importance of collaborative efforts in advancing medical research.
Our deepest appreciation, however, goes to the wonderful pregnant Nigerian women who graciously participated in this rigorous clinical trial. Their willingness to be part of this groundbreaking study underscores the importance of community involvement in advancing healthcare. It is through their participation that we can now contribute invaluable insights to the global understanding of iron supplementation in pregnancy.
As we reflect on this journey, we stand proud of the accomplishments achieved and the lives impacted by the IVON clinical trial. This moment is not just an end but a new beginning, a testament to what collaboration, dedication, and a shared vision can achieve in the realm of medical research.
Thanks to everyone who played a part in this remarkable journey. The close-out ceremony was not just an event, it was a celebration of the collective efforts that have the potential to shape the future of maternal health worldwide.
