MUTIMA

The MUTIMA Study (Myocardial Fibrosis and Steatosis Burden and Region-Specific Predictors of Progression among ART-Treated Women with HIV Infection in sub-Saharan Africa) is a two-year longitudinal cohort study investigating early signs of heart muscle disease in women living with HIV. While antiretroviral therapy (ART) has extended life expectancy, it has also led to a rising burden of cardiovascular complications, particularly among women who are often underrepresented in research. Conducted in Uganda and South Africa, the study follows 228 women living with HIV and HIV-negative controls—through clinical, imaging, and lifestyle assessments. It aims to quantify the burden of myocardial fibrosis and steatosis and to identify infectious, hormonal, and metabolic factors driving disease progression. Findings from MUTIMA will generate critical evidence to inform region-specific cardiovascular prevention strategies and improve long-term outcomes for women with HIV across sub-Saharan Africa.

In the MUTIMA Study, we are responsible for building and managing the data infrastructure that supports the project’s multi-country implementation. Our team developed the REDCap database used for capturing all clinical and research data, ensuring standardized and secure data collection across sites. We also configured tablet-based data entry systems and provided support for their deployment during study visits. In addition, we created custom dashboards to facilitate real-time reporting and monitoring, allowing study teams to track recruitment, data quality, and protocol adherence effectively. Our work contributes to the overall integrity and efficiency of the project and ensures that the data generated are reliable, accessible, and ready for high-impact analysis.