University of Richmond Health Studies Professor Nigel James Wins Global Health Award for Breast Cancer Screening Research

UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND — Health studies professor Nigel James recently received a national award from the American Public Health Association for his research on breast cancer screening.

James was awarded the 2025 APHA Cancer Forum Global Health Award for his — “Transforming Detection: Assessing the Impact of Task Shifting in Nurse-Led Breast Cancer Screening in Rural Ghana.” James received the highest award in the global health category.

James and three students he is mentoring presented this research and received the award during the APHA 2025 Annual Meeting and Expo in early November as part of a Cancer Forum Poster Session focused on research to improve cancer screening in diverse settings.

“It’s wonderful to bring additional attention to the need for breast cancer and other preventative screenings to low- and middle-income countries like Ghana, where socioeconomic and development challenges create health system constraints and barriers to affordable screening and treatment services,” said James. “This award is especially meaningful as my students supported this research.”

James, who has worked at the University of Richmond since fall 2024, is a global health specialist and health policy researcher. He plans to continue expanding his Ghana research program and is currently focusing on prevention and care related to cardiovascular diseases. James' extensive background in public health spans several continents, including sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the U.S. 

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