Supriya Mehta

Dr. Supriya Mehta is Professor of Infectious Disease Medicine at Rush University, and Adjunct Professor of Epidemiology at University of Illinois Chicago. She has been collaborating on research in Kenya since 2007, working in western Kenya and Nairobi. An epidemiologist by training, Dr. Mehta’s research focuses on reducing sexually transmitted infections (STI) and improving vaginal and penile health, with attention to behavioral or structural factors that have broad impact. She has examined the impact of voluntary male circumcision on STIs in men and female partners, transmission of genital bacteria within couples, the impact of menstrual cups on the vaginal microbiome and STI risk among adolescent girls, young women and sex workers, and she has investigated the rectal and penile microbiome in relation to STIs among men who have sex with men. Having worked closely for many years with these vulnerable members of the Kisumu community, as well as with Kenyan officials and collaborators, she brings valuable experience to AheadKenya’s Board.