Hema Now | Episode 22
In this episode, host Jonathan Sackier is joined by Steven Okoli, Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer at Imperial College London. From leading the UK’s first adult stem cell transplant trial for sickle cell disease to driving innovation in AI-guided transfusion strategies, Okoli shares how clinical research, patient advocacy, and equity-driven care are reshaping the landscape of haemoglobinopathies in the UK and beyond.
Steven Okoli
Steven Okoli is an Honorary Senior Clinical Lecturer at Imperial College London. He leads the adult sickle cell stem cell transplantation programme and serves as the Clinical Specialty Research Lead for Haematology in the North West London NIHR Clinical Research Network for Northwest London. Okoli’s work focuses on transforming outcomes for patients with sickle cell disease through cutting-edge trials, data-led transfusion innovations, and national advocacy for equity in care.
Timestamps
00:00: Introduction
01:58: Quickfire round
09:09: Pioneering adult stem cell transplant in sickle cell
11:41: Combining AI and genetics for blood transfusion
13:58: Systemic disparities in sickle cell
20:58: Education and advocacy
23:30: Non-cancerous blood disorders
25:18: What’s next in sickle cell?
27:27: Okoli’s three wishes for healthcare
