Chidiebere Emmanuel Okechukwu

@nhs.net

Cardiology
University Hospitals Plymouth NHS trust

Chidiebere Emmanuel Okechukwu
Dr. Chidiebere Emmanuel Okechukwu, PhD, FRSPH, is a prominent healthcare scientist specializing in clinical echocardiography and public health. Born on July 1, 1992, in Aba, Nigeria, he exhibited an early interest in human physiology, leading him to earn a BSc in Physiology from Nnamdi Azikiwe University. His academic pursuits took him to Europe, where he obtained an MSc in Physical Activity and Health Promotion from the University of Rome, Tor Vergata, with a focus on cardiac rehabilitation. This experience deepened his understanding of the link between physical health and cardiac disease management. He further advanced his expertise by earning a Postgraduate Certificate with Distinction in Clinical Echocardiography from the University of the West of England, equipping him with skills vital for cardiovascular diagnostics.
Eager to broaden his impact, Dr. Okechukwu pursued a PhD in infectious diseases, microbiology, and public health at Sapienza University of Rome.

EDUCATION

BSc in Physiology, Nnamdi Azikiwe University
MSc in Physical Activity and Health Promotion, University of Rome, Tor Vergata
PGCert in Clinical Echocardiography, University of the West of England
PhD in Infectious Diseases, Microbiology, and Public Health, Sapienza University of Rome

RESEARCH, TEACHING, or OTHER INTERESTS

Physiology (medical), Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health, Health Professions, Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine
751

Scholar Citations

12

Scholar h-index

18

Scholar i10-index

RECENT SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS

  • Why Portable Handheld Cardiac Ultrasound Devices Ought to Incorporate 3-lead Electrocardiographs: A Mini-narrative Review
    CE Okechukwu
    Apollo Medicine 22 (5), 427-431 , 2025
    2025
  • An Evidence-based Review of the Clinical Effectiveness of Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation and Transplantation Versus Oocyte Cryopreservation and Subsequent IVF in Adult Women …
    CE Okechukwu
    Apollo Medicine, 09760016251342302 , 2025
    2025
  • The association between levels of physical activity and lifestyle, life expectancy, and quality of life in patients with Alzheimer’s disease
    S Gholamalishahi, SA Hosseini, E Ettorre, A Mannocci, CE Okechukwu, ...
    Journal of Clinical Medicine 12 (23), 7327 , 2023
    2023
    Citations: 3
  • Circadian rhythm and mental health relationships among nurses working night shifts in the era of COVID-19 pandemic
    CE Okechukwu
    Università degli Studi di Roma" La Sapienza" , 2023
    2023
    Citations: 1
  • Prevalence of Malaria Parasitemia and Perceptions of the Use of Long‑Lasting Insecticide Nets in a Sample of Pregnant Women in a Malaria‑Endemic Nigerian Community
    PU Umeanaeto, RN Ugbe, CO Benjamin, IS Okwelogu, CE Okechukwu, ...
    Apollo Medicine , 2023
    2023
  • The relationship between working night shifts and depression among nurses: a systematic review and meta-analysis
    CE Okechukwu, C Colaprico, S Di Mario, AG Oko-Oboh, D Shaholli, ...
    Healthcare 11 (7), 937 , 2023
    2023
    Citations: 69
  • Lifestyle behaviors among Canadian nurses working night shifts in the COVID-19 era: a pilot study
    CE Okechukwu, D Robertson, G La Torre, M Ogenchuk
    La Clinica Terapeutica 174 (2) , 2023
    2023
    Citations: 5
  • Effects of Tai Chi and Qigong on fatigue and quality of life in patients with breast cancer: A narrative review of systematic reviews and meta‑analyses
    S Gholamalishahi, CE Okechukwu, G La Torre, A Mannocci
    Cancer Research, Statistics, and Treatment 5 (4), 685-91 , 2023
    2023
    Citations: 4
  • Effectiveness of bright light exposure, modafinil and armodafinil for improving alertness during working time among nurses on the night shift: A systematic review
    CE Okechukwu, CE Okechukwu, GL Torre
    International Journal of Healthcare Management 15 (4), 336-346 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 5
  • From uro-oncologists’ perspectives: golf as a means of improving wellbeing among prostate cancer survivors
    CE Okechukwu, A Agag, N Naushad, S Abbas, AA Deb
    Supportive Care in Cancer 30 (9), 7053-7056 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 2
  • Surveillance of venomous arthropods on a Nigerian Public University campus: An ecological study
    O Vivian Ogbusu, AE Onyido, CE Okechukwu, IS Okwelogu
    MGM Journal of Medical Sciences 9 (3), 281-290 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 1
  • Benefits of exercise oncology courses for medical oncology trainees
    CE Okechukwu
    Postgraduate Medical Journal 98 (e3), e151-e152 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 2
  • Biological and practical considerations regarding circadian rhythm and mental health relationships among nurses working night shifts: a narrative review and recommendations
    CE Okechukwu, DG Mark, MG Carta, E Nwobodo, SM Shariful Islam, ...
    Il Pensiero Scientifico Editore srl , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 32
  • Lifestyle and Life Expectancy Questionnaire: validation and assessment in an Italian sample
    S Gholamalishahi, A Mannocci, E Ettorre, G La Torre, CE Okechukwu
    La Clinica Terapeutica 173 (2) , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 7
  • How effective is daytime oral exogenous melatonin supplementation in improving sleep quality and duration?
    CE Okechukwu, CE Okechukwu
    MGM Journal of Medical Sciences 9 (2), 254-255 , 2022
    2022
  • The neurophysiologic basis of the human sleep–wake cycle and the physiopathology of the circadian clock: a narrative review
    CE Okechukwu
    The Egyptian Journal of Neurology, Psychiatry and Neurosurgery 58 (1), 34 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 38
  • Knowledge, attitudes and control practices regarding venomous arthropods among staff and students in a Nigerian public university campus
    VO Ogbusu, AE Onyido, CE Okechukwu, IS Okwelogu
    Transactions of The Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene 116 (3 … , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 5
  • A call for improved mental health workforce in low-income countries
    CE Okechukwu
    International Journal of Social Psychiatry 68 (2), 465-467 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 14
  • Precautionary measures before tailoring and commencing a tele-supervised home-based exercise oncology program for older patients with cancer and post-treatment cancer survivors …
    CE Okechukwu, CE Okechukwu, AA Deb, A Agag, N Naushad, S Abbas
    Journal of Geriatric Oncology 13 (2), 241-244 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 10
  • The need to improve resources for the prevention and treatment of gambling-related mental health issues in Italy
    CE Okechukwu
    World Social Psychiatry 4 (1), 46-47 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 1

MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS

  • The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on mental health of Nurses
    Okechukwu, Chidiebere Emmanuel, Laura Tibaldi, ‪Giuseppe La Torre
    La Clinica Terapeutica 171 (5), 399-400 , 2020
    2020
    Citations: 193
  • The relationship between working night shifts and depression among nurses: a systematic review and meta-analysis
    CE Okechukwu, C Colaprico, S Di Mario, AG Oko-Oboh, D Shaholli, ...
    Healthcare 11 (7), 937 , 2023
    2023
    Citations: 69
  • Does the use of mobile phone affect male fertility? A mini-review
    CE Okechukwu
    Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences 13 (3), 174 , 2020
    2020
    Citations: 50
  • The neurophysiologic basis of the human sleep–wake cycle and the physiopathology of the circadian clock: a narrative review
    CE Okechukwu
    The Egyptian Journal of Neurology, Psychiatry and Neurosurgery 58 (1), 34 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 38
  • Biological and practical considerations regarding circadian rhythm and mental health relationships among nurses working night shifts: a narrative review and recommendations
    CE Okechukwu, DG Mark, MG Carta, E Nwobodo, SM Shariful Islam, ...
    Il Pensiero Scientifico Editore srl , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 32
  • Shortage of psychiatrists: A barrier to effective mental health-care delivery in Nigeria
    CE Okechukwu
    International Journal of Noncommunicable Diseases 5 (1), 22-23 , 2020
    2020
    Citations: 30
  • The impact of loneliness on physical and mental health among older adults in the era of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic
    CE Okechukwu
    Apollo Medicine 18 (1), 29 , 2021
    2021
    Citations: 24
  • Effects of radiofrequency electromagnetic field exposure on neurophysiology
    CE Okechukwu
    Advances in Human Biology 10 (1), 6-10 , 2020
    2020
    Citations: 23
  • Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise as an adjunct intervention to improve sleep quality among rotating shift nurses
    CE Okechukwu, M Daniele, DE Gabriele, G La Torre
    La Clinica Terapeutica 173 (2), 184-186 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 21
  • A call for improved mental health workforce in low-income countries
    CE Okechukwu
    International Journal of Social Psychiatry 68 (2), 465-467 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 14
  • Effects of mobile phone radiation and exercise on testicular function in male Wistar rats
    CE Okechukwu
    Nigerian Journal of Experimental and Clinical Biosciences 6 (2), 51-58 , 2018
    2018
    Citations: 13
  • The need for a nationwide epidemiological study on the gambling disorder caused by compulsive sports betting in Nigeria: A narrative review
    CE Okechukwu
    Apollo Medicine 19 (1), 32-36 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 12
  • Physical activity as preventive therapy for older adults: A narrative review
    CE Okechukwu, D Abdalla Ali, E Shady, Samy A, Abbas
    Nigerian Journal of Experimental and Clinical Biosciences 7 (2), 82-92 , 2020
    2020
    Citations: 12
  • Physical activity and prostate cancer: a systematic review
    Deb AA, Okechukwu CE, Emara S, Abbas SA
    Urology & Nephrology Open Access Journal 7 (5), 117‒129 , 2019
    2019
    Citations: 12
  • Inflammatory cytokines induced by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection during pregnancy may alter fetal brain development predisposing the offspring to …
    CE Okechukwu
    Nigerian Journal of Experimental and Clinical Biosciences 9 (1), 58 , 2021
    2021
    Citations: 11
  • Effectiveness of physical activity in the prevention and treatment of hypertension: A mini review
    CE Okechukwu
    CHRISMED Journal of Health and Research 7 (1), 1 , 2020
    2020
    Citations: 11
  • Precautionary measures before tailoring and commencing a tele-supervised home-based exercise oncology program for older patients with cancer and post-treatment cancer survivors …
    CE Okechukwu, CE Okechukwu, AA Deb, A Agag, N Naushad, S Abbas
    Journal of Geriatric Oncology 13 (2), 241-244 , 2022
    2022
    Citations: 10
  • Role of exercise in the treatment of gambling disorder
    CE Okechukwu
    Nigerian Journal of Experimental and Clinical Biosciences 7 (1), 50-54 , 2019
    2019
    Citations: 10
  • Cross Talk between the Ketogenic Diet and Metastatic Prostate Cancer Cells
    CE Okechukwu
    The World Journal of Men's Health 39 , 2021
    2021
    Citations: 9
  • The downregulation of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 expression may be associated with depression and anxiety among patients with severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2
    CE Okechukwu
    Current Medical Issues 19 (3), 218-219 , 2021
    2021
    Citations: 8

GRANT DETAILS

Dr. Chidiebere Emmanuel Okechukwu, PhD, FRSPH, has distinguished himself as a recipient of multiple prestigious grants and scholarships, reflecting his academic excellence and research contributions in public health and epidemiology. His funding achievements, primarily from Sapienza University of Rome and the University of Rome Tor Vergata, underscore his impactful work in healthcare 2022, Dr. Okechukwu received the Young Researchers Grant from Sapienza University of Rome, recognizing his innovative research in public health, particularly in mental health and epidemiology. This followed his 2021 Young Researchers Grant from the same institution, which supported his doctoral work on circadian rhythm and mental health relationships among nurses. These grants, awarded through competitive processes, highlight his ability to secure funding for cutting-edge research.

Dr. Okechukwu also earned the Laziodisco Scholarship from Sapienza University in 2019, 2020, and 2021, administered by DISCO Lazio, a regional body supporting education and knowledge access. These scholarships, based on merit and income criteria, provided exemptions from university fees and additional benefits like discounted catering, enabling him to focus on his PhD studies. Similarly, in 2018, he was awarded the Laziodisco Scholarship at the University of Rome Tor Vergata during his MSc in Physical Activity and Health Promotion, supporting his early research in cardiac rehabilitation.

CONSULTANCY

Dr Chidiebere Emmanuel Okechukwu possess more than 6 years experience in teaching and mentoring medical students.
Dr. Chidiebere Emmanuel Okechukwu, PhD, FRSPH, demonstrates exceptional consultancy skills in healthcare and research, particularly through his contributions to curriculum design, public health education, and clinical research. His expertise significantly enhances academic programs, healthcare delivery, and research initiatives, with a focus on epidemiology, mental health, and cardiovascular academia, Dr. Okechukwu excels in designing and delivering forward-looking public health curricula. At Sapienza University of Rome, he led teaching and research in mental health and workplace health for three years, coordinating the "IPHAN" e-workplace wellness intervention for nurses. His inclusive, blended teaching approach—integrating problem-based learning, interactive lectures, and eLearning platforms—engages students and aligns with university standards. He ensures assessments challenge students for MBBS examinations, provides timely feedback, and uses student and external examiner input to refine curricula. His supervision of undergraduate and master’s theses in public health and epidemiology further showcases his mentorship research consultancy, Dr. Okechukwu’s proficiency spans epidemiological research, clinical trial design, and ethical evaluations.

Industry, Institute, or Organisation Collaboration

Dr. Chidiebere Emmanuel Okechukwu has engaged in significant collaborations across industry, institutes, and organizations, leveraging his expertise in clinical echocardiography, public health, and epidemiology. His key affiliations and collaborative efforts include:Industry Collaboration:University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust: As a Healthcare Scientist, Dr. Okechukwu works on transthoracic echocardiography, collaborating with clinical teams to enhance cardiovascular diagnostics and patient care. His role as a Therapeutic Care Support Worker involves coordinating with healthcare professionals to support patient recovery, bridging hospital and community care.

Institute Collaboration:
Sapienza University of Rome: During his PhD (2019–2023), Dr. Okechukwu led the "IPHAN" study, an e-workplace wellness intervention for nurses, approved by the university’s ethics committee. He collaborated with the Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, teaching and researching mental health and workplace health for nursing and medical students.

University of Saskatchewan, Canada: As a visiting research scholar, he contributed to clinical research, including quality assessments and ethical evaluations for randomized controlled trials (RCTs), collaborating with the College of Nursing on epidemiological studies.

Organization Collaboration:Royal Society for Public Health (FRSPH): As a Fellow, Dr. Okechukwu engages with global health professionals, advocating for best practices.

INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE

Dr. Chidiebere Emmanuel Okechukwu, PhD, FRSPH, has over five years of industry experience in healthcare science and public health, with a focus on clinical echocardiography. He currently works as a Healthcare Scientist at University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, specializing in transthoracic echocardiography, where he performs and reports diagnostic imaging with precision to support cardiovascular patient care. His role involves generating comprehensive reports for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Additionally, as a Therapeutic Care Support Worker at the same trust, he facilitates patient transitions from hospital to home, promoting recovery and independence. Dr. Okechukwu’s expertise extends to public health, where he has designed policies and managed health services research, from local community initiatives to national programs, particularly targeting infectious diseases. His work includes over 100 publications, contributing significantly to healthcare delivery, mental health, and psychosocial rehabilitation.

SOCIAL, ECONOMIC, or ACADEMIC BENEFITS

Social Benefits: Dr. Okechukwu’s expertise in transthoracic echocardiography ensures accurate cardiovascular diagnoses, improving patient outcomes and quality of life. His role as a Therapeutic Care Support Worker facilitates patient transitions from hospital to home, promoting independence and reducing readmissions. His public health initiatives, focused on infectious disease control and health promotion, enhance community well-being, particularly through culturally sensitive, patient-centered care models that empower individuals with health knowledge.

Economic Benefits: By improving diagnostic accuracy and patient recovery, Dr. Okechukwu reduces healthcare costs associated with prolonged hospital stays and complications. His public health strategies optimize resource allocation in health programs, potentially lowering the economic burden of disease outbreaks. His research informs cost-effective policies, benefiting healthcare systems like the NHS.

Academic Benefits: With over 100 publications, Dr. Okechukwu advances knowledge in echocardiography, mental health, and public health. His past role as a freelance lecturer (2015–2022) educated medical students globally, fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals. His fellowship with the Royal Society for Public Health drives academic discourse and best practices.