<p>The human heart pumps approximately 23,000 litres of blood throughout the body daily. Heart failure occurs when the heart fails to pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s needs.</p><p>This article will explore the causes, prevention, and management of heart failure.</p><h2><strong>What is heart failure?</strong></h2><p>Heart failure is a complex clinical syndrome characterized by your heart’s inability to pump blood sufficiently to meet your body’s needs.</p><p>Initially, your body compensates for the inadequate blood supply through different mechanisms, such as:</p><ul><li><strong>Enlargement of the heart</strong>: your heart stretches to generate a greater force to pump blood.</li><li><strong>Increased heart muscle mass</strong>: your heart muscles expand to generate a stronger force of contraction.</li><li><strong>Narrowing of the arteries</strong>: your arteries, the blood vessels that carry blood from your heart, may narrow to increase the contracting pressure to help your failing heart maintain arterial pressure.</li><li><strong>Blood shunting</strong>: If heart failure is severe, the body may redirect blood from peripheral areas like the skin to vital organs like the heart, kidneys, and brain.</li></ul><p>Because of these compensatory mechanisms, you may not have symptoms initially. However, the compensation is temporary and may not solve the underlying problem.</p><p>If the heart failure is not properly managed, the compensatory mechanisms may fail, and you may start to have symptoms like breathlessness, fatigue, persistent dry cough, and other signs of heart failure.</p><h2><strong>Signs and symptoms of heart failure</strong></h2><p>Patients with &nbsp;heart failure may have signs and symptoms such as:</p><ul><li>Shortness of breath</li><li>Dry cough</li><li>Cold extremities with bluish lips</li><li>Pallor</li><li>Tiredness</li><li>Fatigue from &nbsp;minimum exertion</li><li>Swelling of the legs and/or abdomen from fluid retention</li><li>Poor appetite</li><li>Nausea</li></ul><h2><strong>Types of heart failure</strong></h2><p>Heart failure can be classified based on the <strong>location</strong> of the failure and the type of heart <strong>function </strong>that fails.</p><h3><strong>Heart failure types based on location</strong></h3><p>You could have either a right-side heart failure or a left-side heart failure.</p><ul><li><strong>Right-sided heart failure</strong> affects the right side of the heart, where the right ventricle pumps blood to the lungs. When the right side fails, blood backs up into the veins, causing your legs, ankles, and abdomen to swell.</li><li><strong>Left-sided heart failure</strong> occurs when the left ventricle can’t efficiently pump blood to the rest of the body. Fluid builds up in the lungs, causing shortness of breath.</li></ul><p>If the heart failure is from both the right and the left ventricles, it is called congestive heart failure.</p><h3><strong>Heart failure types based on function</strong></h3><p>Depending on which aspect of heart function that fails, you could experience either systolic heart failure or diastolic heart failure.</p><ul><li><strong>Systolic heart failure</strong> happens when the heart can’t pump blood because it’s weak or enlarged.</li><li><strong>Diastolic heart failure</strong> happens when the heart muscle doesn’t relax because it’s stiff, which leads to inadequate filling of the heart.</li></ul><h2><strong>Causes of Heart Failure in Africa</strong></h2><p>The causes of heart failure in Africa vary across the continent, but the common causes among the general population include:</p><ul><li>Hypertension</li><li>Coronary artery disease (CAD)</li><li>Cardiomyopathy</li><li>Rheumatic heart disease</li><li>Chronic lung disease</li><li>Pericardial diseases like constrictive pericarditis, pericardial effusion</li><li>HIV</li></ul><p>Hypertension is the leading cause of heart failure in &nbsp;Nigeria.</p><p>Unlike hypertension, coronary artery disease (CAD) and its complications are less common in Africa but are gradually becoming more prevalent due to:</p><ul><li>Lifestyle modifications,</li><li>Smoking</li><li>Drinking of alcohol</li><li>Urbanization</li></ul><p>Other causes of heart failure include:</p><ul><li>Excessive salt intake</li><li>Smoking or sniffing tobacco of any kind</li><li>Excessive alcohol intake</li><li>Infection</li><li>Use of certain medications like anticancer drugs, stimulants, etc.</li><li>Autoimmune diseases like lupus erythematosus</li></ul><h2><strong>Risk factors</strong></h2><p>Risk factors for heart failure in sub-Saharan Africa include:</p><ul><li>Hypertension</li><li>Diabetes</li><li>Dyslipidaemia</li><li>Kidney disease</li><li>Smoking</li><li>High alcohol intake</li><li>Myocarditis</li><li>HIV</li><li>Pregnancy</li></ul><p>Other risk factors include:</p><ul><li>Rheumatic Heart Disease</li><li>Obesity</li><li>Dilated cardiomyopathy</li><li>Anaemia</li></ul><h2><strong>Diagnosis</strong></h2><p>Your doctor will take your medical history, examine you, and ask you to do:</p><ul><li>A chest x-ray,</li><li>An ECG (electrocardiogram)</li><li>Blood test</li><li>Echocardiogram</li></ul><p>A heart MRI or CT scan, PET scan, or angiogram may sometimes be requested.</p><h2><strong>Treatment and Prevention of Heart Failure</strong></h2><p>The treatment of heart failure depends on the cause of your heart failure and the type and severity of your heart failure.</p><p>If the cause is hypertension, you may need to take anti-heart failure drugs plus anti-hypertensives and adjust your diet and lifestyle.</p><p>If it’s an infection, you may need antibiotics.</p><p>If the problem is with your heart valves, you may need surgery.</p><p>If these treatments don’t work, a heart transplant may be recommended for you.</p><p>Whatever the cause, heart failure management is both pharmacological and non-pharmacological.</p><h3><strong>Pharmacological</strong> <strong>management</strong></h3><p>This type of management includes drugs such as:</p><ul><li>Angiotensin receptor blockers (ARB)</li><li>Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors</li><li>Angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs)</li><li>Diuretics</li><li>Vasodilators</li><li>Digitalis</li><li>Beta-blockers</li><li>Aldosterone blockers</li><li>Statins</li></ul><p>The drugs help to</p><ul><li>Reduce your blood pressure</li><li>Relax your blood vessels</li><li>Reduce the amount of fluid and sodium in your body</li><li>Strengthen the contraction of your heart muscles</li><li>Reduce your heart rate</li><li>Reduce the level amount of unhealthy cholesterol in your blood</li></ul><h3><strong>Non-pharmacological</strong> <strong>management</strong></h3><p>This type of management does not include drugs. It only requires you to:</p><ul><li>Reduce your salt intake</li><li>Reduce your alcohol intake</li><li>Quit smoking</li><li>Exercise regularly as much as you can tolerate</li><li>Control your blood sugar if you’re diabetic</li><li>Reduce your body weight if you’re overweight or obese</li></ul><p>Heart failure caused by physical damage to the heart may require surgery, such as:</p><ul><li>Valvular repair or replacement</li><li>Device implantation</li><li>Heart transplantation</li></ul><h2><strong>Complications of Heart Failure</strong></h2><p>If your heart failure is not treated at all or is treated poorly, it may lead to life-threatening complications like congestive heart failure, which is a failure of both the right and left sides of your heart. This causes worse and more dangerous symptoms.</p><p>Other complications of heart failure include:</p><ul><li>Pulmonary hypertension</li><li>Kidney or liver damage</li><li>Cardiac arrest</li><li>Pulmonary oedema</li><li>Irregular heartbeat</li><li>Stroke</li></ul><h2><strong>What is the prognosis of heart failure?</strong></h2><p>The outlook (prognosis) for heart failure is poor. People with the disease have a life expectancy of about five years from diagnosis, so it’s necessary to seek expert care as soon as you realise that your heart may be failing.</p><h2><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2><p>Heart failure is better prevented than treated. Once it has begun, there is no permanent cure, and no treatment can reverse the damage.</p><p>If you’re at risk, like if you are hypertensive, have diabetes or any other chronic disease, adjust your diet and lifestyle as recommended, and be regular with your drugs and clinical checkups.</p><p>Having heart failure doesn’t mean the end of the world. You can still enjoy life if you follow the steps outlined in this article and your doctor’s advice.</p>

Heart Failure: Causes, Prevention and Management

<h2>What is acute kidney injury?</h2><p>Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden decrease in the ability of the kidney to filter the blood, resulting in a reduction in urine production. This decrease disturbs the balance of body fluids and electrolytes, causing the body to retain wastes.</p><p>Although a problem worldwide, acute kidney injury is more common in Africa than elsewhere. Available data indicates that the disease is common among 10 - 40% of adults in sub-Saharan Africa.</p><h2>Symptoms and signs of AKI</h2><p>Most patients do not know that they have an acute kidney injury because the condition does not often present with clinical symptoms. However, the following symptoms might be present in some:</p><ul><li>Decreased urine output</li><li>Edema: generalized body swelling</li><li>Hypertension</li><li>Weakness</li><li>Nausea</li><li>Coma, in severe cases</li></ul><h1><strong>Classification of AKI</strong></h1><p>Acute kidney injury is classified based on the location of the cause of the injury. The classifications could be:</p><ul><li><strong>Pre-renal AKI</strong> - if the cause of the injury is <i>before </i>the kidney</li><li><strong>Renal or intrinsic AKI</strong> - if the injury is <i>within </i>the kidney</li><li><strong>Post renal AKI</strong> - if the injury is caused by factors <i>after </i>the kidney, such as the obstruction of the ureter, a tube that carries urine from the kidney to the bladder, by a stone.</li></ul><p>Only the intrinsic acute kidney injury represents true kidney disease. Pre-renal and post-renal forms of the disease are the consequences of non-kidney diseases that lead to a decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR).</p><h2>Stages of acute kidney injury</h2><p>There are four main stages in the development of an acute kidney injury:</p><ul><li>Initiation</li><li>Oligo-anuria</li><li>Polyuria</li><li>Restitution</li></ul><p>These four stages restore kidney functions and should last a maximum period of three months, if the injury does not cause significant damage to the kidney.</p><p>However, the injury can progress to a chronic kidney disease if it persists for more than three months.</p><h1><strong>Causes of AKI in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)</strong></h1><p>The most common causes of acute kidney injury in Africa include:</p><ul><li>Malaria</li><li>HIV</li><li>Nephrotoxic agents such as traditional herbal concoctions</li><li>Envenomation from snakebite</li><li>Chronic conditions like diabetes mellitus and hypertension</li><li>Obstetric complications</li><li>Use of skin lightening (bleaching) creams containing mercury</li></ul><h2>Who is at risk of acute kidney injury?</h2><p>Anyone can come down with acute kidney injury but some classes of people are especially at higher risk. These sets of people include:</p><ul><li>People living with chronic illnesses like diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and sickle cell disease</li><li>Patients with sepsis</li><li>Patients with poorly treated urinary tract infection</li><li>People who abuse nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)</li><li>Elderly patients</li><li>People with blocked urinary tract</li><li>Users of certain antibiotics like aminoglycosides</li><li>Patients with dehydration from diarrhea or exercise</li><li>Patrons of traditional practices that involve lacerations of people with unsterilised tools</li><li>People observing prolonged fasting without water</li><li>Poor people who drink herbal concoctions</li></ul>

The Burden Of Acute Kidney Injury (Aki) In Africa

<p>Vaccines work. They prevent diseases and save lives, and governments worldwide have national vaccination programmes to protect you and your loved ones against potentially life-threatening illnesses.</p><p>In this article, we will discuss vaccination, its importance, some critical issues relating to vaccines and the current vaccination schedule in Nigeria.</p><h2>What is a Vaccine?</h2><p>A vaccine is a weakened or dead form of disease-causing microorganisms or parts of the microorganism that is introduced to the body to trigger a mock immune response. When the vaccine succeeds in eliciting an immune response in your body, you become immunized.</p><p>Through immunization, your white blood cells produce antibodies that neutralize microorganisms when they invade. When you are then exposed to an active microorganism that can cause an actual disease, your immune system recognizes and eliminates it quickly.</p><p>Vaccines work when you get them before you contract a disease. It prepares you ahead to fight the disease. That’s why you must get vaccinated early and encourage more people to get their vaccine shots, too.</p><h2>What is Vaccination?</h2><p>Vaccination is the act of giving someone a vaccine to protect them from a disease. It prompts the body to respond better to infections, and ensures that we do not get really sick from common infections.</p><p>Thanks to vaccination, we have been able to eradicate or minimize the impact of diseases like polio, smallpox, tetanus, whooping cough, and measles.</p><h2>Why is Vaccination Important?</h2><p>Vaccines are a great way to prevent infections and diseases, but their importance goes beyond prevention. Other important benefits of vaccines include</p><ul><li><strong>Herd Immunity:</strong> Vaccinating enough people can protect everyone, especially those who cannot or are yet to receive the vaccine. So, when you get vaccinated, you’ll protect yourself and your family and community.</li><li><strong>Life-Saving and Disease Burden Reduction: </strong>Vaccines prevent infections with life-threatening bacteria and viruses, saving lives and lessening the disease burden on healthcare systems.</li><li><strong>Reduction of Disease Severity: </strong>Vaccines mount an immediate and effective immune response, reducing the need for extensive medical treatment and hospitalisation, which can be costly for individuals and the healthcare system.</li><li><strong>Protection of Future Generations:</strong> Vaccines prevent disease transmission through generations by eradicating them.</li><li><strong>Special Protection for Vulnerable Groups:</strong> Vaccines protect pregnant women, infants, and young children who are more likely to develop severe complications from vaccine-preventable infections.</li></ul>

Vaccination: A Vital Tool in the Fight Against Diseases in Nigeria

<p>Human blood belongs to one of four main blood groups: A, AB, B, and O. Each of these groups can also be positive or negative for the Rhesus factor, which means you can have an A positive or an A negative blood, just as you can have for AB, &nbsp;B, and O blood groups. But what does this grouping mean to you, and why should you care?</p><h2>Blood antigens and antibodies</h2><p>Blood grouping is based on the presence or absence of antigens and antibodies in your blood. Antigens are proteins found on the red cell surface, while antibodies are natural proteins in plasma.</p><p>An antigen triggers your immune system to generate antibodies. The antibodies alert your body to destroy the antigens they recognise as foreign.</p><p>Red blood cells have different types of antigens used to group them. The most commonly recognised blood groups are:</p><ul><li>The ABO blood grouping system</li><li>The Rhesus (Rh) blood grouping system</li></ul><h3>ABO system</h3><p>In the ABO system, the blood group is based on the presence or absence of the A and B antigens. There are four blood groups in this grouping system.</p><ul><li><strong>Group A </strong>- has A antigen and anti-B antibody</li><li><strong>Group B</strong> - has B antigen and anti-A antibody</li><li><strong>Group AB</strong> - has both A and B antigens but no antibodies</li><li><strong>Group O</strong> - has no antigens but has both anti-A and anti-B antibodies</li></ul><p>Group O blood is the most common blood group in Nigeria. More than half of Nigerians (53%) have group O blood. Very few (less than 4%) have group AB blood.</p><p>According to the ABO grouping system, your body tolerates the antigens in your blood and produces antibodies against the antigens you do not have.</p><h3>ABO blood compatibility</h3><p>The ABO blood grouping determines who you can donate blood to or receive blood from. This is known as blood compatibility or the capacity of blood from two individuals to combine without destroying each other.</p><p>Blood transfusion can safely be done only between two compatible blood groups. This means you must only receive blood your body will not react to.</p><p>For example, if you have blood group A, your safest option is to receive blood group A. If you receive blood from an incompatible blood group, say group B, your anti-B antibodies will attack the B antigens on the donor red cells, which could be life-threatening.</p><p>A safer option will be to receive group O blood. Because the group O blood has no antigen, it can safely be given to people with any other blood group.</p><p>The ABO blood grouping compatibility is summarised as follows:</p><ul><li><strong>Group A</strong>: individuals with this blood group can donate to individuals with group A or AB blood but can receive blood only from individuals with group A or O blood.</li><li><strong>Group B</strong>: individuals with this blood group can donate to individuals with group B or AB blood but can receive blood only from individuals with group B or group O blood.</li><li><strong>Group AB</strong>: individuals with this blood group can donate only to individuals with group AB blood but can receive blood from any other blood group.</li><li><strong>Group O</strong>: individuals with this blood group can donate to individuals with any blood group but can receive blood only from individuals with group O blood.<strong>.</strong></li></ul><h3>Rh system</h3><p>In the Rh blood grouping system, the blood group is classified depending on the presence of the Rhesus (Rh) factor. The Rh factor is coded for by the D antigen. So if your blood has the Rhesus factor, you are Rhesus-D positive (RhD-positive). If it does not, you are Rhesus-D negative (RhD-negative).</p><p>The ABO and Rhesus grouping systems are often taken together to give your blood type. That means your blood group can be one of the following:</p><ul><li>O-negative (O-)</li><li>O-positive (O+)</li><li>A-negative (A-)</li><li>A-positive (A+)</li><li>B-negative (B-)</li><li>B-positive (B+)</li><li>AB-positive (AB+)</li><li>AB-negative (AB-)</li></ul><p>Individuals with AB-positive blood are considered <strong>universal recipients</strong> because they can receive blood from any other blood group, while a person with type O-negative blood is considered a <strong>universal donor</strong> because their blood can be safely given to anyone.</p><h3>Rhesus compatibility</h3><p>Rhesus compatibility is not often considered in blood group grouping and crossmatching for blood transfusion, but the compatibility between a pregnant woman and the foetus is is very important.</p><p>A child can inherit the Rhesus-D antigen from either the mother or father. If the mother is RhD-negative but the child is RhD-positive due to inheritance of Rhesus-D antigen from the father, there will be Rhesus incompatibility between the mother and child.</p><p>The mother may produce anti-D antibodies that react with the child’s RhD antigens, causing severe complications for the child. This is preventable. Speak with your obstetrician or gynaecologist to discuss the preventions if you are a RhD-negative mother.</p><h3>How to check your blood group</h3><p><img src="https://codahosted.io/docs/RFnoaIhszt/blobs/bl-KPoc-F91zM/99da81c8e83d1e78c80740560405f0e9439d66968b6b95d5c19a384a542758c9854337ff45b581f79256b7e73496d0062c3fa94dc84cc3fc6fbdaf5a07979cc0fb71433bd49d7e92dae47f8f9f655bb20dac12a9d1ec8386349bea2dcd7153740a6cdff9" alt="image.webp"></p><p><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ics-codablock-blood-bag_sample.jpg">ICSident at German Wikipedia</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0">CC BY-SA 3.0</a>, via Wikimedia Commons</p><p>You can check your blood group by visiting a registered laboratory. A laboratory scientist will collect your blood and test it for the blood group antigens that we've outlined.</p><p>The scientist will tie a tourniquet around your wrist or arm and insert a syringe into a vein to collect your blood into a sample bottle or syringe.</p><p>Your red blood cells will then be mixed with reagents containing antibodies against the common red cell antigens. That is, anti-A and anti-B antibodies—a third reagent containing anti-D antibody test0s for Rhesus-D (RhD) antigen.</p><p>The nature of the reaction between your red blood cells and the reagents determines your blood group. Remember, blood group antigens will react with their corresponding antibodies.</p><p>Therefore, if you have A antigens on your red blood cells, they will react with anti-A antibody reagents and clump together. The reaction will appear like pellets. If the antigens on your red blood cell are different from the antibodies in the reagent, they will not react; your blood will remain fluid.</p><p>If your blood reacts to anti-A and anti-B antibody reagents, it means you have blood group AB. Individuals with blood group O do not have antigens on their red blood cells, so their blood does not react with anti-A and anti-B antibodies.</p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Knowing your blood group is important for safe blood transfusion and pregnancy. It helps you to avoid or prevent severe complications that may affect individuals receiving blood transfusion or newborns. It is also important during emergencies as it will ensure timely treatment. Your knowledge could help you determine your susceptibility to certain diseases and your ancestry. Check your blood group today.</p>

Does Your Blood Group Really Matter?

Otitis Media in Africa: Causes, Risk Factors, Treatment, Prevention and Complications

<h2><strong>Management of diabetes depends on the type:</strong></h2><h3><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);"><strong>Type 1 diabetes</strong></span></h3><ul><li>Lifetime insulin therapy</li><li>Regular blood glucose monitoring</li><li>Balanced diet</li><li>Regular exercise</li><li>Mental health support</li><li>Mother and child education</li></ul><h3><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);"><strong>Type 2 diabetes</strong></span></h3><ul><li>Low carbohydrate and fat diet</li><li>Balanced diet</li><li>Regular exercise</li><li>Oral antidiabetic medication</li><li>Insulin therapy</li></ul><h2><strong>Diabetes complications can be life-threatening</strong></h2><p>Children with diabetes often present late to hospitals, especially after they have developed complications. Some of these complications include:</p><ul><li>Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)</li><li>Hypoglycaemia</li><li>Diabetic retinopathy</li><li>Diabetic nephropathy</li><li>Cardiovascular diseases</li><li>Infections</li></ul><p>These complications may manifest as:</p><ul><li>Nausea</li><li>Vomiting</li><li>Abdominal pain</li><li>Fruity breath</li><li>Sudden chest pain</li><li>Blurred vision</li><li>Loss of consciousness</li></ul><p>Early diagnosis and management, coupled with good blood glucose control, can prevent or delay the onset of these complications.</p><h3><strong>You can delay or prevent the onset of diabetes</strong></h3><p>The auto-immune nature of type 1 diabetes makes it challenging to prevent, but you can prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes with some pretty basic steps.</p><ul><li>Encourage your child to eat healthy diet</li><li>Regular physical activity</li><li>Maintaining a healthy weight</li><li>Limiting screen time</li><li>Regular check-ups</li></ul><h2><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);"><strong>What can the government do?</strong></span></h2><p>The government is vital in implementing policies and programs that promote diabetes education, prevention, and management.</p><p>Firstly, the government can allocate funds to support research and development of new treatment methods and technologies for diabetes management in children. This research can help improve the understanding of diabetes, leading to better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for young patients.</p><p>Secondly, the government can implement policies that promote healthy lifestyle choices for children. This can include providing nutritious meals in schools, promoting physical activity, and restricting the availability of unhealthy food choices.</p><p>Such policies can help reduce the risk of diabetes in children and promote healthy living habits.</p><p>The government can also provide education and awareness programs for parents and caregivers of young children with diabetes. These programs can offer guidance on managing diabetes at home, including monitoring blood glucose levels, administering insulin, and controlling hypoglycaemia.</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Diabetes affects children, too, and the number of children it affects is on the rise. The risk factors for diabetes in children include junk diet, obesity, prolonged screen time, little or no physical activity, parents with diabetes, and more. The onset of diabetes can be avoided with dietary and lifestyle adjustments; children with confirmed diabetes must visit a doctor for expert management.</p><p>Diabetes is a chronic disorder that can be difficult to manage, especially the type 1 variety.</p><blockquote><p>Children with the disease may need lifetime management. This can be expensive and discomforting for the child. Parents must watch out for the risk factors and avoid them as much as possible. Please see a doctor if you have any concerns.</p></blockquote>

Diabetes in Nigerian children is becoming more common. It happens when the body can’t make or use insulin properly. This can be due to family history, poor diet, or not being active. Managing it early with healthy food, exercise, and the right treatment helps children live well.

How to manage your child's diabetes.

Children's Health

Managing high blood pressure in Nigerian children means finding it early, eating healthier, being more active, and using medicine if needed.

How to manage your child's hypertension

<p>Anaemia is when haemoglobin (Hb) concentration and red blood cell (RBC) numbers are lower than expected and insufficient to meet the amount you need to function effectively. This means that the RBCs will not be able to carry enough oxygen.</p><ul><li>Anaemia affects roughly one-third of the world’s population, with more than 60% of them in Africa</li><li>It’s often a sign of nutritional deficiency and ill health</li><li>Anaemia is also associated with death and disease in women and children.</li></ul><h2>Anaemia symptoms</h2><p><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);">Anaemia is subtle at the earliest. The body tries to compensate for the inadequacy initially, but symptoms may appear as the anaemia continues or worsens. The symptoms may include:</span></p><ul><li><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);">Pale skin (pallor)</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);">Cold hands and feet</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);">Tiredness or weakness</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);">Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling like you are about to pass out</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);">Fast or unusual heartbeat</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);">Shortness of breath</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);">Headache</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);">Pain</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);">Poor growth</span></li></ul><p><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);">The severity of the symptoms depends on the level of anaemia, the persistence of the cause, and how well the body compensates for the inadequacy.</span></p><h2>What are the causes of anaemia in Africa</h2><p>Anaemia occurs either because:</p><ol><li>the body does not produce enough blood or</li><li>an excess number of red cells are destroyed, or</li><li>the body is losing blood at a faster rate than it produces</li></ol><p>These three mechanisms result from many causes. The common causes of anaemia in Nigeria include</p><ul><li>genetic conditions (e.g., thalassemia in parts of the Mediterranean, sickle cell in Africa)</li><li>nutritional deficiencies other than iron deficiency (i.e., folic acid, vitamins A and B-12)</li><li>factors related to reproduction (e.g., high fertility, obstetric complications, contraceptives)</li><li>infections (e.g., HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, diarrhoea) that increase requirements for iron and other micronutrients</li><li>parasitic infections such as malaria and worm infestation</li></ul><p><strong>Malaria</strong> is a leading cause of anaemia in Sub-Saharan Africa, as is iron deficiency.</p><h2>Risk factors</h2><p>The following factors place you at increased risk of anaemia, they include:</p><ul><li><strong>Nutritional deficiency:</strong> low intake of minerals and vitamins, such as iron, copper, vitamin B-12, and folate</li><li><strong>Intestinal disorders:</strong> intestinal disorders such as Crohn’s disease and celiac disease affect the absorption of nutrients in your small intestine and increase your risk of developing anaemia</li><li><strong>Menstrual disorders:</strong> excess blood loss during menstruation is a risk factor</li><li><strong>Pregnancy:</strong> Increased energy and nutrient demands and fluid retention during pregnancy can lead to anaemia</li><li><strong>Chronic conditions:</strong> Chronic conditions like cancer or longstanding infections deplete your iron stores, while kidney failure can affect the release of the hormone that controls blood production.</li></ul><p>Chronic blood loss from an ulcer or other sources within the body can deplete the body's store of iron, leading to iron deficiency anaemia.</p><ul><li><strong>Family history: </strong>inherited conditions, such as sickle cell anaemia, make you vulnerable to becoming anaemic due to increased destruction of red cells</li><li><strong>Old age:</strong> People over age 65 are at increased risk of anaemia</li></ul><p>Other factors include blood diseases like haemophilia, autoimmune disorders, alcoholism, exposure to toxic chemicals like camphor, and the use of some medications can affect red blood cell production and lead to anaemia.</p>

Anaemia is on the rise in Africa, driven by malaria, sickle cell disease, and poor nutrition. Learn the causes, risks, and how to prevent it.

Anaemia in Africa

Health News and Research

<p>Pre-eclampsia is a complication of pregnancy that affects about<span style="color:rgb(15,88,189);"> </span><a href="https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2022.05.18.22275250v1.full">5–8%&nbsp;</a>of all pregnant women in Nigeria and Africa. It is a leading cause of maternal and infant morbidity and mortality in Nigeria and Africa.</p><p>The International Society for the Study of Hypertension in Pregnancy <a href="https://isshp.org/the-definition-of-severe-and-early-onset-preeclampsia-statements-from-the-isshp/">defines</a> pre-eclampsia as hypertension that occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy with one or more of proteinuria (protein in the urine) and abnormalities in organ function.</p><p>The symptoms of pre-eclampsia can be subtle and may not appear until late in pregnancy, which is why it is often referred to as the “silent killer” of pregnant women.</p><h2>Causes of pre-eclampsia</h2><p>The exact cause of pre-eclampsia is unknown. However, research suggests that pre-eclampsia may result from problems with the blood vessels in the placenta may cause it.</p><p>The placenta is the organ that connects the baby to the mother's blood supply. In pre-eclampsia, the blood vessels in the placenta become narrowed, which can decrease blood flow to the baby.</p><h2>Signs and symptoms of pre-eclampsia</h2><p>Pregnant women with pre-eclampsia may present with:</p><ul><li>High blood pressure</li><li>Protein in the urine</li><li>Swelling in the face, hands, and feet</li><li>Sudden weight gain</li><li>Headaches</li><li>Vision changes</li><li>Abdominal pain (you can say epigastric pain)</li><li>Nausea and vomiting</li></ul><p>It is important to note that these symptoms may not always be present, and some women may not experience any symptoms at all. That is why pregnant women should attend all their antenatal appointments and have their blood pressure and urine checked regularly.</p><h2>Pre-eclampsia may hurt the mother and baby</h2><p>Untreated pre-eclampsia can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, and even stillbirth. In addition, pre-eclampsia can cause severe damage to the mother's organs, such as the liver and kidneys, and increase the risk of stroke and other complications such as eclampsia.</p><h2>Who is at risk of pre-eclampsia?</h2><p>Several risk factors can increase a woman's chances of developing pre-eclampsia. These include:</p><ul><li>First-time pregnancy</li><li>Age (women over 40 are at higher risk)</li><li>Multiple pregnancies (i.e., women carrying multiple babies like twins, triplets etc.)</li><li>Obesity</li><li>A family history of pre-eclampsia</li><li>Chronic hypertension</li><li>Diabetes</li><li>Kidney disease</li><li>Lupus</li></ul><p>Also, a woman is more likely to get pre-eclampsia again if she has had it during a previous pregnancy.</p><p>Studies have shown that pre-eclampsia happens more often in Africa than in other parts of the world. This is likely due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.</p>

No pregnant woman should have to worry about pre-eclampsia. Understanding the risks can help ensure a safe pregnancy.

What Every Nigerian Woman should know about Pre-eclampsia

Women's Health

<p>Food is more than just something that tastes good and fills you up. It is an essential part of our lives and plays a critical role in maintaining good health and fueling our bodies.</p><p>But not all foods are the same. Understanding the different classes of food and what they contain will help you decide on what to eat, what they do, and how you should eat to introduce and maintain your body in its best shape.</p><h2>What are Classes of Food?</h2><p>Classes of food are groups of foods that have similar nutrients and work in the body in similar ways. There are six major classes of food: carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water.</p><h2>Carbohydrates give you energy</h2><p><img src="https://codahosted.io/docs/Q4z25SVB9N/blobs/bl-G7BWrt52YG/3fcad8744b1bddf3c75889cfd02131a6cd989da281aed45cc7377b696693f40475d876bdf7d70adc849df060299cfbd45180dc155d2d9f5c9a173e322fb268babe0fbf3a97239aab82cbadb9eb65b295c7dcdb453ed2dfa6551b5d8306ef140f2a3cbbaf" alt="image.webp"></p><p><a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/assortment-common-food-allergens-people_33757336.htm#query=carbohydrates&amp;position=1&amp;from_view=keyword&amp;track=sph&amp;uuid=f0919fbe-c696-4808-b971-d6a506938a8d">Image by&nbsp;Freepik</a></p><p>While carbohydrates have gotten a bad reputation for contributing to diabetes and weight gain, they are essential in keeping you fit and energized. Foods such as yams, bread, rice, potatoes, and some fruits are chief sources of carbohydrates, which are a type of macronutrient that serves as body fuel. This is why you should include carbohydrates in your diet.</p><h3>Types of carbohydrates</h3><p>There are two main types of carbohydrates: simple carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates.</p><ul><li><strong>Simple carbohydrates </strong>are a type of carbohydrate that undergo no further processing to produce energy. They are found in sugary foods and provide a quick burst of energy.</li><li><strong>Complex carbohydrates</strong>, on the other hand, need to be broken down to provide a slower release of energy. They are found in starchy foods like rice, yam, and whole grains, which are metabolised to provide sustained energy.</li></ul><h3>How to incorporate carbohydrates into your diet</h3><p>Choose whole grain products, such as wheat bread and brown rice, instead of refined grain products, such as white bread and white rice. Supplement these with a collection of fruits and vegetables to make your diet for a healthy source of carbohydrates.</p><h2>Vitamins and Minerals for Vitality</h2><p><img src="https://codahosted.io/docs/Q4z25SVB9N/blobs/bl-3QYxjDKZE-/bb442bda56d2279ab8821500e0ed06ec96b09b42b4158cca3a3a96cd23baec1c08ac4f5363147bffed9b7eb73187a7b93ef1e3e5566fa53f48941b0d2201c62e9b974afb9125fa050709936b192578748385d379314822095bc60f3bde240e85b2c734b7" alt="image.webp"></p><p><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/kiwis-and-oranges-1cWZgnBhZRs">Photo by Luke Michael</a></p><p>The body needs vitamins and minerals in small amounts to function properly. Vitamins and minerals have a vital role in everything from building strong bones and maintaining good health to boosting our immune system.</p><p>Some of the most important vitamins and minerals include vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. You can get these nutrients from a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, dairy products, whole grains, and lean protein sources.</p><h3>Types of Vitamins and Minerals</h3><p>There are 13 essential vitamins, including vitamins A, C, D, and E. Each vitamin has its unique function, such as maintaining healthy skin and supporting the immune system.</p><p>There are also many different types of minerals, including calcium, iron, and magnesium. Each mineral has its unique function in the body, such as building strong bones and helping regulate the heart's rhythm.</p><h3>Role of Vitamins and Minerals in the Body</h3><p>Vitamins and minerals play a crucial role in many processes in the body, including growth, metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, building strong bones, regulating heart function, transmitting nerve impulses, and disease prevention.</p><p>They also help to protect cells and tissues, maintain fluid balance, and support the maintenance of a healthy immune system.</p><h3>How to incorporate more vitamins and minerals into your diet</h3><p>Fruits and veggies are the chief source of vitamins and minerals. For instance, leafy greens, such as spinach and kale, are a good source of calcium and iron. Orange is rich in vitamin C.</p><p>Additionally, meat, poultry, and dairy products, such as milk and yogurt, are rich in iron and calcium and are a good source of Vitamin D. Seafood is a good source of magnesium and iodine. Nuts, seeds, and legumes are good sources of magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium.</p><h2>Water</h2><p><img src="https://codahosted.io/docs/Q4z25SVB9N/blobs/bl-npFOyINATN/4fc05a3fc7acfddce80456f02028d6bed187176654b99f9cab04c19d37cc651026186c97cf5debf877fbb92ad15c6d4f2914d5130b9d330dbe684daaff34d68c58eec4f8363a155f0ca76ae84b6592a1f7dbb78032f15ea9f0cb1653da8b75876832edc7" alt="image.webp"></p><p><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/pouring-water-on-persons-hands-YpZ2cj4s0oo">Photo by mrjn Photography</a></p><p>Our body is made up of 70% water, so it’s only natural for water to be very essential to play a central role in our diet, digestion, and wellbeing. &nbsp;Water helps to regulate our body temperature, lubricates joints, removes or flushes out waste products and toxins, and helps transport nutrients throughout the body. It is also important for hydration and maintaining healthy skin and eyes.</p><h3>How to stay hydrated all day</h3><p>It is recommended to drink at least 15 cups or glasses (3 to 4 litres, or 6 to 8 sachets of water) per day. If you’re in a hot environment like Nigeria, you may need to drink more. But the exact amount of water you need can change depending on your age, gender, level of activity, and health in general.</p><h2>Bottom Line</h2><p>A balanced diet is a diet containing a healthy blend of the different classes of food we’ve discussed. Fill your plate with a variety of components from each food group.</p><p><img src="https://codahosted.io/docs/Q4z25SVB9N/blobs/bl-_lSkZ4YPT1/ec4d27ce65e8d72d2a2f3bf40fcc5103b7366f7440e55b8efefb8334a54970c1afe4abcb489980447aa0877d71c8d24fe020a4944c578f4ff0a7b5b63794f880fec34eb106890bb6f5936951e0530e699f7b0f2965433f3583204c77fd70c85c99298fa7" alt="image.webp"></p><p><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/fruit-salad-on-gray-bowls-HlNcigvUi4Q">Photo by Brooke Lark</a></p><p>Personalise your diet and ensure your health is at the top of your scale when selecting what food to eat.</p><p>While several dietary guidelines recommend different daily dietary regimens for individuals, there are no universal diet guidelines. So it’s helpful to tailor the guidelines to your individual needs and circumstances.</p><p>Remember that everyone's nutritional needs are different and may change throughout their lives, depending on factors like age, gender, specific health conditions and physical activity levels.</p><p>Speaking with a registered dietitian or healthcare provider can help you determine what a healthy and balanced diet looks like for you.</p>

From proteins to carbohydrates, understanding food classes helps you make better dietary choices for a balanced and healthy life.

The ABCs of Food and Why Food Classes Matter

<p>Hypertension by <a href="http://www.nyphotographic.com/">Nick Youngson</a> <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/">CC BY-SA 3.0</a> <a href="https://pix4free.org/">Pix4free</a></p><ol><li>High blood pressure is more common in adults, but it’s now becoming a problem in children too.</li><li>It can happen because of health problems like kidney or heart issues, or from unhealthy habits.</li><li>More children are getting high blood pressure because many are overweight and not active enough.</li></ol><p>As parents, we often worry about our children's health and well-being, from ensuring they eat healthy foods to getting the best medical attention that we can afford whenever they are ill. But have you ever considered their blood pressure?</p><p>While hypertension is often seen as a condition that affects adults, it can also affect children and adolescents, and it is on the rise.</p><h2>How common is hypertension in children?</h2><p>Although it is more common in adults, hypertension in children is becoming recognized as a significant health issue.</p><p>It can result from underlying conditions, such as kidney disease or heart abnormalities, or develop as primary hypertension, often linked to obesity, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. Increased rates of childhood obesity have contributed to a rise in hypertension among children.</p><p>A <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589537021005101">review&nbsp;</a>of studies on hypertension in Africa finds that about 7% of African children are hypertensive and that the number is rising due to an increase in the number of children who are overweight or obese.</p><h2>Types of hypertension in children</h2><p>Hypertension could be primary or secondary.</p><p>Primary hypertension, or essential hypertension, is a condition of high blood pressure in which the cause is unknown. Primary hypertension runs in families and is the most common type of hypertension in children.</p><p>Secondary hypertension is high blood pressure with a known cause, such as renal disease, heart disease, or endocrine disorders.</p><h2>What are the causes of hypertension in children?</h2><p>There are many genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and medical factors responsible for hypertension in children. They include:</p><ul><li>Having a hypertensive parent</li><li>Obesity</li><li>Poor diet</li><li>Sedentary lifestyle</li><li>Chronic medical conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and sleep apnea</li><li>Medications, including NSAIDs, steroids, and over-the-counter cold remedies</li></ul><h2>Signs and symptoms of hypertension in children?</h2><p>Here are some signs that may suggest your child has hypertension:</p><ul><li>Headaches</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Dizziness</li><li>Blurry vision</li><li>Chest pain</li><li>Difficulty breathing</li><li>Blood in urine</li></ul><p>It is important to note that many children with hypertension do not experience any symptoms, so regular blood pressure checks are essential for early detection and treatment.</p><h2>How can you know if your child has hypertension?</h2><p>Diagnosing hypertension in children requires multiple blood pressure measurements taken over time and a thorough evaluation of your child’s medical history, family history, and physical exam.</p><p>The diagnostic criteria for hypertension in children use average blood pressure values for age, sex, and height. The doctor must measure a child’s blood pressure multiple times to establish a diagnosis of hypertension.</p><h2>&nbsp;</h2><ol><li>High blood pressure is more common in adults, but it’s now becoming a problem in children too.</li><li>It can happen because of health problems like kidney or heart issues, or from unhealthy habits.</li><li>More children are getting high blood pressure because many are overweight and not active enough.</li></ol><p>As parents, we often worry about our children's health and well-being, from ensuring they eat healthy foods to getting the best medical attention that we can afford whenever they are ill. But have you ever considered their blood pressure?</p><p>While hypertension is often seen as a condition that affects adults, it can also affect children and adolescents, and it is on the rise.</p><h2>How common is hypertension in children?</h2><p>Although it is more common in adults, hypertension in children is becoming recognized as a significant health issue.</p><p>It can result from underlying conditions, such as kidney disease or heart abnormalities, or develop as primary hypertension, often linked to obesity, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. Increased rates of childhood obesity have contributed to a rise in hypertension among children.</p><p>A <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2589537021005101">review&nbsp;</a>of studies on hypertension in Africa finds that about 7% of African children are hypertensive and that the number is rising due to an increase in the number of children who are overweight or obese.</p><h2>Types of hypertension in children</h2><p>Hypertension could be primary or secondary.</p><p>Primary hypertension, or essential hypertension, is a condition of high blood pressure in which the cause is unknown. Primary hypertension runs in families and is the most common type of hypertension in children.</p><p>Secondary hypertension is high blood pressure with a known cause, such as renal disease, heart disease, or endocrine disorders.</p><h2>What are the causes of hypertension in children?</h2><p>There are many genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and medical factors responsible for hypertension in children. They include:</p><ul><li>Having a hypertensive parent</li><li>Obesity</li><li>Poor diet</li><li>Sedentary lifestyle</li><li>Chronic medical conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, and sleep apnea</li><li>Medications, including NSAIDs, steroids, and over-the-counter cold remedies</li></ul><h2>Signs and symptoms of hypertension in children?</h2><p>Here are some signs that may suggest your child has hypertension:</p><ul><li>Headaches</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Dizziness</li><li>Blurry vision</li><li>Chest pain</li><li>Difficulty breathing</li><li>Blood in urine</li></ul><p>It is important to note that many children with hypertension do not experience any symptoms, so regular blood pressure checks are essential for early detection and treatment.</p><h2>How can you know if your child has hypertension?</h2><p>Diagnosing hypertension in children requires multiple blood pressure measurements taken over time and a thorough evaluation of your child’s medical history, family history, and physical exam.</p><p>The diagnostic criteria for hypertension in children use average blood pressure values for age, sex, and height. The doctor must measure a child’s blood pressure multiple times to establish a diagnosis of hypertension.</p>

Poor diet, obesity, and genetics are causing a rise in childhood hypertension, leading to lifelong health risks.

Hypertension in Nigerian Children

<p>As an individual, you are bound to feel a slight headache now and then or a slight cough after a long, tiring day. Do you always rush to the hospital or walk to the nearest patent medicine store or pharmacy around you? Many of us go to the neighbourhood pharmacy for a pack of paracetamol or cough syrup, both of which belong to a class of medications called over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.</p><p>OTC drugs are easily accessed, &nbsp;most often leading to self-medication (taking drugs without a doctor's prescription). But using them wisely is important. Knowing when to stop self-medicating and see a doctor can make all the difference between treating a simple issue and overlooking something serious. In this article, we will explore more information on OTC drugs, their benefits, side effects, and other interesting details.</p><h2><strong>What are over-the-counter drugs?</strong></h2><p>Over-the-counter drugs, also known as OTC drugs, are drugs you can buy &nbsp;without a prescription from a doctor. You can buy OTC drugs at a chemist’s shop, pharmacy, drug store, or supermarket. They are often used to treat minor health conditions.</p><p>There's an OTC drug for almost any complaint, whether it’s body pain, a runny nose, or an upset stomach. Need something for that fever? Paracetamol is your go-to. Got a scratchy throat? The storekeeper will recommend a lozenge.</p><p>While these drugs can work wonders for minor symptoms, we often forget the fine print that guides us on how to use them. We pop a pill, take a syrup, and move on without thinking about things like dosage, potential side effects, or when actually to seek professional medical advice.</p><p><strong>Imagine this typical scenario</strong></p><p>Tunde wakes up with a pounding headache after a late night. He’s got a busy day ahead, so he grabs some painkillers from the cabinet. He’s done this before, so it feels like no big deal. But what if Tunde’s headache keeps returning? Or worse, what if he starts relying on painkillers every time his head hurts without figuring out the root cause?</p><p>Before using over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, it's important to exercise caution. Because OTCs are affordable and easily accessible, many people use them even when they don't need them. This can lead to overuse, masking underlying health issues, or developing dependency. Some medications, like certain cough syrups, can be misused for their sedative effects.</p><h2><strong>Common classes of OTC drugs</strong></h2><p><strong>1. Pain Relievers/Analgesics</strong></p><p><strong>Pain relievers</strong> are among the most widely used OTC drugs in Nigeria. They are commonly used for mild to moderate pain, such as headaches, menstrual cramps, or toothaches. Examples include Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like <strong>Aspirin</strong>, <strong>Ibuprofen (Brufen, Ibuprin)</strong>, and <strong>Paracetamol (Panadol)</strong>.</p><p><img src="https://codahosted.io/docs/D0truCNGlg/blobs/bl-YaKVZO_Fbr/b371141598e40ab3fe9c91976bddc08ad7abf581ffa88b64ef7c15cde6b8db78da435376985ec825773aff7b717cba8fcec73d9aba139866407f532509fe8e81b5ba7f8b1547c176d956e0b26e0f0cf43c584ac65bb7d7015833771d83cea884759bb142" alt="image.webp"></p><p><a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.5/br/deed.en">Mateus Hidalgo, CC BY-SA 2.5 BR,</a> via Wikimedia Commons</p><p>NSAIDs block certain enzymes in the body, reducing inflammation and relieving pain. However, long-term or excessive use can lead to liver damage (especially with Paracetamol) or stomach ulcers (with NSAIDs).</p><p>NSAIDs are not suitable for people with a history of stomach ulcers, asthma, or kidney issues. Pregnant women should also consult a doctor before use.</p><p><strong>2. Topical Analgesics</strong></p><p>Topical analgesics are gels you apply to the skin to relieve pain or inflammation in specific body areas. Examples include NeuroGesic Extra, Deep Heat, and Voltaren Gel.</p><p>They provide a cooling or heating effect to soothe pain. However, overuse can irritate the skin or cause allergic reactions. Therefore, they should not be applied to broken or irritated skin.</p><p><strong>3. Decongestants</strong></p><p><strong>Decongestants</strong> help relieve nasal congestion caused by colds, flu, or allergies. Examples include <strong>Actifed</strong>, <strong>Sudafed</strong>, <strong>Otrivine</strong>, and <strong>Olbas Oil</strong>. They work by narrowing blood vessels in the nasal passages, reducing swelling and congestion.</p><p>Overusing nasal sprays can cause rebound congestion, worsening symptoms after stopping the drug. Oral decongestants can raise blood pressure, so they are not recommended for individuals with high blood pressure, heart disease, or glaucoma.</p><p><strong>4. Antacids</strong></p><p><strong>Antacids</strong> neutralize stomach acid and relieve heartburn and acid reflux. Examples include <strong>Gaviscon</strong>, <strong>Jawasil</strong>, <strong>Danacid</strong>, <strong>and Gestid</strong>. They usually reduce stomach acidity, which helps relieve symptoms of indigestion.</p><p>Certain antacids can interfere with other medications, like antibiotics, so it's recommended to consult a healthcare professional before using them.</p><p>Some antacids may cause side effects such as constipation or diarrhea, depending on the active ingredients. For example, calcium carbonate and aluminum hydroxide can lead to constipation, while magnesium-based antacids may cause diarrhea.</p><p>Overuse of antacids can lead to electrolyte imbalances or affect the absorption of other medications. In addition, people with kidney disease, heart failure, or those taking medications for hypertension should be cautious when using antacids, as certain types can lead to complications such as electrolyte imbalances or worsen pre-existing conditions.</p><p><strong>5. Anti-inflammatory Medications</strong></p><p>These medications help to reduce inflammation and are often used to treat conditions like arthritis, back pain, and sports injuries. Examples also include</p><ol><li>Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs include <strong>diclofenac (Voltaren)</strong>, <strong>Ibuprofen (Ibrufen)</strong>, and <strong>Naproxen</strong>. These drugs usually block the production of chemicals that cause inflammation in the body, and long-term use can increase the risk of heart disease, stomach ulcers, and kidney damage. The medication is not suitable for individuals with heart disease, hypertension, or those prone to gastrointestinal issues.</li><li>Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as <strong>dexamethasone</strong>, <strong>hydrocortisone</strong>, and <strong>prednisolone</strong>, are used to reduce inflammation, swelling, and itching, commonly for skin conditions like eczema, rashes, or allergic reactions. Although they are effective for inflammation, prolonged or inappropriate use can lead to skin thinning, hormonal imbalances, and other side effects. People with infections or certain skin conditions should avoid corticosteroids unless prescribed by a doctor, as they can worsen infections.</li></ol><p><strong>6. Cough and Cold Medications</strong></p><p>Cough and cold medications help alleviate symptoms like coughing, congestion, and sore throat. Popular brands include <strong>Benylin</strong> and <strong>Tutolin</strong>. These medications contain a mix of antihistamines, decongestants, and cough suppressants.</p><p>Some cough syrups can cause drowsiness or be abused for their sedative effects. For this reason, it is advisable to avoid using these drugs for more than a few days. Also, they are usually not recommended for children under six years, pregnant women, or individuals with high blood pressure or asthma without consulting a doctor.</p><p><strong>7. Allergy Medications/Antihistamines</strong></p><p>Antihistamines help relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, itching, and a runny nose. Examples include popular piriton (chlorpheniramine), loratadine, and cetirizine.</p><p>The drug works by blocking histamine, which usually causes allergic reactions. Some antihistamines can cause drowsiness and affect daily functioning. Use is not recommended for individuals with glaucoma or an enlarged prostate. It is also important to consult a medical doctor before use during pregnancy.</p><p><strong>8. Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) and Antidiarrheal Drugs</strong></p><p><strong>Oral rehydration salts</strong> treat dehydration from diarrhea or vomiting, while <strong>antidiarrheal drugs</strong> manage diarrhea symptoms.</p><p>Examples of ORS include Emzolyte, Oralyt, Walyte, and many other brands. Antidiarrheal drugs include Imodium, Lomotil, and Diastop.</p><p>ORS replaces lost fluids and electrolytes, while antidiarrheal drugs slow down bowel movements.</p><p>Overuse of antidiarrheal drugs can lead to constipation or mask more serious infections.</p><p>Antidiarrheal medications are not recommended for young children or people with a high fever.</p><p><strong>9. Vitamins and Supplements</strong></p><p>Vitamins and supplements are widely used to boost nutrient intake. Common examples include vitamin C, vitamin D, and iron supplements such as ferrous sulphate.</p><p>Moderate doses of vitamins and supplements provide essential nutrients to improve general health. However, very high doses can be toxic, leading to complications such as liver damage.</p><p>Before using vitamins and other supplements, consult a medical doctor especially for individuals with kidney or liver conditions, or those on medication for chronic diseases.</p><h2><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2><p>Over-the-counter drugs can be a quick and convenient way to treat minor health conditions, but it is important to use them safely and to know when to seek medical attention. Always read the label, follow the recommended dosage, and use them for short-term relief only. If symptoms persist beyond a few days, consult a doctor. Avoid combining multiple medications without professional advice, and be mindful of potential side effects.</p>

OTC medications offer quick relief for common ailments, but they also come with risks. Learn how to use them safely.

Your Guide to Over-the-Counter Drugs

Lifestyle and Wellness

Do you know that, according to a report, 35% of all NICU admissions were made for Neonatal Jaundice? A global survey estimates that each year, 1.1 million newborns experience severe jaundice, with the bulk of those cases occurring in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. In Africa, particularly in West Africa, neonatal jaundice is the major condition that affects and kills newborns.

Jaundice in Newborns

<p>Eat a nutrient-rich diet, get regular health checkups, and support public health efforts like malaria prevention and food fortification—because preventing anaemia starts with both personal and community action.</p><h2>Diagnosis</h2><p>Diagnosis of anaemia is a combination of clinical presentation and laboratory</p><p>Laboratory tests for anaemia generally include the following:</p><ul><li>Packed cell volume (PCV) estimation: involves spinning your blood in a tube to see how much of it is red blood cells</li><li>Complete blood count (CBC): also called full blood count, this test estimates the levels of individual components of your blood, including white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets, reticulocytes, haemoglobin, differential cells, etc.</li><li>Peripheral blood smear: involves using a microscope to examine your blood for its colour, shape, size</li><li>Haemoglobin estimation</li><li>Serum iron estimation</li><li>Serum bilirubin</li><li>Haemoglobin electrophoresis</li><li>Reticulocyte count</li><li>Urinalysis</li><li>Liver function tests</li><li>Renal function test</li><li>Bone marrow biopsy</li></ul><h2>Treatment</h2><p>Treatment for anaemia depends on the cause or type of anaemia. Treatments for common forms of anaemia include:</p><ul><li><strong>Iron-deficiency anaemia</strong>: iron supplements and dietary changes.</li><li><strong>Vitamin deficiency anaemia</strong>: vitamins and dietary supplements.</li><li><strong>Thalassemia</strong>: folic acid supplements, iron chelation, and, for some people, blood transfusions and bone marrow transplants.</li><li><strong>Anaemia of chronic disease</strong>: treatment of underlying disease.</li><li><strong>Aplastic anaemia</strong>: blood transfusion or bone marrow transplant.</li><li><strong>Sickle cell anaemia</strong>: oxygen therapy, pain relief medication, and intravenous fluids: antibiotics, folic acid supplements, blood transfusions, and hydroxyurea may be added.</li><li><strong>Haemolytic anaemia</strong>: treatment of the underlying cause.</li></ul>

Eat a nutrient-rich diet, get regular health checkups, and support public health efforts like malaria prevention and food fortification—because preventing anaemia starts with both personal and community action.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Anaemia in Nigeria

<h2>Proteins build your body</h2><p>Proteins are essential for the growth and repair of our body tissues. They are the building blocks of our muscles, skin and tissues. Proteins can be found in foods such as meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, beans, nuts, and tofu.</p><h3>Types of Proteins</h3><p>There are many different types of proteins, each with its own unique structure and function. Some examples include hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood, and enzymes, which help to digest food.</p><h3>How to Incorporate More Proteins into Your Diet</h3><p>Start with lean protein sources and meats, such as chicken and fish, in your meals. Then add plant-proteins or dairy products to provide you with the essential amino acids.</p><h2>Can Fats make you fat?</h2><p>No, Fats will not make you fat if you take the right type of fats in the right proportion. A small amount of Fat in your diet is enough to keep you healthy, without being at risk of the many complications that come with excess fat.</p><p>Fats help our body to produce essential amino acids and absorb fat-soluble vitamins. They are found in a variety of foods, including oils, butter, nuts, cheese, and fatty cuts of meat.</p><h3>Types of Fats</h3><p>There are two main types of fats: unsaturated fats and saturated fats.</p><ul><li><strong>Unsaturated fats</strong> found in foods such as olive oil, nuts, and avocados. They can be benefcial to health when consumed in moderation. These types of fats can help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.</li><li><strong>Saturated fats </strong>are found in animal products and processed foods such as butter, lard, and fatty meats. Saturated fats have been linked to increased cholesterol levels and raise the risk of heart disease, and as such, should be consumed in moderation.</li></ul><h3>How to incorporate more good fats into your diet</h3><p>At all times, choose unsaturated fats over saturated ones. Evidence from nutritionists and doctors suggest that moderate levels of unsaturated fats have better health benefits and less risks than saturated ones.</p><p>Unsaturated fats are found in food items such as nuts, seeds, avocados, and olive oil.</p><p>Also, limit your intake of saturated fats from animal products and processed foods, and opt for lean cuts of meat instead.</p>

Proteins are vital for building and repairing body tissues and are found in foods like meat, beans, and dairy; Fats don’t necessarily make you fat—healthy unsaturated fats can support your heart and nutrient absorption, while saturated fats should be eaten in small amounts to avoid health risks.

Proteins Build Your Body, Eat it!

<h2>Diagnosis of blindness</h2><blockquote><p>In many cases, blindness can be prevented or managed if caught early. Regular eye checkups, good hygiene, proper nutrition, and timely medical treatment are key to protecting vision.</p></blockquote><p>The diagnosis of blindness can only be done at a clinic. While you may be able to tell whether you can see or not, only an eye doctor can help you determine whether it is actually blindness and educate you on what you can do about it.</p><p>Your doctor will do a comprehensive eye examination, which may involve:</p><ul><li>Testing your visual acuity</li><li>Measuring your eyes’ pressure or doing a tonometry</li><li>Dilating your eyes with eye drops</li></ul><p>You may need an MRI or a CT scan if the examination reveals any abnormalities.</p><h2>Prevention of blindness</h2><p>Unfortunately, some types of blindness cannot be prevented. Blindness due to macular degeneration or optic atrophy, for instance, is unavoidable and a natural consequence of old age. But most types are preventable.</p><p>The goals of prevention are to:</p><ul><li>Protect your eyes from any disease</li><li>Prevent your vision from getting worse if you’re already having trouble with your vision</li><li>Minimize the difficulties you may face as someone with visual impairment</li></ul><p>So, how can you prevent blindness?</p><ol><li>Go for regular eye checks at least once a year</li><li>Maintain proper eye hygiene</li><li>Use protective eyewear such as glasses and safety goggles</li><li>Manage underlying diseases like hypertension and diabetes</li><li>Get treated against blindness-causing infections such as Trachoma</li><li>Go for genetic counselling to know your risk for developing eye diseases</li></ol><h2>Treatment of blindness</h2><p>The treatment of blindness depends on the underlying cause. Some causes may require drugs, others may require surgery or transplants.</p><ul><li><strong>Drugs: </strong>Antibiotics and anti-worm medications can help treat blindness caused by bacteria and worms.</li><li><strong>Supplements: </strong>Vitamin A supplements may help restore vision loss in individuals with xerophthalmia.</li><li><strong>Surgery</strong>: Refractive errors, cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye structural eye diseases can be resolved through surgery.</li><li><strong>Corneal transplant: </strong>transplanting corneal tissues from a healthy donor helps improve vision loss or impairment caused by corneal damage.</li></ul><p>Individuals with irreversible vision loss can use adaptive devices and technologies to help them navigate their environment and perform daily tasks. These may include braille devices, talking computers, and mobility aids like canes and guide dogs.</p><p>Note that treatment for blindness is best delivered by ophthalmologists who are readily available in most Nigerian hospitals. You may need to visit specialist centres, or contact your local clinics to access ophthalmologists who will treat you.</p><h3><strong>Conclusion</strong></h3><blockquote><p>Blindness is the loss of sight, either completely or partially, and it can affect people of all ages, including children. Common causes include infections, injuries, untreated eye diseases, and lack of proper eye care.</p></blockquote>

In many cases, blindness can be prevented or managed if caught early. Regular eye checkups, good hygiene, proper nutrition, and timely medical treatment are key to protecting vision.

Can you diagnose blindness?

Disease prevention and management

<p>How to check your blood genotype.</p><blockquote><p>To check your blood genotype, visit a certified medical laboratory or hospital where a blood sample will be collected and analyzed through a hemoglobin electrophoresis test.</p></blockquote><p><img src="https://codahosted.io/docs/RzfmmSvViH/blobs/bl-t42MZ7bOJG/0bd12979ce7052dd3259d44434a47c3a096207a73ae8f39a1f259288e0d671f8a949f3f826274a395a7f281387789d07a8f53dad61feceadaf4bdfad18ee136cc51e57b4c5d979a4bcefa026308d82a41dd6e0bb3e3bf2098d2133000011a1cd15071ac4" alt="image.webp"></p><p><a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/blood-testing-set-background_4029984.htm#query=blood%20test&amp;position=24&amp;from_view=search&amp;track=ais&amp;uuid=28a71caa-6918-461d-a4fb-9ac315f9520d">Image by macro vector on Freepik</a></p><p>Blood genotype is often tested using the haemoglobin electrophoresis method. This method separates the blood based on the type of haemoglobin molecules present. The molecules spread out as bands on special paper, and the bands are compared with standard haemoglobin bands to identify abnormal ones like HbS or HbC.</p><p>A scientist will collect a small volume of blood from you for the test, which usually lasts a few minutes to an hour. &nbsp;The results are usually ready in hours or days.</p><p>It is important to check your blood genotype at a registered and reliable laboratory, or at different laboratories to ensure the accuracy of your results. There have been few reported cases of error in blood genotype testing.</p><h2><strong>Genotype compatibility for marriage</strong></h2><p>Knowing one’s genotype is essential for a happy marriage, particularly where hereditary diseases such as sickle cell disease are common. Genotype compatibility describes how well the genes for particular traits match.</p><p>Parents who have incompatible genotypes, such AS and SS or AS and AS, run the risk of passing on sickle cell disease to their offspring. To avoid these consequences, couples should get genetic testing done before getting married.</p><p>Here is a table illustrating genotype compatibility for marriage:</p><figure class="table"><table style="border-color:transparent;"><thead><tr><th style="border-bottom:1px solid rgb(224, 224, 224);border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;width:150px;">AA + AA</th><th style="border-bottom:1px solid rgb(224, 224, 224);border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;width:150px;">AA, AA, AA, AA</th><th style="border-bottom:1px solid rgb(224, 224, 224);border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;width:150px;">Compatible (Excellent)</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>AA + AS</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AA,AS</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Compatible (Good)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>AA + SS</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AS</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Compatible (Fair)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>AA + SC</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AS,AC</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Compatible (Fair)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>AA + AC</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AA,AC</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Compatible (Good)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>AS + AS</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AA,AS,SS</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>AA + CC</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AC</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Compatible (Good)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>AS + SS</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AS,SS</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>AS + AC</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AA,AC,AS,SC/SS</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>AS + SC</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AS,AC,SS,SC</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>SS + SS</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">SS</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>SS + SC</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">SS,SC</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>AC + SS</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AS,SS</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>SS + AC</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AS,SC</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>AC + AC</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AA,AC,SS/CC</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>SS + CC</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">SC</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>SC + AC</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AS,SC,AC,CC</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>AC + CC</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">AC,CC</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr><tr><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;"><strong>SC + SC</strong></td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">SS,SC,CC</td><td style="border-bottom:1px solid #e0e0e0;border-left-style:none;border-right-style:none;border-top-style:none;height:36px;vertical-align:top;">Incompatible (very bad)</td></tr></tbody></table></figure><p>Notes:</p><ul><li><strong>Compatible (Excellent)</strong>: No risk of genetic disorders</li><li><strong>Compatible (Good)</strong>: Low risk of genetic disorders</li><li><strong>Compatible (Fair)</strong>: Moderate risk of genetic disorders</li><li><strong>Incompatible (Very Bad)</strong>: High risk of genetic disorders</li></ul><h2><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2><p>The blood is more than just a means of transporting oxygen and nutrients within the body. Understanding your blood genotype is a powerful way to take charge of your health, avoiding potentially life-threatening disorders, and even finding compatible partners.</p>

This test determines your genotype (e.g., AA, AS, SS, or AC) by identifying the types of hemoglobin in your red blood cells. It is important to confirm your genotype at least twice, preferably from reputable labs, as errors can occur.

How to check your blood genotype before marriage.

Mental Health and Well-being

Weight Management

<ol><li>medical support for affected children.</li><li>Education about cerebral palsy reduces stigma and promotes inclusion of children living with the condition in schools and communities.</li><li>Being informed empowers families to advocate for better healthcare, rehabilitation services, and support systems in Nigeria.</li></ol><p>A healthy child should be able to control their neck at 3 months, sit without support at 6 to 8 months, and walk by one year and above. However, diseases affecting the brain and muscle control can delay or prevent all these from happening. Cerebral is one such disease.</p><h2>What is cerebral palsy?</h2><p>Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders affecting a child’s ability to move, coordinate, or maintain balance and posture. It results from a problem in the brain that occurs during pregnancy, delivery, or soon after birth.</p><h2>How common is cerebral palsy in Nigeria?</h2><p>The exact number of children living with cerebral palsy is not known. However, some research estimates that about 3 out of 1,000 children in Nigeria have cerebral palsy. Parents often discover the condition when the child is about 6 to 16 months old, affecting males slightly more often than females.</p><h2>What are the symptoms of cerebral palsy?</h2><p>Cerebral palsy symptoms emerge as soon as a child is born, but they are often not noticeable until the child ages. After the child’s first few weeks of life, the parents may notice symptoms such as:</p><ul><li>Delayed motor development, such as sitting, crawling, standing, and walking</li><li>Muscle stiffness and rigidity</li><li>Floppiness</li><li>Weak arms and legs</li><li>Difficulty with speech and swallowing</li><li>Seizures</li><li>Muscle paralysis</li><li>Intellectual disabilities</li><li>Behavioral and emotional problems</li><li>Uncontrolled jerky movements</li></ul><p>The symptoms vary according to the severity of the condition. Some children with cerebral palsy may have minor difficulties with movement, while others could be severely impaired.</p><h2>When to see the doctor</h2><p>The symptoms above are not exclusive to cerebral palsy. While they are typical of brain diseases, they are not necessarily signs of trouble.</p><p>However, you should watch out for the early signs of cerebral palsy and visit a doctor if you have concerns about your child’s health and development.</p><p>The doctor will help you understand your child’s condition and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist.</p><blockquote><p>It’s important to take a child to the doctor if you think they may have cerebral palsy. The doctor can help find out what’s wrong early and suggest the right care, like therapy or medicine, to help the child grow and do better.</p></blockquote><ul><li>Getting help early can make a big difference in how the child moves, talks, and lives each day.</li><li>Going for check-ups also helps deal with any new problems quickly.</li></ul>

Cerebral palsy in Nigerian children needs early medical attention for better care and development. Learn the signs, seek help early, and improve your child’s quality of life.

Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy in Nigerian Children

<p><strong>Dr Udoh Wisdom</strong></p><p>Early detection of cervical cancer is key to effective treatment, making regular Pap smear screenings essential.</p><p>The HPV vaccine, now available in three different versions, provides crucial protection against the virus that often leads to cervical cancer.</p><h3>Early Stages</h3><p>In its early stages, cervical cancer typically does not present any symptoms, making early detection challenging. Symptoms often emerge only after the cancer has progressed.</p><p>When early-stage cervical cancer symptoms do manifest, they may include:</p><ul><li>Irregular vaginal bleeding or heavier menstrual periods</li><li>Vaginal bleeding after menopause</li><li>Vaginal bleeding post-intercourse</li><li>Unusual vaginal discharge that may be watery, foul-smelling, or blood-stained</li><li>Pelvic pain or discomfort during intercourse</li></ul><p>As cervical cancer advances, symptoms may encompass those of early-stage cancer, along with:</p><ul><li>Painful or difficult bowel movements</li><li>Bleeding from the anus during bowel movements</li><li>Painful urination</li><li>Blood in the urine</li><li>Persistent lower back pain</li><li>Swelling in the legs</li><li>Abdominal pain</li><li>Fatigue</li></ul><p>These symptoms can also be found in other conditions other than cervical cancer. Consulting a Doctor is essential for an accurate diagnosis. Delaying treatment for cervical cancer due to ignored symptoms can lead to less effective management.</p>

Preventing cervical cancer starts with the HPV vaccine and regular screenings. Learn symptoms, stages, treatment options, and support resources.

Stages and Prevention of Cervical Cancer in Nigerian Women

Nigerians call it Epilepsy. If you have a child with epilepsy, this article will help you learn about seizure disorders in children and how to manage similar cases. 

Seizure Disorders in Nigerian Children

<p>Because only women have a Cervix, cervical cancer affects women in the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus that connects to the vagina.</p><ul><li>Around 660,000 women were newly diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2022, making it the fourth most common cancer in women globally.</li><li>Cervical cancer is a largely preventable non-communicable disease, with effective strategies available for primary (vaccination), secondary (early detection), and tertiary (management of diagnosed cases) prevention.</li></ul><p>Everyone talks about Cancer and almost always generally. Breast cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer, these were familiar terms. Not much or anything at all is ever said about cervical cancer.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>What is Cervical Cancer?</h3><p>Cancer is a group of diseases where some of the body's cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body<span style="color:rgb(15,88,189);">.</span></p><ul><li>It accounts for death every two minutes and nearly 22.5% of those deaths occur in Africa.</li><li>About 8% of the cancer is associated with infections with high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV)</li><li>More than &nbsp;75,000 new cases and close to 50,000 deaths are reported annually in sub-Saharan Africa</li><li>The World Health Organization projects that by 2030, cervical cancer will claim the lives of more than 443,000 women worldwide, with almost 90% of these fatalities in sub-Saharan Africa.</li></ul><p>A surge in cervical cancer cases threatens to reverse the advancements made by African women in reducing maternal mortality and enhancing life expectancy.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h1><strong>What causes Cervical Cancer?</strong></h1><p>The primary cause of cervical cancer is a long-lasting infection with specific types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a transmitted virus that spreads through sexual contact.</p><p>Doctors estimate that at least half of sexually active individuals will contract HPV at some point in their lives; however, only a small percentage of women will develop cervical cancer.</p><h3><strong>Who is at risk for cervical cancer?</strong></h3><p>Cervical cancer is often associated with identifiable risk factors. Some of these factors can be modified, while others are beyond your control.</p><p>Here are some risk factors you can control:</p><ul><li>Sexual intercourse at an early age:</li><li>HPV infection</li><li>HIV infection</li><li>Weakened immune system</li><li>Multiple pregnancies</li><li>Long term use of birth control pills</li><li>Smoking: Cigarette smoking has been linked to a heightened risk of cervical cancer.</li></ul><p>While these risk factors are controllable, some are not. Example of an uncontrollable risk factor:</p><ul><li>Family history</li><li>Age</li></ul><h2>How is cervical cancer diagnosed?</h2><p><img src="https://codahosted.io/docs/k8T9__Kot0/blobs/bl-yrISdcM-gw/49e6af9051a463d1579b8ac42b143c3ae429cf4600c661c8f3e78a62beb3fe9f87ad0f1e9a05b170bc0c3347f027558941ff4c974545d332c26725c961d4c97e11ef404daab8e95695f6e95daa537dd662479fedbe37a9d5528cfa04bac7979b72e593f6" alt="image.png"></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Her gynecologist had told her that her last heavy flow was due to something called an <a href="https://www.osmosis.org/answers/anovulatory-cycle"><i><u>anovulatory cycle</u></i></a>, which happened because when she had her period her ovaries did not release an egg and It was “<i>nothing to worry about”.&nbsp;</i></p><p>So when it happened again in June, she didn’t think much of it until it refused to stop after the expected 3 - 5 days. Mrs B bled for days.&nbsp;</p><p>She returned to the hospital and had several tests done. A full blood count, an ultrasound scan, her PCV, which indicates the blood level in her body, was normal. The abdominal ultrasound done didn’t show anything abnormal. The labs looked through her results and found nothing extraordinary. Until she did a urinalysis, and they discovered red blood cells in her urine.</p><p>The doctor again reassured her and recommended she go for a biopsy, where a tiny cut of her <i><u>cervix</u></i> will be taken and viewed with a microscope. The biopsy report came back and the unimaginable had happened: Mrs B had cervical cancer.&nbsp;</p><p>The urinalysis done &nbsp;in the lab, the red blood cells found in her urine, how did they know what it was? Why was her urine unusual today of all days?</p><p>Cervical cancer develops slowly over many years, hence the need for regular Pap smear.</p><p>A Pap smear is a process that screens for cervical cancer by collecting cervical cells from the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. It can also reveal precancerous changes in these cells, enabling early intervention when required.</p><p>The doctor explained to Sola that in the test, the nurse uses a <i>speculum</i> to gently open the vagina, providing access to the cervix. They then collect cell samples using a soft brush or spatula, which they preserve in a solution and send to a laboratory for analysis.</p><p>The entire process typically takes just a few minutes and may cause slight discomfort, but it is usually not painful.</p><p>To detect early signs of cancer, if positive, a biopsy is ordered.</p><p>The biopsy could be any of the following:</p><ul><li>Colposcopic biopsy</li><li>Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)</li><li>Cone biopsy</li><li>Endocervical curettage</li><li>Cold knife cone biopsy</li></ul><p>An HPV DNA test too can be ordered.</p><p>When the biopsy test comes out as positive, further investigations would be required to determine if the cancer has spread (metastasized) and to what extent.</p><p>The other test include:</p><ul><li>Renal function test</li><li>Liver function test</li><li>X-ray of bladder, bowels, intestines</li><li>Urine Test</li><li>Ultrasound</li></ul><blockquote><h3><strong>Support Groups -</strong></h3><p>Cancer changes dynamics of life for patient and family.</p><p>Joining a cancer support group can provide emotional relief and connection with others facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences can help alleviate feelings of isolation.</p></blockquote>

How many women can identify their Cervix? Cervical cancer is a leading cause of death among women, yet it’s preventable and treatable. Find out how to protect yourself.

Cervical Cancer Cases in Nigerian Women.

<p>Alcohol consumption has become a normalized aspect of social culture in Nigeria and across Africa. Whether it is at celebratory events, gatherings with friends, or even just a casual drink after a long day, alcohol is a go-to for many people. However, excessive drinking can hurt the liver.</p><p>While zero alcohol consumption is ideal for liver health, moderate intake is often considered safe. <span style="color:rgb(15,88,189);">The </span><a href="https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/drink-less/#:~:text=Alcohol%20guidelines,risk%20of%20harming%20your%20health.">National Health Service</a><span style="color:rgb(15,88,189);"> recommends drinking no more than 14 units of alcohol a week, spread across 3 days or more. That is around 6 medium (175ml) glasses of wine, or 6 pints, that is, 2.8 litres of beer with 4% alcohol by volume (ABV). There is no completely safe level of drinking, but sticking within these guidelines lowers your risk of harming your health. Consuming more than these limits, particularly binge drinking or taking in excess can raise the risk of Alcohol-Related Liver Disease (ARLD).</span></p><p>Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is a deadly condition affecting millions of people globally and is a growing concern in Nigeria and across Africa.</p><p>A new report from the <a href="https://www.who.int/news/item/25-06-2024-over-3-million-annual-deaths-due-to-alcohol-and-drug-use-majority-among-men#:~:text=A%20new%20report%20from%20the,deaths%20to%20psychoactive%20drug%20use.">World Health Organization (WHO)</a> reveals that 2.6 million deaths per year were attributable to alcohol consumption, accounting for 4.7% of all deaths, with <strong>more than 200 diseases and injuries</strong> linked to alcohol use. While<a href="https://gatefield.co/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Alcohol-Policy-Brief.pdf"> Alcohol policy in Nigeria</a> also noted that harmful alcohol use accounts for approximately. 3.3 million deaths annually and it is linked to over 200 non-communicable diseases.</p><h2>What is alcoholic liver disease</h2><p>Alcoholic liver disease is a medical condition that occurs when the liver becomes damaged due to excessive and chronic alcohol consumption, leading to impaired liver function.</p><p>The liver processes and detoxifies substances in the body and produces essential proteins. Impairment of these functions due to alcoholic disease can have severe consequences, including liver failure and even death.</p><h2>The stages of <span style="color:rgb(15,88,189);">Alcoholic liver disease</span></h2><p>Alcoholic liver disease progresses through three key stages: fatty liver, alcoholic hepatitis, and cirrhosis. Each of these stages present with different symptoms, allowing for early interventions that can prevent further damage.</p><ul><li><strong>Fatty liver </strong>is the first stage, where excessive alcohol consumption leads to fat buildup in the liver. This stage is often reversible with lifestyle changes if caught early.</li><li><strong>Alcoholic hepatitis,</strong> the second stage, is marked by liver inflammation. This stage presents with more noticeable symptoms like abdominal pain and jaundice or yellowing of the eyes and mucous membranes.</li><li><strong>Cirrhosis </strong>is the final stage, where the liver becomes permanently scarred, leading to severe complications and a higher risk of liver failure.</li></ul><p>Early detection during the fatty liver or alcoholic hepatitis stage allows for lifestyle changes and medical treatments, which can stop the disease from progressing to cirrhosis, which is irreversible and life-threatening.</p><h2>&nbsp;</h2>

Drinking habits can take a toll on your liver. Find out how to protect yourself from alcoholic liver disease.

Liver Health and Alcohol: What You Need to Know

<p>Have you ever been asked “What’s your genotype?” It’s a common question for partners seeking to get married, children seeking to enroll into a school, or individuals looking for a job. Doctors too may ask about your genotype when you go for a checkup or treatment. So what’s genotype and how does it work?</p><h2><strong>What’s a genotype?</strong></h2><p>Genotype refers to an individual’s genetic makeup. It is an entire library of genes that determines height, eye color, blood group, susceptibility to some diseases, and even the ability to roll one's tongue.</p><p>These traits are contained in units called genes. The traits exist in multiple forms or <i>alleles.</i> The alleles may be identical (homozygous) or different (heterozygous). The genes and alleles are packed tightly into larger units known as chromosomes. We inherit our genes from our parents, one copy from dad and one copy from mum, and they combine to create our unique genotypes.</p><h2><strong>What's blood genotype?</strong></h2><p>Blood genotype refers to the genetic makeup of our blood components. It is used interchangeably with haemoglobin genotype (Hb genotype), which refers to the genes that code for haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to tissues.</p><p>An average adult has the HbA genotype, which produces HbA with two normal globins. A change or mutation in the normal Hb genotype produces abnormal haemoglobins, such as HbS and HbC, which may affect red cell functions.</p><p>There are several different genotypes:</p><ul><li><strong>AA</strong>: normal haemoglobin genotype</li><li><strong>AS</strong>: sickle cell trait</li><li><strong>AC</strong>: haemoglobin disease</li><li><strong>SS</strong>: sickle cell anaemia</li><li><strong>SC</strong>: sickle cell disease</li></ul><h2><strong>How is the blood genotype inherited?</strong></h2><p>Like all genotypes, the Hb genotype is inherited from both parents. The two copies of the Hb genes from your parents combine to determine the type of haemoglobin your red cells produce.</p><p>Haemoglobin has two components: the haem component and the globin component. You can guess this from the name: haem + globin = haemoglobin. The Hb genotype codes for the globin component, which may be an alpha globin or a beta globin.</p><h2><strong>Why is the blood genotype important?</strong></h2><p>Blood genotypes play a significant role in determining the risk of developing certain diseases. For instance, an individual with the HbAA genotype is more likely to have malaria, while someone with the HbSS genotype is more vulnerable to infections.</p><p>Here is why. Malaria parasites survive better in red blood cells with normal haemoglobin than in sickled red cells. Individuals with sickle cell anaemia are likely to have infections because their immune system is weakened by damages caused by sickled red cells.</p><p>Other importance of blood genotype include:</p><ol><li><strong>Improved family planning</strong></li></ol><p>Testing for blood genotype can help you plan your family and ensure that your children are born healthy and without avoidable genetic disorders.</p><ol><li><strong>Inherited diseases</strong></li></ol><p>With a genotype test, you can know your risk for certain inherited diseases and know how to manage them proactively.</p><ol><li><strong>Personalised medicine</strong></li></ol><p>Knowing your genotype can also help develop personalised medicine. This type of medicine is tailored to the individual and considers their unique genetic makeup.</p><blockquote><p>To check your blood genotype, visit a certified medical laboratory or hospital where a blood sample will be collected and analyzed through a hemoglobin electrophoresis test.</p></blockquote><blockquote><p>This test determines your genotype (e.g., AA, AS, SS, or AC) by identifying the types of hemoglobin in your red blood cells. It is important to confirm your genotype at least twice, preferably from reputable labs, as errors can occur.</p></blockquote>

Knowing your genotype matters for marriage, your health, and future generations. It helps you determine the risk of developing certain diseases. 

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