<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

Health News and Research

<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!

Lifestyle and Wellness

<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

<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>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

Women's Health

<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.

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>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

<ol><li>Understanding cerebral palsy helps parents and caregivers recognize early signs and seek timely 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 affects movement and coordination for life. Learn how to support a child with the condition and improve their quality of life.

What you need to know about Cerebral Palsy in Nigerian Children

<p>Diabetes isn’t just an adult disease; it affects children, too. Here is how to spot risk and understand the issue.</p><p>When people talk about diabetes, they often mean diabetes mellitus, which is a group of related disorders that are characterised by hyperglycaemia or excess sugar in the blood. But that is not the only type of diabetes we have. There is also diabetes insipidus, where the body produces excess urine, causing you to lose too much water. We’ll focus on diabetes mellitus in this article.</p><p>Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterised by high blood glucose levels or hyperglycaemia. It occurs either because the body cannot produce insulin (type 1 diabetes) or because the body cannot use insulin effectively (type 2 diabetes).</p><p>Diabetes is often seen as a disease of adults and the elderly. However, it is getting more common in children. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) estimates that there were more than one million children and adolescents under 20 with diabetes in 2019.</p><h2><strong>Type 1 vs Type 2 diabetes</strong></h2><p><span style="color:rgb(102,102,102);">We mentioned earlier that type 1 diabetes mellitus is the most common type of diabetes in children, but children also have type 2 diabetes. The difference between type 1 and type 2 diabetes is primarily in their origin.</span></p><p>Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin in the pancreas. The reason for these attacks on the cells is not clear, but experts suggest that genetic factors and viral infections may cause it.</p><p>In type 2 diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or the organs are not sensitive enough to the present and circulating insulin, leading to excess sugar in the blood.</p><p><strong>3 out of 100,000 children in Nigeria have type 1 diabetes</strong></p><p>The International Diabetes Federation also <a href="https://www.worlddiabetesfoundation.org/news/nigeria-promises-free-treatment-for-children-with-diabetes/#:~:text=The%20recorded%20incidence%20of%20type,)%20and%20Zimbabwe%20(0.8).">estimates</a> that about 3 (2.9) out of 100,000 children between the ages of 0 to 14 in Nigeria have type 1 diabetes mellitus.</p><p>Children with diabetes have common risk factors, and these include:</p><ul><li>Family history of diabetes</li><li>Certain genetic mutations</li><li>Environmental factors like exposure to viruses</li><li>Obesity</li><li>Diet</li><li>Level of physical activity</li><li>Steroid therapy</li></ul>

Diabetes isn’t just an adult disease; it affects children, too. Here is how to spot risk and understand the issue. 

Diabetes in Nigerian Children

<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

<p>It is usual for anyone sometimes to forget their keys at home, need help remembering minor details, or do basic things. These are part of the daily realities of living that become increasingly common as a person ages. When such realities become so significant as to affect our ability to survive on our own, it is often a sign of something worse… like dementia, for instance.</p><p>Dementia is a progressive condition that affects a person's ability to think, reason, and remember. It is a leading cause of disability and dependency among older adults, and the number of people affected is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.</p><p>More than 50 million people are estimated to have dementia worldwide in 2019. The number is set to almost triple by 2030. Although dementia is seen as a disease of people in Western countries, 60% of people with dementia are in poor countries in Africa and Asia.</p><p>Despite the youthful African population, more elderly people are expected to develop dementia, with Nigeria being one of the most affected countries on the continent. Knowing about the disease can encourage you to tackle the common risk factors of the disease.</p><h2>Modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors of dementia</h2><p>Your risk of having dementia depends on the factors you can control and the ones you cannot control. Some factors, like old age and the genes you inherit, are beyond your control, so they are ‘non-modifiable.’</p><p>On the other hand, there are factors you can control as an individual or with government policies that can help reduce your risk of developing dementia. These factors are ‘modifiable,’ and a 2024 global <a href="https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(24)01296-0/abstract">report</a> shows that controlling these factors can prevent 45% of dementia cases.</p><p>The modifiable risk factors include:</p><ol><li>Social isolation</li><li>Poor education</li><li>Air pollution</li><li>Unresolved hearing loss</li><li>Depression</li><li>Brain injury</li><li>Hypertension</li><li>Diabetes</li><li>Obesity</li><li>Low level of physical activity</li><li>Excessive alcohol intake</li><li>Smoking</li><li>Uncontrolled vision loss</li><li>High serum cholesterol</li></ol><p>Controlling these factors requires personal effort combined with government policies and intervention.</p><h2>Reversible and irreversible causes of dementia</h2><p>Dementia is often a consequence of advanced age. However, it may also be caused by some reversible and irreversible factors.</p><p>Reversible causes of dementia produce short-lived impairment in memory and thinking, which resolve as soon as the cause is treated or removed. Such reversible causes include:</p><ul><li>Severe head injury</li><li>Multiple strokes</li><li>HIV</li><li>Neurosyphilis</li><li>Meningitis</li><li>Alcohol</li><li>Heavy metal poisoning</li><li>Brain tumors</li><li>Multiple sclerosis</li><li>Liver and kidney failure</li><li>Low or high thyroid function</li></ul><p>Irreversible causes of dementia are neurodegenerative disorders or diseases that occur as the brain loses its neurons. They include:</p><ul><li>Alzheimer’s disease</li><li>Parkinson’s disease</li><li>Prion’s disease</li></ul>

Dementia affects memory and thinking, changing the lives of those diagnosed and their families. Learning the early signs can help you preserve your memories.

Dementia is rising in Africa. Here’s how you can protect your brain

Chronic Illnesses

<p>If you can read this, congratulations: you can see. It doesn’t matter whether you are reading through eyeglasses or not. What matters is that you're here, reading this.</p><p>That you're here now may also suggest you’re worried about your eyes. Perhaps your vision is getting blurry, and you wonder if you’re going blind. Your fears are understandable.</p><p>The World Health Organization (WHO) <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/blindness-and-visual-impairment">estimates</a> that more than 250 million people worldwide are visually impaired. This figure is predicted to increase to 703 million by 2050. In Nigeria, experts estimate that <a href="https://guardian.ng/news/world-sight-day-why-over-4-25m-adult-nigerians-are-blind-by-ophthalmologists/">4.25 million people</a> are blind. These statistics are enough to make anyone jittery.</p><p>But what does it mean to be blind? Is it when you can’t see at all and your vision is pitch black, or is it when you need glasses and other visual aids to read and do basic activities? Blindness can be that and more.</p><h2>What is blindness?</h2><p>lindness is a condition in which a person cannot see anything or has extremely poor vision. Clinically, blindness is defined as visual acuity of less than 3/60 or a visual field of less than 10 degrees in your better eye, with the best correction.</p><p>Eye doctors, or ophthalmologists, define vision in terms of visual acuity and visual field. Visual acuity measures the eye’s ability to see things clearly and in detail, whether near or far away. The visual field is how much of a space your eyes can see with a steady gaze.</p><p>Vision acuity is expressed as a fraction. The top number is the distance that your vision is tested. This is usually 6 metres or 20 feet. The bottom number is the distance at which a person with normal vision is expected to see the image or text. It’s also 6 metres or 20 feet.</p><p>If your eyes are okay, you should be able to see an object clearly from six metres away, so you’ll score 6/6 or 20/20. The 6/6 records visual acuity in metres, while 20/20 is recorded in feet. We use 6/6 in Nigeria. A visual acuity lower than 6/6 often suggests a problem with your vision.</p><ul><li>Glasses and contact lenses can correct mild and moderate vision problems. If, after correction, the vision is less than 3/60 (20/400) in the better eye, an individual will be considered blind.</li><li>Blindness can occur due to injury, infections, or genetic disorders. Whatever the cause, blindness can affect your ability to perform basic tasks.</li></ul><h2>What are the causes of blindness?</h2><p>The most common cause of blindness worldwide is age-related macular degeneration. The macula is a thin layer behind the eyes that helps us to note the tiny details of an object and focus effectively. It deteriorates as we age, leading to vision loss.</p><p>However, in Nigeria and Africa, the leading causes are cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal opacity.</p><p>Other causes include:</p><ul><li>Injury from heavy blows, penetrating objects, toxic chemicals, or radiation exposure.</li><li>Genetic disorders like retinitis pigmentosa and albinism</li><li>Diabetes</li><li>Hypertension</li><li>Stroke</li><li>Vitamin A deficiency</li><li>Trachoma</li><li>Onchocerciasis</li></ul><h2>Symptoms of blindness</h2><p><img src="https://codahosted.io/docs/vaRr3TVdr0/blobs/bl-gGJ_IZTuVh/48942abc7034b842cd7d1e482eca2917be3c0750bfe469b0b1a0d23d0fe34377958caf6a712739fd0555ed23523a984d6a6f9035448f1afddb3e144705b7af1c20ce3800291d8c45815f788b39244c540bf64b271cb80bc673c44990179a917ee3e19467" alt="image.webp"></p><p>Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@nate_dumlao?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash">Nathan Dumlao</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/man-holding-eyeglasses-VJHb4QPBgV4?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash">Unsplash</a></p><p>One early symptom of deteriorating vision is blurry or hazy vision. Objects may appear fuzzy to you. You may struggle to identify figures and shapes at a distance or squint to read texts with regular font sizes and lighting conditions.</p><p>It could also be that you find it more challenging to move around at home, recognize faces, or function outdoors.</p><p>Other symptoms include:</p><ul><li>Difficulty seeing at night or in low-light conditions</li><li>Increased sensitivity to light or glare</li><li>Narrowed visual field</li><li>Loss of peripheral vision, or the ability to see side objects</li><li>Total loss of vision, or the ability to see light</li></ul><p>Depending on the cause, you may experience frequent headaches, eye pain or discomfort, and light sensitivity.<strong> </strong>Pay attention to these symptoms and seek medical attention if you experience them.</p><h2>&nbsp;</h2>

Blindness can be preventable or unavoidable, but early detection and proper care can make a difference. Learn how to protect your vision.

What is Blindness?

<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

With expensive treatments available, prevention remains the best way to combat sickle cell disease.

Sickle Cell Disease 

<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>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.

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