<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!

Health News and Research

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

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

Children's Health

<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

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>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>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. 

What is Genotype and How Does it Work?

Reproductive Health

<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>

Your kidneys filter your blood to keep you healthy. But when they suddenly fail, acute kidney injury occurs. Here’s what you need to know.

The Burden Of Acute Kidney Injury (Aki) In Africa

<p>Tetanus probably doesn't come to mind when you think of dreadful diseases, and you may not give tetanus injections much thought unless you step on a rusty nail. The symptoms of tetanus can be subtle and may not appear until several days after infection. People may mistake these symptoms for other less severe conditions, such as muscle strain. Yet, tetanus is one of the deadliest conditions on earth.</p><h2><strong>What is tetanus?</strong></h2><p>Tetanus, also known as lockjaw, is a severe bacterial infection that damages the neurological system. It causes tightening of neck and jaw muscles, which can make opening the mouth or swallowing difficult.</p><h2><strong>What is the source of tetanus?</strong></h2><p>Tetanus is caused by the <i>Clostridium tetani</i> bacterium, which is present in dust, soil, and animal waste. The bacterium enters the body through a wound or cut, producing the tetanus toxin. The toxin affects the nerves, causing the life-threatening symptoms associated with tetanus.</p><h3><strong>How is tetanus contracted?</strong></h3><p>Tetanus can be contracted in different ways. Such ways include:</p><ul><li>Contamination of a wound with dirt or materials containing tetanus bacteria.</li><li>Injury with contaminated blades, needles, and surgical instruments.</li><li>Transmission from an infected mother to a child through the placenta, contaminated cervix, or direct contact with an open wound.</li><li>The mother, who transmits the immunity to her newborn, can be protected against it by receiving an immunization for a few days after birth.</li></ul><h2><strong>What are the symptoms of tetanus?</strong></h2><p>Depending on the individual, tetanus symptoms might appear days to weeks after infection. The first sign is usually “lockjaw” or muscle spasms in the jaw. Other symptoms of tetanus include:</p><ul><li>Fever and sweating</li><li>Widespread muscle stiffness and pain</li><li>Seizures characterized by jerking or staring</li><li>Difficulty in swallowing</li><li>Sudden and involuntary muscle contractions &nbsp;often in the abdomen</li><li>Constipation</li><li>Headaches</li><li>Changes in blood pressure and heart rate, etc.</li></ul><h2><strong>What are the complications of tetanus?</strong></h2><p>Tetanus can readily degenerate into serious complications or death if an infected person does not receive immediate care. Immediate complications include:</p><ul><li>Aspiration pneumonia</li><li>Pulmonary embolism</li><li>Laryngospasm</li><li>Breathing difficulty</li></ul><p>In extreme circumstances, tetanus can also result in convulsions and respiratory collapse, which may lead to death.</p><h2><strong>How to prevent tetanus</strong></h2><p>Tetanus can be effectively prevented through vaccination. The recommended vaccine is the combination DTP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis) or TdaP vaccine, which protects against diphtheria, whooping cough, and tetanus.</p><p>Babies require three doses of DTaP, administered at ages two, four, and six months, followed by booster shots at ages 15 to 18 months and 4 to 6 years.</p><p>Preteens should receive a Tdap shot between 11 and 12 years old. Pregnant women should get a Tdap shot during the early third trimester to protect their baby from whooping cough. Adults who have never received the vaccine should get a Tdap shot, followed by a Td or Tdap booster every ten years.</p><p><img src="https://codahosted.io/docs/LEx1iPgn90/blobs/bl-_qM6TQZvGo/97883bfc14a8ba8a6b92e8ac2c083424530a24fbbcc12185572f045e5a3a2800cdcd21f7e3c4051d29c8248f6bb00f5f6a1e907fe268182ad70db50239a319b3fc5a5eecf2a9690c7fd0cce87f834bdb3d2c862755673271949b8222ad964613994bef51" alt="image.webp"></p><p>Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@cdc?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash">CDC</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/man-doing-syringe-on-woman-wearing-blue-shirt-9uo3cLLo0IM?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash">Unsplash</a> &nbsp;</p><h2><strong>What are the treatment options?</strong></h2><p>Treatment for tetanus varies depending on the severity of the symptoms. It usually involves a combination of therapies and medications, including antibiotics, to eliminate the bacteria from the body. These options include:</p><ul><li><strong>Tetanus toxoid injection</strong>: The injection contains a treated form of the tetanus toxin, called tetanus toxoid, that serves as an emergency immune booster against the effects of tetanus toxin.</li><li><strong>Antibiotics: </strong>While tetanus toxoid nullifies the tetanus toxin, antibiotic treatment helps manage any secondary infections that can develop due to the wound. The type of infection and the patient's medical background will determine the appropriate antibiotic.</li></ul><p><img src="https://codahosted.io/docs/LEx1iPgn90/blobs/bl-F8WQWqMIZH/bbf45a6cd5cce62c77c9e74274d2f5cf2b4b848bbd2a4dbb24f0a65236b602f4fc613a4d0ec21c5dffbb9055b072a95b270bbfc45222b2fd9bd0daa3179f684ff6203040c2b04a70c66eed204f57d3b4b32a3291a3ec712ee5271b9b9e25a07f3a1fff50" alt="image.webp"></p><p><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Bottle_of_tetanus_antitoxin,_Germany._Full_view,_graduated_g_Wellcome_L0058962_(cropped).jpg">See page for author</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0">CC BY 4.0</a>, via Wikimedia Commons</p><ul><li><strong>Wound dressing: </strong>Open wounds can be cleaned with moderate antiseptic or soap and water. Surgical debridement could be required if the wound contains dead tissues.</li><li><strong>Use of muscle relaxants: </strong>To alleviate the stiffness and spasms caused by tetanus, muscle relaxants can be administered. These medications work by reducing the severity of muscle spasms and decreasing the risk of fractures and other associated injuries.</li><li><strong>Supportive care</strong>: Tetanus patients need supportive care, which could involve giving oxygen and IV fluids and medications, food, water, and oxygen. If the situation worsens, the patient may need specialized care in an intensive care unit (ICU).</li></ul><h2><strong>Vaccination can protect you from tetanus</strong></h2><p>Tetanus is a life-threatening disease contracted when the bacterium <i>Clostridium tetani </i>enters the body through cuts or wounds. The bacterium produces a toxin with deadly effects. The best approach to avoid tetanus is vaccination and maintaining good wound hygiene. Infected individuals should seek prompt medical care.</p>

Minor injuries can turn deadly due to tetanus. Learn how you can prevent it.

What is Tetanus?

<p>Unprecedented data was released across the world's media after the COVID-19 Coronavirus broke out in December 2019. Many details regarding the pandemic, its symptoms, transmission, and response mechanisms have been inaccurate. Misinformation, deception, falsehoods, and misconceptions have been served to audiences via propaganda and fake news. One way this propaganda has spread is through social media.</p><p><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/concept-of-covid-19-in-red-background-4031867/">Photo by Edward Jenner&nbsp;</a></p><p>Here are three key reasons why COVID-19 vaccine myths and misinformation remain a major challenge in Nigeria and across Africa.</p><ul><li><strong>Widespread misinformation:</strong> Since the COVID-19 outbreak, false information and conspiracy theories—especially through social media—have misled many about the virus and vaccines.</li><li><strong>Vaccine myths and fears:</strong> Despite vaccine availability in Africa, myths fueled by fear and ignorance have slowed vaccination efforts.</li><li><strong>Low vaccine usage:</strong> Due to mistrust and misinformation, over 22 African countries have used less than 25% of their vaccine supplies, according to WHO.</li></ul><p>Unprecedented data was released across the world's media after the COVID-19 Coronavirus broke out in December 2019. Many details regarding the pandemic, its symptoms, transmission, and response mechanisms have been inaccurate. Misinformation, deception, falsehoods, and misconceptions have been served to audiences via propaganda and fake news. One way this propaganda has spread is through social media.</p><p>The release of COVID-19 vaccines offered hope that the pandemic would end soon. Unfortunately, as the number of vaccines available in Africa has grown, so has the number of myths regarding them. Anxieties regarding vaccines might stem from a lack of knowledge or outlandish conspiracy ideas. The World Health Organization estimates that 22 African countries have used less than 25% of their vaccination supplies.</p><p>So, tell me, what are some of the most common myths heard throughout the continent? Below are some of the common myths about COVID-19 in Nigeria and Africa.</p><p><img src="https://codahosted.io/docs/AbUxeyv8Z3/blobs/bl-deWjmo-pmM/e21ff0cd0119681a09625c59ed47a2eb058b4124d4025f1338431a4c3772c4a0fff79e91b20aaf3538a421187d7272500e84c973abdbb798867e2e96fdb3be4b02f21bb37949075f711133bebae17c62cebd3225ac2f856b3a806378823afaf9f97579f3" alt="image.png"></p><p><a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/rectangular-white-blank-billboard-striped-wall_3622956.htm#query=board%20mockup&amp;position=21&amp;from_view=keyword&amp;track=ais_user&amp;uuid=d5297f35-45f7-4b26-b4f6-4bc5c9a4fd47">Image by Freepik</a></p><h3>Myth 1: Covid-19 does not exist.</h3><p>The notion that COVID does not exist is a myth. Cases of COVID-19 have been documented in every country on Earth. The African CDC stresses the seriousness of the COVID threat. Approximately 127,000 people have lost their lives to COVID-19 on the continent, and over 4.7 million confirmed cases have been confirmed. Due to insufficient testing, the actual numbers are very certainly much higher. The virus, meanwhile, is continually changing. Sometimes, the new varieties are even more contagious and lethal than the original. You can find half a dozen COVID strains on the continent right now. Due to low vaccination rates in Africa, the virus has a chance to mutate and spread uncontrollably across the continent and, ultimately, the world.</p><h3>Myth 2: The government invented COVID to gain more power.</h3><p>Even though there are health recommendations to stop the spread of COVID-19 in Africa, very few people follow them. Doubts about COVID-19 increased in some African countries after the government politicised the virus. One such country is Nigeria. COVID palliatives and relief materials meant for the masses were hoarded and/or shared amongst themselves. Security forces were accused of applying COVID-19 directives selectively against the poor masses, and the public's mood switched from cooperative to defiant. The low rates of immunisation are a reflection of this. While some say the government is inflating the danger of COVID-19 for political benefit, others point to Africa's low infection rates as "proof." This problem is not unique to Nigeria; in other countries, such as Benin, Uganda, Djibouti, Chad, Tanzania, Burundi, and the Republic of the Congo, vaccine skepticism is also on the rise because of a gulf between governments and individuals.</p><h3>Myth 3: The risks associated with vaccines are significant.</h3><p>The idea that live viruses are introduced into the body and that people can die from vaccinations is a common urban legend. However, the fear of the COVID-19 vaccines has been amplified on social media by "anti-vaccine campaigners." Others argue that the risks of getting the vaccines—such as infertility or other severe side effects—are greater than the risks of getting the virus. Some believe that vaccines are poisons that change people's DNA in Africa. They further assert that Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates and the United States government are behind the scheme to use vaccines as a cover to implant trackable microchips.</p><p>Truth be told, all vaccines (AstraZeneca, Moderna, Pfizer, Johnson &amp; Johnson, and Sinopharm) that are now available in Africa have been certified for use by WHO. The listing aims to ensure that, under urgent circumstances, health workers can quickly distribute high-quality, effective vaccines to those who need them.</p><h3>&nbsp;</h3><h2>What to Do</h2><p><span style="color:rgb(15,88,189);">When it comes to avoiding contracting COVID-19, keeping your distance from other people (ideally by at least 1 meter) and practising good hand hygiene are your best bets. You can prevent spreading any viruses that could be on your hands to your face by washing them well before eating or touching your face. Wearing face masks, maintaining social distance, and avoiding crowded places can help to reduce the spread of COVID-19. Until vaccines are widely accessible, these methods help keep individuals healthy and out of the hospital's intensive care units.</span></p><h2>Bottom Line</h2><p>Verifying the integrity and scientific foundation of the news and media coverage around the COVID-19 pandemic is one of the most difficult tasks facing the public. Since the beginning of the pandemic, many false rumours and misconceptions have increased throughout the WHO African Region. False information is lethal, and the truth is always a life-saver. The spread of harmful false information online and offline contributes to the persistence of dangerous diseases like COVID-19. Access to up-to-date knowledge founded in science is essential to the well-being of individuals, groups, and nations. Don't disseminate myths, only the facts.</p><p>With the help of vaccines, Ebola outbreaks in West and Central Africa have been contained in the past. Building up people's confidence was crucial to these programs' success. For the COVID-19 vaccine campaign to regain the public's trust, it is necessary to counter the myths around the virus and vaccine and foster an atmosphere of outreach that prioritises the community's needs.</p>

Unprecedented data was released across the world's media after the COVID-19 Coronavirus broke out in December 2019. Many details regarding the pandemic, its symptoms, transmission, and response mechanisms have been inaccurate. Misinformation, deception, falsehoods, and misconceptions have been served to audiences via propaganda and fake news. One way this propaganda has spread is through social media. 

#Health