<a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/kidney-realistic-organs-anatomy-poster_29875081.htm#query=human%20kidney&amp;position=3&amp;from_view=keyword&amp;track=ais_user&amp;uuid=fb359a69-327f-488e-b1c5-80e2237f8a0e">Image by gstudioimagen1 on Freepik</a><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">What is acute kidney injury?&nbsp;</h2>Acute&nbsp;kidney&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Symptoms and signs of AKI</h2>Most patients&nbsp;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:<ul><li>Decreased urine output&nbsp;</li><li>Edema: generalized body swelling</li><li>Hypertension&nbsp;</li><li>Weakness&nbsp;</li><li>Nausea</li><li>Coma, in severe cases</li></ul><h1 style="margin-left:5.0pt;text-align:justify;">Classification of AKI</h1>Acute kidney injury is classified based on the location of the cause of the injury. The classifications could be:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Pre-renal AKI - if the cause of the injury is before the kidney</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Renal or intrinsic AKI - if the injury is within&nbsp;the kidney</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Post renal AKI - if the injury is caused by factors after&nbsp;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>Only the intrinsic acute kidney injury represents true kidney disease.&nbsp;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).<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Stages of acute kidney injury&nbsp;</h2>There are four main stages in the development of an acute kidney injury:&nbsp;<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Initiation</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Oligo-anuria&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Polyuria&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Restitution&nbsp;</li></ul>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.&nbsp;However, the injury can progress to a chronic kidney disease if it persists for more than three months.<h1 style="margin-left:5.0pt;text-align:justify;">Causes of AKI in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA)</h1>The most common causes of acute kidney injury in Africa include:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Malaria</li><li style="text-align:justify;">HIV</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Nephrotoxic agents such as&nbsp;traditional&nbsp;herbal concoctions&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Envenomation from snakebite&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Chronic conditions like diabetes mellitus and&nbsp;hypertension</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Obstetric complications</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Use of skin&nbsp;lightening (bleaching) creams containing mercury&nbsp;</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Who is at risk of acute kidney injury?</h2>Anyone can come down with acute kidney injury but some classes of people are especially at higher risk. These sets of people include:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">People&nbsp;living with chronic illnesses like&nbsp;diabetes&nbsp;mellitus,&nbsp;hypertension,&nbsp;and sickle&nbsp;cell&nbsp;disease</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Patients with sepsis</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Patients with poorly treated&nbsp;urinary tract infection&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">People who abuse nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Elderly&nbsp;patients</li><li style="text-align:justify;">People with blocked urinary tract&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Users of certain antibiotics like&nbsp;aminoglycosides</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Patients with dehydration from&nbsp;diarrhea or exercise&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Patrons of traditional practices&nbsp;that involve lacerations of people with unsterilised tools</li><li style="text-align:justify;">People observing prolonged fasting without water</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Poor people who drink herbal concoctions</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Complications of acute kidney injury</h2>When the kidney cannot filter waste and electrolytes from the blood&nbsp;or&nbsp;maintain the water or electrolytes balance due to an injury, the patient&nbsp;may develop complications such as:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Edema: generalized body swelling</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Arrhythmia: abnormal heart rhythm</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Metabolic acidosis: acid buildup in the blood due to reduced excretion</li></ul>Vomiting, drowsiness and breathlessness also can occur.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Diagnosis and laboratory tests for AKI</h2>Your&nbsp;doctor may order&nbsp;a range of tests to confirm an acute kidney injury or determine its severity These tests include:<ul><li>Urinalysis&nbsp;</li><li>Blood test</li><li>Abdominopelvic ultrasound</li><li>CT scan</li><li>Biopsy of the kidneys in extreme cases</li></ul><h1 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Treatment for acute kidney injury</h1>Prompt medical treatment is necessary to reverse an acute kidney injury, restore kidney functions, and prevent the injury from progressing to a chronic disease or degenerating into renal failure.&nbsp;Treatment options include:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Medications to restore fluid and electrolyte balance</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Diuretics to help eliminate accumulated waste</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Dialysis support for people with severe acute kidney injury&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Dietary restrictions, especially from potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, spinach, potatoes, and tomatoes</li></ul><h1 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">How to prevent acute kidney injury</h1>A healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and adequate hydration are key to preventing acute kidney injury. These healthy habits&nbsp;can reduce your chances of having an acute kidney injury, but may require you to:<ul><li>Reduce alcohol intake&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid the abuse of NSAIDS like Ibuprofen and aspirin</li><li>Exercise regularly&nbsp;</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Challenges in the Management of Acute Kidney Injury in Africa</h2>Acute&nbsp;kidney&nbsp;injury is still a major challenge in Africa as compared to other parts of the world. This is due to:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Inadequate facilities and diagnostic tools</li></ul>Poor communities don't have standard hospitals and laboratories. This makes it difficult for patients to access care on time.<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Few specialists, many patients&nbsp;</li></ul>The number of people with acute kidney injury far outnumbers the number of specialists to care for them. While some patients with the injury may need to see a specialist, those who need specialists must compete with tens of other patients, which may lead to treatment delays and avoidable complications.&nbsp;<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Late presentation</li></ul>Patients with AKI often present late to the clinic due, in part, to poverty, ignorance, and self-treatment. Some patients start with self medications, only to present at the hospital when they don't see any improvement.&nbsp;<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Poverty and illiteracy</li></ul>Poverty and illiteracy go hand-in-hand to complicate AKI care in Africa. Some patients who&nbsp;have AKI and need to see a doctor help don't know they do need medical attention,&nbsp;while those&nbsp;who do&nbsp;may not have the financial means to get well.<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">High disease burden&nbsp;</li></ul>African patients are disproportionately affected by AKI, along with other diseases like HIV, malaria, and&nbsp;diarrhoea, and triggers like nephrotoxins (chemicals that hurt the kidneys). This high disease burden increases the risk of worse outcomes for African patients with AKI.<h1 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">What next?&nbsp;</h1>The high prevalence of AKI in SSA is not solely due to the nature of the condition, but rather a complex interplay of preventable and treatable causes, poor health-seeking behavior, socioeconomic barriers, and systemic healthcare challenges. Addressing these multifaceted issues is crucial to improving the management and outcomes of AKI in the region. To ensure that AKI incidence is greatly reduced, there’s&nbsp;a need for proper awareness of this disease entity in SSA, especially since a good number of her populace ingest herbal concoctions and the prevalence of malaria with HIV, which are the main&nbsp;culprits of AKI.

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

Health News and Research

<a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/pills-medical-material-arrangement_24482234.htm#page=4&amp;query=mockup%20health&amp;position=7&amp;from_view=keyword&amp;track=ais_user&amp;uuid=5497b101-7380-4683-9106-4480e074f064">Image by Freepik</a>Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are illnesses or infections caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites and are often contracted through sexual interaction.&nbsp;These infections can affect people of all ages and genders and can result in serious health challenges if left untreated.The symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases, their prevention, and treatment options will all be covered in greater detail in this article.<h2>Types of STDs</h2>There are many types of STDs, but some of the most common ones include the following:&nbsp;<ol><li>Chlamydia: Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria.</li><li>Genital herpes: Genital herpes caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).</li><li>Gonorrhoea: Neisseria gonorrhoeae is the organism that causes gonorrhoea, a bacterial sexually transmitted infection.&nbsp;</li><li>HPV: Human Papillomavirus is a viral infection that commonly causes skin or mucous membrane growths (warts).</li><li>Pubic lice are parasitic insects found in the pubic or genital area.</li><li>Syphilis: Syphilis is an infection caused by bacteria which most often spreads through sexual contact.&nbsp;</li><li>Trichomoniasis: Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by a parasite</li></ol><h2>Symptoms of STDs&nbsp;</h2><img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_2e68622f56.png"><a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/mock-up-blank-poster-picture-frame-wood-wall_1382911.htm#fromView=search&amp;page=2&amp;position=25&amp;uuid=0307f5ca-50fa-4794-8b60-36b41a46318b">Image by tirachard on Freepik</a>STD symptoms can vary depending on the nature of infection. However, some frequent ones include:<ul><li>Painful or frequent urination</li><li>Abnormal vaginal or penile discharge</li><li>Genital sores, bumps, or blisters</li><li>Pain during sex</li><li>Itching or burning in the genital area</li><li>Rectal pain or discharge</li><li>Sore throat or swollen glands</li></ul>Note that not everyone with an STD exhibits symptoms, so regular STD testing is vital.<h2>Prevention of STDs</h2>Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are mostly spread through unprotected sex.&nbsp;Therefore, maintaining good sexual health requires preventing the transmission of STDs. The prevention of STDs includes;<ul><li>Practice safe sex</li></ul>Using condoms can prevent STD transmission. However, no one technique is 100% successful. Therefore, employing additional preventative measures is crucial.<img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_79cff9cf43.png"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-pulling-a-condom-out-of-a-pocket-6474007/">Photo by cottonbro studio from Pexels</a><ul><li>Get vaccinated</li></ul>Human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B vaccines are available to prevent certain STDs. Discuss this with your healthcare provider to know the ones available for you.<ul><li>Avoid multiple sexual partners</li></ul>Having sex with multiple sexual partners increases the likelihood of contracting STDs like HIV, gonorrhoea, syphilis, etc<ol><li>Have an honest communication with your partner&nbsp;</li></ol>Ask about your partner's sexual history and share your own. Open and honest conversation about one’s sexual health can reduce the risk of contracting STDs<ul><li>Get tested</li></ul>Regular testing is essential to knowing your status because many STDs do not have symptoms.&nbsp;<ul><li>Avoid sharing personal products</li></ul>Personal products like towels, razors, and sex toys can carry STI-causing germs and transmit it to others or spread it from them. .&nbsp;<ul><li>Look out for the signs and symptoms</li></ul>Understand the warning signs and symptoms of STDs, which include vaginal sores, discharge, and pain during intercourse. Get checked out and start receiving treatment immediately if you feel any symptoms.<h2>Risk factors for STDS</h2>Research has shown that the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) has been impacted by sociological and demographic factors, such as family life and urbanisation (Patterson-Lomba et al., 2015), meaning that factors like family life and urbanisation contribute to the prevalence of STDs. For example, urbanisation can increase the prevalence of STDs due to higher population density and increased social interactions, while family dynamics can also affect the spread of STDs based on communication and education about sexual health.&nbsp;Therefore it is important to understand these risk factors and take measures to reduce the risk of acquiring an STI.&nbsp;Having unprotected sex raises the chances of getting an STD. Condoms are the most efficient way to prevent STD transmission.The following are some&nbsp; other STD risk factors:<ul><li>Having multiple sexual partners&nbsp;</li></ul>Having multiple sexual partners increases your chance of contracting an STD. Your risk increases as you have more sexual partners.<ul><li>Early sexual activity</li></ul>Those who start having sex at a young age may increase the risk of contracting an STD. This is because they may lack the skills or understanding necessary to engage in safe sex.<ul><li>History of STDs</li></ul>Individuals who have had an STD in the past are more likely to have one again.<ul><li>Being in a same-sex relationship&nbsp;</li></ul>Men who have sex with men (MSMs) are more likely to contract some STDs, including HIV, gonorrhoea, and syphilis.<ul><li>Drug and alcohol abuse</li></ul>Using drugs and alcohol can result in unsafe sexual conduct, such as having intercourse without a condom, which raises the possibility of contracting an STD.<ul><li>Weak immune system</li></ul>Those with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV or cancer, are more likely to contract STDs.<img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_ad9251b1dd.png"><a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/high-angle-unheatlhy-habits_8872822.htm#fromView=search&amp;page=1&amp;position=0&amp;uuid=0edfec20-3df3-4030-a938-2ee9ea19d794">Image by freepik</a><h2>Treatment of STDs</h2>It's critical to see a physician when you suspect an STD. Antibiotics and antiviral drugs can easily treat many STDs, because if the disease is left untreated, they can have significant health impacts.Antibiotics can treat bacterial sexually transmitted diseases if treatment starts early enough. Although there is no treatment for viral STDs, medications can help manage symptoms.<h2>Conclusion</h2>Sexually transmitted diseases are a serious health concern that can have long-term effects.It's critical to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases on a regular basis, particularly if you have several relationships. Being tested is the only way to find out whether one has an STD, as some may not show any symptoms. Notifying sexual partners of the diagnosis of an STD is very important because it allows them to get tested and receive treatment if needed.Always remember that getting tested for STDs is nothing to fear, it is always preferable to know your status rather than put your health and the health of others in danger.

From gonorrhea to syphilis, STDs are common, but they are preventable. Learn how to protect yourself and others.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Lifestyle and Wellness

Women's Health

Men's Health

Disease prevention and management

Image by<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/erikawittlieb-427626/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=890565%22%3EErikaWittlieb%3C/a%3E%20from%20%3Ca%20href=%22https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=890565">&nbsp;Pixabay</a>Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the unexplained death of a baby less than one year old. Diagnosis is confirmed if thethe investigation does not reveal a specific cause of death, it may be classified as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).SIDS is a complex and multifactorial condition, and despite ongoing research, the exact cause remains unknown.&nbsp;To confirm a diagnosis of SIDS, an autopsy must be performed, and all other potential causes of death must be ruled out. Only then can we conclude that a child has died of SIDS.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">How common is sudden infant death syndrome?</h2>SIDS accounted for the death of 15,000 infants worldwide in 2013. There is no reliable record of SIDS cases in Nigeria.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">What are the risk factors for sudden infant death syndrome?</h2>There is no&nbsp; concrete evidence as to the cause of SIDS, but several risk factors have been recorded. These risk factors are grouped as follows:<ol style="list-style-type:upper-alpha;"><li style="text-align:justify;">The demographic factors include:<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li style="text-align:justify;">Low socioeconomic status</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Maternal young age</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Low maternal education</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Single marital status</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Infants who did not live with their fathers</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Male children are more prone to SIDS.</li></ul></li><li style="text-align:justify;">The factors relevant to pregnancy and birth include<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li style="text-align:justify;">Inadequate prenatal care</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Growth retardation in the womb</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Short intervals between pregnancies</li><li style="text-align:justify;">History of multiple pregnancies&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Premature babies and babies with low birth weight</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Substance abuse during pregnancy</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Passive smoking</li></ul></li><li style="text-align:justify;">Sleep environment factors include<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li style="text-align:justify;">Bed quality&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Constant changing of baby’s sleeping position&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Use of soft old pillows&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Use heavy comforters&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Covering the baby’s head with thick blankets</li><li style="text-align:justify;">High fever of any cause</li></ul></li><li style="text-align:justify;">Genetic factors&nbsp; such polymorphism of the serotonin transporter gene</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Infections<ul style="list-style-type:disc;"><li style="text-align:justify;">Viral respiratory infections&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Bacterial infections</li></ul></li></ol>There is no warning sign for SIDS. Most babies are healthy when they are put to bed and suddenly die. A lot of care and intentionality is needed on the part of parents and caretakers to avoid any modifiable risk factor actually leading to SIDS.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Causes of sudden infant death syndrome</h2>By its definition, SIDS does not have any particular cause.&nbsp;<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Prevention of sudden infant death syndrome</h2>Till now, there are no precise causes of SIDS; however, several measures have been established to prevent the occurrence of SIDS. The American Academy of Pediatrics has already established protective measures to decrease the incidence of SIDS. These measures are:<ol><li>Lay the baby on their back</li></ol>It is suggested that the best position for infants is to lay them on their backs in a supine position. Laying a child on their side increases their risk of sudden death, and this is not recommended. Your baby’s risk of SIDS is higher when they sleep on their side or on their stomach.<ol><li>Keep the child warm, not hot</li></ol>An infant needs warmth not heat. Keeping a child in a poorly ventilated room or covering them with excessive clothing can cause hyperthermia, or excess unregulated body temperature. If you’re worried that your child will be exposed to cold then you can dress them in overalls.<ol><li>Keep the baby on a firm surface&nbsp;</li></ol>The baby’s sleeping surface should be preferably hard and firm. Very soft surfaces are a risk factor for suffocation.<ol><li>Stay close to your child&nbsp;</li></ol>The baby’s crib should be in the same room as the parent's, at least in the first year of life. Keeping your baby in the same room as you helps reduce the possibility of SIDS by allowing you to intervene when the child faces any stress.<ol><li>Immunize the child</li></ol>Early and consistent immunization has been associated with a reduction in SIDS.<ol><li>Breastfeed the child</li></ol>Research shows that babies who are well breastfed show less risk for SUDS. It’s advised that you breastfeed your baby for as long as you can.<ol><li>Avoid smoking and alcohol while pregnant</li></ol><h2 style="text-align:justify;">Coping with losing a child to sudden infant death syndrome&nbsp;</h2>SIDS is traumatic, to say the least. It hurts, and a lot of parents blame themselves for sometimes becoming depressed. A few of the ways to overcome this period are outlined below:<ol><li style="text-align:justify;">Lean on family for support</li></ol>Parents who have lost a child to SIDS need encouragement. It is better if you’re open to being comforted by family. It’s usually traumatising to lose a child, and this increases the level of stress and strain on a marriage. It’s worse if there are feelings of guilt or blame involved.Speak to your spouse and seek solace from each other. This is not the time to close up. It's best not to deal with the stress and hurt alone; cry if you need to, but please do not suffer alone. If you need counselling, that’s valid, too, and you may want to go as a couple to sort through your emotions.<ol><li style="text-align:justify;">&nbsp;Going for counseling and receiving psychotherapy</li></ol>For some people, going for counselling or receiving psychotherapy may be the way to heal from the loss of an infant. Social workers, psychologists, psychiatrists, and counsellors all form part of the help team that can offer this help.<ol><li style="text-align:justify;">Let yourself heal</li></ol>As a parent recovering from the trauma of SIDS, give yourself time to heal and not get stuck blaming yourself, but allow yourself to grieve. Forgiving yourself is also very essential.<h2 style="text-align:justify;">Conclusion</h2>Sudden infant death syndrome remains a source of huge concern for parents. The causes are not known, so preventive measures are at best a trail of faith. Evidence suggests that putting children to sleep as safely as possible and ensuring they sleep soundly could help. This includes laying the infants on their backs,&nbsp;keeping them warm and away from beddings that can choke them to death.&nbsp;

Sudden infant death syndrome is the unexplained death of a baby less than one-year-old. It’s every parent’s worst fear, but safe sleep practices can reduce the risk.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Children's Health

Vaccines save lives. Here’s how to safely immunize your child and protect them from serious diseases.

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

<a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/medical-eyeglasses-and-full-of-blood-vials-on-diaper-4230620/">Photo by Karolina Grabowska from Pexels</a>Human blood belongs to one of four main blood groups: A, AB, B, and O. Each of these groups can also be positive or negative for the Rhesus factor, which means you can have an A positive or an A negative blood, just as you can have for AB,&nbsp; B, and O blood groups. But what does this grouping mean to you, and why should you care?<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Blood antigens and antibodies</h2>Blood grouping is based on the presence or absence of antigens and antibodies in your blood. Antigens are proteins found on the red cell surface, while antibodies are natural proteins in plasma.&nbsp;An antigen triggers your immune system to generate antibodies. The antibodies alert your body to destroy the antigens they recognise as foreign.&nbsp;Red blood cells have different types of antigens used to group them. The most commonly recognised blood groups are:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">The ABO blood grouping system&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">The Rhesus (Rh) blood grouping system</li></ul><h3 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">ABO system</h3>In the ABO system, the blood group is based on the presence or absence of the A and B antigens. There are four blood groups in this grouping system.<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Group A&nbsp;- has A antigen and anti-B antibody</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Group B - has B antigen and anti-A antibody</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Group AB - has both A and B antigens but no antibodies</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Group O - has no antigens but has both anti-A and anti-B antibodies</li></ul>Group O blood is the most common blood group in Nigeria. More than half of Nigerians (53%) have group O blood. Very few (less than 4%) have group AB blood.&nbsp;According to the ABO grouping system, your body tolerates the antigens in your blood and produces antibodies against the antigens you do not have.<h3 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">ABO blood compatibility&nbsp;</h3>The ABO blood grouping determines who you can donate blood to or receive blood from. This is known as blood compatibility or the capacity of blood from two individuals to combine without destroying each other.Blood transfusion can safely be done only between two compatible blood groups. This means you must only receive blood your body will not react to.&nbsp;For example, if you have blood group A, your safest option is to receive blood group A. If you receive blood from an incompatible blood group, say group B, your anti-B antibodies will attack the B antigens on the donor red cells, which could be life-threatening.A safer option will be to receive group O blood. Because the group O blood has no antigen, it can safely be given to people with any other blood group.The ABO blood grouping compatibility is summarised as follows:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Group A: individuals with this blood group can donate to individuals with group A or AB blood but can receive blood only from individuals with group A or O blood.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Group B: individuals with this blood group can donate to individuals with group B or AB blood but can receive blood only from individuals with group B or group O blood.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Group AB: individuals with this blood group can donate only to individuals with group AB blood but can receive blood from any other blood group.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Group O: individuals with this blood group can donate to individuals with any blood group but can receive blood only from individuals with group O blood..&nbsp;</li></ul><h3 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Rh system</h3>In the Rh blood grouping system, the blood group is classified depending on the presence of the Rhesus (Rh) factor. The Rh factor is coded for by the D antigen. So if your blood has the Rhesus factor, you are Rhesus-D positive (RhD-positive). If it does not, you are Rhesus-D negative (RhD-negative).The ABO and Rhesus grouping systems are often taken together to give your blood type. That means your blood group can be one of the following:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">O-negative (O-)</li><li style="text-align:justify;">O-positive (O+)</li><li style="text-align:justify;">A-negative (A-)</li><li style="text-align:justify;">A-positive (A+)</li><li style="text-align:justify;">B-negative (B-)</li><li style="text-align:justify;">B-positive (B+)</li><li style="text-align:justify;">AB-positive (AB+)</li><li style="text-align:justify;">AB-negative (AB-)</li></ul>Individuals with AB-positive blood are considered universal recipients because they can receive blood from any other blood group, while a person with type O-negative blood is considered a universal donor because their blood can be safely given to anyone.&nbsp;<h3 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Rhesus compatibility&nbsp;</h3>Rhesus compatibility is not often considered in blood group grouping and crossmatching for blood transfusion, but the compatibility between a pregnant woman and the foetus is is very important.&nbsp;A child can inherit the Rhesus-D antigen from either the mother or father. If the mother is RhD-negative but the child is RhD-positive due to inheritance of Rhesus-D antigen from the father, there will be Rhesus incompatibility between the mother and child.&nbsp;The mother may produce anti-D antibodies that react with the child’s RhD antigens, causing severe complications for the child. This is preventable. Speak with your obstetrician or gynaecologist to discuss the preventions if you are a RhD-negative mother.<h3 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">How to check your blood group</h3><img class="image_resized" style="width:100%;" src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_888d964667.png"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ics-codablock-blood-bag_sample.jpg">ICSident at German Wikipedia</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0">CC BY-SA 3.0</a>, via Wikimedia CommonsYou can check your blood group by visiting a registered laboratory. A laboratory scientist will collect your blood and test it for the blood group antigens that we've outlined.&nbsp;The scientist will tie a tourniquet around your wrist or arm and insert a syringe into a vein to collect your blood into a sample bottle or syringe.Your red blood cells will then be mixed with reagents containing antibodies against the common red cell antigens. That is, anti-A and anti-B antibodies—a third reagent containing anti-D antibody test0s for Rhesus-D (RhD) antigen.&nbsp;The nature of the reaction between your red blood cells and the reagents determines your blood group. Remember, blood group antigens will react with their corresponding antibodies.&nbsp;Therefore, if you have A antigens on your red blood cells, they will react with anti-A antibody reagents and clump together. The reaction will appear like pellets. If the antigens on your red blood cell are different from the antibodies in the reagent, they will not react; your blood will remain fluid.If your blood reacts to anti-A and anti-B antibody reagents, it means you have blood group AB. Individuals with blood group O do not have antigens on their red blood cells, so their blood does not react with anti-A and anti-B antibodies.&nbsp;<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Conclusion</h2>Knowing your blood group is important for safe blood transfusion and pregnancy. It helps you to avoid or prevent severe complications that may affect individuals receiving blood transfusion or newborns. It is also important during emergencies as it will ensure timely treatment. Your knowledge could help you determine your susceptibility to certain diseases and your ancestry. Check your blood group today.

Your blood type isn’t just for transfusions—it can also influence your health risks and pregnancy outcomes.

Does Your Blood Group Really Matter?

<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:A_young_boy_taking_after_an_injection_1.jpg">Kwameghana</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0">CC BY-SA 4.0</a>, via Wikimedia CommonsMeningitis is a serious medical problem that many people often confuse its symptoms with common sicknesses. It can quickly become life-threatening as a result of delayed essential treatment. This article will provide information on meningitis, its common symptoms and what to do in cases of suspected infection.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">What is Meningitis?</h2>Meningitis refers to inflammation of the meninges. The meninges contain three layers of protective membranes, the pia mater, dura mater, and arachnoid mater, that cover the brain and spinal cord. These membranes provide support and maintain cerebrospinal fluid circulation.Meningitis in children has similar symptoms to meningitis in adults. Still, the disease is more common in children under the age of one.&nbsp;Neonatal and infant meningitis is often deadlier than in older children due to their immature immune systems and underdeveloped protective barriers. Infants may not exhibit typical symptoms, making diagnosis more challenging.&nbsp;Rapid progression of the disease can also lead to severe complications or death if not treated quickly.<h2>Risk factors of meningitis in children</h2>&nbsp;A couple of factors have been seen to increase the chances that a child develops meningitis, and some of them include:&nbsp;<h3 style="margin-left:0cm;">General Risk Factors:</h3><ol><li>Missed&nbsp;vaccinations:&nbsp;Meningitis is preventable through vaccines. Children who miss their vaccinations are at higher risk of infection.</li><li>Age:&nbsp;Children under 5 are particularly vulnerable, while bacterial meningitis is most common in adults under 20.</li><li>Crowded&nbsp;living environments:&nbsp;Meningitis-causing bacteria spread &nbsp;quickly in crowded&nbsp;rooms and gatherings, increasing infection rates among children.</li><li>Extreme&nbsp;heat and&nbsp;humidity: Viral and bacterial meningitis thrive in hot, humid climates, raising the risk of outbreaks.</li><li>Weak&nbsp;immune&nbsp;system:&nbsp;children&nbsp;who are not breastfed or those on chemotherapy or medications that suppress their immune&nbsp;systems are more susceptible to meningitis-causing organisms.</li></ol><h3 style="margin-left:0cm;">Specific Risk Factors:</h3><ol><li>Infection from Mothers:&nbsp;children born to mothers with infections, such as Group B Streptococcus, are at a greater risk of developing meningitis.</li><li>Neural Tube Defects:&nbsp;The neural tube gives rise to the future spinal cord and offers a direct channel to the brain and the meninges. Children born with neural tube defects, therefore, are at&nbsp;a higher&nbsp;risk of having meningitis.</li></ol><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Causes of meningitis&nbsp;</h2>Meningitis is caused by germs,&nbsp;which could either be bacteria or viral.&nbsp;Hence, meningitis is grouped according to the cause. They include;<h3 style="margin-left:0cm;">Bacterial meningitis</h3><ol><li>Escherichia coli</li><li>Streptococcus pneumonia</li><li>Group B&nbsp;Streptococcus</li><li>Listeria monocytogenes</li><li>Neisseria meningitides</li><li>Haemophilus&nbsp;influenza</li></ol><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Viral meningitis&nbsp;</h2><ol><li>Polioviruses</li><li>Herpes simplex virus</li><li>Paramyxovirus</li></ol>In addition to bacteria, fungi like&nbsp;Candida,&nbsp;Aspergillus fumigatus, Cryptococcus neoformas, and Borrelia burgdoferi are other important cause of meningitis, even though fungi are not as common as viruses and bacteria.<h2>How is meningitis transmitted</h2>The spread of meningitis is mostly through sneezing, coughing, and kissing. Children acquire the infection when they inhale germs released by an infected person.&nbsp;Once the germ enters the child's nose or throat, it&nbsp;spreads through the bloodstream and then&nbsp;makes its way to the meninges, where it causes inflammation and the accompanying symptoms of inflammation.&nbsp;In low- and middle-income countries where many people live in crowded rooms, leading to overcrowding, it is much easier for these pathogens to be carried, resulting in many children coming down with meningitis.&nbsp;If we take Nigeria as a case study, the country has an estimated population of 193 million people spread across 36 states, making it the most populous country in&nbsp;Africa. This factor has been highlighted by Nigeria being one of the countries&nbsp; considered the “meningitis belt.”&nbsp;According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.who.int/emergencies/disease-outbreak-news/item/2023-DON454#:~:text=Situation%20at%20a%20glance,the%20brain%20and%20spinal%20cord.">World Health Organization</a>, between 1 October 2022 and 16 April 2023, Nigeria reported a total of 1686 suspected cases of meningitis, including 124 deaths, for a case fatality ratio (CFR) of 7%.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">How do you know that your child has meningitis</h2>Meningitis&nbsp;in children&nbsp;usually starts with headache and fever. These two symptoms are common with&nbsp;many other illnesses, making it&nbsp;difficult to diagnose at this stage. More&nbsp;specific symptoms include:<ul><li>Severe headache</li><li>Pain on bending the neck or neck stiffness</li><li>Sensitivity to light</li></ul>The symptoms also differ depending on the patient's age.&nbsp;In Infants, symptoms&nbsp;may include:<ul><li>Fever</li><li>Being fussy and crying constantly</li><li>Extreme weakness</li><li>High-pitched cry</li><li>Arching backwards</li><li>Bulging fontanelle (a fontanelle is a “soft spot” on the head where the skull have not fused)</li><li>Seizures</li><li>Nausea and vomiting</li></ul>For children older than one year, symptoms to look out for include:<ul><li>Fever</li><li>Neck stiffness</li><li>Poor appetite</li><li>Stupor</li><li>Seizures</li><li>Nausea</li><li>Decreased level of consciousness</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">How is meningitis diagnosed in children?</h2>The tests usually prescribed&nbsp;in a child showing the suspected symptoms of meningitis include:<ol><li>Physical examination&nbsp;</li><li>Blood tests&nbsp;</li><li>Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)&nbsp;</li><li>Imaging tests (CT or MRI scan)&nbsp;</li><li>Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test&nbsp;</li><li>Cultures of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)&nbsp;</li><li>Rapid antigen tests&nbsp;</li></ol><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Treatment of meningitis in children</h2>Symptoms of viral meningitis usually resolve within 7 to 10 days. In children, viral meningitis typically resolves at home without needing a doctor's visit, although some cases may require hospital treatment.<h3 style="margin-left:0cm;">Treatment includes:</h3><ul><li>Rest</li><li>Fluids</li><li>Over-the-counter pain medications</li><li>Intravenous (IV) antibiotics (for bacterial meningitis)</li><li>IV fluids and electrolytes (to replace lost fluids)</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">What&nbsp; is the outlook for a child with meningitis?</h2>The prognosis of meningitis in a child depends on&nbsp;several factors, such as the cause—bacterial or viral—the severity of the illness, and the child's age.Bacterial&nbsp;meningitis is a medical emergency. However, most children with bacterial meningitis recover completely with no&nbsp;long-term complications.&nbsp;The less common complications include developmental delays or learning disabilities, spastic or&nbsp;paralysed muscles and seizures.&nbsp;Unlike bacterial meningitis, most children with viral meningitis recover with no long term complications. The symptoms of viral meningitis usually&nbsp;improve within a week.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">How to prevent meningitis in children</h2>There are several ways to prevent infection with the agents that cause meningitis. The more important ones include:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Vaccination</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Good hygiene practices</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Avoiding close contact with sick individuals</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Properly washing hands</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Regular health check-ups</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Avoiding crowded places during outbreaks</li></ul>

Weak immunity and poor hygiene put children at high risk for meningitis. Here’s how to prevent this life-threatening infection.

Meningitis in Children in Low and Middle-Income Countries

<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Otitis_Media.png">BruceBlaus</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0">CC BY-SA 4.0</a>, via Wikimedia CommonsOverviewOtitis media is&nbsp;inflammation of the tympanic membrane and middle ear. Approximately two-thirds of children of all ages are affected by otitis media.Key facts:<ul><li>Approximately 42 million people over the age of three years suffer hearing loss due to otitis media</li><li>90% of children experience this disorder before they enter the school system</li><li>Many attacks of otitis media spontaneously resolve within three months, but in 30% to 40% of children, the disorder becomes recurrent</li><li>Otitis media occurs in 75% of children at least three times in their frst three years of life.</li><li>Around 20,000 people, majorly children under 5 years of age, die every year with the associated complications.</li></ul>Otitis media, especially with a chronic and recurrent form, is associated with complications such as hearing loss, decreased learning capability, and low educational achievement.&nbsp;<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Causes of otitis media in Africa</h2>Otitis media usually occurs as a result of acute upper respiratory tract infections. It can also be caused by&nbsp; allergies or abnormalities in the normal structure and function of the middle ear or Eustachian&nbsp; tube.&nbsp;The most important bacteria causes are<ul><li>non-typeable Haemophilus infuenzae</li><li>Streptococcus pneumoniae</li><li>Staphylococcus aureus</li><li>Streptococcus pyogenes</li><li>Pseudomonas aeruginosa</li><li>Proteus mirabilis</li><li>Escherichia coli, and</li><li>Moraxella catarrhalis</li></ul>P. aeruginosa, S. aureus and P. mirabilis are the commonest bacterial pathogens responsible for otitis media in sub-Saharan Africa.Viruses and&nbsp;fungi also cause otitis media.&nbsp;The occurrence of otitis media is directly related to the colonization rate of the nasopharynx by the bacteria. Viral upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), disrupts the mucociliary system, a system of thick secretions (mucus) from the airways and hairlike projections that sweep the mucus. The disruption of the mucociliary system impairs the host’s primary mechanical defense for bacterial invasion and predisposes children to acute otitis media (AOM).<h2>Types of otitis media</h2><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>Acute otitis media (AOM)<ul><li>Description: This type of middle ear infection starts suddenly, causing swelling and redness.</li><li>Symptoms: Fluid and mucus get trapped in the ear, leading to fever and ear pain.</li></ul></li><li>Otitis media with effusion (OME)<ul><li>Description: Fluid and mucus remain in the middle ear after an initial infection has subsided.</li><li>Symptoms: A sense of fullness in the ear, possible hearing impairment, or no symptoms at all.</li></ul></li><li>Chronic otitis media with effusion (COME)<ul><li>Description: Fluid stays in the middle ear for an extended period or keeps coming back without infection.</li><li>Symptoms: Difficulties in fighting new infections and potential hearing issues.</li></ul></li></ol><h2>Symptoms of a middle ear infection</h2><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>Ear pain:<ul><li>In older children and adults, there is ear pain.</li><li>Babies may rub or pull at their ears, cry more than usual, have trouble sleeping, or be restless and irritable.</li></ul></li><li>Loss of appetite:<ul><li>Especially noticeable in young children during bottle-feeding, as swallowing can increase ear pain due to pressure changes.</li></ul></li><li>Irritability:<ul><li>Persistent pain can cause irritability.</li></ul></li><li>Poor sleep:<ul><li>Pain can worsen when lying down due to increased ear pressure.</li></ul></li><li>Fever:<ul><li>Temperatures can range from 38°C to 104°F, and about half of the children with an ear infection also have a fever.</li></ul></li><li>Ear Drainage:<ul><li>Drainage of yellow, brown, or white (not earwax) fluid from the ear may indicate a ruptured eardrum.</li></ul></li><li>Hearing problems:<ul><li>Fluid behind the eardrum can slow down the movement of sound signals through the inner ear, affecting hearing.</li></ul></li></ol>These symptoms can resemble other conditions, so it's important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Risk factors</h2>The risk factors for ear infections are:<ul><li>cultural, such as use of feathers to clean the ears,</li><li>socioeconomic, and environmental (e.g., living in crowded places, living in large families, the duration of breastfeeding, smoking status),</li><li>genetic (e.g., craniofacial anomalies such as those characteristic in Down syndrome and cleft palate),</li><li>nutritional like how the infant is fed: Babies who are bottle-fed, particularly when lying down, are more prone to ear infections compared to breast-fed babies.</li><li>medical (e.g., age, gender, race, health status, history of several acute otitis episodes, rhinorrhea, allergic rhinitis, seasonal rhinitis, snoring, upper respiratory tract infections, and adenoid hypertrophy).</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Diagnosis</h2>Diagnostic criteria for acute otitis media include:<ul><li>rapid onset of symptoms,</li><li>middle ear effusion, and</li><li>signs and symptoms of middle&nbsp;</li></ul>&nbsp;Antibacterial resistance in AfricaA high level of resistance was observed to commonly used antibacterial agents such as Ampicillin, cotrimoxazole, Amoxicillin, and Amoxicillin-clavulanate however, isolates were less resistant to Ciprofoxacin, Gentamycin, and Chloramphenicol.Thus, drugs like Ampicillin, amoxicillin, Amoxicillin-clavulanate, and cotrimoxazole should not be used as a first-line treatment in sub-Saharan countries since countries in Sub-Saharan Africa are commonly dependent on clinical data for treatment with the absence of microbiology laboratory. Without proper treatment, otitis media could lead to intracranial and intratemporal complications with higher and complex management.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Management and treatment of otitis media&nbsp;</h2>Treatment of ear infections depends on age, severity of the infection, the nature of the infection (is the infection a first-time infection, ongoing infection or repeating infection)&nbsp; and if fluid remains in the middle ear for a long period of time.Your healthcare provider will recommend medications to relieve your child’s pain and fever. If the ear infection is mild, depending on the age of the child, your healthcare provider may choose to wait a few days to see if the infection goes away on its own before prescribing an antibiotic.<h3 style="margin-left:0cm;">Antibiotics</h3>Antibiotics may be prescribed if bacteria are thought to be the cause of the ear infection. Your healthcare provider may want to wait up to three days before prescribing antibiotics to see if a mild infection clears up on its own when the child is older. If your or your child’s ear infection is severe, antibiotics might be started right away.<h3 style="margin-left:0cm;">Pain-relieving medications</h3>Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen/paracetamol or ibuprofen can help relieve earache or fever. Pain-relieving ear drops can also be prescribed. These medications usually start to lessen the pain within a couple hours.&nbsp;Never give aspirin to children. Aspirin can cause a life-threatening condition called Reye’s syndrome.<h3 style="margin-left:0cm;">Ear tubes (tympanostomy tubes)</h3>If your child has experienced frequent ear infections (three ear infections in six months or four infections in a year), had ear infections that weren’t resolved with antibiotics, or experienced hearing loss from fluid buildup behind the eardrum, he or she may be a candidate for ear tubes.&nbsp;Ear tubes are small tubes inserted into the eardrum to drain fluid from the middle ear, relieve the pressure there, and allow air to pass through. They provide immediate relief and are sometimes recommended for small children who are developing their speech and language skills.&nbsp;You may be referred to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist for this outpatient surgical procedure, which is called a myringotomy with placement of tube. During the procedure, a small metal or plastic tube is inserted through a tiny incision (cut) in the eardrum. The tube lets air into the middle ear and allows fluid to drain.&nbsp;The procedure is very short — approximately 10 minutes — and there’s a low complication rate.&nbsp;The ear tube usually stays in place from six to 12 months. It often falls out on its own, but it can also be removed by your doctor. The outer ear will need to be kept dry and free of dirty water, until the hole in the eardrum heals completely and closes.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">What can I do to prevent ear infections in my child?</h2><ul><li>Don’t smoke. Studies have shown that second-hand smoking increases the likelihood of ear infections. Be sure no one smokes in the house or car — especially when children are present — or at your daycare facility.</li><li>Control allergies. Inflammation and mucus caused by allergic reactions can block the eustachian tube and make ear infections more likely.</li><li>Prevent colds. Reduce your child's exposure to colds during the first year of life.&nbsp;</li><li>Maintain adequate hygiene. Don’t share toys, foods, drinking cups or utensils. Wash your hands frequently.&nbsp;</li><li>Breastfeed your baby. Antibodies in breast milk reduce the rate of ear infections.</li><li>Bottle feed baby at an upright angle. If you bottle feed, hold your baby in an upright angle (head higher than stomach). Feeding in the horizontal position can cause the fluids to flow back into the eustachian tube..</li><li>Watch for mouth breathing or snoring. Constant snoring or breathing through the mouth may be caused by large adenoids. These may contribute to ear infections. An exam by an otolaryngologist, and even surgery to remove the adenoids (adenoidectomy), may be necessary.</li><li>Get vaccinations. Make sure your child’s immunizations are up to date, including yearly influenza vaccine (flu shot) for those 6 months and older. Ask your doctor about the pneumococcal, meningitis and other vaccines too. Preventing viral infections and other infections help prevent ear infections..</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Complications of otitis media&nbsp;</h2>Although otitis media may&nbsp;occur without symptoms,&nbsp; complications mayexist. These include:<ul><li>delayed language and speech,</li><li>ruptured eardrum,</li><li>cholesteatoma, and</li><li>reading and writing impairment.&nbsp;</li></ul>Other complications are:<ul><li>mastoiditis,</li><li>meningitis,</li><li>acute labyrinthitis,</li><li>acute petrositis.</li></ul>

Ear infections can cause severe pain and missed school days for children. The good news? Proper hygiene can help prevent them.

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

Knowing your genotype matters for marriage, your health, and future generations.

What is Genotype and How Does it Work?

<a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sickle_Cell_Disease_(27249799083).jpg">National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) from Bethesda, MD, USA</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0">CC BY 2.0</a> via Wikimedia CommonsEvery year, an average of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.panafrican-med-journal.com/content/article/41/161/full/#:~:text=Nigeria%20accounts%20for%20100%2C000%2D150%2C000,SCD%20from%20the%20global%20perspective.">150,000&nbsp;</a>children in Nigeria are born with sickle cell disease (SCD) widely referred to as sickle cell anaemia. About&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2672962/#:~:text=Abstract,it%20occurs%20in%20about%206%25.">25%&nbsp;</a>of the adult&nbsp;population carry the sickle cell trait.&nbsp;Sickle cell disease causes severe pain and other health complications&nbsp;that keep the&nbsp;carrier in and out of the hospital with recurring illness. Despite its impact on the lives of millions, sickle cell disease is often misunderstood and overlooked.&nbsp;<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">What is sickle cell disease?</h2><img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_273df3b483.png"><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Sickle_Cell_Anemia.png">BruceBlaus</a>, <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0">CC BY-SA 4.0</a>, via Wikimedia CommonsSickle cell&nbsp;anaemia is a hereditary blood disorder that occurs when the body&nbsp;produces abnormal haemoglobin.&nbsp;The abnormal haemoglobin (HbS) works&nbsp;like the normal haemoglobin (commonly HbA) when the oxygen supply is optimal.&nbsp;But when oxygen supply is low, the haemoglobin molecules clump the red blood cells into stiff, sickle-shaped cells that get stuck in blood vessels, blocking oxygen flow,&nbsp; leading to pain, anaemia, tissue damage, and other complications.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">How is sickle cell disease inherited?</h2>Sickle cell disease is an autosomal recessive disorder. This means that the father and mother of the child have to&nbsp;carry the sickle cell gene and then transmit it to their child before the child can develop the sickle cell disease.&nbsp;If the sickle cell gene comes only from one parent, the inheritance will lead to a sickle cell trait in the child.Children with sickle cell gene from both parents have HbSS genotype, and therefore produce only abnormal haemoglobin (HbS). This type of haemoglobin clumps into a polymer when the oxygen content is low, which causes red blood cells to sickle.On the other hand, those with the sickle cell trait (HbAS) have one copy of the normal haemoglobin genotype (HbA) and one abnormal copy (HbS). Such individuals produce normal and abnormal haemoglobin.&nbsp;The sickled red cells are weak and break down easily, leading to sickle cell anaemia. They can also clog blood vessels leading to painful episodes known as crises.&nbsp;Having a sickle cell trait means that, although you do not have the sickle cell disease, you may develop the symptoms in extreme conditions like strenuous exercise, high altitude, severe dehydration, or infection.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Signs and symptoms of sickle cell disease</h2><img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_1853e189f6.png"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-person-in-gray-shirt-and-blue-denim-jeans-14534511/">Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya</a>The symptoms of sickle cell disease can vary in severity and frequency and range from mild to severe. They typically include:<ul><li>Episodes of anaemia (low level of red blood cells),</li><li>Joint and bone pain</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Frequent and increased risk of infections</li><li>Shortness of breath</li><li>Yellowing of the eyes and body</li><li>Delayed growth and development</li></ul>Some individuals may also experience sudden and severe pain, known as a sickle cell crisis, caused by the blockage of blood flow in blood vessels.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Complications of sickle cell disease</h2>Sickle cell disease can cause severe complications if it is not properly managed. Frequent sickle cell crisis, for instance, can trigger acute chest syndrome or avascular necrosis of the head of femur, a condition that leads to the death of the thigh bone.Other complications of sickle cell disease can include:<ul><li>Stroke</li><li>Lung damage</li><li>liver damage</li><li>Eye damage</li><li>Skin ulcer</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">How to diagnose sickle cell disease?</h2>If you suspect you or your child may have sickle cell disease, it is important to get a proper diagnosis.&nbsp;The diagnosis typically involves a blood test to determine the presence of sickled red blood cells or defective haemoglobin&nbsp;types.&nbsp;Haemoglobin electrophoresis can then be used confirm the diagnosis of sickle cell disease. This test detects the presence of abnormal or sickle haemoglobin and diagnoses the specific type of sickle cell disease.&nbsp;A newborn screening test can also detect the disease in infants, but this may require high-tech equipment that are available only at specialised centres. Haemoglobin electrophoresis is not useful for screening newborns because they have fetal haemoglobin which masks the presence of abnormal haemoglobin.&nbsp;Other tests, such as a complete blood count and blood&nbsp;film examination, can also provide important information about the disease's severity and the individual's overall health.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">How can you avoid sickle cell disease?&nbsp;</h2>You can avoid sickle cell disease by:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Getting tested: Knowing your sickle cell disease status will help you confirm your compatibility with your spouse and plan your family effectively.</li><li>Educating yourself and others: Spread the word about sickle cell disease, its risk factors, and the importance of testing.</li><li>Encouraging others to get tested: Encourage family and friends to get tested, especially if they are considering starting a family.</li><li>Supporting research and advocacy: Donate to organizations working to&nbsp;find a cure for the disease and improve treatment options.</li></ul>Sickle cell disease&nbsp; is a serious condition, but it doesn't have to be a reality for future generations. By raising awareness and preventing its spread, we can help build a healthier and brighter future for all Africans.How is sickle&nbsp;cell&nbsp;disease treated?Sickle cell disease is managed with is a multi-disciplinary approach that includes:&nbsp;<ol><li style="text-align:justify;">Pain management: medications are used during sickle cell crisis to relieve pain while rehydration prevents the blood from sickling, thus reducing the pain.&nbsp;</li><li>Blood transfusions: Regular blood transfusions can help maintain haemoglobin levels and reduce the frequency of crises.</li><li>Hydroxyurea treatment: This&nbsp;medication increases the production of fetal haemoglobin, which can help reduce the frequency of crises, and the need for regular transfusions</li><li>Antibiotics: To prevent infections, patients are given prophylactic antibiotics.</li><li>Vaccinations: Patients with sickle&nbsp; cell disease tend to be vulnerable&nbsp; to infections due to their lower immunity.&nbsp; Vaccinations prevent these infections.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Stem cell transplant: replacing sickle cells with normal ones via a stem cell transplant is a highly effective way to treat sickle cell disease. However, this is an expensive and high-risk procedure.</li><li>Gene therapy: This is a new and developing&nbsp;field in sickle cell disease treatment, aiming to correct the genetic defect causing the disease.</li></ol>Living with sickle cell disease is painful and draining, but these&nbsp; practical tips can help you navigate and cope with the physical and emotional demands of the disease.<ul><li>Manage pain with medication and other therapies such as hydration, rest, and exercise.</li><li>Build a strong support system of family, friends, and medical professionals</li><li>Connect with others who have the disease and seek educational resources</li><li>Take care of yourself mentally and emotionally, and seek out counseling if needed</li><li>Follow a balanced diet, avoid triggers like stress and dehydration, and</li></ul>maintain regular medical checkups<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Planning a Family?&nbsp;</h2><img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_c89b46ece0.png"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-couple-in-a-psychotherapy-session-7579120/">Photo by Antoni Shkraba</a>If you're planning to start a family, you must be aware of the risk of&nbsp;sickle cell disease . Here are what you can do to protect your future children:<ul><li>Get tested: Know your haemoglobin genotype and ask your partner&nbsp;of theirs.</li><li>Speak to a genetic counsellor: A&nbsp;genetic counsellor will help you understand your risk and compatibility profile and the options available to you.</li><li>Consider antenatal screening: Antenatal screening can help detect the disease in a developing fetus.</li></ul>Taking these steps and being proactive can help reduce the risk of SCD and ensure a healthy future for your family. So start planning today and take control of your family's health!<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Conclusion</h2>Sickle cell disease is a debilitating condition affecting millions worldwide, particularly in Africa and its diaspora. Understanding the disease, its inheritance, and its&nbsp;management is crucial in improving outcomes and quality of life for those affected. It is important to work with your healthcare provider to&nbsp;find the treatment plan that works best for you. Remember, early diagnosis and treatment can improve outcomes for individuals living with sickle cell disease.

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

Sickle Cell Disease 

<a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-man-using-braille-book-7265314/">Photo by Thirdman</a>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.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.The World Health Organization (WHO)&nbsp;<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&nbsp;<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.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&nbsp;can be that and more.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">What is blindness?</h2><img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_a17647e314.png"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-sitting-on-a-bench-with-his-dog-8327844/">Photo by MART&nbsp; PRODUCTION</a>Blindness is a condition&nbsp;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.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.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.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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;Blindness can occur due to injury, infections, or genetic disorders. Whatever the cause, blindness can affect your ability to perform basic tasks.&nbsp;<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">What are the causes of blindness?</h2>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.&nbsp;It deteriorates as we age, leading to vision loss.&nbsp;However, in Nigeria and Africa, the leading causes are cataracts, glaucoma, and corneal opacity.&nbsp;Other causes include:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Injury from heavy blows, penetrating objects, toxic chemicals, or radiation&nbsp;exposure.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Genetic disorders like retinitis pigmentosa and&nbsp;albinism</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Diabetes</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Hypertension</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Stroke</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Vitamin A deficiency</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Trachoma</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Onchocerciasis</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Symptoms of blindness</h2><img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_7e37a7114e.png">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>One early symptom&nbsp;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.&nbsp;It could also be that you find it more challenging to move around at home, recognize faces, or function outdoors.Other symptoms include:<ul><li>Difficulty seeing at night or in low-light conditions</li><li>Increased sensitivity to&nbsp;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,&nbsp;or the ability to see light</li></ul>Depending on the cause, you may experience frequent headaches, eye pain or discomfort, and light sensitivity.&nbsp;Pay attention to these symptoms and seek medical attention if you experience them.&nbsp;<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Diagnosis of blindness</h2><img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_c0e5f444ad.png"><a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-person-in-white-shirt-having-an-eye-examination-5201879/">Photo by Photo By: Kaboompics.com</a>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.Your doctor will do a comprehensive eye examination, which may involve:<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>You may need an MRI or a CT scan if the examination reveals any abnormalities.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Prevention of blindness</h2>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.The goals of prevention are to:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Protect your eyes from any disease</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Prevent your vision from getting worse if you’re already having trouble with your vision</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Minimize the difficulties you may face as someone with visual impairment</li></ul>So, how can you prevent blindness?<ol><li style="text-align:justify;">Go for regular eye checks at least once a year</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Maintain proper eye hygiene</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Use protective eyewear such as glasses and safety goggles</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Manage underlying diseases like hypertension and diabetes</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Get treated against blindness-causing infections such as Trachoma&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Go for genetic counselling to know your risk for developing eye diseases</li></ol><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Treatment of blindness</h2>The treatment of blindness depends on the underlying cause.&nbsp;Some causes may&nbsp;require drugs, others may require surgery or transplants.&nbsp;<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Drugs:&nbsp;Antibiotics and anti-worm medications can help treat blindness caused by bacteria and worms.&nbsp;</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Supplements:&nbsp;Vitamin A supplements may help restore vision loss in individuals with xerophthalmia.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Surgery: Refractive errors, cataracts, glaucoma, and other eye structural eye diseases can be resolved through surgery.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Corneal transplant:&nbsp;transplanting corneal tissues from a healthy donor helps improve vision loss or impairment caused by corneal damage.</li></ul>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.Note&nbsp;that treatment for blindness&nbsp;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.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Conclusion</h2>If you suspect your vision is getting poor, keep calm and visit a doctor. Your symptoms could be a sign of a mild eye disease or something more. Your doctor will tell you what they are.&nbsp;Symptoms of blindness are often innocent. Except in cases of direct injury to your eyes, blindness often starts with blurry or hazy vision, then to&nbsp;partial or total vision loss if they are not treated.&nbsp;Good eye care can protect you from common causes of blindness, while regular eye examination helps you detect eye diseases very early. Drugs, surgery, and transplants can resolve some of these causes; some other causes are irreversible.&nbsp;

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

Help! I think I’m going blind

<a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-in-white-and-yellow-stripe-polo-shirt-8173269/">Photo by Kindel Media</a>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.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&nbsp;significantly in the coming years.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;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.&nbsp;Knowing&nbsp;about the disease can encourage you to tackle the common risk factors of the disease.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors of dementia</h2>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.’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&nbsp;<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.The modifiable risk factors include:<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&nbsp;</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>Controlling these factors requires personal effort combined with government policies and intervention.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Reversible and irreversible causes of dementia</h2>Dementia is often a consequence of advanced age. However, it may also be caused by some reversible and irreversible factors.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:<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>Irreversible causes of dementia are neurodegenerative disorders or diseases that occur as the brain loses its neurons. They include:<ul><li>Alzheimer’s disease</li><li>Parkinson’s disease</li><li>Prion’s disease</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Dementia may not be inheritable</h2>Some scholars suggest a link between genetic factors and dementia because people who have dementia often have family members with a history of dementia. However, the current understanding is that you cannot inherit or transmit the disease.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">What are the early signs of dementia?</h2>Dementia develops slowly but progressively. The earliest signs are subtle and easy to pass off as regular forgetfulness. However, these are some common signs and symptoms:<ul><li>Progressive short-term memory loss</li><li>Disorientation</li><li>Difficulty in performing regular tasks</li><li>Changes in mood or personality</li><li>Language difficulty</li><li>Difficulties with abstract thinking</li><li>Difficulty in remembering names and faces</li><li>Increased suspicion&nbsp;</li><li>Getting lost and misplacing items</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">How is dementia diagnosed?</h2>The diagnosis of dementia is based on five criteria, as outlined in the International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision (ICD-10). These criteria include:<ol><li>A decline in memory and thinking must be evident and sufficient enough to impair personal activities of daily living</li><li>Memory impairment must affect the individual’s activity to register, store, and retrieve new information, while previously stored information may be lost</li><li>Thinking impairment must reduce the flow of ideas and reasoning capacity</li><li>The person must have clear consciousness</li><li>The signs and symptoms must last at least six months</li></ol>A person suspected of having dementia must meet these five criteria for their diagnosis to be confirmed.Other investigations include:<ul><li>Lumbar puncture for cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis&nbsp;</li><li>Electrolyte, urea, and creatinine</li><li>Urinalysis</li><li>Thyroid function test</li><li>Liver function tests</li><li>Brain imaging&nbsp;</li><li>Serum vitamin B12 and folate levels</li><li>Electroencephalography</li></ul>Unfortunately, the diagnosis of dementia in developing nations can be challenging because many people do not know about the disease. Signs and symptoms of dementia are often misinterpreted as spiritual problems or downplayed as natural rites of old age.&nbsp;Besides, very few brain specialists are available to manage dementia, and facilities may need to be more readily available across the country.&nbsp;<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Prevention of dementia</h2>While there is no known cure for dementia, it is very preventable. Preventing dementia means managing the modifiable risk factors we mentioned earlier. You can&nbsp;<ul><li>Maintain a healthy lifestyle</li></ul>This involves adequate sleep, eating high-quality fruits and vegetables, and quitting smoking and alcohol.&nbsp;<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Challenge your brain</li></ul>Mental exercises such as solving puzzles, building new projects, reading, or painting engage different parts of the brain, thus strengthening them. This can prevent or delay the onset of dementia.<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">Manage underlying conditions</li></ul>Chronic diseases such diabetes, hypertension, and diabetes increases your risk of developing dementia. Managing them–with drugs and lifestyle and dietary adjustments–may protect your brain against dementia.<ul><li>Maintain social connections</li></ul>Social isolation is the new epidemic, and it is not helped by the Covid-19 pandemic which forced everyone indoors, and social media which seems to mask the need for physical need for physical interactions.&nbsp;Still, venturing outdoors and engaging people physically could benefit brain health. The richness of our social experience provides emotional support, excites our minds, and improves our mental health.&nbsp;<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Treatment</h2>There is currently no known cure for dementia, but many treatment options are available to:<ul><li style="text-align:justify;">preserve any remaining ability to think and perform daily tasks</li><li style="text-align:justify;">relieve distressing symptoms</li><li style="text-align:justify;">accommodate the immediate needs of the patient</li><li style="text-align:justify;">treat any complications</li></ul>Treatment may also involve psychological treatment such as music therapy, art therapy, memory training, and medications.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;text-align:justify;">Conclusion</h2>The number of people with dementia is rising, and our aging population is at risk of adding to the number. While some of the factors are not modifiable, managing the modifiable ones can help improve our brain function and prevent dementia. Still, this is not a job for one person. Government intervention is needed, too.

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

<a href="https://unsplash.com/@freestocks?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash%22%3efreestocks%3c/a%3e%20on%20%3ca%20href=%22https://unsplash.com/photos/woman-holding-stomach-ux53SGpRAHU?utm_content=creditCopyText&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_source=unsplash">Photo by Unsplash</a>Pre-eclampsia is a complication of pregnancy that affects about&nbsp;<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.The International Society for the Study of Hypertension in Pregnancy&nbsp;<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.&nbsp;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&nbsp;“silent killer” of pregnant women.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Causes of pre-eclampsia</h2>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.&nbsp;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&nbsp;decrease blood flow to the baby.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Signs and symptoms of pre-eclampsia</h2>Pregnant women with pre-eclampsia may present with:<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>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&nbsp;pregnant women should attend all their antenatal appointments and have their blood pressure and urine checked regularly.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Pre-eclampsia may hurt the mother and baby</h2>Untreated pre-eclampsia can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, and even stillbirth. In addition, pre-eclampsia can cause&nbsp;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.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Who is at risk of pre-eclampsia?</h2>Several risk factors can increase a woman's chances of developing pre-eclampsia. These include:<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>Also, a woman is more likely to get pre-eclampsia again if she has had it during a previous pregnancy.&nbsp;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.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Diagnosis and treatment of pre-eclampsia</h2>Pre-eclampsia is diagnosed through routine antenatal care. If your care provider suspects that you have pre-eclampsia is suspected, you may be referred to a specialist for further testing.The treatment for pre-eclampsia depends on the severity of the condition and how far along you are in your pregnancy. In some cases, early delivery may be necessary to protect the health of the mother and the baby. But if the baby isn't ready, your doctor may suggest medicines to control blood pressure, bed rest, and other treatments to help&nbsp;support the pregnancy.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Importance of early detection and treatment of pre-eclampsia</h2><img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_87a8c767ff.png"><a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/woman-expecting-child-doing-examination-with-medic-medical-office-general-practitioner-consulting-pregnant-patient-check-pregnancy-healthcare-physician-helping-mother_22298434.htm#fromView=search&amp;page=1&amp;position=0&amp;uuid=b8b72d1a-9e29-4363-8da2-20a11cdf9aab">Image by DC Studio on Freepik</a>Early detection and treatment of pre-eclampsia are crucial&nbsp;to preventing serious complications. This is why pregnant women should attend regular antenatal care appointments, where their blood pressure and other vital signs will be monitored.&nbsp;<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Preventing&nbsp;pre-eclampsia</h2>While it is not always possible and there is no surefre way to prevent pre-eclampsia, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing pre-eclampsia. Here are a few tips to help ensure a healthy pregnancy:<ol><li>Visit your healthcare provider regularly: Early and regular antenatal care is essential for detecting and managing potential complications, including pre-eclampsia.</li><li>Eating a balanced and healthy diet:&nbsp;enrich your diet&nbsp;with fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.</li><li>Stay active: Regular exercise, such as walking or&nbsp;pelvic floor exercises, can help improve circulation and prevent hypertension.</li><li>Maintain a healthy weight: Eat small portions of food, drink plenty of water, and curb your desire to binge on foods</li><li>Control any pre-existing medical conditions: If you have diabetes or kidney disease,&nbsp;see a doctor to manage them before or during pregnancy.</li><li>Avoid smoking and alcohol intake:&nbsp;both can increase your risk of pre-eclampsia.</li></ol><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">A final word</h2>Pre-eclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that can have serious consequences for both the mother and baby. However, the outcome can be positive if it's detected and managed early.By understanding the risk factors, signs and symptoms, and ways to reduce your risk, you can take steps to protect yourself and your baby. So, always be informed and proactive about your health during pregnancy.

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

What Every Woman Should Know Pre-eclampsia

<a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-ai-image/human-blood-globulins_97747193.htm#fromView=search&amp;page=1&amp;position=9&amp;uuid=0a1d6c78-ecf9-4134-a9b7-52c8d3847ea2">Image by frimufilms on Freepik</a>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.&nbsp;<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 style="margin-left:0cm;">Anaemia symptoms</h2>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:<ul><li>Pale skin (pallor)</li><li>Cold hands and feet</li><li>Tiredness or weakness</li><li>Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling like you are about to pass out</li><li>Fast or unusual heartbeat</li><li>Shortness of breath</li><li>Headache&nbsp;</li><li>Pain</li><li>Poor growth&nbsp;</li></ul>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.&nbsp;<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">What are the causes of anaemia in Africa</h2>Anaemia occurs either because:<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>These three mechanisms result from many causes. The common causes of anaemia in Nigeria include&nbsp;<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>Malaria is a leading cause of anaemia in Sub-Saharan Africa, as is iron deficiency.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Risk factors</h2>The following factors place you at increased risk of anaemia, they include:<ul><li>Nutritional deficiency: low intake of minerals and vitamins, such as iron, copper, vitamin B-12, and folate&nbsp;</li><li>Intestinal disorders: 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>Menstrual disorders: excess blood loss during menstruation is a risk factor</li><li>Pregnancy: Increased energy and nutrient demands and fluid retention during pregnancy can lead to anaemia</li><li>Chronic conditions: 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.&nbsp;</li></ul>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.<ul><li>Family history:&nbsp;inherited conditions, such as sickle cell anaemia, make you vulnerable to becoming anaemic due to increased destruction of red cells</li><li>Old age: People over age 65 are at increased risk of anaemia</li></ul>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.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Diagnosis</h2><img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_48e230bd77.png"><a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/coronavirus-blood-samples-arrangement-lab_18684532.htm#fromView=search&amp;page=1&amp;position=18&amp;uuid=dd6f9a27-a349-4831-a0aa-e91ec4f1f230">Image by freepik</a>Diagnosis of anaemia is a combination of clinical presentation and laboratoryLaboratory tests for anaemia generally include the following:<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 style="margin-left:0cm;">Treatment</h2>Treatment for anaemia depends on the cause or type of anaemia. Treatments for common forms of anaemia include:<ul><li>Iron-deficiency anaemia: iron supplements and dietary changes.</li><li>Vitamin deficiency anaemia: vitamins and dietary supplements.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Thalassemia: folic acid supplements, iron chelation, and, for some people, blood transfusions and bone marrow transplants.</li><li>Anaemia of chronic disease: treatment of underlying disease.</li><li>Aplastic anaemia: blood transfusion or bone marrow transplant.</li><li>Sickle cell anaemia: oxygen therapy, pain relief medication, and intravenous fluids: antibiotics, folic acid supplements, blood transfusions, and hydroxyurea may be added.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Haemolytic anaemia: treatment of the underlying cause</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Prevention</h2>Prevention can be&nbsp;achieved by enforcing individual/family and government policies.On individual levelIron deficiency and vitamin-deficiency anaemia can be prevented by consuming the right diet. Suchnutrient can be gotten from the following sources:<ul><li>Iron:&nbsp;from red meat, dark-green leafy vegetables, beans and lentils, dried-fruits and iron-fortified cereals.</li><li>Folate/folic acid:&nbsp;from dark-green leafy vegetables, whole fruits or fruit juices, kidney beans, green peas, peanuts and fortified products such as bread, cereal, pasta, and rice.</li><li>Vitamin B-12:&nbsp;sources include dairy products, meat, soy products and fortified cereal.</li><li style="text-align:justify;">Vitamin C: citrus fruits – whole or juiced, strawberries, peppers, broccoli, melons and tomatoes.</li></ul>On Governmental levelThe three major causes of anaemia (iron deficiency, malaria and helminth infections) can be addressed during contacts with vulnerable groups using a combination of key interventions, as needed.Five Key Interventions<ul><li>Iron supplements targeted to at-risk groups</li><li>Fortification of staple foods with iron and other micronutrients that cause anaemia for the general population&nbsp;</li><li>Supply of iron-fortified foods targeted to at-risk groups</li><li>Prevent and treat malaria</li><li>Use of insecticide-treated materials and bed nets to prevent anaemia</li><li>Deworming (anthelmintics) in at-risk groups</li></ul>Other important interventions to decrease anaemia:<ul><li>Expand immunization coverage</li><li>Prevent and manage obstetric complications, particularly excessive bleeding</li><li>Promote birth spacing through use of modern contraceptives and exclusive breastfeeding</li><li>Promote use of contraceptives that decrease blood loss</li><li>Improve water and sanitation facilities/practices</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Conclusion</h2>Anaemia is a huge problem in Africa, but it is manageable with interventions at the individual and government levels. The primary cause of anaemia in the continent include iron deficiency, malaria, and complications of pregnancy and delivery. These causes are controllable.&nbsp;

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.

The Prevalence of Anaemia in Africa

David is a bright and active eight-year-old boy who loved playing in the compound and discovering new things around him. One day, while playing with his toys under the shade of a tree in front of his house, he suddenly fell to the ground and started shaking uncontrollably.His mom was terrified and quickly called out for help. The neighbours came together, and one of them offered his bike. David’s father quickly got on the bike, and with the help of his mother and a neighbour, they carefully placed David on the bike. With David held between his parents, they rushed to the clinic, hoping he would get better soon.At the clinic, the doctors ran a series of tests before diagnosing David with a seizure disorder, often referred to as epilepsy.&nbsp; This meant that he would be at risk for future seizures. For&nbsp;David and&nbsp;his family, this diagnosis was life-changing.&nbsp;If you have a child like David, this article will help you learn about seizure disorders in children and how to manage&nbsp;similar cases.&nbsp; It provides an overview of seizure disorders in paediatrics, including the definition of seizures, common causes, diagnosis, and treatment options. Additionally, it provides coping strategies for parents and caregivers to manage seizures in children and ensure their safety.<h1 style="margin-left:0cm;">What is a seizure?</h1>A seizure is a disorder in which brain cells malfunction and transmit electrical impulses involuntarily, resulting in symptoms that impact other areas of the brain and body. In this case, seizures often cause loss of consciousness and abnormal movements, usually immediately.&nbsp;It can result in unexpected, abrupt changes in a child's movements, sensations, cognition, and&nbsp;behaviour. Neurons in the child's brain may&nbsp;freeze excessively during a seizure,&nbsp;resulting in odd feelings, emotions, or behaviours. The seizure may be minor or severe, lasting between a few seconds and several minutes.Paediatric seizure disorder&nbsp;occurs in approximately 4 to 10 out of every 1,000 children.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Causes of seizure disorders in children</h2>Several possible causes of seizure disorder in&nbsp;children may include the following:<ul><li>Genetic factors - some forms of epilepsy may be inherited.</li><li>Brain injury or damage - can occur during birth from infections, head injuries, or strokes.</li><li>Brain malformations - when the brain does not develop properly before birth.</li><li>Infections - such as meningitis, encephalitis, or abscesses in the brain.</li><li>Metabolic disorders - including low blood sugar, electrolyte imbalances, or kidney or liver failure.</li><li>Brain tumours - both benign and malignant&nbsp;tumours can cause seizures.</li><li>Febrile seizures - which occur during high fever in young children.</li><li>Unknown causes - in some cases, no&nbsp;specific cause of the seizure disorder can be&nbsp;identified.</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Types of seizure disorders</h2>A seizure can come in different forms, depending on the cause and the part of the brain affected. The common types include:<ul><li>Generalised seizures&nbsp;</li></ul>They affect the entire brain and can render a child unconscious. They can be atonic or tonic-clonic seizures if they affect the child’s muscles and movement or absence seizures if the child just stares into space or blanks out for a few seconds. Absence seizures were once called petit mal&nbsp;seizures.<ul><li>Focal or partial seizures</li></ul>These seizures might originate in one&nbsp;specific location and result in a limited range of symptoms. If the child does not lose consciousness, the seizure could be simplepartial seizures. Complex partial seizures result in altered consciousness.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Symptoms of a seizure in children&nbsp;</h2>The symptoms of a seizure vary depending on the type. Common symptoms include:<ul><li>Abnormal movements:&nbsp;The seizure may include jerking or twitching the arms, legs, or face.</li><li>Loss of consciousness: The child may appear to&nbsp;stare blankly, become unresponsive or confused, or even fall to the ground.</li><li>Convulsions:&nbsp;The severity of convulsion can range from mild to severe and can include shaking stiffness, and loss of muscle control.</li><li>Change in mood or&nbsp;behaviour: Children may experience sudden changes in mood or&nbsp;behaviour,&nbsp;and may become irritable, aggressive, or anxious.</li><li>Changes in sensations: Children may complain of hearing unusual sounds or seeing&nbsp;flashing lights.</li><li>Loss of bladder or bowel control:&nbsp;A child with a seizure may find it difficult to hold her pee or poop.</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Diagnosis of seizures in children</h2><img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_7ae6bc1cca.png"><a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-ai-image/man-working-as-paediatrician_262780334.htm#fromView=search&amp;page=1&amp;position=0&amp;uuid=3751e076-8a39-4cda-8e30-00aa555908bf">Image by freepik</a>Seizures in children combine medical history, physical exam, neurological assessment, and diagnostic testing.&nbsp;<ul><li>Medical history: The doctor will&nbsp;ask about the child's symptoms and medical history from the parents or other primary caregivers</li><li>Neurological assessment.&nbsp;This involves a comprehensive neurological examination comprising tests for nerve and sensory functions, gait and balance, etc.&nbsp;</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Management options for seizure disorders</h2>The primary goal of treatment of&nbsp;a seizure disorder is to stop the seizure and, if it can’t be stopped, to control or reduce the frequency and severity of the seizure. These goals may be achieved through:&nbsp;<ul><li>Anti-seizure drugs: Anti-seizure drugs are the mainstay of treatment for children with seizure disorders. The drugs reduce the abnormal electrical activity in the brain.&nbsp;</li><li>Nutritional therapy:&nbsp;There have been reports of some epileptic children experiencing fewer seizures while following a high-fat, low-carb ketogenic diet.</li><li>Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is a&nbsp;form of treatment that can be used with other therapies to help children with seizure disorders manage their disease's emotional and psychological aspects.</li><li>Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS)&nbsp;is a noninvasive medical procedure that involves implanting a device beneath the skin of the chest and connecting it to the vagus nerve in the neck. VNS stimulates the brain with electrical impulses, which lessen the frequency and intensity of seizures.</li><li>Surgery: For kids with seizure disorders, surgery may occasionally be advised to remove the portion of the brain producing the seizures&nbsp;without causing greater harm to the healthy brain tissue.</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Coping strategies for parents and caregivers of children&nbsp; having a seizure disorder</h2>Having a child with a seizure disorder can be challenging and stressful for a parent or caregiver.&nbsp; To help you cope, try:<ul><li>Working closely with a paediatric neurologist to create a personalised treatment plan for children with seizure disorders. Identifying and addressing any sign of seizure disorder early can improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.</li><li>Ask for help:&nbsp;Connect with other parents and caregivers&nbsp;whose children have similar challenges. Join a support group, attend seminars or conferences, or consult a therapist or&nbsp;counsellor who focuses on helping families dealing with seizure disorders.</li><li>Make self-care a priority: Make time for leisurely pursuits like reading, jogging, and&nbsp;socialising with friends. These activities can help you unwind. When you need a break, take one, and if you require assistance, ask friends or family for assistance.</li><li>Create an action plan for seizures: Consult with your child's doctor to create an action plan that&nbsp;specifies what to do during a seizure. If you have a strategy, you may feel more prepared and&nbsp;confident in controlling your child's seizures.</li><li>Create a safe space for your child.&nbsp;This may entail clearing your child's room of sharp or harmful things, setting up safety equipment like bed rails or epilepsy helmets, and instructing other family members and caregivers on handling seizures.</li></ul>

Early diagnosis and treatment can ease the burden of seizures, but reducing stigma is just as important.

Seizure Disorders in Children

<a href="https://www.pexels.com/photo/scrabble-tiles-on-a-light-blue-surface-8428356/">Photo by Anna Tarazevich</a><h1 style="margin-left:0cm;">Overview</h1>When the heavy bleeding started, she never imagined it could be anything worse. Mrs. B, a 28-year-old mother of two has had a heavy bleeding in the past, some of which she took pills for, others went on their own. Her gynaecologist attributed her last heavy flow to an anovulatory cycle, something to do with her ovaries not releasing an egg for the month. It was nothing to worry about, she had said. So when this came, she didn’t think much of it until it refused to go.Mrs. B went to the hospital where she had several tests done. Full blood count, ultrasound scan, urinalysis. Nothing extraordinary was found, safe for an unusual finding in her urine. Her PCV, which indicates the blood level in her body, was normal. The abdominal ultrasound done didn’t show anything abnormal. Only the urinalysis discovered red blood cells. The doctor told her not to worry but recommended she go for a biopsy, where a tiny cut of her cervix will be taken and viewed with a microscope. The biopsy report came back and the unimaginable had happened: she has cervical cancer&nbsp;For many people like Mrs. B., cervical cancer is a strange thing. Cancer is common. It’s on the news. Everyone talks about, but not much or anything at all is ever said about cervical cancer. Or not much that she had heard or read. All she knew about were breast cancer, lung cancer, and prostate cancer. Here she was having to deal with a cancer she's never heard about.<h3 style="margin-left:0cm;">So what’s cervical cancer?</h3>Cervical cancer is the cancer of the cervix, the lower, narrow end of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Around 660,000 women were newly diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2022, making it the fourth most common cancer in women globally.&nbsp;Other notable statistics about cervical cancer include:<ul><li>&nbsp;It accounts for death every two minutes</li><li>Nearly 22.5% of these deaths occur in Africa</li><li>About 8% of the cancer is associated with infections with high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV)&nbsp;</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.&nbsp;</li></ul>This surge in cervical cancer cases threatens to reverse the advancements made by African women in reducing maternal mortality and enhancing life expectancy. Nevertheless, 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.&nbsp;<h1 style="margin-left:0cm;">What are the causes of cervical cancer?</h1>&nbsp;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.&nbsp;It is estimated 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.&nbsp;<h3 style="margin-left:0cm;">Who's at risk for cervical cancer?</h3>Cervical cancer is often associated with identifiable risk factors. Some of these factors can be modified, while others are beyond your control.&nbsp;Here are some risk factors you can control:<ul><li>Sexual intercourse at an early age:&nbsp;</li><li>HPV infection</li><li>HIV infection</li><li>Weakened immune system</li><li>Multiple pregnancies</li><li>Long term use ofirth control pills</li><li>Smoking: Cigarette smoking has been linked to a heightened risk of cervical cancer.</li></ul>While these risk factors re controllable, some are not.Example of an uncontrollable risk factor:<ul><li>Family history</li><li>Age&nbsp;</li></ul><h1 style="margin-left:0cm;">What are the symptoms of cervical cancer?&nbsp;</h1>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.&nbsp;When early-stage cervical cancer symptoms do manifest, they may include:<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>As cervical cancer advances, symptoms may encompass those of early-stage cancer, along with:<ul><li>Painful or difficult bowel movements</li><li>Bleeding from the anus during bowel movements</li><li>Painful urination&nbsp;</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>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.<h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Stages of cervical cancer</h2>The staging of cervical cancer indicates the degree of spread.There are 4 stages of cervical cancer progression and they are:<ul><li>Stage I: Cancer is confined to the cervix.</li><li>Stage II: Cancer has spread beyond the cervix and uterus but not to the pelvic wall or vagina.</li><li>Stage III: Cancer has spread to the lower vagina and possibly the pelvic wall and nearby lymph nodes.</li><li>Stage IV: Cancer has spread to the bladder, rectum, or other distant parts of the body.</li></ul><h1 style="margin-left:0cm;">Preventing cervical cancer</h1>HPV vaccineThe HPV vaccine is designed to protect against the specific strains of HPV responsible for nearly all cervical cancer cases. Gardasil 9 is effective against nine HPV types, which together account for about 90% of cervical cancers. For optimal efficacy, the second dose should be administered six to twelve months after the first.Receiving the HPV vaccine does not eliminate the need for regular cervical cancer screening. Women vaccinated against HPV should have their first screening at age 25 and continue every five years thereafter.<h1 style="margin-left:0cm;">How is cervical cancer diagnosed?</h1><img src="https://tenbadgers-myhealthvoice.s3.eu-central-1.amazonaws.com/image_582d7737fd.png"><a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/doctor-holding-radiography-side-view_32338454.htm#fromView=search&amp;page=1&amp;position=31&amp;uuid=bbcea39a-f3bf-4fab-a3e3-86bd249d91bf">Image by freepik</a>Cervical cancer develops slowly over many years, hence the need for regular Pap smear ( The Pap smear is a procedure 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.In this test, a healthcare provider uses a speculum 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. The entire process typically takes just a few minutes and may cause slight discomfort, but it is usually not painful.) To detect early signs of cancer, if positive, a biopsy is ordered.The biopsy could be any of the following:<ul><li>Colposcopic biopsy</li><li>Loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP)</li><li>Cone biopsy&nbsp;</li><li>Endocervical curettage&nbsp;</li><li>Cold knife cone biopsy&nbsp;</li></ul>An HPV DNA test too can be ordered.Should the biopsy test come out as positive further investigations would be required to determine if the cancer has spread (metastasized) and to what extent.The other test include:&nbsp;<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&nbsp;</li></ul><h2 style="margin-left:0cm;">Treatment</h2>Treatment of cervical cancer depends on:<ul><li>The stage of the cancer</li><li>The size and shape of the tumor</li><li>The woman's age and general health</li><li>Her desire to have children in the future</li></ul>Early cervical cancer can be cured by removing or destroying the precancerous or cancerous tissue. There are surgical ways to do this without removing the uterus or seriously damaging the cervix, so that a woman can still have children in the future.The following treatment options are available depending on the stage of the cancer:<ul><li>Laser therapy&nbsp;</li><li>Cryotherapy&nbsp;</li><li>Hysterectomy&nbsp;</li><li>Radiation therapy&nbsp;</li><li>Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure(LEEP)</li><li>Chemotherapy&nbsp;</li></ul><h3 style="margin-left:0cm;">Support Groups</h3>Joining a cancer support group can provide emotional relief and connection with others facing similar challenges. Sharing experiences can help alleviate feelings of isolation.<h1 style="margin-left:0cm;">Conclusion</h1>Early detection of cervical cancer is key to effective treatment, making regular Pap smear screenings essential. The HPV vaccine, now available in three different versions, provides crucial protection against the virus that often leads to cervical cancer. Staying on top of both vaccinations and screenings is important for reducing risk. Furthermore, involving family and connecting with support networks can greatly support your journey through treatment.

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of death among women, yet it’s preventable and treatable. Find out how to protect yourself.