February 2024

CHOLERA -SYMPTOMS, PREVENTION AND CAUSES

Cholera, a bacterial infection caused by Vibrio cholera, has plagued humanity for centuries, leaving a trail of devastation in its wake. Despite advancements in medical science, cholera remains a significant global health concern, particularly in regions with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water.

According to research estimates, there are between 1.3 and 4.0 million cases of cholera worldwide each year, and between 21 000 and 143 000 fatalities as a result of the disease.¹

Cholera manifests primarily through severe diarrhea and vomiting, leading to rapid dehydration. The bacterium Vibrio cholerae produces a toxin that triggers the excessive release of water and electrolytes from the intestines, resulting in watery diarrhea often described as “rice-water stool.” Without prompt intervention, severe dehydration can lead to shock, organ failure, and death.

Cholera spreads through the consumption of contaminated water or food, particularly in areas with inadequate sanitation infrastructure. Human feces, containing the cholera bacterium, can contaminate water sources, leading to outbreaks, especially during natural disasters or humanitarian crises. Additionally, seafood harvested from contaminated waters can also transmit the infection if consumed raw or undercooked.

Preventing cholera hinges on improving access to clean water, ensuring proper sanitation practices, and promoting hygiene education. Communities can implement measures such as water chlorination, sewage treatment, and handwashing to reduce the risk of cholera transmission. Vaccination campaigns targeted at high-risk populations provide an additional layer of protection, particularly in endemic regions or during outbreaks.

Despite significant progress in combating cholera, challenges persist in controlling the disease, especially in resource-limited settings. Weak healthcare infrastructure, inadequate access to clean water, and population displacement due to conflict or environmental disasters exacerbate the risk of cholera outbreaks. Sustainable interventions focusing on infrastructure development, community engagement, and epidemic preparedness are essential in the ongoing fight against cholera.

Cholera remains a formidable foe, claiming thousands of lives annually and burdening healthcare systems worldwide. However, concerted efforts in prevention, early detection, and treatment have shown promising results in reducing the impact of cholera outbreaks. By addressing the root causes of the disease and implementing comprehensive strategies, we can move closer to a world where cholera is no longer a threat to public health.

As we continue to navigate the complexities of infectious diseases, let us remain vigilant in our efforts to combat cholera and to safeguard the well-being of communities globally.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of CFHI to address issues of basic health concern. Join us every Monday on all our social media platforms for more episodes.

Reference:

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cholera

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON THE ROLE OF SOCIAL JUSTICE IN COMBATING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

In the quest to eliminate gender-based violence (GBV), the concept of social justice serves as a cornerstone, championing not just the equitable distribution of resources but the foundational belief that every individual is entitled to equal economic, political, and social rights and opportunities.

The United Nations defined social justice as the fair and compassionate distribution of economic growth, the view that everyone deserves equal economic, political, and social rights and opportunities. This political and philosophical theory focuses on fairness in relations between individuals in society.1

At its core, GBV thrives in environments where inequality prevails, making pursuing social justice an essential pathway to its eradication. Understanding the relationship between social justice and gender-based violence is crucial to developing effective strategies to combat GBV. The absence of social justice—manifested through the unequal distribution of resources, opportunities, and privileges—exacerbates socio-economic disparities, which in turn can increase instances of violence against women and other vulnerable groups. These disparities often lead to or exacerbate situations where individuals are more susceptible to violence.

United Nations Office on Drugs and Crimes (UNODC) highlights economic power as one of the six pillars of GBV, pointing out that economic and financial violence—stemming from the denial of resources or actions causing economic harm—is intrinsically linked to other forms of violence against women.

As identified by UNODC, economic power underscores the fundamental causes of economic and financial violence, such as the denial of resources. These acts of economic harm are closely interwoven with various manifestations of GBV. The denial of economic opportunities, control over financial resources, and access to education not only marginalizes women but also places them at an increased risk of experiencing violence. Thus, empowering women economically and ensuring access to resources is critical in combating GBV.

The UN’s proposals to advance social justice are multifaceted, aiming at creating a society where GBV is less likely to occur. These include improving inclusive and effective governance of work, ensuring employment opportunities and lifelong learning, reforming institutions for fairer labour market outcomes, and extending social protections across peoples’ lifetimes.
The role of social justice in combating gender-based violence is undeniable. By addressing the systemic inequalities that perpetuate GBV, society can move closer to eliminating this pervasive issue. Economic empowerment, inclusive governance, fair labour practices, and comprehensive social protections are not just ideals of a just society but are practical tools in the fight against GBV.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.
References:
1.

https://www.un.org/esa/socdev/documents/ifsd/SocialJustice.pdf

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON PROSTATE CANCER OVERVIEW-SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

Cancer, Men's Health, Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

In Nigeria, prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy among men and a hospital prevalence of 182.5 per 100,000 male admissions was recorded in 2010 in Osun State.1

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the prostate. Males have a little gland called the prostate that resembles a walnut that secretes seminal fluid, which feeds and carries sperm.

In it’s early stage, prostate cancer may not show any symptoms, but may result in indications and symptoms like: difficulty urinating, a weaker stream of pee, blood in the urine, blood in the semen, bone pain, weight loss without attempting, and erectile dysfunction when the cancer becomes advanced.2

Options for treating prostate cancer rely on a number of variables, including how quickly the disease is developing, if it has spread, your general health, and the potential advantages or disadvantages of the treatment. Some of the treatment options include; surgery to remove the prostate, radiation therapy, freezing or heating prostate tissue, and hormone therapy.

Around 1 in 8 males will receive a diagnosis of prostate cancer at some point in their life. However, only 1 in 41 of these will die as a result. This is because treatment is effective, especially in the early stages. Routine screening enables doctors to detect many cases of prostate cancer before they spread.

Individuals and organizations are encouraged to create awareness of the need for routine check-ups to prevent advanced-stage prostate cancer.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of CFHI to address issues of basic health concern. Join us every Monday on all our social media platforms for more episodes.

#MondayHealthBurst #MensHealth #ProstateCancer

References:

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON CANCER OVERVIEW- SYMPTOMS AND TYPES

Cancer / cfhinitiative

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020, or nearly one in six deaths1. Cancer is a complex group of diseases characterized by the abnormal growth of cells that invade and destroy surrounding tissues. These cells can spread to other parts of the body, leading to serious complications if left untreated. While the exact cause of cancer is often multifactorial and not fully understood, certain risk factors, such as genetics, environmental exposures, lifestyle choices, and infections, can increase the likelihood of developing cancer.

The signs and symptoms of cancer can vary widely depending on the type and location of the disease. However, some general symptoms may indicate the presence of cancer, including:

Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss, especially without changes in diet or exercise habits, may be a warning sign of various cancers, such as pancreatic, stomach, or lung cancer.

Fatigue: Persistent fatigue or weakness that does not improve with rest can be a symptom of many types of cancer, as the body’s energy resources are diverted to fighting the disease.

Changes in Bowel or Bladder Habits: Changes in bowel or bladder habits, such as blood in the stool or urine, prolonged constipation or diarrhea, or changes in urinary frequency, can be indicative of colorectal, bladder, or prostate cancer.

Persistent Pain: Chronic pain that does not resolve with usual treatments or persists beyond the expected healing time may signal the presence of cancer, especially if it is localized to a specific area or worsens over time.

Lumps or Abnormalities: The presence of lumps, bumps, or swelling in the body, particularly in the breast, testicles, lymph nodes, or other soft tissues, should be promptly evaluated by a healthcare professional, as they can be early signs of cancer.

Changes in Skin: Changes in the size, shape, color, or texture of moles, freckles, or skin lesions, as well as the development of new growths or sores that do not heal, should be examined by a dermatologist to rule out skin cancer.

There are over 100 different types of cancer, each with its own unique characteristics, risk factors, and treatment approaches. Some common types of cancer include2:

Breast Cancer: Breast cancer forms in the cells of the breast tissue and can occur in both men and women. It is often detected through breast self-exams, mammograms, or clinical screenings.

Lung Cancer: Lung cancer develops in the tissues of the lungs and is strongly associated with smoking, although non-smokers can also develop the disease. Symptoms may include persistent cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

Colorectal Cancer: Colorectal cancer affects the colon or rectum and typically develops from precancerous polyps. Screening tests such as colonoscopies can detect early-stage disease when treatment is most effective.

Prostate Cancer: Prostate cancer occurs in the prostate gland of men and is one of the most common cancers in males. Screening tests such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) tests and digital rectal exams can help detect prostate cancer in its early stages.

Skin Cancer: Skin cancer develops in the cells of the skin and is often caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing the spread of skin cancer to other parts of the body.

Cancer is a formidable adversary that requires a comprehensive understanding of its symptoms and types to facilitate early detection, diagnosis, and treatment. By recognizing the warning signs of cancer and undergoing regular screenings, individuals can take proactive steps to protect their health and improve their chances of survival. Additionally, ongoing research and advancements in cancer treatment offer hope for more effective therapies and improved outcomes for cancer patients in the future.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of CFHI to address issues of basic health concern. Join us every Monday on all our social media platforms for more episodes.

References
1 – https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/cancer
2 – https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cancer

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IMPACT OF FGM ON GIRLS AND WOMEN IN THE SOCIETY

Female Genital Mutilation, Gender Based Violence / cfhinitiative

The Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) stands in solidarity with worldwide efforts aimed at eliminating FGM in commemoration of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a form of gender-based violence that has plagued women and girls for centuries. It is internationally denounced as a breach of the fundamental human rights of girls and women. The United Nations reports that over 200 million girls and women currently alive have been subjected to FGM.¹ Alarmingly, in the year 2024 alone, approximately 4.4 million girls—or more than 12,000 daily—are at imminent risk of undergoing FGM across the globe.²

Proponents of FGM often defend the practice by citing cultural traditions, alleging that it curtails female sexuality and preserves virginity before marriage. Others mistakenly believe that FGM offers hygienic benefits, reduces promiscuity, modifies socio-sexual behaviour, promotes fertility, and even augments marriage prospects.

However, research and studies unequivocally demonstrate that FGM offers no health advantages to girls or women. On the contrary, those subjected to FGM experience immediate complications such as intense pain, shock, excessive bleeding, infection, and difficulties urinating. The long-term repercussions are equally dire, adversely affecting their sexual, reproductive, and mental health. These findings underscore the fact that FGM is a cultural practice deeply rooted in gender inequality, as highlighted by the United Nations.

The persistence of FGM underscores the critical need for comprehensive education and community engagement to dismantle myths surrounding the practice and promote gender equality. Empowering girls and women through education, providing support to communities in transitioning away from FGM, and enforcing legal frameworks that protect the rights of girls and women are vital steps towards eradicating FGM.

As we observe the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, CFHI echoes the call for a united action by the government, organisations, stakeholders, and individuals in the fight against FGM. It is imperative to listen to and amplify the voices of girls and women affected by FGM, to ensure their rights are protected, and to work tirelessly towards a future where every girl can grow up free from the threat of gender-based violence.

Her voice. Her future. Let’s End FGM Today.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.

.1. United Nations_Female Genital Mutilation Day Observance
.2. UNFPA_International Day of Zero Tolerance Female Genital Mutilation

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HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION

Cultural practices in Africa, End FGM, Female Genital Mutilation, Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) is a harmful traditional practice that involves altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons.¹ This practice, prevalent in many cultures around the world, has severe health implications for women and girls who undergo it. From physical to psychological consequences, FGM leaves a lasting impact on the well-being of individuals subjected to it. Some of the health implications include:

Immediate Complications: FGM can result in severe pain, bleeding, and shock immediately following the procedure. In some cases, it can even lead to death due to excessive bleeding or infections.

Long-term Health Issues: Women and girls who undergo FGM may face long-term health problems such as chronic pain, infections, urinary problems, and complications during childbirth. Scar tissue formation and damage to the reproductive organs can cause difficulties in sexual intercourse and menstruation.

Increased Risk of Infections: The practice of FGM often involves using unsterilized tools or performing the procedure in unsanitary conditions, leading to an increased risk of infections such as tetanus, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis B and C.

Trauma and Psychological Distress: The experience of undergoing FGM can cause significant trauma and psychological distress, leading to anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The violation of bodily integrity and the associated pain can have long-lasting effects on mental well-being.

Interference with Sexual Functioning: FGM can interfere with sexual functioning and intimacy, causing pain during intercourse and reducing sexual pleasure. This can strain relationships and have negative effects on overall quality of life.

The health implications of FGM are profound and multifaceted, encompassing physical, psychological, and social dimensions. Efforts to address FGM must take a comprehensive approach, including education, advocacy, and support for affected individuals, as well as community engagement and legal reforms to eradicate this harmful practice and uphold the rights and dignity of women and girls.

Over the years, CFHI has observed the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation as part of its own efforts to curb Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). A notable aspect of it was the celebration held at the St. Theresa Catholic church in Anurie Omanze, Idu LGA, Imo state, wherein the community was made aware of the importance of achieving zero FGM records. Over 100 participants were reached and they all pledged to join the movement.

Monday Health Burst is an initiative of CFHI to address issues of basic health concern. Join us every Monday on all our social media platforms for more episodes.

.1. World Health Organization_Female Genital Mutilation

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