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MONDAY HEALTH BURST – COMMON CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS OF ANEMIA

Health, Health Communication, Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Anemia is a condition characterized by a reduction in the number of red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood. This can result in a decreased capacity of the blood to transport oxygen to the body’s tissues and organs. Anemia can manifest in different forms and symptoms and can be caused by various factors.

According to a 2023 report from the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) report, 55 percent of adolescent girls and women suffer from anemia in Nigeria.

Some common causes of anemia include:

Iron deficiency: This is the most common cause of anemia worldwide. It occurs when the body doesn’t have enough iron to produce adequate amounts of hemoglobin.

Vitamin deficiency: Lack of specific vitamins like vitamin B12 or folate can impair the production of healthy red blood cells.

Chronic diseases: Conditions such as kidney disease, liver disease, cancer, or autoimmune disorders can interfere with the production of red blood cells.

Blood loss: Excessive bleeding from menstruation, trauma, surgery, or gastrointestinal conditions like ulcers or hemorrhoids can lead to anemia.

Inherited disorders: Certain genetic conditions like sickle cell anemia or thalassemia affect the structure or production of red blood cells.

The symptoms of anemia can vary depending on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. However, common symptoms include:

Fatigue and weakness
Shortness of breath
Pale skin
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Rapid or irregular heartbeat
Cold hands and feet
Headaches
Chest pain (in severe cases)

It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan if you suspect you have anemia or are experiencing related symptoms.

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.

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BENEFITS OF DONATING BLOOD

Health / cfhinitiative

Why should you donate blood?
Donating blood is a selfless act that can have numerous benefits, not just to save the lives of the recipients, but for the donors themselves. Here are some of the key benefits of donating blood.

1. Lower Risk of Heart Attack: Studies have shown that regular blood donation can significantly reduce the risk of heart attacks by up to 88%. By maintaining healthy iron levels and reducing oxidative stress, blood donation promotes cardiovascular health and helps safeguard against heart disease.

2. Decreased Risk of Cancer and Hemochromatosis: Donating blood not only benefits your heart but also lowers the risk of certain types of cancer. Moreover, individuals with hereditary hemochromatosis, a condition characterized by excessive iron absorption, can benefit from blood donation as it helps reduce iron overload and associated complications.

3. Calorie Burn: Did you know that donating a pint of blood, approximately 450ml, can burn around 650 calories? This unexpected benefit makes blood donation a unique way to contribute to your fitness goals while saving lives.

4. Stimulation of Blood Cell Production: One of the remarkable benefits of donating blood is that it stimulates your body to produce fresh blood cells. This process enhances blood circulation, improves oxygen transport, and promotes overall health by supporting the production of new red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

5. Fulfillment and Emotional Well-being: Donating blood goes beyond physical health benefits; it also provides a profound sense of fulfillment and emotional well-being. Knowing that your selfless act has potentially saved lives and made a positive impact on others can be immensely rewarding and uplifting.

Consider donating blood as a way to improve your own health while making a significant difference in the lives of others. Contact us to learn more about eligibility and how you can participate in this life-saving act.

#DonateBlood #HealthBenefits #SaveLives

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON MITIGATING GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

Gender, Speak Wednesday, Women's Rights / cfhinitiative

Gender-based violence refers to violence, harm, or discrimination based on gender. It affects primarily women and girls but can impact others too. It includes physical, sexual, psychological, and economic abuse. This form of violence arises from unequal power dynamics and harmful social norms. It violates human rights and has severe consequences. Addressing it is essential for gender equality and creating a violence-free society.

Education and Awareness.

Promoting comprehensive and gender-sensitive education programs challenge harmful stereotypes, promotes gender equality, and fosters respectful relationships among people.

Empowerment and economic opportunities.

The provision of economic empowerment initiatives, skills training, and access to resources for women and marginalized communities will help to reduce economic dependence and enhance their autonomy.

Men and boys engagement.

Engaging men and boys as allies and change agents in addressing gender-based violence through education, awareness programs, and promoting positive masculinity will reduce the rate of gender-based violence in society.

Speak Out! Break the Silence!

GBV thrives in silence and secrecy. By speaking out, survivors break the silence, giving voice to their experiences and empowering others to do the same. This collective voice exposes the magnitude of the problem and encourages others to come forward.

Legal reforms and implementation.

Strengthen legal frameworks and ensure their effective implementation to provide protection, support, and justice for survivors of gender-based violence. This includes enforcing laws, improving access to legal aid, and training law enforcement and judicial personnel.

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON BENIGN PROSTATIC HYPERPLASIA

Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Did you know that an enlarged prostate, known as Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), is common among older men?

As men age, hormonal changes can cause the prostate gland to grow. While the exact cause is not fully understood, factors like age, family history, and hormonal imbalances play a role in the development of BPH.

Studies indicate that BPH affects approximately 12% of men aged 40-49 and around 60% of men aged 70-79, making it more common than you may think.

Recognizing the symptoms is essential for early detection. Keep an eye out for the following:

– Frequent urination, especially at night (nocturia)

– Urgency and a strong urge to urinate

– Weak urine flow and difficulty starting or stopping urination

– Feeling like your bladder isn’t empty

In addition, BPH can increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder stones, so seeking timely medical care can help prevent these complications. If you’re experiencing these symptoms or suspect an enlarged prostate, consult a healthcare professional who can evaluate your condition and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Managing an enlarged prostate starts with awareness. By recognizing the symptoms and seeking medical care, you can effectively address BPH and reduce the risk of complications.

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.

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON THE IMPORTANCE OF WOMEN IN PEACE BUILDING

Gender, Speak Wednesday, Women's Rights / cfhinitiative

Women have often demonstrated their ability to bring about constructive change in conflict-affected societies. According to UNICEF, involving women in peace processes increases the likelihood of long-term peace. In their peacebuilding efforts, women frequently prioritize communal welfare and human security, developing understanding, compassion, and conversation. Their involvement can assist to establish bridges, foster reconciliation, and more effectively address the core causes of conflict.

The significance of women’s engagement in peacebuilding initiatives has grown in recent decades. Women bring unique perspectives, abilities, and experiences to the table, making them vital change agents in the development of peaceful and inclusive societies. Women have distinct viewpoints that are molded by their experiences and positions in communities. The competence of women in fields including healthcare, education, and community development is critical for post-conflict reconstruction, according to the World Health Organization.

Furthermore, the presence of women in peacebuilding guarantees that peacebuilding initiatives are thorough, encompassing various facets of society. The SDGs; SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) are all aligned with women’s involvement in peacebuilding.

Consequently, women’s active involvement in peacebuilding is essential for achieving long-lasting peace in addition to being an issue of equity and justice. By respecting the perspectives, skills, and voices of women, we can build a more inclusive world.

Speak Wednesday is an initiative of CFHI to address issues around gender-based violence and gender bias.
#SpeakWednesday #WomenInPeacebuilding #Women’sRights #HumanRights #GenderStereotype #GenderBias #GenderInequality

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF DRUG AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE

Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Drug abuse can lead to severe health issues that can be life-threatening. Here are some crucial points to consider:

Addiction: Those with addiction often suffer from health problems associated with lung or heart disease, stroke, cancer, or mental health conditions. (National Institute on Drug Abuse)

Mental health disorders: Drug abuse is linked to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, psychosis, and an increased risk of suicide. Substance abuse can worsen existing mental health conditions or trigger new ones.

Physical health problems: Different drugs can cause various physical health issues. For instance, inhalants can damage the respiratory system, while stimulants can lead to heart problems and stroke. Additionally, injecting drugs raises the risk of infectious diseases like HIV and hepatitis.

Overdose: Drug abuse significantly increases the risk of overdosing, which can be fatal. This happens when an individual takes a toxic substance, leading to respiratory depression, organ failure, seizures, or coma. Opioids, like heroin or prescription painkillers, are primarily associated with overdose deaths.

Long-term organ damage: Prolonged drug abuse can damage vital organs such as the liver, heart, kidneys, and lungs. Chronic drug use may lead to liver cirrhosis, cardiovascular disease, kidney failure, and respiratory disorders.

Impaired cognitive function: Drug abuse can affect cognitive function, memory, attention, and decision-making abilities. Long-term drug use may cause irreversible damage to the brain’s structure and function.

In collaboration with Leap Africa, CFHI, in February 2023, educated more than 200 young people in Bwari local government, FCT, about drug and substance abuse, civic participation, and political thuggery. This was achieved through the Community Action against Drug Abuse project, funded by the MacArthur Foundation and the Ford Foundation.

It is crucial to seek prompt and appropriate treatment to address drug abuse and minimize its health consequences.

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.

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON CHALLENGES FACED BY WOMEN IN CONFLICT ZONES IN NIGERIA: AN INSIGHT

Speak Wednesday / cfhinitiative

Women in Nigeria’s crisis zones face several problems, which are frequently exacerbated by deep-seated gender bias. Armed conflicts and violence have had devastating effects various communities in Nigeria, with women bearing the brunt of the burden. These difficulties are frequently made worse by gender-based discrimination and biases that pervade numerous facets of their lives.
One of the most significant challenges faced by women in conflict zones is exposure to various forms of gender-based violence. Research by the United Nations indicates that women in Nigeria’s conflict zones are at higher risk of experiencing sexual violence, domestic abuse, forced marriages, and human trafficking. In conflict zones, societal norms and the rule of law frequently break down, allowing offenders to get away with crimes. The difficulties faced by survivors of gender-based violence are further worsened by their limited ability to access justice and their lack of access to safe spaces.

In addition, due to gender bias, women in conflict zones suffer barriers to receiving sufficient healthcare and reproductive rights. World Health Organization reports that women’s access to reproductive healthcare, including prenatal care, family planning, and safe delivery, is hampered by destroyed infrastructure, disrupted healthcare services, and cultural barriers. This lack of access jeopardizes women’s health and well-being, contributing to higher rates of maternal and new-born mortality. Furthermore, gender prejudices may hinder women’s rights in making reproductive health decisions, restricting their choices and control over their bodies.

Women in conflict zones in Nigeria suffer displacement, limited decision-making capacity, gender-based violence and discrimination, limited access to education and healthcare, and economic disempowerment, all of which are intensified by deeply embedded gender prejudices.

To address these issues, a complete approach that encompasses dispute resolution, protective measures, access to vital services, economic possibilities, and gender-responsive policies is required. The Nigerian government and stakeholders can cultivate resilience, promote gender equality, empower women, and create conditions for long-term peace and development by emphasizing the needs of women in conflict-affected areas.

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

#SpeakWednesday #WomenInConflictZones #Women’sRights #HumanRights #GenderStereotype #GenderBias #GenderInequality

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON IMPORTANCE OF MENSTRUAL HYGIENE

Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Menstrual hygiene is of utmost importance for menstruating individuals’ overall well-being and health, and it’s all about maintaining cleanliness during menstruation to prevent infections and promote comfort and dignity. Here are some key reasons why menstrual hygiene is crucial:

Preventing infections: Poor menstrual hygiene can lead to various reproductive tract infections, including urinary tract infections and vaginal infections. Using clean, sanitary products and maintaining proper hygiene reduces the risk of bacterial growth and diseases.

Maintaining health: Menstrual blood provides an ideal environment for bacterial growth. By using hygienic practices such as regularly changing menstrual products and proper cleaning, individuals can minimize health risks associated with menstrual blood and ensure their overall well-being.

Reducing stigma and promoting dignity: Menstruation is still surrounded by social stigma and taboos in many societies, which can lead to adverse psychological and emotional effects on individuals. By practising good menstrual hygiene, individuals can feel more comfortable, confident, and empowered, challenging the stigma associated with menstruation.

Ensuring access to education: Inadequate access to menstrual hygiene products and facilities can hinder girls’ and women’s ability to attend school or work during their periods. By addressing menstrual hygiene needs, we can help create an enabling environment that ensures equal access to education and opportunities for everyone.

To adequately promote menstrual hygiene, it is essential to ensure access to clean and affordable menstrual products, educate individuals about proper hygiene practices, and challenge the social stigma surrounding menstruation. In addition, governments, organizations, and communities play crucial roles in creating supportive environments prioritizing menstrual health and well-being.

CFHI commemorated Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) Day, 2022 in Foma Academy Kubwa,Abuja and also partnered with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs to educate and provide menstrual materials to girls and women in attendance. In addition to joining the awareness walk to promote policies favourable to women and girls who menstruate, CFHI will continue to provide sustainable solutions to end period poverty through a holistic approach that combines education with infrastructure and products (Safepad) to tackle societal taboos and stigma surrounding menstrual health.

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.

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON WOMEN’S HEALTH AND REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS

Uncategorized / cfhinitiative

Women’s reproductive and health rights are critical to attaining gender equality and fostering women’s well-being. The World Health Organization and the United Nations have acknowledged the significance of defending women’s reproductive and health rights, which are inextricably tied to their social, economic, and political standing. In Nigeria, women’s reproductive and health rights are protected by both international and national laws.
Discrimination against women in health care is a violation of their human rights, according to the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW). The treaty demands equal access to health care services, particularly reproductive health treatments, as well as the abolition of harmful cultural practices that undermine women’s health.
Nigeria is a signatory to CEDAW and established legislation to protect women’s reproductive and health rights. The 2014 National Health Act affirms the right to health care services, including reproductive health services, and requires health facilities to offer emergency obstetric care to pregnant women. The Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act of 2015 criminalizes many forms of violence against women, including female genital mutilation, and ensures the protection of victims.

Additionally, by prohibiting child marriage and respecting girls’ rights over their bodies, the Child Rights Act of 2003 protects young girls’ reproductive rights.
The Child Rights Act of 2003 also protects the reproductive rights of young women by prohibiting child marriage and upholding girls’ autonomy over their bodies.

Women in Nigeria still struggle to obtain services related to reproductive health, and they frequently face violence and discrimination based on their gender, in spite of these laws and initiatives. Harmful practices like female genital mutilation and child marriage, which can have a negative impact on women’s health, are typically supported by cultural and religious beliefs.
In conclusion, establishing gender equality and advancing the welfare of women in Nigeria and around the world depend on safeguarding their legal access to contraception and other health-related services. In Nigeria, women’s reproductive and health rights are also legally protected, but more must be done to eradicate harmful traditions and ensure that every woman has access to reproductive health care.

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

#SpeakWednesday #Women’sHealth #Women’sRights #HumanRights #GenderStereotype #GenderBias #GenderInequality

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON THE IMPORTANCE OF FAMILY PLANNING

Uncategorized / cfhinitiative

Family planning is an important aspect of reproductive health that involves the use of various methods to control the number and spacing of children in a family. It empowers individuals, couples, and families to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, improve their overall well-being, and achieve their life goals.

In Nigeria, knowledge of any contraceptive method is widespread, according to the 2008 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey report. However, despite this knowledge, contraceptive prevalence is only 15%, and the actual use of contraceptives varies between states in the country and is influenced by sociodemographic factors.

Several years ago, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI), in partnership with the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI) and other relevant stakeholders, organized a comprehensive training program on Family Planning (FP) and Post-Partum Family Planning (PPFP) services in Kaduna State. The main objective of the program was to enhance community awareness of these services and establish connections between the community and health facilities. The training program targeted all categories of key influencers, and as a result, a total of 921 Traditional Birth Attendance, 513 Traditional/Religious Leaders, 285 Islamiyah School Teachers, and 594 CWO/Zumunta Mata members were successfully reached across the 10 LGAs.

There are many reasons why family planning is important, including:
Promoting maternal and child health: Family planning can help reduce the risk of maternal and infant mortality by allowing women to plan and space their pregnancies, which can improve their overall health and reduce the risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Empowering women: Family planning gives women the ability to make informed decisions about their reproductive health, pursue education and career goals, and achieve greater economic independence and improved social status.
Reducing poverty: Family planning can help reduce poverty by allowing families to have fewer children and invest more resources in each child’s education and well-being.
Protecting the environment: Family planning can help reduce the strain on natural resources by reducing population growth and resource consumption.
Improving the overall quality of life: By allowing individuals and couples to plan and space their pregnancies, family planning can lead to improved overall quality of life for families, communities, and societies.
Access to a broad selection of family planning methods and services is crucial for individuals and couples to make informed decisions about their reproductive health and family well-being.

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 #FamilyPlanning