cfhinitiative

MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON ECTOPIC PREGNANCY

Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Pregnancy is typically viewed as a joyous and natural event, but sometimes complications can arise that require urgent medical attention. One such complication is an ectopic pregnancy, a condition that can pose serious risks to a woman’s health and requires timely intervention.

An ectopic pregnancy occurs when a fertilized egg implants and grows outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tube. However, it can also occur in other areas such as the cervix, ovary, or abdominal cavity. Since these locations are not designed to support the growth of a developing embryo, an ectopic pregnancy cannot progress normally and poses serious risks to the mother. Ectopic pregnancies occur in about 2% of all pregnancies.¹

Recognizing the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy is crucial for prompt medical intervention. Common symptoms include:

Abdominal or Pelvic Pain: Sharp, stabbing pain in the abdomen or pelvis is a hallmark symptom. The pain may be localized on one side.

Vaginal Bleeding: Light to heavy vaginal bleeding may occur, often different from normal menstruation.

Shoulder Tip Pain: This can be a sign of internal bleeding and occurs when blood irritates nerves around the diaphragm, causing referred pain to the shoulder tip.

Weakness, Dizziness, or Fainting: These symptoms can indicate significant internal bleeding and require immediate medical attention.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or pain during bowel movements.

The majority of ectopic pregnancies occur due to conditions that hinder the normal movement of the egg through the fallopian tube.² This can be attributed to various factors:

Previous Pelvic Surgery: Scar tissue, adhesions, or inflammation resulting from past pelvic surgeries can impede the egg’s journey through the fallopian tube.

Fallopian Tube Damage: Damage to the fallopian tubes, often caused by sexually transmitted infections (STIs), can disrupt the egg’s passage.

Irregular Fallopian Tube Shape: Some individuals are born with fallopian tubes that have irregular shapes, which can interfere with the egg’s movement.

Blockages: The presence of growths or obstructions within the fallopian tube can physically prevent the egg from traveling towards the uterus, leading to an ectopic pregnancy.

Several factors increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy:

Previous Ectopic Pregnancy: Women who have had one ectopic pregnancy are at increased risk of another.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Infections such as chlamydia or gonorrhea can lead to inflammation and scarring of the fallopian tubes.

Previous Abdominal or Pelvic Surgery: Surgeries such as cesarean section or surgery to the fallopian tubes can increase the risk.

Smoking: Women who smoke have a higher risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Early diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is crucial to prevent life-threatening complications. Diagnostic methods include ultrasound imaging and blood tests to measure pregnancy hormone levels.

Ectopic pregnancy is a serious condition that requires swift medical attention. Knowing the symptoms and risk factors can help women seek timely care and improve outcomes. With advances in medical technology, most women who experience an ectopic pregnancy can go on to have successful pregnancies in the future, but early detection and treatment are essential. If you suspect an ectopic pregnancy or experience any concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical advice promptly.

References

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IMPORTANCE OF VACCINES

Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Vaccines are one of the most effective tools we have to prevent infectious diseases and safeguard public health. They have played a crucial role in reducing the burden of numerous illnesses, preventing millions of deaths globally, and improving overall quality of life.1 Despite their proven benefits, there can be misconceptions and hesitancy surrounding vaccines. Understanding the importance of vaccines is essential for promoting individual and community well-being.

1. Disease Prevention

Vaccines are designed to stimulate the immune system to recognize and fight specific pathogens, such as viruses or bacteria. By receiving a vaccine, the body can develop immunity against these pathogens without experiencing the full-blown disease. This process not only protects vaccinated individuals but also helps to prevent the spread of infectious diseases within communities.

2. Eradication and Control of Diseases

Historically, vaccines have been instrumental in eradicating or significantly reducing the prevalence of infectious diseases. For instance, smallpox was eradicated globally through vaccination efforts, and diseases like polio and measles have been controlled in many parts of the world due to widespread vaccination campaigns.

3. Protecting Vulnerable Populations

Vaccination is especially important for vulnerable populations, including infants, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems. These individuals are at higher risk of severe complications from vaccine-preventable diseases. Vaccinating a significant portion of the population creates “herd immunity,” which helps protect those who cannot be vaccinated due to medical reasons.

Angwan Guragu, Karonmajiji, locally known as Unguwar Guragu, translating to “a community of disabled people,” comprises of closely packed shanties accommodating over 500 vulnerable inhabitants with diverse disabilities. On April 25, in commemoration of World Immunization week 2023, Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI) partnered with the Primary Healthcare Center in Angwan Guragu, Karonmajiji to conducted a comprehensive program that included awareness sessions, immunization, and vaccination services aimed at addressing the healthcare needs of this population comprehensively, with a focus on prevention, education, and empowerment, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and quality of life for this vulnerable group. Over 50 individuals, including both adults and children, benefited from this initiative, ensuring they received essential vaccinations to protect against preventable diseases. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of community engagement and healthcare partnerships in promoting immunization and safeguarding public health.

4. Prevention of Outbreaks

Vaccines play a critical role in preventing disease outbreaks. When vaccination rates decline, as seen in certain communities with vaccine hesitancy, outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases can occur. Recent measles outbreaks in various parts of the world highlight the consequences of falling vaccination rates.

5. Cost-Effective Public Health Measure

Vaccination programs are highly cost-effective compared to the costs associated with treating infectious diseases. Vaccinating individuals against preventable diseases reduces healthcare expenditures related to hospitalizations, treatments, and long-term care for complications.

Vaccines are a cornerstone of public health, saving countless lives and preventing widespread suffering. Emphasizing the importance of vaccination through education, access to vaccines, and strong public health policies is essential for protecting individuals and communities from infectious diseases. By ensuring high vaccination rates and addressing vaccine hesitancy, we can continue to reap the benefits of vaccines and build healthier societies.

Join CFHI’s “Monday Health Burst” initiative on all social media platforms for weekly discussions on basic health concern.

References.

https://www.who.int/health-topics/vaccines-and-immunization#tab=tab_1

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccinesafety/ensuringsafety/history/index.html

https://www.who.int/news/item/16-11-2023-global-measles-threat-continues-to-grow-as-another-year-passes-with-millions-of-chil

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EFFECT OF EMOTIONAL ABUSE ON WOMEN AND GIRLS

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday / cfhinitiative

Emotional abuse is a pervasive form of violence that often goes unrecognized but leaves deep scars on its victims, particularly women and girls. According to UNICEF, emotional abuse encompasses behaviours such as verbal threats, intimidation, isolation, and manipulation, all of which undermine an individual’s sense of self-worth and well-being.

Emotional abuse encompasses a range of behaviours designed to undermine an individual’s sense of self-worth, autonomy, and agency. It can manifest in various forms such as verbal threats, insults, humiliation, manipulation, isolation, and controlling behaviours. Unlike physical abuse, emotional abuse leaves no visible bruises but inflicts deep psychological wounds that can be equally devastating.

Emotional abuse targets a person’s psychological and emotional well-being, eroding their confidence, autonomy, and mental health. It can occur in various settings, including intimate relationships, families, workplaces, and communities.
The WHO emphasizes that emotional abuse can lead to a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and suicidal ideation. The constant belittling, manipulation, and invalidation experienced by victims can result in severe emotional distress and trauma, affecting their ability to function in daily life.

Emotional abuse is intricately linked to broader patterns of gender-based violence, reflecting power imbalances and societal norms that devalue women and girls. It often intersects with other forms of abuse, such as physical violence, sexual coercion, and economic control, creating complex challenges for survivors seeking safety and support. ~ UN Women

Research cited by UNICEF underscores the long-term consequences of emotional abuse, including difficulties in forming trusting relationships, challenges in parenting, and increased vulnerability to re-victimization. These effects can persist into adulthood, shaping individuals’ life trajectories and well-being

Emotional abuse is a pervasive yet often hidden form of violence that profoundly impacts women and girls’ lives. It is therefore imperative to amplify voices, raise awareness, and advocate for policies and interventions that prevent and address emotional abuse, ensuring a safer and more equitable world for women and girls everywhere

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

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VACCINE PREVENTABLE DISEASES

Uncategorized / cfhinitiative

Millions of lives are saved annually by vaccination, making it a success story in global health and development. Vaccines lower the chance of contracting an illness by enhancing your body’s defenses against infection.1

Vaccination also reduces the risk of spreading the diseases among family members, school mates or colleagues, friends and neighbours, as well as to other people in the community.2 However, despite their proven efficacy, vaccine-preventable diseases (VPDs) continue to pose significant challenges globally, underscoring the importance of vaccination efforts.

VPDs are illnesses that can be effectively prevented through vaccination. These diseases range from relatively common infections like influenza and measles to more severe conditions such as polio and hepatitis. While some VPDs have been largely eradicated in certain regions due to successful vaccination campaigns, others remain prevalent, particularly in areas with limited access to healthcare and vaccination programs.

Measles, for example, once considered eliminated in many developed countries, has seen a resurgence in recent years due to gaps in vaccine coverage and hesitancy.3 The highly contagious nature of measles underscores the importance of high vaccination rates to achieve herd immunity, protecting vulnerable populations such as infants who are too young to be vaccinated and individuals with compromised immune systems.

Polio serves as another stark reminder of the importance of vaccination. While significant progress has been made in reducing polio cases globally, the disease remains endemic in a few countries. Efforts to eradicate polio entirely continue, highlighting the necessity of sustained vaccination efforts and international cooperation. In Nigeria, the Nigeria Polio Lab Sample Transport (PLST) Project sought to contribute to Goal 2 – Stop poliovirus transmission and prevent outbreaks in non-endemic countries – of the Global Polio Eradication Strategy 2022 -2026. It focused on increasing the speed of detection and precision surveillance system.4, 5.

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, poses a yearly challenge due to its ability to mutate rapidly, necessitating annual vaccination campaigns. While influenza vaccines may not offer complete immunity, they significantly reduce the severity of illness and lower the risk of complications, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and individuals with chronic health conditions.6

Hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines represent notable advancements in preventing certain types of cancer. Hepatitis B vaccination at birth has significantly reduced the incidence of chronic hepatitis B infection and liver cancer, while HPV vaccination has led to a decrease in HPV-related cancers, including cervical cancer. In 2023, CFHI with support from the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), Women Advocates for Vaccine Access (WAVA), and other stakeholders, trained and equipped 10 Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine champions from Kurudu ward in Bwari Area Council on demand generation, sensitization, and referral for HPV Vaccine Uptake in Kurudu Community. As of December 2023, about 4000 people were sensitized, and 2300 girls were mobilized for HPV vaccination in Kurudu ward.7

Vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation and mistrust, poses a significant obstacle to achieving optimal vaccine coverage. Addressing vaccine hesitancy requires comprehensive public health education efforts to dispel myths and misconceptions, build trust in vaccines, and emphasize their safety and efficacy based on scientific evidence.

Furthermore, ensuring equitable access to vaccines is essential to reducing disparities in disease burden and achieving global health security. Efforts to improve vaccine distribution infrastructure, strengthen healthcare systems, and address socioeconomic barriers are critical in reaching underserved communities and achieving universal vaccine coverage.
Join CFHI’s “Monday Health Burst” initiative on all social media platforms for weekly discussions on basic health concern.

References:

https://www.who.int/health-topics/vaccines-and-immunization#tab=tab_1

https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/vaccine-preventable-diseases

https://www.who.int/health-topics/vaccines-and-immunization#tab=tab_1

https://www.cfhinitiative.org/ongoing-projects/

https://www.cfhinitiative.org/media-releases/annual-reports/cfhi-annual-report-2022-2/

https://www.who.int/news/item/29-11-2018-measles-cases-spike-globally-due-to-gaps-in-vaccination-coverage

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/influenza-(seasonal)

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON SYMPTOMS AND TRANSMISSION OF MALARIA

Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Malaria remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. According to recent data, an estimated 249 million cases of malaria were documented globally in 2022, with 608 000 malaria deaths reported across 85 countries. 1

Symptoms of Malaria:

Fever: One of the hallmark symptoms of malaria is a high fever, often accompanied by chills and sweating. The fever may come and go in cycles, depending on the type of Plasmodium parasite causing the infection.

Headaches and Body Aches: Malaria infection typically causes severe headaches and body aches, which can be debilitating.

Nausea and Vomiting: Many individuals with malaria experience nausea, vomiting, and sometimes diarrhea.

Fatigue: Malaria can cause extreme fatigue and weakness, making it difficult to carry out daily activities.

Jaundice: In severe cases, malaria can lead to jaundice, characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes due to liver dysfunction.

Anemia: The destruction of red blood cells by the Plasmodium parasite can lead to anemia, resulting in weakness, pale skin, and shortness of breath.

Other Symptoms: Some individuals may experience symptoms such as cough, chest pain, and confusion, particularly in severe cases of malaria.

Transmission of Malaria:

Malaria is primarily spread by female Anopheles mosquitoes. It occurs when a mosquito carrying the disease from biting an infected individual then bites another person. Once inside the bloodstream, the parasites travel to the liver, where they mature before invading red blood cells.2

Over the years, CFHI has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to reducing malaria prevalence within various communities. Engaging with over 1000 individuals, our endeavors entail comprehensive education programs emphasizing the importance of environmental hygiene and the adoption of effective malaria prevention and treatment measures. Moreover, we have supplied indispensable resources like mosquito coils and mosquito nets, alongside executing large-scale community sanitation and fumigation campaigns. In observance of World Malaria Day in 2019, CFHI conducted educational sessions for over 127 residents with disabilities in the Karamajiji community of Abuja, focusing on malaria prevention and the crucial role of maintaining a hygienic environment. Additionally, we provided mosquito coils to 98 participants and organized a community-wide sanitation initiative, including fumigation efforts, to further bolster malaria prevention measures within the community.

Recognizing the symptoms and how malaria spreads is vital for prevention and treatment. Through increased awareness and the implementation of thorough control measures, we can strive to alleviate the burden of this fatal disease and enhance the health and welfare of affected communities worldwide.

References:

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

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/malaria/multimedia/malaria-transmission-cycle/img-20006373

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES

Diabetes, Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) stand as the leading cause of mortality worldwide, claiming 17.9 million lives annually. Ranging from heart attacks to strokes, these ailments affect the heart and blood vessels in various forms and degrees of severity.1

Some of the cardiovascular diseases include:
1. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD):
CAD, often stemming from atherosclerosis, involves the buildup of plaque in the arteries supplying blood to the heart. This condition can lead to angina (chest pain), heart attacks, and heart failure, significantly impacting an individual’s quality of life and longevity.

2. Hypertension:
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, serves as a silent killer, gradually damaging arteries and increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other complications. Its prevalence underscores the importance of regular blood pressure monitoring and lifestyle modifications.

3. Stroke:
Strokes, whether ischemic or hemorrhagic, result from disruptions in blood flow to the brain. They can cause devastating consequences such as paralysis, speech impairments, and cognitive deficits, highlighting the urgent need for stroke prevention and prompt medical intervention.

4. Heart Failure:
Heart failure occurs when the heart becomes unable to pump blood effectively, leading to symptoms like fatigue, shortness of breath, and fluid retention. It necessitates comprehensive management strategies to alleviate symptoms and improve prognosis.
Heart attacks and strokes are the primary cause of over four out of every five CVD deaths, with one-third of these deaths occurring prematurely in individuals under the age of 70. 2

5. Arrhythmias:
Arrhythmias encompass irregular heart rhythms, which can range from harmless palpitations to life-threatening cardiac arrest. Understanding the underlying causes and implementing appropriate treatment modalities is crucial for individuals with these conditions.

Risk Factors and Prevention:
Numerous factors contribute to the development of CVDs, including smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and genetic predisposition. Adopting a holistic approach to prevention involves lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, abstaining from tobacco use, managing stress, and adhering to prescribed medications.

In the fight against CVDs in Nigeria, from 2019 to 2021, CFHI in collaboration with the Health Strategy and Delivery Foundation (HSDF) implemented the Diabetes Awareness and Care Project in Imo state, Nigeria to raise awareness of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), its risk factors, and prevention in targeted communities across six (6) Local Government Areas. This initiative resulted in reaching 258,997 individuals with T2DM awareness messages, screening 16,194 people for T2DM and hypertension, establishing 12 health clubs in schools, and referring 607 individuals for further healthcare management.3

Cardiovascular diseases represent a multifaceted challenge with far-reaching implications for individuals, families, and societies at large. By promoting awareness, implementing preventive measures, and advancing medical treatments, we can strive to mitigate the impact of CVDs and improve cardiovascular outcomes globally. Empowering individuals with knowledge about risk factors, symptoms, and available resources is paramount in fostering a healthier future free from the grip of cardiovascular diseases.

Join CFHI’s “Monday Health Burst” initiative on all social media platforms for weekly discussions on basic health concern.

References:
1. https://www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases#tab=tab_1
2. https://www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases#tab=tab_1
3.https://www.cfhinitiative.org/home-2/our-projects/dac/

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON THE HIDDEN HEALTHCARE COSTS OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE (GBV) TO VICTIMS

Gender, Gender Based Violence, Gender Equality, Health, Speak Wednesday / cfhinitiative

Gender-Based Violence (GBV) is a health issue that affects millions of people, predominantly women and girls, across different cultures, socioeconomic statuses, and geographic locations. Beyond the immediate physical and emotional toll, GBV also imposes significant hidden healthcare costs on its victims, presenting challenges that extend far beyond the initial incident.

One of the most direct healthcare costs of GBV is medical treatment for physical injuries. Domestic abuse victims, as well as victims of other gender-based violence, such as sexual assault, frequently need emergency care, surgery, and continuous medical support. These services come with substantial financial burdens, especially for those without adequate health insurance or access to affordable healthcare.

WHO reports that victims of intimate partner violence are more likely to seek healthcare services, resulting in increased medical costs compared to non-abused individuals. The expenses include emergency room visits, hospitalisations, and treatments for physical injuries, contributing to the hidden healthcare costs of GBV.

Beyond the immediate physical consequences, GBV takes a profound toll on victims’ mental health. The enduring psychological impact of GBV on survivors, with many experiencing anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), is underscored by UNICEF. The need for mental health services, including therapy and counselling, is crucial but often comes with financial barriers, adding to the overall healthcare burden.

Furthermore, children who witness violence at home are more likely to develop behavioural problems, academic challenges, and mental health disorders. This perpetuates a cycle of intergenerational trauma and escalates healthcare costs for society as a whole.

The healthcare system also bears indirect costs related to GBV, such as increased demand for emergency services, specialised care for trauma survivors, and public health interventions. These expenses strain healthcare resources and contribute to rising healthcare expenditures for individuals, insurers, and governments.

Ultimately, addressing the hidden healthcare costs of GBV requires a collective commitment from healthcare providers, policymakers, law enforcement agencies, advocacy groups, and society at large. By recognising the full extent of these costs and investing in comprehensive solutions, we can create a safer, healthier future for women.

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

#SpeakWednesday #GBV #Women’srights #RightToHealth #genderequality #genderbias

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WATERBORNE DISEASES AND PREVENTION

Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Waterborne diseases pose significant health risks worldwide, particularly in regions with inadequate sanitation and clean water infrastructure. These diseases are caused by pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites that contaminate water sources, leading to illnesses when consumed or in contact with the human body.

In 2022, globally, at least 1.7 billion people use a drinking water source contaminated with faeces. Microbial contamination of drinking-water as a result of contamination with faeces poses the greatest risk to drinking-water safety.1
Common Waterborne Diseases include:

Cholera: Caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, cholera leads to severe diarrhea and dehydration. It spreads through contaminated water and food, particularly in areas with poor sanitation.

Typhoid Fever: Salmonella typhi bacteria cause this potentially fatal illness. Contaminated water and food, often in areas with inadequate sewage disposal, transmit the disease. Symptoms include high fever, stomach pain, and headache.

Hepatitis A: This viral infection affects the liver and spreads through the ingestion of contaminated water or food. Symptoms include jaundice, fatigue, and abdominal pain.

Dysentery: Caused by various bacteria, parasites, or viruses, dysentery results in bloody diarrhea, abdominal pain, and fever. It spreads through contaminated water, particularly in areas with poor hygiene practices.

Giardiasis: The Giardia intestinalis parasite causes this diarrheal illness. Contaminated water sources, such as rivers and lakes, transmit the parasite, leading to symptoms like diarrhea, gas, and stomach cramps.

Some of the prevention strategies include having access to clean water, proper sanitation infrastructure; including sewage systems and waste disposal facilities, Promoting good hygiene practices, such as handwashing with soap and water, education campaigns on the importance of hygiene in disease prevention, water testing and monitoring, vaccination, proper food handling and fostering community engagement.

Waterborne diseases continue to pose significant health challenges globally, particularly in regions with inadequate access to clean water and sanitation. Effective prevention strategies, including ensuring access to clean water, improving sanitation infrastructure, promoting good hygiene practices, and implementing vaccination programs, are crucial in reducing the burden of waterborne illnesses. By prioritizing prevention efforts and fostering community engagement, we can work towards a healthier and safer future for all.

Reference:

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SPEAK WEDNESDAY ON PERIOD POVERTY AND ITS IMPACT ON GIRLS MENSTRUAL HEALTH

Gender Based Violence, Speak Wednesday, Uncategorized / cfhinitiative

Period poverty, which encapsulates the challenges of accessing menstrual products, education, and sanitary facilities, significantly affects millions of women and girls worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that over 500 million individuals lack adequate resources for managing menstrual hygiene.

A critical examination of period poverty reveals dire health implications. The WHO points out that inadequate menstrual hygiene management is linked to several health issues, including bacterial and reproductive tract infections, as well as urinary tract infections.
Furthermore, the United Nations has highlighted the potential of severe conditions such as toxic shock syndrome and cervical cancer stemming from the use of unsanitary menstrual materials like old rags, leaves, or newspapers.

Beyond physical health, period poverty exerts a profound impact on mental well-being. UNICEF reports that the inability to afford menstrual products often leads to feelings of humiliation and shame among girls, precipitating anxiety and depression. This emotional toll can disrupt their education, forcing some to abandon school altogether, further isolating them socially and limiting their future educational and employment opportunities. Such outcomes perpetuate a cycle of social and economic disadvantage with far-reaching implications.

Access to affordable, reusable, and safe menstrual supplies and education on menstrual health and sanitation is crucial. Governments and organizations must prioritize addressing the underlying factors contributing to period poverty. By advocating for change and enhancing awareness, period poverty can be acknowledged and addressed as the significant human rights issue it is, paving the way for a future where all women and girls can manage their menstrual health with dignity.

Today, March 20, 2024, the Centre for Family Health Initiative (CFHI), in collaboration with Real Relief, is hosting an event titled “Menstrual Equity and Empowerment: A Pathway to Gender Equality” at the ongoing UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) 68th session in New York. This event marks a significant step in raising awareness and fostering change.

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


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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON TRANSMISSION AND CAUSES OF TUBERCULOSIS
		
			Monday Health Burst, WHO / 			
				
				cfhinitiative			
			
		

		
		

					
				Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health concern, with millions of new cases reported each year. This infectious disease primarily affects the lungs but can also target other parts of the body. In 2022, an estimated 10.6 million people fell ill with tuberculosis (TB) worldwide, including 5.8 million men, 3.5 million women and 1.3 million children. ¹
TB is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis, which spreads through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, speaks, or sings. The primary mode of transmission is through inhalation of airborne droplets containing the bacteria. However, not everyone exposed to TB bacteria becomes infected. Factors such as the duration and proximity of exposure, the infectiousness of the individual with TB, and the immune status of the exposed person play crucial roles in determining the likelihood of transmission. Certain environments can also facilitate TB transmission, particularly crowded and poorly ventilated spaces. Prisons, homeless shelters, refugee camps, and healthcare facilities are examples of settings where TB transmission can occur more readily.
The causes of TB include:

Bacterial Infection: Mycobacterium tuberculosis is the main causative agent of TB. When someone with active TB disease coughs or sneezes, they release bacteria into the air, which can then be inhaled by others.


Weak Immune System: People with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV/AIDS, malnutrition, or other conditions that compromise immunity, are at higher risk of developing TB. The immune system normally helps control TB infection, but when it’s weakened, the bacteria can multiply and cause active disease.


Close Contact: Close and prolonged contact with someone who has active TB increases the risk of transmission. This is why household members, close friends, and healthcare workers who care for TB patients are at higher risk.

Drug Resistance: Misuse or inadequate use of antibiotics can lead to the development of drug-resistant strains of TB. Drug-resistant TB is more challenging to treat and requires more prolonged and costly therapy. 

Social Determinants: Socioeconomic factors such as poverty, overcrowded living conditions, and limited access to healthcare contribute to the spread of TB. These factors not only increase the risk of transmission but also hinder timely diagnosis and treatment, leading to more severe disease outcomes.

Tuberculosis transmission and causes are multifaceted, involving biological, environmental, and social factors. Preventing the spread of TB requires a comprehensive approach that includes early detection, effective treatment, infection control measures, and addressing the underlying social determinants of health.
Recently, CFHI collaborated with the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Control Programme (NTBLCP) and other relevant stakeholders to increase public awareness of the symptoms and significance of tuberculosis screening and treatment in Nigeria.
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/tuberculosis

			
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