Monday Health Burst

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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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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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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CHOLERA -SYMPTOMS, PREVENTION AND CAUSES

Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

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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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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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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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON POST- EXPOSURE PROPHYLAXIS

HIV/AIDS, Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

According to Centre for Disease Control (CDC), PrEP is the medicine people at risk for HIV take to prevent getting HIV from sex or injection drug use. When taken as prescribed, PrEP is highly effective for preventing HIV.

PrEP is advisable if one tests negative for HIV, yet has had unprotected sex (oral or vaginal) in the past 6 months with a sexual partner who is living with HIV/AIDs; had unprotected sex (oral or vaginal) in the past 6 months without consistently using condom; had unprotected sex (oral or vaginal) in the past 6 months and have been diagnosed with an STD; shares needles, syringes, or other equipment to inject drugs used by someone who is HIV positive; and someone who has been prescribed PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) and report continued risk behaviour, or have used multiple courses of PEP.

According to research, PrEP reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by about 99%, reduces the risk of getting HIV from injection drug use by at least 74%. However, PrEP is less effective when not taken as prescribed.

Aside HIV, there are other sexually transmitted diseases. Since PrEP only protects against HIV, condom use is still important for the protection against other STDs. Condom use is also important to help prevent HIV if PrEP is not taken as prescribed. Anyone considering PrEP should consult a doctor. Let’s stop HIV together.

#MondayHealthBurst #HIVAIDSPrevention #HealthForAll #PrEP CDC World Health Organization (WHO) PEPFAR Vietnam

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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON MOTHER TO CHILD TRANSMISSION OF HIV

Health, HIV/AIDS, Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV remains a significant public health concern, posing a threat to the well-being of infants worldwide. Despite advances in medical science and increased awareness, preventing the transmission of the virus from mother to child remains a complex challenge that requires a comprehensive approach.
The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 1.3 million women and girls living with HIV become pregnant annually worldwide.
HIV can be transmitted from an infected mother to her child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. The virus can pass through the placenta, be present in the birth canal and maternal genital fluids during delivery, and can be present in breast milk. Each of these stages presents a risk of transmission, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.

Prevention Strategies:
Antiretroviral Therapy (ART): Initiating ART during pregnancy significantly reduces the risk of MTCT. This treatment helps control the viral load in the mother, minimizing the chances of transmission to the child.
Elective Cesarean Section: In cases where the mother’s viral load is high, opting for a cesarean section before the onset of labor can further reduce the risk of transmission.
Avoiding Breastfeeding: While breastfeeding is generally recommended for infant health, in the context of HIV, alternative feeding methods are often advised to eliminate the risk of transmission through breast milk.
Prevention of unintended pregnancies: Family planning services and education play a crucial role in preventing unintended pregnancies among HIV-positive women, contributing to better management and prevention of MTCT.
Preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV requires a multifaceted approach that addresses medical, social, and economic factors. Continued research, education, and global collaboration are crucial to achieving the goal of an HIV-free generation. As we strive for an AIDS-free world, prioritizing the well-being of both mothers and children remains at the forefront of public health efforts. It’s essential for infected pregnant women to receive proper medical care and follow the guidance of healthcare providers to minimize the risk to their babies.

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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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON HIV TRANSMISSION PREVENTION

Monday Health Burst / cfhinitiative

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) continues to be a global health concern, affecting millions of lives. Understanding how HIV spreads and implementing effective prevention strategies are paramount in curbing its transmission. WHO estimates that at the end of 2022, 39.0 million [33.1–45.7 million] people worldwide were living with HIV, and 630 000 people died from HIV-related illnesses globally.

HIV is commonly transmitted through unprotected sexual intercourse, intravenous drug use with shared needles poses a significant risk of HIV transmission. Also, HIV can be transmitted from an infected mother to her child during childbirth or breastfeeding.

Timely initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) for pregnant women and formula feeding instead of breastfeeding are preventive measures. Other prevention Strategies include:

Promoting consistent and correct condom use, education campaigns on condom efficacy and accessibility, taking antiretroviral medication before potential exposure to HIV, targeting high-risk populations and raising awareness about PrEP, providing access to clean needles among people who inject drugs, early diagnosis and initiation of ART, consistent adherence to medication to suppress the virus, raising awareness about HIV, its modes of transmission, and available prevention methods, and encouraging regular HIV testing.

In the fight against HIV, a comprehensive understanding of transmission modes and the implementation of preventive strategies are pivotal. Combining education, accessible healthcare, and supportive policies creates a robust framework for reducing HIV transmission rates and improving the overall well-being of individuals and communities. A collective effort is essential to achieve a world free from the burden of HIV.

Over the years, CFHI in partnership with other organisations such as National Hospital, Institute of Human Virology Nigeria and UNICEF, to mention but few, has carried out awareness and sensitization programs on transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS. In 2021, CFHI celebrated World AIDS Day at Gosa Toge Community in Abuja, where over one hundred persons were tested to know their HIV status.

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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MONDAY HEALTH BURST ON URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS

Health, Monday Health Burst, WHO / cfhinitiative

Urinary Tract Infections(UTIs) are common infections caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and infect the urinary system. These germs are usually from the skin or the rectum. While the infections can affect any region of the urinary tract, bladder infections (cystitis) are the most prevalent form. Another kind of UTI is pyelonephritis, or kidney infection. Though less frequent, they are more dangerous than bladder infections.(Centre for Disease Control,CDC).
Causes of UTIs:
Bacterial Invasion: The majority of UTIs are caused by bacteria entering the urethra and traveling up to the bladder.
Risk Factors: Women are more prone to UTIs due to a shorter urethra. Other risk factors include sexual activity, urinary tract abnormalities, a weakened immune system, and catheter use.

Symptoms of UTIs:
Painful Urination: A burning sensation during urination is a common symptom.

Frequent Urination: The urge to urinate more often than usual.

Cloudy or Strong-Smelling Urine: Changes in urine color and odor may indicate an infection.

Pelvic Pain: Discomfort or pressure in the lower abdomen.

Diagnosis:
If you suspect a UTI, a healthcare professional will typically perform a urinalysis to check for bacteria and white blood cells. In some cases, imaging tests may be ordered to identify any structural issues in the urinary tract.

Treatment:
Antibiotics: The primary treatment for UTIs involves a course of antibiotics to eliminate the infection.

Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate symptoms.

Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out bacteria from the urinary system.

Prevention:
Hygiene Practices: Wipe from front to back after using the toilet to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra.

Stay Hydrated: Adequate fluid intake promotes regular urination, helping to flush out bacteria.

Urinate After Intercourse: Emptying the bladder after sexual activity can reduce the risk of UTIs.

Conclusion:
Urinary tract infections are a common health concern, especially among women. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures is crucial for prompt diagnosis and effective treatment. If you suspect a UTI, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care.
#MondayHealthBurst
#UrinaryTractInfection

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.