Health
Breast cancer: Expert advocates health policy reform
By Francesca Hngeior.
A primary healthcare consultant, Dr Yewande Omikunle, has canvassed an improvement in breast cancer education in Nigeria.
Omikunle said a comprehensive health policy reform is one way to get this done.
Omikunle, who is the Director of Public Affairs at Sarah Ayoka Oduwaiye Foundation (SAOF Cancer Charity), said this in a statement on Tuesday to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, which is annually held in October.
She expressed concern that despite spreading breast cancer awareness, some communities in the country are not adequately informed.
She said, “We must know that numerous ethical issues apply to breast cancer and other chronic cancer diagnoses including informed consent; education of relatives, friends, and the public; patients’ comfort in the discussion of their diagnoses and treatment; access to care; and allocation of scarce resources.
“Breast cancer remains a formidable health challenge in Nigeria, where a significant number of women succumb to the disease, often diagnosed in its late stages.
“The lack of knowledge, deeply ingrained cultural and religious beliefs, and various barriers impede regular breast cancer screening, contributing to the alarming mortality rates among Nigerian women.”
As part of efforts to raise enlightenment, the consultant noted that the SAOF cancer charity embarked on public awareness by dispelling myths, providing factual information, and advocating increased access to affordable and convenient screening services across Nigeria.
She said, “Nigerian society must address these barriers collectively and ensure that every woman has the knowledge, resources, and support needed to detect breast cancer early.
“By fostering a culture of openness, education, and proactive healthcare, we can strive towards reducing the burden of breast cancer mortality and improving the quality of life for all Nigerian women.
“As Breast Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, let us unite in the fight against breast cancer, breaking down barriers, raising awareness, and advocating for early detection and access to quality care. There is a need for stronger government intervention and support to bolster existing initiatives and ensure that breast cancer education reaches every corner of Nigeria.”
Health
UNICEF to vaccinate 3.8 million children in Northern Nigeria
The United Nations Children’s Fund has disclosed that no fewer than 3.8 million children would be vaccinated against measles across four Northern states.
The UNICEF Health Officer in Bauchi state, Patrick Ako, disclosed this in a news conference on Friday, noting that the vaccination exercise would commence on Saturday and run for seven days.
He highlighted that the four Northern states where the integrated measles campaign would take place include Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, and Plateau.
“For the measles campaign, we have a target of 3.8 million children from nine months to 59 months, which we are targeting across the four states.
“We have received in all the states a total of over 4 million doses of measles vaccines which have been supplied across the four states,” Ako stated.
The Health Officer explained that UNICEF is also going to launch an oral vaccination campaign against polio across five Northern states.
He said, “For the oral polio vaccination, we have a target of 6.8 million children that we are going to reach from zero to 59 months, which is less than five years across five states of Taraba, Plateau, Bauchi, Gombe,e, and Adamawa.
“The total number of vaccines that have already gotten to them is 7.4 million doses across these five states.
“We are looking at it that no child should be left behind; all children of an eligible age group should be reached and be vaccinated.”
Also speaking, a Social Behavioural Change Specialist at UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, George Eki, said it became imperative for UNICEF to support the Nigerian government in protecting children against measles and other vaccine-preventable diseases.
Health
5 questions to ask your doctor before starting birth control
It’s normal to have questions about what birth control method is right for you.
Starting birth control is a big decision, and it can feel overwhelming if you’re not sure what questions to ask your doctor.
With so many options available, from pills and patches to implants and IUDs, it’s understandable if you’re feeling confused or anxious.
Finding the right method isn’t just about preventing pregnancy; it’s also about making sure you feel comfortable and healthy with your choice. Your doctor is there to guide you, but it’s important to come prepared with questions that address your concerns, lifestyle, and future plans.
1. What types of birth control are available?
When it comes to birth control, one size does not fit all. Ask your doctor about the different methods available, such as the pill, IUD (intrauterine device), patch, ring, implant, or shot.
Your doctor can explain how each method works, how effective they are, and what the pros and cons are. For example, if you prefer something long-term, an IUD might be a better option. But if you like having more control, the pill could work well.
2. What are the possible side effects?
Every type of birth control has possible side effects. Some people may experience nausea, headaches, weight changes, or mood swings, while others have no side effects at all. It’s important to ask your doctor about what you might expect. If you’re sensitive to hormones, your doctor can suggest non-hormonal options, like the copper IUD. Being aware of side effects in advance can help you know what to look out for and decide what you’re comfortable with.
3. How will birth control affect my period?
Birth control can change your menstrual cycle in different ways. Some methods may make your periods lighter or stop them completely, while others may cause irregular bleeding at first.
If having regular periods is important to you, make sure to mention this to your doctor. They can help you choose a method that aligns with your preferences. If your periods are painful or heavy, certain types of birth control may even help reduce those symptoms.
4. Will birth control interact with my current medications or health conditions?
If you have existing health issues, like high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of blood clots, some birth control options may not be safe for you. Also, if you’re taking medication for any condition, ask whether it might affect how well your birth control works. Your doctor can guide you to options that won’t interfere with your health or current treatments. Safety should always come first when choosing birth control.
5. What happens if I want to get pregnant in the future?
You’ll need to ask how quickly you can become fertile again after stopping birth control. Some methods, like the pill or the patch, allow for a quick return to fertility, while others, like the shot, may take longer.
If you’re thinking about starting a family in the future, talk to your doctor about which birth control options will work best for your timeline. Planning ahead can make transitioning easier when the time comes.
Health
Cholera claims 10 lives in Enugu
The Enugu State Ministry of Health has confirmed the death of 10 people following a cholera outbreak in the state.
In a letter addressed to the Guild of Medical Directors on behalf of the Commissioner for Health, Prof. Emmanuel Obi, Dr Egwuonwu Samuel, Director of Medical Services, announced the outbreak and the swift actions being taken to prevent further spread.
The ministry reported several alarming cases of cholera, resulting in 10 fatalities so far. Efforts are already underway by the State Ministry of Health and its partners to contain the outbreak.
“Health facilities and personnel are advised to stay alert for symptoms like acute diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and vomiting,” said Dr. Egwuonwu.
“We are calling for the immediate implementation of heightened Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures in all medical facilities to stop the spread.”
He urged medical practitioners to take extra precautions and report suspected cases swiftly.
“This outbreak poses a significant public health threat, as cholera is a highly contagious disease typically spread through contaminated water or food. The ministry’s swift action is critical to containing the outbreak and protecting public health.”
Dr. Egwuonwu also appealed to the public to practice strict hygiene measures, including boiling water before drinking, frequent hand washing, and avoiding poorly handled food.
He noted that the Enugu State government would provide further guidelines and updates as the situation develops, while efforts continue in collaboration with local and international health partners to mitigate the outbreak.
(NAN)
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