A bedbug infection or infestation can be difficult to treat on one’s own and can take weeks to months.

Bed bugs are one of the great travellers of the world and are readily transported via luggage, clothing, bedding and furniture. In many cases, people carry bed bugs from place to place, often without realizing.

A person may notice itchy welts on their skin if they sleep in a bed with bedbugs. Bedbugs are small, but a person may notice them if they inspect the folds of mattresses and bedding.

Bedbugs do not usually hide on the human body. Instead, they tend to hide in the piping or folds of mattresses, in the creases of bedding, and in the cracks of the bed. They will usually only be on the body when feeding.

To get rid of bed bugs, act at the first signs of infestation and use an integrated pest management approach involving prevention and sanitation.

Bedbugs are often tough to get rid of, so one may need a few different approaches. Once you identify and contain all infested areas, you can combine chemical and non-chemical treatments to kill the bugs.

Here are ways to eliminate bedbugs:

*Seal any small hiding areas. This eliminates hiding places and gets the bugs out into the open.

*Remove infested items. Place them in a sealed plastic bag and treat them.

*Items that cannot be treated should be placed in a sealed plastic bag or storage container and left there for a long time to ensure any active bugs are dead.

*Purchase protective covers that seal mattresses and box springs. With covers that seal, the bed bugs will get trapped inside and die.

*Vacuum after each use. Seal the bag as tightly as possible and immediately throw it out in an outdoor trash container.

*Discard furniture responsibly if you can’t safely eliminate the bed bugs. Destroy it so someone else won’t be tempted to bring it into their home.

*Consider non-chemical methods of killing bed bugs. Some will be more useful than others depending on your situation. These and other methods can be helpful, but they might not get rid of the infestation entirely:

*Heat treatment: You can use a clothes dryer on high heat. You can also use black plastic bags in a hot, closed car in the sun, but success depends on your climate and other factors. Do-it-yourself heat treatments might not work. Professionals have access to more intensive and proven methods that can even treat whole houses with heat. Do not try to kill bed bugs by increasing your indoor temperature with a thermostat, propane space heater, or fireplace – this does not work and is dangerous.

*Cold treatment may work, but can only be successful in the home environment if the freezer is set to 0o F.  Many home refrigerator freezers are not cold enough  to kill bed bugs. You must leave the items in a sealed bag in the freezer at 0o for three days. Always use a thermometer to check the temperature, since home freezers are not always set to 0o.

Meanwhile, some chemicals or strong insecticides are good options to eliminate bedbugs. However, these can be hazardous if a person uses them indoors.

Mint leaves

Mint leaves are natural repellents to insects and most insects hate the smell of this plant and bed bugs are no exception. You can use mint leaves to prevent bed bugs from entering your homes.

All you need to do is crush some mint leaves into smaller pieces and sprinkle around the sleeping area or inside the cradleboard of small children. You can also put dried mint leaves packet between your linen closets and mattress. The mint leaf will dry up the bed bugs in no time. Repeat this exercise every 3-5 days for best results.

Baking soda

Baking soda also is a wonderful response to the issue of how to get rid of bed bugs. Baking soda works very effectively in killing the bedbugs even before you know it.

It sucks the moisture present on these tiny parasites and this eventually causes their death. You will need half bowl of baking soda and a vacuum.

Put the soda at all the places affected with the bugs and vacuum all the soda after three days. Repeat the process and your home will be free of bed bugs in no time.

You should see your doctor if you have:

Many bites

Blisters

Skin infection (bites feel tender or ooze discharge, such as pus)

An allergic skin reaction (skin red and swollen or hives)

Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), early detection is critical in reducing mortality. Understanding the early signs of breast cancer and learning how to conduct regular breast self-examinations (BSE) can empower individuals to take charge of their health.

What is Breast Cancer?

Breast cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the breast grow out of control, forming a tumor that may spread to other parts of the body if not treated promptly. It affects both women and men, although it is far more common in women.

Early Signs and Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Detecting breast cancer early greatly improves the chances of successful treatment.

According to BreastCancer.org, regularly checking your breasts can aid in early detection and better outcomes. Here are some of the common early warning signs:

1. A Lump in the Breast or Underarm
Usually hard and painless
Often the first noticeable symptom
May feel different from the rest of the breast tissue

2. Change in Breast Size or Shape
Swelling of all or part of a breast
Visible distortion not linked to menstrual cycle

3. Skin Changes
Dimpling or puckering, resembling orange peel texture (peau d’orange)
Redness or flaking skin around the nipple

4. Nipple Changes
Inversion or retraction (nipple turning inward)
Unexplained discharge (especially if bloody)
Pain in the nipple area

5. Persistent Breast or Nipple Pain
Not related to menstruation or injury

6. Swollen Lymph Nodes
Found near the collarbone or under the arm
May suggest that cancer has spread
How to Perform a Breast Self-Examination (BSE)

When to Perform:
Once a month, preferably a few days after your menstrual cycle ends
For non-menstruating women, pick a consistent day each month

Steps to Follow:

Step 1: Visual Inspection (In Front of a Mirror)
Stand with shoulders straight and arms on hips
Look for visible changes: size, shape, skin texture, nipple position
Raise arms above your head and observe the same

Step 2: Manual Inspection While Standing or Sitting
Use the pads of your fingers
Apply light, medium, and firm pressure
Cover the entire breast from top to bottom, side to side
Don’t forget the armpit area
Step 3: Manual Inspection While Lying Down

Lie flat and place a pillow under your shoulder
Use the opposite hand to examine each breast
Move fingers in circular, up-and-down, or wedge patterns

What to Do If You Notice Changes

If you detect a lump or any unusual changes, do not panic. Most lumps are non-cancerous (benign). However, it is crucial to consult a qualified medical professional for evaluation and possibly undergo further testing such as:

Mammogram
Ultrasound
Biopsy

Who is at Risk?

While breast cancer can affect anyone, the following factors may increase risk:

Age (over 40)
Family history of breast cancer
Genetic mutations (e.g., BRCA1, BRCA2)
Obesity
Alcohol consumption
Early menstruation or late menopause
Hormone replacement therapy

Can Men Get Breast Cancer?

Yes, although rare, male breast cancer does occur. Men should also be vigilant and report any lumps or nipple discharge to a doctor.

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

Maintain a healthy weight
Exercise regularly
Limit alcohol intake
Avoid smoking
Consider breastfeeding, which may reduce risk
Regular screening (especially if over 40 or at high risk)

When to Get Screened
Age 40–44: Optional annual mammograms
Age 45–54: Annual mammograms recommended
Age 55+: Mammograms every 2 years or as advised

Consult your healthcare provider for personalized screening plans, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer.

Conclusion

Early detection of breast cancer can save lives. By learning the signs and performing regular breast self-examinations, individuals can catch potential issues early and seek medical attention promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the first signs of breast cancer?

Early signs of breast cancer may include a painless lump in the breast or underarm, nipple discharge, skin dimpling, breast pain, or visible changes in the shape or size of the breast.

2. How can I tell if a breast lump is cancerous?

While not all breast lumps are cancerous, a suspicious lump is often hard, irregular in shape, and does not move easily under the skin. Only a medical examination and diagnostic tests like a mammogram or biopsy can confirm if it’s cancerous.

3. What is a breast self-examination (BSE)?

A breast self-examination is a method women use to check their own breasts for lumps, changes in size or shape, or any other unusual signs. It is a proactive way to detect early signs of breast cancer.

4. When is the best time to perform a breast self-examination?

The best time is a few days after your menstrual period ends when breasts are least likely to be swollen or tender. Postmenopausal women can choose a consistent day each month.

5. How do I perform a breast self-examination?
Stand in front of a mirror and visually inspect your breasts.
Raise your arms and check for changes in contour.
Use your fingertips to feel your breasts in a circular motion while lying down or in the shower.
Cover the entire area including underarms.

6. How often should I do a breast self-exam?

It is recommended to perform a self-exam once a month. Regular checks help you become familiar with your normal breast structure and notice any changes quickly.

7. Can men get breast cancer too?

Yes, although rare, men can also develop breast cancer. Signs include lumps, nipple discharge, or skin changes around the chest area. Men should also consult a doctor if they notice any symptoms.

8. What should I do if I find a lump during self-examination?

Do not panic. Not all lumps are cancerous. Schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional for further examination, which may include a mammogram, ultrasound, or biopsy.

9. Is breast pain a sign of breast cancer?

Breast pain is usually not a symptom of cancer and is more commonly linked to hormonal changes. However, persistent pain in one area should be evaluated by a doctor.

10. What increases the risk of developing breast cancer?

Key risk factors include age, family history, genetic mutations (like BRCA1/BRCA2), obesity, alcohol consumption, and hormone replacement therapy.

11. How accurate is a breast self-examination?

While a self-exam is not a substitute for medical screening, it helps in early detection. For full accuracy, combine self-exams with routine mammograms and clinical breast exams.

12. Should young women perform breast self-exams?

Yes. Starting in your 20s, it’s advisable to become familiar with how your breasts normally look and feel to detect any unusual changes early.

13. What age should women start breast cancer screening?

Most women should start annual mammograms at age 40, but those with high risk (e.g., family history) may need to begin earlier. Always consult a healthcare provider.

14. Can breast cancer be prevented?

While not all cases can be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle—like maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking—can lower your risk.

Health is wealth. Stay informed, stay empowered.

To learn more about the proper technique, visit the BreastCancer.org guide on breast self-examination, a trusted resource offering visual steps and expert advice for early detection.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) says Lassa fever has claimed 138 lives between January and now with a 19.3 per cent case fatality rate.

This was according to the NCDC latest situation report shared via its official website.

The report said the figure was a rise from the 18.0 per cent recorded within the same period in 2024.

The reports also said that a total of 717 confirmed cases had been recorded as of Epi Week 18, with four new states (Ondo, Edo, Bauchi, and Benue) reporting cases in the current week alone.

The public health agency said that while the number of new confirmed cases slightly decreased from 11 to 10 in the past week, the overall death toll remained alarming.

The report noted that 71 per cent of all confirmed cases originated from three states Ondo, 30 per cent, Bauchi, 25 per cent and Taraba, 16 per cent signaling persistent hotspots in spite of nationwide interventions.

It added that the most affected age group was 21–30 years, with the male gender appearing slightly more affected than the female with a male-to-female ratio of 1:0.8.

The agency, however, said that no healthcare worker was infected in the current week, though 22 healthcare workers have been affected so far this year.

The report disclosed that the NCDC had activated a multi-partner, multi-sectoral Incident Management System and deployed 10 Rapid Response Teams across affected states.

It said that the agency had also intensified contact tracing, community sensitisation, and distributed essential commodities like PPES, Ribavirin, body bags, and disinfectants.

This it said is in collaboration with international partners such as the WHO, MSF, CEPI, and Georgetown University.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the country has conducted multiple webinars, capacity-building trainings, and surveillance activities to combat the outbreak.

However, the public health agency described that challenges to the responses were hampered by late presentation of cases, poor health-seeking behaviour, and low awareness levels in high-burden areas.

It also said that poor environmental sanitation contributed to disease spread.

The agency continues to urge Nigerians to maintain hygiene, report symptoms early, and avoid contact with rodents and their secretions.

”The public is also encouraged to follow NCDC advisories and utilise the toll-free line 6232 for inquiries,” it said.

The NAN reports that Lassa fever is a viral hemorrhagic disease transmitted primarily through contact with the urine or faeces of infected rats.

It can also spread from person to person through bodily fluids, contaminated objects, or infected medical equipment.

Symptoms include fever, sore throat, headache, vomiting, muscle pain, and in severe cases, bleeding from body openings.