The Nation Newspaper

Category: Health

  • Chronic stress can disrupt menstrual cycles, cause fertility issues – Doctor

    Chronic stress can disrupt menstrual cycles, cause fertility issues – Doctor

    The Chief Executive Officer/Medical Director of Triple H Fertility Hub and Specialist Hospital, Dr. Haleemah Olalere, has disclosed that chronic stress is capable of disrupting menstrual cycles among women. 

    Olalere made this disclosure while speaking during the unveiling of Women’s Genital and Fertility Health Foundation (WOGAF), a non-governmental organisation established to educate and provide support for women on reproductive health which was held at Bode Thomas, Surulere Lagos at the weekend. 

    Olalere while addressing the gathering said chronic stress is capable of disrupting menstrual cycles, causing fertility issues, and leading to hormonal imbalances.

    She used the opportunity to advise women to practice stress management techniques in order to ensure good reproductive health and mental wellbeing.

    Olalere, who spoke on the topic “Female Reproductive Health and Mental Well-being” warned that these reproductive health issues can have significant psychological consequences on women.

    She called for improved awareness on female reproductive health, noting people can always seek medical help when they are adequately informed.

    Olalere who spoke further, encouraged women to eat well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, and proteins to support hormonal balance and a good reproductive system.

    She urged women to ensure they manage their blood sugar, eat food rich in antioxidants, regular exercise, adequate sleep, regular medical care and maintain a healthy weight.

    “Prolonged or intense stress triggers the body’s ‘fight or flight’ response, which involves the release of stress hormones like cortisol. High levels of cortisol can disrupt the balance of reproductive hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, leading to irregular menstrual cycles or even missed periods. 

    “Chronic stress can interfere with the normal functioning of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland (which controls the release of reproductive hormones) potentially leading to anovulation (lack of ovulation) and difficulties with conception. Female reproductive health, especially topics like menstruation, pregnancy loss, and sex health, have often been shrouded in taboo and shame. Discussing these topics openly helps to break down these societal barriers.

    “When women are informed about their reproductive health and its connection to mental well-being, they are better equipped to advocate for themselves, seek medical help, and make informed decisions regarding their health.”

    Chairperson of the event, Barrister Mutiat Orolu-Balogun, said women play critical roles that shape the future of the world, and they deserve adequate care.

    She said many women suffer in silence over fertility issues, thereby aggravating the problem, adding that the Foundation sets out to break the silence and provide support to women.

    “As we launch the Foundation, we are driven by a singular focus: to improve the health, well-being, and economic empowerment of women and girls in Nigeria and beyond. Our mission is built on the pillars of education, advocacy, and community engagement. 

    “Fertility issues affect an estimated 1 in 4 couples in Nigeria. The emotional, psychological, and economic burdens of infertility are often borne in silence, exacerbating the suffering. WOGAF is committed to breaking this silence, providing support, and advocating access to fertility treatments and education.

    “As an organisation, WOGAF is dedicated to: offering educational materials on menstrual health, contraception, STIs, pregnancy, and menopause; partnering with providers to offer screenings, treatments, and counseling at affordable rates; offering mental health support; and integrating mental health services to address the psychological aspects of reproductive health.

    “We will also advocate policy changes and implementation to improve maternal healthcare and fertility services. We will provide education, training, and resources for healthcare providers, community leaders, and individuals. We shall be supporting research and innovation in maternal and reproductive health. Our scope also extends to empowering women and girls through economic empowerment initiatives, mentorship, and community engagement”. 

    Earlier in her welcome address, the Director of the foundation, Hajia Fatimah Adeniyi expressed her excitement to guests and participants who graced the launch, adding that she was inspired to take the step of starting the NGO by the story of a young woman that struggled with infertility.

    She said millions of women across the world suffer from genital and fertility health issues, which has affected their physical and mental well-being.

    “As a healthcare professional, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of these issues. A young woman, struggling with infertility, shared her story with me. Her words still echo: “I feel broken, invisible, and ashamed.” This moment sparked a burning desire to act.

    “Millions of women worldwide suffer from genital and fertility health issues, ranging from fistula to endometriosis. These conditions not only affect physical well-being but also mental health, relationships, and economic empowerment. You should also support our initiatives, donate to our cause, advocate for policy changes, and demand better healthcare. Most importantly, as women, we need to educate ourselves and empower others.”

  • FG increases 2025 HIV response fund

    FG increases 2025 HIV response fund

    Nigeria is making notable progress toward achieving the global target of ending HIV/AIDS by 2030 through a series of comprehensive and ambitious initiatives, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, has said. 

    Speaking at a virtual World AIDS Day Media Roundtable organized by the Global Fund, Pate outlined key strategies aimed at combating the disease, stressing the adoption of the Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) to streamline resources and enhance accountability across national and sub-national levels.

    “This approach ensures accountability and establishes robust reporting and monitoring systems,” he said. 

    In addition, the Minister, who was represented by the Director General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Temitope Ilori, said private sector engagement through the HIV Trust Fund has also been instrumental in mobilizing domestic resources, with major enterprises and philanthropists contributing to the fight.

    The Minister revealed that a ₦1.3 trillion allocation to healthcare for 2025b has been proposed, marking a significant increase in funding, out of which ₦10 billion is earmarked for antiretroviral treatment and prevention, targeting support for at least 100,000 Nigerians living with HIV. 

    Additionally, he noted, the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) provides ongoing funding for vulnerable groups, including those affected by HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria, through a one-percent revenue contribution from the consolidated national fund.

    According to the Minister, Nigeria is prioritizing the domestic production of HIV-related commodities, including condoms, antiretroviral drugs, and rapid test kits, to enhance sustainability, while adding that discussions are underway with pharmaceutical companies to establish production facilities, supported by government tax waivers on equipment. 

    Production is expected to commence by the end of 2025, contingent on meeting the World Health Organization (WHO) prequalification standards, “This initiative aims to reduce dependency on foreign exchange and lower costs,” Pate said.

    He said workforce development is another cornerstone of the strategy, with over 40,000 health workers trained this year and a target of 120,000 by 2025. 

    Furthermore, he said prevention efforts have also been intensified, with the Prevention of Mother-To-Child Transmission (PMTCT) program testing over four million pregnant women in 2023, surpassing expectations. 

    “We have mapped 40,000 health facilities offering HIV services to ensure broader access to care,” he explained.

    He, however, noted that significant challenges remain, including stigma, discrimination, and the criminalization of key populations, “Stigma and discrimination deter people from accessing medication and care,” he said, stressing the importance of addressing these barriers. 

    Funding constraints at the sub-national level were also identified, though recent reforms granting autonomy to local governments offer hope for improved resource mobilization, he stressed.

    Pate emphasized the critical role of data in ensuring accountability and effective planning, adding that efforts to improve data quality and digitize health records are part of the broader strategy to modernize Nigeria’s healthcare system. 

    “Reliable data enhances transparency and coordination with international partners,” the added, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to programmatic and financial sustainability.

     warned of donor fatigue and risks posed by funding cuts. 

    He emphasised the need for more investment in prevention and treatment.

    Peter Sands, the Executive Director of Global Fund warned of donor fatigue and risks posed by funding cuts, while  emphasizing the need for more investment in prevention and treatment.

    John Nkengasong, United States Global AIDS Coordinator for the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), highlighted the program’s support for local manufacturing in Africa, a key pillar for sustaining the HIV response and enhancing health security. 

    “We have committed to purchasing 15 million made-in-Africa HIV rapid tests and millions of antiretroviral doses, contingent on their meeting stringent regulatory and cost-effectiveness standards,” he said.

    Nkengasong linked regional manufacturing to broader global health resilience, particularly in crises like COVID-19. 

    However, he noted challenges, including affordability and maintaining quality standards saying, “Cost remains a barrier for many. We must avoid premium pricing for locally manufactured products,” he warned. 

    According to him, a change of government would not affect PEPFAR, which has saved 26 million lives over 21 years, as it remains focused on its bipartisan mission.

    UNAIDS Deputy Executive Director Christine Stegling emphasized the need to address stigma and discrimination, protect human rights, and ensure equitable access to treatment and prevention services. 

    Read Also: BREAKING: FG begins free CNG bus service in Abuja

    She also stressed the importance of tackling structural barriers, such as debt servicing and revenue collection, to create sustainable healthcare systems.

    The panellists collectively underscored the importance of sustainable funding, transparency, and accountability in combating HIV/AIDS. 

    They called for low- and middle-income countries to prioritize in-country funding mechanisms to mitigate donor fatigue and preserve the gains of the past 25 years. 

    They noted that it is crucial to ensure that communities have access to essential commodities and prevention services while judiciously managing resources to achieve maximum impact.

  • Uganda, Egypt meet to strengthen pharmaceutical cooperation, expand market at AfriSummit 2024

    Uganda, Egypt meet to strengthen pharmaceutical cooperation, expand market at AfriSummit 2024

    Within the framework of “AfriSummit 2024″in Cairo from November 3 to 6, a strategic meeting took place between Ugandan Ambassador and representatives of the Ugandan Ministry of Health, and Dr. Hisham Stait, Vice Chairman of the Egyptian Unified Procurement Authority (UPA)  for medical supply and medical technology management, with representatives from the Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA) in attendance.

    The meeting aimed to enhance cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector between the two nations, exploring partnership prospects in this vital field to achieve shared goals of providing safe and approved medicines, elevating collaboration opportunities, and fostering productive discussions to support the unity and sustainable development of Africa’s pharmaceutical sector.

    During the meeting, the Ugandan side expressed deep admiration for Egypt’s advancements in the pharmaceutical industry, as well as its strict quality control and regulatory standards, commending Egypt’s robust infrastructure in this sector. 

    The Ugandan delegation expressed interest in leveraging Egyptian expertise to support and develop Uganda’s healthcare infrastructure, recognizing Egypt as a model to emulate within the African continent due to its advanced pharmaceutical policies.

    Dr. Hisham Stait reaffirmed Egypt’s readiness to provide the necessary support to Uganda’s pharmaceutical needs, contributing to improved healthcare services in Uganda. He emphasized Egypt’s commitment to strengthening cooperation and expanding partnerships with African countries to foster the growth and integration of the healthcare sector.

    Following the discussions, both parties agreed to begin drafting a Memorandum of Understanding between the Egyptian Drug Authority and the Ugandan Ministry of Health. 

    Read Also: Empowering Nigeria’s Workforce for High-Paying Global Careers at the Business Analysis Summit 2024

    The MoU aims to facilitate the approval of Egyptian medicines in the Ugandan market and simplify procedures to expand Egypt’s market presence across Africa.

    This meeting was one of the pivotal events of AfriSummit 2024, opening new avenues for fruitful cooperation and enhancing the connection between African nations in the pharmaceutical sector. It underscores the determination of the organizers to promote constructive dialogue and cooperation among African health authorities, reinforcing the continent’s unity in addressing current health challenges and strengthening health security.

    In addition to this meeting, the summit saw significant achievements with the participation of ambassadors, ministers, and diplomats from across Africa, along with over 80 experts in regulatory, legal, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and distribution fields, as well as more than 300 healthcare professionals. 

    Multiple bilateral and multilateral agreements were signed, contributing to enhanced cooperation and meaningful dialogue to address Africa’s current regulatory challenges and explore future opportunities in pharmaceutical manufacturing, distribution, and healthcare development.

    This success highlights the summit’s importance in supporting the continent’s efforts toward sustainable growth in the healthcare sector, establishing AfriSummit as an effective regional platform for realizing shared ambitions in the pharmaceutical and healthcare fields.Top of Form

  • Toilet hygiene as an overlooked public health emergency

    Toilet hygiene as an overlooked public health emergency

    Toilet hygiene stands as a cornerstone of public health, yet it remains one of the most overlooked challenges in Nigeria. With a population exceeding 200 million, the disparity in access to clean and safe sanitation facilities is glaring and troubling. This persistent neglect exacerbates health emergencies, drains economic resources, and significantly diminishes the overall quality of life for millions of Nigerians.

    Despite international commitments, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 6), which advocate for universal access to water and sanitation, Nigeria continues to grapple with a sanitation crisis of immense proportions. Poor toilet hygiene is more than just a public health issue—it is a silent epidemic perpetuating cycles of disease, deepening poverty, and amplifying social inequality across urban and rural communities alike. The urgency to address this crisis cannot be overstated. Beyond its immediate health consequences, inadequate sanitation stifles development, widens societal inequalities, and undermines the nation’s ability to achieve sustainable growth. It is high time that toilet hygiene was elevated from a neglected concern to a national priority.

    Nigeria’s sanitation statistics paint a grim picture. According to a UNICEF report, over 48 million Nigerians still practise open defecation, making the country one of the highest-ranking globally in this category. This is particularly concerning given the rapid urbanisation and population growth in Nigeria, which have placed immense pressure on existing sanitation infrastructure. Public toilets, often cited as a solution, are either scarce or poorly maintained. In urban centres, where the need is greatest, these facilities are frequently unhygienic, inadequate, or unaffordable for many residents. In rural areas, the situation is even worse. Many communities lack any formal toilet facilities, forcing residents to use nearby bushes, rivers, or open spaces. This practice not only pollutes the environment but also compromises public health.

    Read Also: Kaduna LG boss vows to tackle polio resurgence with renewed immunization 

    Poor toilet hygiene is directly linked to the prevalence of waterborne diseases, which claim thousands of lives in Nigeria annually. Cholera, diarrhoea, typhoid fever, and dysentery are rampant, especially during the rainy season when contaminated water sources become more widespread. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), diarrhoea remains the second leading cause of death among children under five globally, and Nigeria accounts for a significant proportion of these fatalities. The ripple effects of these diseases are far-reaching. Sick individuals are unable to work, children miss school, and families incur high medical expenses, pushing many into poverty. The link between sanitation and nutrition is also crucial, as repeated bouts of diarrhoea lead to malnutrition, stunting, and weakened immune systems in children.

    The economic toll of inadequate sanitation in Nigeria is staggering. A 2012 report by the World Bank estimated that the country loses over $3 billion annually due to poor sanitation. These losses stem from productivity decline, health-related expenses, and the loss of tourism revenue due to poor sanitation perceptions. In densely populated areas, the lack of clean toilets also has indirect economic impacts. Women and girls, for example, are often forced to miss work or school during their menstrual cycles due to the absence of hygienic facilities. This perpetuates gender inequality and limits opportunities for millions of women.

    Cultural norms and behavioural patterns significantly contribute to the sanitation crisis. Open defecation, for instance, is deeply ingrained in some rural communities and is often seen as a natural practice. Changing these norms requires not only infrastructure but also targeted education campaigns that address the underlying attitudes towards sanitation. Moreover, the stigma surrounding discussions about toilet use has hindered public dialogue and advocacy. Sanitation remains a “taboo topic,” preventing communities and policymakers from addressing the issue with the urgency it demands.

    Over the years, the Nigerian government has launched several initiatives aimed at improving toilet hygiene and sanitation. Notable among these is the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet campaign, which aims to eliminate open defecation by 2025. This initiative has seen some progress, including the declaration of a few local government areas as Open Defecation Free (ODF). However, these efforts face significant challenges. Funding remains a major bottleneck, as sanitation programmes are often under-resourced and deprioritised in national and state budgets. Additionally, the absence of enforcement mechanisms means that policies are rarely implemented effectively. While the construction of toilets in public spaces has increased, maintenance remains inconsistent, and many facilities deteriorate rapidly due to a lack of proper management.

    Given the limitations of government-led initiatives, the private sector and civil society organisations have stepped in to bridge the gap. Companies producing hygiene products have contributed through campaigns promoting handwashing and providing affordable sanitation solutions. Innovations such as mobile toilets and eco-friendly sanitation technologies are being explored to address the unique challenges of urban and rural communities. Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) have also played a critical role. For instance, organisations like WaterAid Nigeria have been instrumental in building sanitation infrastructure, promoting hygiene education, and advocating for policy reforms. Community-led approaches, such as Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS), have proven effective in rural areas by empowering communities to take ownership of their sanitation needs.

    Innovation is key to overcoming Nigeria’s toilet hygiene challenges. Smart sanitation systems, which integrate technology for maintenance and monitoring, are gaining traction in other parts of the world and could be adapted for Nigerian cities. Public-private partnerships can also facilitate the construction and management of modern, pay-per-use toilet facilities in urban centres. Another promising avenue is the promotion of biogas systems, where human waste is converted into energy for cooking and electricity. This not only addresses sanitation but also provides an incentive for communities to invest in toilets.

    Special attention must be given to the needs of vulnerable populations, including women, children, and people with disabilities. Women, in particular, face unique challenges related to menstrual hygiene management, privacy, and safety. Poorly designed public toilets that lack gender-segregated spaces or basic amenities can discourage use and expose women to harassment or violence. For children, schools without proper sanitation facilities contribute to absenteeism and poor academic performance. Schools must be a focal point for sanitation investment, ensuring that every child has access to clean and safe toilets.

    Toilet hygiene in Nigeria is not merely a public health challenge but a socio-economic and cultural issue that demands urgent attention. Bridging the sanitation gap requires a multi-faceted approach that integrates infrastructure, behavioural change, and sustained political will. By prioritising toilet hygiene, Nigeria can unlock immense benefits: healthier communities, greater economic productivity, and a more equitable society. The time to act is now.

  • Employers urged to prioritise employee wellness

    Employers urged to prioritise employee wellness

    Employers in Nigeria have been encouraged to prioritise the physical and mental well-being of their employees by fostering wellness programmes and creating conducive work environments to enhance productivity. Mrs. Laura Ade, Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Redeemers’ Health Village (RHV), Redemption City of God, Mowe, Ogun State, made the call over the weekend during a panel discussion at the Masterpiece Resource Development Centre’s annual entrepreneurs’ conference and trade expo held in Lagos.

    Highlighting the importance of employee wellness, Mrs. Ade emphasised the need for organisations to implement robust Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs), promote team bonding activities, and conduct regular health checks, both pre-employment and during employment. She noted that these measures are essential for maintaining a sustainable and effective workforce. “From an operational standpoint, prioritising employee wellness isn’t just a moral obligation but also a strategic investment,” she said. “Organisations should create opportunities for team bonding, provide regular health screenings, and ensure their environments support the overall well-being of their workforce.”

    Mrs. Ade also urged corporate organisations to leverage the discounted employee wellness packages available at the Redeemers’ Health Village, which are designed to ensure staff maintain healthy bodies and sound minds. She cited an example of RHV’s commitment to employee wellness, sharing details of a recent initiative—a “Day Out” event for all staff members, including consultants, cleaners, and gatemen. This gathering fostered inclusivity and unity, as everyone, regardless of rank or role, shared a meal together, breaking down hierarchical barriers and strengthening team spirit.

    Read Also: University of Bolton promotes Dr. Celestine Iwendi to full Professor of AI

    Mrs. Ade concluded by stressing that wellness initiatives not only enhance employee morale but also improve organisational performance. “A healthy workforce is a productive workforce, and it begins with intentional efforts from employers,” she said. The event underscored the critical role wellness programmes play in organisational success, inspiring employers to adopt innovative approaches to fostering healthier work environments.

    Speaking further on the critical role healthcare professionals and institutions play in delivering quality health services, Mrs. Ade highlighted affordability and accessibility as key factors in promoting good community health. According to Mrs. Ade, Redeemers’ Health Village places a strong emphasis on preventive care and wellness, offering a wide range of affordable healthcare services. These include counselling, preventive health screenings, and treatments across various medical disciplines such as cardiology, oncology, endoscopy, obstetrics and gynaecology, family medicine, paediatrics, intensive care, and radiology, among others. She encouraged individuals and organisations to take advantage of the cutting-edge medical facilities at RHV to enhance their health and well-being.

    The panel discussion also featured other notable speakers, including Dr. Toni Adeyemi, Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Public Health, and Mrs. Vandana Kaushal, Founder of Salt Spa and Wellness Centre, Lagos. Dr. Adeyemi commended the Lagos State Government for making healthcare more affordable through the state health insurance scheme, Ilera Eko. She noted that the government has also prioritised upgrading existing healthcare infrastructure and constructing new facilities, particularly primary healthcare centres, across the state.

    Mrs. Kaushal, meanwhile, underscored the importance of quality sleep for overall wellness and workplace productivity. She advised people to aim for at least seven hours of sleep each night, or to consider taking short naps during the day to supplement their rest. The session underscored the collective responsibility of healthcare providers, government, and individuals in fostering accessible and preventive healthcare solutions to improve the quality of life in communities.

  • AMLSN commends Tinubu’s Executive Order on local production

    AMLSN commends Tinubu’s Executive Order on local production

    Decries lack of laboratory components in nation’s healthcare centres

    The Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN) has raised concerns about the lack of adequate laboratory services in Nigeria’s primary healthcare centres. Dr. Casmir Ifeanyi, the National President, revealed at the 60th Annual Scientific Conference/General Meeting and Diamond Jubilee Anniversary in Owerri, that out of 60,000 primary healthcare centres, fewer than 2,000 offer even basic laboratory services. Dr. Ifeanyi emphasised the critical need to expand and improve laboratory facilities across the country, underscoring that laboratory services are essential for quality healthcare delivery.

    While acknowledging improvements in the National Health Act’s reviewed minimum health package, Dr. Ifeanyi lamented the absence of laboratory components in the revised package. He called for the establishment of a National Laboratory Network and noted that international partners were beginning to support the development of guidelines for laboratory services. He also pointed out that some states, including Imo, do not have a Directorate of Medical Laboratory Services, which is mandated by the National Medical Laboratory Policy.

    Read Also: Olanipekun backs constitution review, seeks six years single term for president

    Dr. Ifeanyi commended President Bola Tinubu for his Executive Order aimed at boosting local production of diagnostics and pharmaceuticals. He stressed that the high cost of imported diagnostics, due to the weakening naira, makes local production a crucial step in improving healthcare access. The AGM also saw leadership changes, with Chief Mrs. Adunni Udu being replaced by Mrs. Grace Eronini as Chairman of the Board of Trustees. Furthermore, Dr. Uche Odionyema was suspended for multiple constitutional violations, and the AGM issued a disclaimer against a purported conference he was planning. The association urged greater collaboration within the sector to address the challenges facing Nigeria’s healthcare system.

  • World AIDS Day: Know your status, avoid risky behaviour, says AHF 

    World AIDS Day: Know your status, avoid risky behaviour, says AHF 

    A Non-Governmental Organisation, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has urged the people including adolescents to ensure they know their HIV status and avoid risky behaviours.

    Country Programme Director of AHF, Nigeria, Dr Eche Ijezie made the call on Monday during the commemoration of the 2024 World AIDS Day held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital.

    Ijezie who harped on abstinence to sex among adolescents including the youths noted that where such was not possible, unprotected sexual acts or having multiple sexual partners should be avoided. 

    According to him, “we must ensure that we avoid risky sexual behaviours such as having multiple sexual partners, having unprotected sex and host of others. Everyone must know his or her status, the tests are for free, condoms are for free and available. So, we are encouraging everyone to test and know their status.

    “Avoiding risky behaviours is crucial for adolescents and youths. We are also harping on comprehensive sexuality education targeted at adolescents and young, persons with the aim being to avoid Sexually Transmitted Infections, (STIs) and unplanned pregnancy”

    He said a lot of gains have been made over the years in fighting HIV/AIDS, adding that stronger commitments are needed to tackle the prevalence of the virus headlong.

    His words, “Over the years, across the world and even in sub–Saharan Africa the statistics have fallen due to the concerted efforts by all partners and governments at all levels. “Where we are now is not where we were before, a lot have improved, many have been placed on life saving medications and treatments. “However, we are saying that the fight is not over, it is not time to rest on our oars, it is time for people to remember that we must fight this fight to the finish. 

    Mrs. Elizabeth Udoh, Akwa Ibom state Coordinator for the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS thanked AHF for the initiative and commended the organisation for carrying their partners along in the commemoration. 

    In her words, ‘’I say kudos to AHF for organising this commemoration in Akwa Ibom state and for involving the youths and other partners. We are happy and we say thank you AHF.’’ 

    Also speaking, the Executive Director of the Drug Free and Preventive Healthcare, Mrs Grace Umosen, said ‘‘the event was a great success, we are happy to collaborate with AHF for this event, and we commend the instructiveness of the program, especially the free HIV tests on offer and free condoms that were distributed to the people.’’

  • Antimicrobial Resistance deaths rising in Nigeria, expert warns

    Antimicrobial Resistance deaths rising in Nigeria, expert warns

    Ayodele Majekodunmi, National Coordinator for the Emergency Center for Transboundary Animal Disease at the Food and Agriculture Organisation, has decried Nigeria’s alarming position as the 19th most affected country by antimicrobial resistance (AMR)-related deaths globally. 

    Speaking in Abuja during a recent step-down training programme on AMR and Media-EIS tracks for Health journalists, organized by Ojoma Akor with support from the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Breakthrough ACTION-Nigeria, Majekodunmi described AMR as a growing global health crisis.

    She revealed that in 2019, AMR caused 64,500 deaths in Nigeria and contributed to over 263,000 others. Globally, AMR is responsible for 1.3 million direct deaths annually and contributes to over 4 million more.

    “In 2019, AMR directly caused 64,500 deaths in Nigeria and was a contributing factor in over 263,000 more. Globally, AMR accounts for 1.3 million direct deaths and contributes to over 4 million fatalities annually.

    “Without decisive interventions, this figure could rise to 10 million deaths per year by 2050, surpassing fatalities from cancer”.

    Majekodunmi highlighted the improper use of antimicrobials in humans, animals, and agriculture as a major driver of resistance, saying, “Practices such as using antibiotics for livestock growth promotion or self-medication in humans are exacerbating the crisis.

    “The economic implications are equally dire, with AMR increasing healthcare costs, reducing productivity, and threatening food security. “Antimicrobial resistance does not only affect health, it undermines livelihoods and development”.

    The expert also emphasized the economic consequences of AMR, including rising healthcare costs, reduced productivity, and threats to food security, calling for stricter regulations and public awareness to curb its spread. 

    Olayinka Umar-Farouk, Deputy Project Director for Risk Communication at Breakthrough ACTION-Nigeria, underscored the importance of collaboration between the media and public health sectors in managing health crises like AMR and COVID-19.

    Stressing the need for a shared approach to saving lives through accurate information dissemination and informed decision-making, Umar-Farouk said, “This drive led to the creation of the Media Epidemiology Infodemic Management Social Behavior Change Fellowship Program, aimed at connecting science and people for better health outcomes.

    “The program, initiated in 2022 after an extensive needs assessment with media stakeholders, took shape through collaboration with professional associations.

    “A tailored curriculum was developed to address gaps in epidemiology, social behaviour change, and infodemic management.

    “Launched in June 2023, the program received over 500 applications, with 30 fellows selected for a 15-month comprehensive training. The fellowship was divided into three tracks, epidemiology, social behaviour change, and infodemic management, offering a mix of in-person and virtual sessions, field visits, and mentorship”.

    According to her, the programme recorded remarkable achievements, including fellows receiving national recognition, securing additional fellowships, and participating in outbreak response efforts.

    “The program’s success is reflected in its focus on real-world application, as teams tackled specific diseases to translate knowledge into action. With the first cohort set to graduate in December, plans are underway to expand the fellowship and enhance the skills gained during the program.

    “The importance of continuous capacity building in health communication cannot be overstated, as it equips our professionals with the knowledge to better inform their audiences on how to address health challenges, and ultimately improve Nigeria’s health outcomes”.

    In her presentation, Ojoma Akor emphasized the importance of equipping journalists with epidemiological skills to interpret and report health data effectively, bridging the gap between science and public awareness.

    She noted that these abilities enable journalists to better understand reports from organizations like the NCDC and WHO, enhancing their capacity to inform the public effectively.

    She also highlighted the practical applications of epidemiology, emphasizing how factors such as behaviour and environment play a critical role in the spread of diseases, saying, “By understanding these principles, journalists can bridge the gap between science and the public, contributing to improved health awareness and outcomes”.

  • Plateau recorded 2,260 new HIV infections in 2023

    Plateau recorded 2,260 new HIV infections in 2023

     Dr Cletus Shurkuk, Plateau  Commissioner for Health, says  the state recorded 2, 260 new cases of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections and 581 deaths from the disease in 2023.

    Shurkuk said this on Saturday in Jos, at an event  to commemorate the 2024 World AIDS  day which is marked globally on Dec. 1, with this year’s theme  “Take the Right Path”.

    According to him, 45, 835  persons in Plateau were living with the disease and were on Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).

    He revealed that the state government had expanded its testing services to over 900 health care facilities and has also increased awareness about HIV prevention and treatment.

    He further explained that the state had improved its strategies to halt mother-to-child transmission of HIV by successfully conducting tests for  46, 828 pregnant women between January to June 2024.

    Shurkuk, said the state had achieved 88-98-95 target towards meeting with the UNAIDS target  of  99-95-95 by 2030, which was a path way to HIV epidemic control.

    Read Also: Zulum vows to tackle HIV as a public health challengein Borno

    The official, who  said the theme for 2024 WORLD AIDS was appropriate, noted that for the  right path to be taken, there was need for increased comprehensive sex education and awareness, particularly among the young people, who were  key to shaping  a more informed future generation.

    He called for more community engagement, increased access to healthcare and more research and innovations towards the disease.

    Shurkuk, commended development partners for  collaborating  with the state in providing  quality health care services to its citizens.(NAN)

  • AHF Nigeria marks world AIDS day

    AHF Nigeria marks world AIDS day

    In recognition of World AIDS Day 2024 on Dec. 1, AHF Nigeria will host a commemorative event at the Water Fountain, by Nwaniba street roundabout, in the city center of Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, on December 2, 2024, by 9:AM prompt. 

    Comprehensive Sexuality Education(CSE) shall be the thrust of the gathering, as we also provide free AHF branded condoms with detailed condom education to the people. 

    The commemoration is to signify that “It’s Not Over” in the fight against HIV/AIDS, while raising the needed awareness, promote prevention, testing, and treatment, and rally support to all those affected by HIV/AIDS in Nigeria and globally.

    Despite decades of progress, around 40 million people globally are living with HIV, more than half of whom are women and girls, with approximately 1.3 million new infections reported each year, according to UNAIDS. 

    Stigma and discrimination continue to keep individuals from seeking essential care, and many key populations face substantial barriers to accessing treatment. This World AIDS Day event will spotlight these challenges, emphasizing the need to keep HIV/AIDS a priority on national and global public health agendas.

    AHF Nigeria’s World AIDS Day event will include a strong radio programming across the seven states of (Abuja, Anambra, Benue, Cross river, Kogi, Nasarawa) and Akwa Ibom, which also hosts the main public ceremony – as youth groups will be displaying their fabulous dancing and singing skills in the presence of key Civil Society actors and government officials. 

    ‘’In Nigeria, AHF is particularly reinforcing the need to embrace Comprehensive age-appropriate Sexuality Education (CSE), to empower adolescents and young people with skills and knowledge to negotiate safer sexual behaviors, with the population being the most at risk to STIs including HIV/AIDS, said Dr. Echey Ijezie, AHF Nigeria, Country Program Director (CPD).

    “On this World AIDS Day, we emphasize the urgent need to enhance HIV prevention efforts, particularly for young women and adolescent girls who are at significant risk, with around 4,000 new HIV infections recorded globally each week,” stated Dr. Penninah Iutung, AHF Africa Bureau Chief.

    “With the introduction of innovative prevention tools—like the Dapivirine vaginal ring to Lenacapvir, PrEP, and PEP—our ability to halt new transmissions has never been greater. Nonetheless, we must also prioritize condoms, which are both effective and affordable yet still under-promoted. Furthermore, increased funding for HIV/AIDS, community-led initiatives, and favorable policies to fight stigma and discrimination remain crucial for expanding access to prevention and treatment, especially for at-risk groups and in the global effort to control AIDS.”

    World AIDS Day serves as a vital platform for HIV/AIDS advocates to acknowledge the progress made, remember those we have lost to AIDS-related illnesses and those who carry on the fight, and call on governments worldwide to commit the necessary resources and political support to end HIV/AIDS. On this World AIDS Day, we’re reminded: It’s Not Over.