The Nation Newspaper

Category: Health

  • FG intensifies TB elimination drive

    FG intensifies TB elimination drive

    Nigeria is intensifying efforts to combat tuberculosis despite financial constraints and the growing threat of drug-resistant TB. 

    The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to eliminating TB, citing significant advancements in diagnostic services, treatment accessibility, and community engagement. 

    Pate spoke in Abuja on Tuesday during a Ministerial press briefing to mark World TB Day 2025, where he highlighted major interventions strengthening Nigeria’s TB response. 

    He said the number of GeneXpert machines increased from 32 in 2012 to 513 in 2024, improving early detection, adding that TB treatment facilities rose from 12,606 in 2019 to 23,000 in 2024, covering 57% of health facilities. 

    According to him, over 400 mobile digital X-ray units are deployed nationwide to detect asymptomatic TB cases while more than 3.8 million TB samples were tested in 2024, up from 2 million in 2023. 

    He also noted that TB services expanded to 4,000 private health facilities, which now contribute 34% of TB case notifications. 

    He said the launch of the “Gen-Z Against TB Movement” is mobilizing young Nigerians to spread TB awareness, in addition to the government raising a $50 million TB bond, with the private sector contributing half of the funds underscored the commitment of the government to combat the scourge.

    However, the Minister expressed concerns that despite the strides, Nigeria’s TB burden remains alarming, stressing that the 2024 World Health Organization (WHO) Global TB Report shows that Nigeria accounts for 4.6% of global TB cases, with about 71,000 deaths recorded in 2023. 

    While noting that the country ranks sixth globally and first in Africa among high-TB-burden nations, Pate also expressed concern over the low enrollment in Drug-Resistant TB (DR-TB) treatment, revealing that only 3,500 cases received treatment out of an estimated 9,400 cases in 2024. 

    “To address this, the government is conducting a nationwide Drug-Resistant TB survey and expanding treatment services at local government and community levels,” he stated.

    Undernutrition, HIV, diabetes, and lifestyle factors like smoking continue to fuel TB infections, particularly among Nigeria’s working-age population between 15 and 44 years, he said.

    He also acknowledged the impact of the United States government policy shift with the United States Agency for International Development’s (USAID) funding withdrawal, which previously supported nearly 50% of TB case detection efforts. 

    He stressed the urgent need for increased domestic investment and international partnerships to bridge the funding gap.

    Represented by Nse Akpan, Director of Port Health Services, Pate emphasized the importance of community TB screening, childhood TB detection, and sustained awareness campaigns. 

    He expressed optimism that despite the challenges, Nigeria remains on track to end TB by the global target date. He urged stakeholders, including the media, to amplify key messages such as “TB is preventable and curable” and “TB treatment is free at designated facilities nationwide.”

    Under the 2025 World TB Day theme, “Yes! We Can End TB: Commit, Invest, Deliver,” the Minister called for renewed commitment from all sectors to defeat the disease once and for all.

    The WHO Representative in Nigeria, Walter Mulombo, has reaffirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s fight against tuberculosis. 

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    While acknowledging the global and national TB burden, he commended Nigeria’s progress, particularly the 300% increase in TB case notifications from 138,583 in 2020 to 418,198 in 2024. 

    This surge has significantly reduced the TB detection gap from 73% in 2019 to 17% in 2024, he said while warning that over 80,000 undetected cases continue to fuel community transmission.  

    Mulombo, represented by Mya Ngon, Team Lead for Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases, highlighted key initiatives, including primary healthcare infrastructure improvements under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Initiative and the launch of the Multisectoral Accountability Framework to track TB progress. 

    He expressed concern over funding challenges following USAID’s withdrawal and emphasized the need for sustained domestic investment, noting that 71% of TB patients face catastrophic healthcare costs.  

    Uzoma Nwofor, Senior Communications Manager at IHVN, emphasized TB’s persistent public health threat and IHVN’s role in expanding diagnostics and private-sector engagement. 

    She highlighted the optimization of 400+ GeneXpert sites, AI-powered X-rays, and community-based interventions while calling for increased domestic investment and collective action to end TB by 2030.

  • How to combat TB scourge by public health experts

    How to combat TB scourge by public health experts

    Nigeria has been identified as one of the African countries with the highest burden of tuberculosis (TB), accounting for 20% of the continent’s cases, according to the National Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Buruli Ulcer Control Programme (NTBLCP).  

    The alarming statistic has raised concerns among health experts, who cite the country’s large population and inadequate healthcare infrastructure as major factors fueling the disease’s spread.

    The experts spoke at a symposium held at Bingham University, organized by the Zankli Research Centre in collaboration with The Light Consortium to mark World TB Day.  

    Observed annually on March 24, World TB Day aims to raise awareness about tuberculosis, its global impact, and the collective efforts required to combat this public health challenge.

    Samuel Hananiya, a public health expert, highlighted that TB remains one of the top 10 causes of death globally, with Nigeria ranking among the 30 high-burden countries. 

    In his NTBLCP presentation, Hananiya outlined several challenges hindering TB control in Nigeria, including a weak healthcare system, a significant funding gap, poverty, malnutrition, and limited access to TB services, particularly in rural areas. 

    He noted that the high costs incurred by TB patients further complicate efforts to curb the disease’s spread.  

    To overcome these challenges, he emphasized the need for increased government commitment and domestic funding for TB programs, the expansion of public-private partnerships, and improved community participation in TB control efforts. 

    He called for intensified awareness campaigns to educate the public on TB symptoms, the fact that it is curable, and the availability of free treatment. 

    Addressing the social factors fueling TB, such as poverty and inadequate healthcare access, was also highlighted as crucial.  

    Dr. Hananiya stressed that partnerships are essential in the fight against TB, as the disease affects not only health but also the economy, education, and social well-being. 

    He called for stronger collaboration among the government, private sector, academia, NGOs, and international partners, with private hospitals, pharmacies, and faith-based organizations playing a key role in expanding TB detection and treatment services.  

    He also underscored the importance of innovation in combating TB, citing advancements such as new diagnostic tools, vaccines, AI-assisted TB screening, and digital health interventions like mobile apps for TB surveillance and telemedicine for remote consultations. 

    He highlighted the potential of new treatment regimens, including the shorter and more effective BPaL regimen for drug-resistant TB, in improving treatment outcomes.  

    Despite these efforts, he warned that unless Nigeria prioritizes TB control, the country will continue to bear a heavy burden. 

    He called for urgent action to scale up detection and treatment, particularly in underserved areas, to ensure that more people receive timely and effective care.  

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    Meanwhile, Chukwuebuka Ugwu, an Early Career Researcher at The Light Consortium, emphasized the importance of an integrated approach to TB response while emphasizing the need to combat the stigma attached to the disease.

    He noted that when patients visit healthcare facilities, they should receive comprehensive care that addresses not only TB but also other infectious and non-infectious diseases, as well as psychological wellness.  

    Ugwu highlighted that men, who often bear a higher TB burden, are less likely to seek medical attention, making community-driven outreach programs essential. 

    He called for targeted awareness campaigns in gathering places like worship centers and markets to encourage men to seek TB care while emphasizing the need for healthcare workers to accommodate men’s work schedules for better treatment adherence.

    He also stressed the importance of trust-building and follow-up care, noting that many patients require repeated reminders and encouragement to stay on their medication regimen.  

    On his part, Associate Professor Toyosi Adekeye, Research Uptake Manager at The Light Consortium and Bingham University’s Zankli Research Centre, who reflected on TB’s longstanding impact in Africa, lamented that TB was historically misdiagnosed as a mere cough, leading to preventable deaths. 

    While sharing insights from a recent outreach program targeting adolescents, which revealed that many mistook TB symptoms for common colds or sore throats, Adekeye lamented that despite free treatment and diagnosis, a lack of awareness remains a major challenge.  

    Warning that lack of knowledge can lead to delayed treatment and worsened health outcomes, he said, “The fight against TB requires a collective effort across healthcare, education, and community sectors. 

    “By prioritizing awareness and education, particularly among vulnerable populations, we can reduce stigma, improve access to treatment, and save lives”.  

    He urged policymakers and healthcare administrators to prioritize integrated healthcare approaches, particularly in resource-constrained settings, as they can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance patient outcomes.

  • NASS urged to prioritise tuberculosis funding 

    NASS urged to prioritise tuberculosis funding 

    Acting Board Chair of Stop TB Partnership Nigeria, Dr. Queen Ogbuji-Ladipo, has urged the National Assembly to prioritize budget allocations to address the challenge of Tuberculous (TB) in the country, especially due to the declining donor support for interventions.

    Speaking at the Re-Launch of the Nigeria Parliamentary TB Caucus at the National Assembly on Wednesday, she lamented Nigeria’s alarming statistics, noting that the country remains the highest TB-burdened nation in Africa and sixth globally. 

    Ogbuji-Ladipo urged that the lawmakers should integrate TB services into broader healthcare policies, and enact legislation that protects vulnerable populations while supporting TB research, diagnosis, and treatment.

    She pointed out that every seven minutes, a Nigerian loses their life to this preventable and curable disease, stressing the urgency of immediate action.

    She said over the years, Stop TB Partnership Nigeria has played a pivotal role in advancing TB interventions across the country. 

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    Through strategic advocacy, policy engagements, and collaborations with government institutions, the organization has secured increased domestic funding, leading to significant financial commitments from states like Kebbi and Lagos, she said.

    Additionally, she said, Stop TB Partnership Nigeria has partnered with the private sector to raise $50 million in matched funding for TB interventions, a move that has expanded access to life-saving treatments and diagnostics. 

    The organization has also procured and deployed modern diagnostic tools, ensuring faster and more efficient TB detection, particularly in underserved communities, she stated

    Ogbuji-Ladipo said to further drive progress, Stop TB Partnership Nigeria has worked closely with Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s First Lady and Global Stop TB Champion, as well as the Wives of State Governors, to enhance political will and expand awareness campaigns at the grassroots level.

    However, despite these gains, significant gaps remain in funding, policy implementation, and public awareness, necessitating stronger legislative intervention. 

    She said the re-launch of the Parliamentary TB Caucus marks a renewed commitment to addressing these challenges head-on.

    She said with the United Nations’ target to end TB by 2030 fast approaching, lawmakers and health advocates agree that Nigeria must take bold steps to accelerate progress. 

    Dr. Ogbuji-Ladipo called on Parliament to ensure that TB programs receive adequate funding, legislative support, and stronger oversight mechanisms to guarantee effective implementation.

    “The world has set ambitious targets to end TB by 2030, and Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind. “We must take decisive action now—Yes! We Can End TB. We Fit Do Am!” she said. 

    Chairman of the House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Malaria Control, Rt. Hon. Amobi Godwin Ogah, assured that the parliament will take decisive legislative actions to combat TB, including pushing for increased funding and enacting laws to protect patients’ rights, 

    Ogah emphasized that lawmakers must leverage their positions to strengthen Nigeria’s TB response. 

    He promised to mobilize parliamentarians to sign up for the caucus and champion policies that will enhance TB detection, treatment, and prevention.

    “Our role in providing legislative interventions and support to the response against TB in Nigeria is critical and cannot be overemphasized. We must take advantage of our position and the population under our control to fight the scourge of TB,” Ogah said.

    He highlighted that nearly 70% of Global Fund-supported countries are facing budget shortfalls for TB response, with 10 nations alone facing a $600 million deficit in 2025. 

    Nigeria, he warned, must increase domestic resource mobilization, particularly since most African countries, including Nigeria, have yet to meet the Abuja Declaration target of allocating 15% of their national budgets to health.

    To ensure that funding gaps do not cripple Nigeria’s fight against TB, Ogah urged Parliament to intensify advocacy and push for greater financial commitments from the government. 

    He also vowed that the caucus would work toward laws that protect TB patients from stigma and discrimination while improving their access to healthcare.

    Ogah praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for committing over ₦700 billion to Nigeria’s health system, including TB interventions, and commended First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her ₦1 billion donation to TB eradication efforts.

    He further called for swift action to hold the government accountable for its commitments, ensuring that TB services reach the most vulnerable and marginalized groups.

    Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to the global goal of ending TB by 2030, Ogah urged his colleagues to step up their efforts, echoing the World TB Day 2025 theme: “Yes, We Can End TB – Commit, Invest, Deliver.”

    The Speaker, Rt Hon Tajudeen Abbas, said the House of Representatives will take bold legislative action and increase funding to combat tuberculosis (TB), a disease that continues to pose a major public health threat in the country.

    Abbas described TB as a longstanding but often overlooked health crisis, stressing that urgent interventions are needed to curb its devastating impact.

    “Most of us started hearing about this scourge in our childhood, and after a while, it seemed forgotten, yet it remains one of the most deadly diseases affecting humanity today,” Tajudeen said.

    According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nigeria remains the seventh-highest TB-burdened country globally and second in Africa, with 361,000 new cases recorded in 2023—a 26% increase from the previous year. 

    Worse still, 9% of these cases involved children, while 63,000 people living with HIV were co-infected with TB.

    Despite past efforts, including the establishment of the National TB and Leprosy Control Programme in 1989 and alignment with WHO’s global TB elimination strategies, the disease continues to spread. 

    The Speaker emphasized the urgent need for stronger awareness campaigns, improved healthcare infrastructure, and legislative measures to bridge the treatment gap.

    Tajudeen reaffirmed the 10th House of Representatives’ commitment to prioritizing health reforms, noting that Parliament had already increased the national health budget in line with the Abuja Declaration, which recommends at least 15% of the national budget be allocated to healthcare.

    He said the House also proposed amendments to the National Health Act, raising Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) funding from 1% to 2% of the Consolidated Revenue Fund to strengthen TB treatment and healthcare infrastructure.

    He added that the House expanded access to primary healthcare in rural and underserved areas, while pushing for a universal health insurance system to make healthcare more affordable, as well as encouraged research into tropical diseases, traditional medicine, vaccine development, and innovative TB treatment methods.

    Abbas called on all lawmakers to actively participate in the caucus, assuring that the House would provide full legislative backing to ensure Nigeria meets its 2030 target to end TB, as outlined by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    “This caucus marks a new beginning in our efforts to match words with action. I urge all members to give their best and push for the necessary legislative steps to rid our country of this disease,” he added.

    The TB Parliamentary Caucus, spearheaded by the House Committee on HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, Leprosy, and Malaria Control, aims to strengthen Nigeria’s TB response by mobilizing resources, influencing policy decisions, and ensuring greater accountability in TB eradication efforts.

  • How to avoid brain damage, by experts

    How to avoid brain damage, by experts

    Healthcare professionals have urged Nigerians to always protect their heads appropriately to prevent head and brain injury.

    The Programme Manager, Brain Health Initiative Nigeria, Olajoke Akinyemi, and the Operations Manager, Brain Centre,Ibadan,  Iyanuoluwa Samuel spoke during an awareness campaign in commemoration of this years World Head Injury Awareness Day in Ibadan by Brain Health Initiative Nigeria (BHIN), Ibadan.

    BHIN is owned by a neurologist at the University College Hospital (UCH) and founder of the Brain Centre, Ibadan, Dr Temitope Farombi.

    The campaign, which took place at the Bus-stop Motor Park, Agodi-Gate, Ibadan, was witnessed by motorists, motorcyclists and commuters.  

    Akinyemi called on Nigerians to always put on personal protective tools to prevent injury to the head and brain.

    He said: ‘’Drive at safe speed and use safety belts. During sports such as skating, always wear your helmet. To prevent head and brain injury, always wear a helmet while cycling or riding; prevent falls by keeping your environment safe.

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    ‘’In case of any injury, seek medical attention immediately, because brain injury can lead to death. Stay safe and stay protected”.     

    Mrs. Samuel harped on the need to put on safety materials while driving, riding or at home.

    She said: ‘’I am charging drivers, motorists, motorcyclists and all Nigerians to protect their heads, because the head houses the brain. We must prevent head injury by taking some measures. 

    “At home, we must prevent injuries by wearing appropriate   footwears. And we must call for help and seek medical care in case there is an injury’’.

  • Internal Medicine Specialist warns of rare diabetes complication linked to SGLT2 inhibitors

    Internal Medicine Specialist warns of rare diabetes complication linked to SGLT2 inhibitors

    Nigerian internal medicine specialist Dr. Jerry Adeyemo, based in Germany, has warned about a rare but serious complication associated with SGLT2 inhibitors, a widely used class of drugs for managing Type 2 diabetes.

    Dr. Adeyemo’s study focuses on a 63-year-old male patient with Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease who developed euglycemic diabetic ketoacidosis, euDKA, a life-threatening condition that can occur even when blood sugar levels appear normal.

    Dr. Adeyemo explains: “Diabetic ketoacidosis, DKA, is a dangerous condition where the body, unable to properly utilize glucose due to insufficient insulin, starts breaking down fats for energy.

    “This process leads to an excessive buildup of ketones, making the blood acidic and causing severe metabolic imbalances.”

    “Unlike typical DKA, which is associated with extremely high blood sugar levels, euDKA can develop even when glucose levels appear normal, making diagnosis more challenging.

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    “The patient, who had been prescribed empagliflozin, an SGLT2 inhibitor, experienced nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, and mild shortness of breath. Despite well-controlled blood sugar levels, lab tests revealed severe metabolic acidosis (pH 7.22) and elevated ketone levels, confirming euDKA.”

    Dr. Adeyemo warns: “The absence of extreme hyperglycemia delayed diagnosis, emphasizing the need for heightened clinical awareness.

    SGLT2 inhibitors, such as empagliflozin, have revolutionized diabetes treatment by lowering blood sugar and providing cardiovascular and kidney benefits. However, as Dr. Adeyemo’s report highlights, they also carry the risk of euDKA, a complication that can be easily overlooked.

    He advised: “Clinicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for metabolic acidosis in patients on these medications.”

    He also urges healthcare providers to educate patients on recognizing early symptoms, such as nausea, excessive thirst, confusion, and rapid breathing, to prevent severe complications.

    Also, Dr. Adeyemo is actively working to bridge the knowledge gap between diabetes and heart disease. His published book, “Diabetes and Cardiovascular Diseases: Your Guide to Health and Wellness,” co-authored with a Nigerian cardiologist in Germany, offers comprehensive insights into diabetes management and associated risks.

    Additionally, his book, “The ABC of Hypertension,” simplifies high blood pressure management for the general public, addressing a condition that disproportionately affects diabetic and heart disease patients.

    Recognizing EuDKA: Symptoms like nausea, abdominal pain, and fatigue in diabetic patients on SGLT2 inhibitors should raise concern.

    Risk factors: Dehydration, infections, surgery, and reduced insulin doses can trigger euDKA.

    Balancing benefits and risks: While SGLT2 inhibitors offer cardiovascular and renal benefits, patients must be carefully selected and monitored.

    Dr. Adeyemo’s work continues to ensure better health outcomes by raising awareness of potential diabetes complications and the need for careful medication management.

  • Cosmopolitan varsity signs MoU with Health Ministry on medical training

    Cosmopolitan varsity signs MoU with Health Ministry on medical training

    Cosmopolitan University, Abuja, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Ministry of Health to enhance medical education and training, particularly for nursing and other healthcare-related courses.

    The signed agreement will allow students from the university to undertake their clinical training at the National Hospital, Abuja, a move that aims to address workforce challenges in Nigeria’s healthcare sector.

    Speaking at the signing ceremony, Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, emphasised the significance of the partnership in strengthening the country’s medical workforce.

    The minister said it would fill the gap created by those leaving Nigeria for other countries.

    He stated: “If we weren’t training them, they wouldn’t have been attractive to other countries. But because Nigerian health workers are known, are well trained, people come to take them. Unfortunately, that has implications on the service delivery here at home.

    “So as a government, we took a progressive stance to say, look, let’s train more so that even those who are trained leave, some of them leave, some will stay. And even those who have gone away might come back to serve. And that’s behind the policy that this administration has passed and the president approved it.”

    Prof. Pate assured that the expansion of training opportunities would not compromise professional standards, as regulatory bodies would oversee compliance.

    The minister said: “The ministry, the regulatory board are working to make sure that the standards are maintained while we’re expanding the capacity in public and private sectors.

    “And so I’m very pleased that you have joined hands with the National Hospital to be able to really see how the capabilities of the hospital can help you train more of the clinicians. At the end of the day, Nigerians will win because they will have capable workers who will deliver services. They will also be employed.”

    Registrar of Cosmopolitan University, Mani Ahmed described the MoU as a significant step forward for the institution.

    “The fact that we searched around and looked to see the best place that we can take the students to do their clinical posting, where they will have their first-hand experience with the patients. And the National Hospital came highly recommended because of the volume of patients and the diversity of services that they offer,” he said.

    He added that the partnership is expected to evolve further, with plans to collaborate with the National Hospital on a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programme.

    “The CMD (Chief Medical Director) mentioned that this is the beginning. We are looking at also collaborating with them to start the MBBS programme, which is going to allow us to train medical doctors as well as all the professionals in the health sector.

    “We have a particular advantage that the university is just a stone’s throw from the National Hospital. We are directly opposite the National Hospital. So it’s only natural that such a relationship should be developed and for it to blossom. And so we are happy about what we are able to accomplish today. And we look forward to even bigger things in the months and years ahead,” he said.

    Mani reaffirmed the university’s commitment to working closely with the ministry to ensure the MoU is effectively implemented for the benefit of all stakeholders.

    Chief Medical Director of the National Hospital, Professor Muhammad Mahmud, also emphasized the potential impact of the agreement, stating that it would provide vast training opportunities for Cosmopolitan University’s medical students and significantly contribute to the country’s medical workforce.

  • Mary Dinah Foundation launches GAFI to tackle food security, malnutrition

    Mary Dinah Foundation launches GAFI to tackle food security, malnutrition

    The Mary Dinah Foundation has announced the launch of the Global Alliance for Food Innovation (GAFI), a $250 million initiative scaling to $1 billion annually to combat food insecurity, malnutrition, and the devastating effects of climate change on food systems.

    This announcement comes at the start of the Nutrition for Growth 2025 Conference Week in Paris, a global gathering of leaders, governments, and development partners working to end malnutrition.

    The event brings together stakeholders from UN agencies, international organizations, philanthropic foundations, and government ministries of health to drive action on nutrition and food security.

    “Right now, we are witnessing one of the toughest periods for poverty and malnutrition in human history,” Lady Mary Dinah, Founder of the Mary Dinah Foundation, who is attending the conference said.

    “Wars, inflation, and climate change are making food scarcity a daily reality for millions. GAFI is not just an initiative—it’s an urgent response to a global emergency. We need innovative solutions, and we need them now.”

    The Mary Dinah Foundation has been at the forefront of preventing malnutrition, particularly among pregnant and lactating women, infants, and refugees in conflict-affected regions. Through its Zero Hunger Program, the Foundation has:
    • Delivered 55,482,317 meals across West and Central Africa.
    • Connected 14,394 children to life-saving vaccinations.
    • Linked 10,331 pregnant women to antenatal care.
    • Empowered 305,236 women with maternal and infant nutrition training, as well as Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) education.

    “Women and children are the most vulnerable in times of crisis. Through GAFI, we are scaling sustainable nutrition programs to protect them, especially in conflict zones where food insecurity is at its worst,” Dinah added.

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    Rising temperatures, extreme weather, and soil degradation have intensified food shortages worldwide. With climate change exacerbating malnutrition, GAFI will fund climate-smart agriculture and sustainable food production models to build resilience in food systems.

    “We cannot solve hunger with short-term fixes. GAFI is about scaling sustainable solutions that will ensure food security for generations to come,” Dinah emphasised.

    GAFI is a public-private financing mechanism leveraging matching funds, blended financing models, and strategic partnerships to maximize impact. The initiative will mobilize resources from governments, development finance institutions, private sector partners, and philanthropic organizations to drive large-scale investments in food security and nutrition.

  • Medical Tourism to Poland – How to Find the Right Doctor and Book Treatment

    Medical Tourism to Poland – How to Find the Right Doctor and Book Treatment

    Medical tourism has become a global phenomenon, with patients traveling abroad to access high-quality healthcare at affordable prices. Poland has emerged as one of the top destinations for medical tourism, offering world-class facilities, experienced professionals, and cost-effective solutions. If you’re considering treatment in Poland, this guide will help you to find clinics in Poland and book your procedure confidently.

    Why Choose Poland for Medical Treatment?

    Poland has gained a reputation for excellence in healthcare, particularly in dentistry, cosmetic surgery, orthopedics, and fertility treatments. The country boasts state-of-the-art clinics, cutting-edge technology, and highly trained medical professionals. Additionally, the cost of medical procedures in Poland is significantly lower compared to Western Europe and North America, making it an attractive option for international patients.

    Steps to Find the Right Doctor in Poland

    1. Research Specialized Clinics

    Start by identifying clinics that specialize in the treatment you require. Poland is home to numerous accredited facilities that cater to a wide range of medical needs. Look for clinics with a strong reputation, positive patient reviews, and international certifications.

    2. Verify Credentials and Experience

    Once you’ve shortlisted potential clinics, verify the credentials of the doctors and surgeons. Ensure they have the necessary qualifications, certifications, and experience in performing the specific procedure you need. Many Polish doctors have trained internationally and are members of prestigious medical associations.

    3. Read Patient Testimonials

    Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and overall experience at a clinic. Look for feedback from international patients who have undergone similar treatments.

    4. Consult with the Clinic

    Most clinics in Poland offer online consultations, allowing you to discuss your medical needs with a specialist before traveling. This is an excellent opportunity to ask questions, understand the treatment plan, and gauge the doctor’s expertise.

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    How to Book Your Treatment in Poland

    1. Plan Your Trip in Advance

    Once you’ve chosen a clinic and doctor, plan your trip carefully. Consider factors such as travel dates, accommodation, and recovery time. Many clinics offer assistance with travel arrangements, including airport transfers and hotel bookings.

    2. Understand the Costs

    While treatment in Poland is generally more affordable, it’s essential to get a detailed cost breakdown. This should include the procedure, pre- and post-operative care, and any additional fees. Ensure there are no hidden costs to avoid surprises later.

    3. Check Visa Requirements

    Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Poland. Check the visa requirements well in advance and ensure your travel documents are in order. Some clinics provide visa support to make the process easier for international patients.

    4. Prepare for Your Stay

    Pack all necessary documents, including medical records, prescriptions, and correspondence with the clinic. If you’re traveling for an extended period, make arrangements for follow-up care and post-treatment recovery.

    Tips for a Successful Medical Trip to Poland

    • Language: While many Polish doctors and staff speak English, it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases in Polish or hire a translator if needed.
    • Insurance: Check if your health insurance covers treatment abroad or consider purchasing travel insurance for added peace of mind.
    • Local Support: Some clinics offer dedicated patient coordinators to assist international patients throughout their journey, from arrival to departure.

    Conclusion

    Poland has established itself as a leading destination for medical tourism, offering a perfect blend of quality, affordability, and hospitality. By following the steps outlined above, you can find the right doctor and book your treatment with ease. Whether you’re seeking dental work, cosmetic surgery, or specialized medical care, Poland provides an excellent option for patients worldwide. Start your journey today and experience the benefits of world-class healthcare in this beautiful European country.

  • World TB Day 2025: AHF Nigeria mobilises to end tuberculosis 

    World TB Day 2025: AHF Nigeria mobilises to end tuberculosis 

    In commemoration of the World Tuberculosis (TB) Day, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has joined partners globally in calling for more substantial political commitments, increased funding, and expanded access to TB services. 

    In a statement, it said: “AHF Nigeria’s World TB Day event will be held on Monday, March 24, across  the seven (7) AHF Nigeria state programs (Abuja, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Benue, Cross River, Kogi and Nasarawa) to raise awareness about TB – the world’s deadliest infectious disease, the leading cause of death for people living with HIV, and a major cause of death related to antimicrobial resistance. 

    “TB claimed 1.25 million lives in 2023, according to the World Health Organization. While global TB incidence has declined, progress is too slow to meet international targets. An estimated nearly 11 million people fell ill with TB in 2023, with more than 80% of cases and deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. 

    “At least $22 billion is needed annually for TB prevention and treatment, yet global funding remains significantly short of this goal. Multidrug-resistant tuberculosis remains a public health crisis, with only about two in five people with drug-resistant TB receiving treatment in 2023.

    “AHF’s TB efforts urge governments to prioritize TB prevention and treatment, strengthen healthcare systems, and close the funding gap that continues to hinder progress. In Nigeria.

    “AHF Nigeria is collaborating with the TB Focal Persons in Abuja-FCT, Anambra, Akwa Ibom, Benue, Cross River, Kogi and Nasarawa states respectfully, through live radio programming to provide TB education and awareness to the general population. This comes at the heels of a radio jingle on TB and HIV that was on the airwaves at the instance of AHF Nigeria over the past months across our states of operation. 

    “AHF Nigeria support active TB case finding in communities across our seven (7) states of operation through the active mobilization and training of community volunteers known as ‘Community Advocacy Club’ who screen and detect tuberculosis symptoms and direct those who presents with symptoms to the DOT centers. To be sure, AHF also focuses on HIV/TB co-infection care in its clinics and has long prioritized TB prevention, screening, and treatment as part of its global healthcare programs. 

    “AHF also advocates for policy changes to make TB drugs and diagnostics more accessible and affordable and engages communities and governments to commit to more vigorous TB control efforts,’’ said Dr. Echey Ijezie, AHF Nigeria Country Program Director (CPD).”

  • LASAMBUS returns to stationed points after The Nation report 

    LASAMBUS returns to stationed points after The Nation report 

    Following a report by The Nation highlighting residents’ concerns over the absence of Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS) vehicles at designated emergency points, the agency has taken action by restoring ambulances to their assigned locations.

    For weeks, Lagos residents had voiced frustration over the apparent disappearance of LASAMBUS vehicles from critical spots, questioning the agency’s efficiency. However, recent checks confirmed the return of ambulances to key areas, including the Lagos Toll Gate on the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Mile 12, Third Mainland Bridge, and Anthony.

    A resident near the Lagos Toll Gate, identified as Mr. Adewale, confirmed the development, stating that he had observed the emergency vehicles back at their posts. 

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    The move has been welcomed by many, who hope it will improve emergency response in the state.

    “I pass this route every day, and for a long time, I didn’t see any ambulance here. But after that report came out, I started noticing one parked at the usual spot,” he said. “It’s a relief to know they are back because accidents happen frequently on this expressway.”

    Similarly, a commercial driver, Yusuf Mohammed, who plies the Oshodi-Mile 12 route daily, confirmed seeing an ambulance at Mile 12, a location previously flagged for the absence of emergency responders.

    “I was surprised when I saw the ambulance there yesterday morning. It’s good news for us because we need fast medical help when accidents happen,” he said.

    Reacting to the development, the Director of LASAMBUS, Mrs. Beatrice Makinde, reaffirmed that the ambulance service has always been active, explaining that residents may not always see the vehicles because they are constantly responding to emergency calls.

    “We understand the concerns raised, but LASAMBUS is fully operational. The ambulances may not always be stationed because they are on the move attending to emergencies,” Makinde told The Nation.

    She further noted that the recent complaints had been taken seriously, and in response, the agency had adjusted its operational strategy to ensure that some ambulances remain stationed at key points while others respond to distress calls.

    “Our priority is quick response, and we are improving our coordination to serve Lagosians better,” she added.

    While the return of stationed ambulances has been welcomed, public health experts stress that more needs to be done to enhance emergency medical services in Lagos.

    Dr. Ifeoma Onyeoma, a public health specialist, emphasized that beyond stationing ambulances, response time and accessibility remain crucial.

    “It’s good that the ambulances are back at their designated points, but what really matters is how fast they respond when an emergency happens. Lagos is a high-traffic city, so coordination and efficiency must be improved,” she said.

    She also highlighted the need for more public awareness on how to effectively use emergency numbers and the importance of reducing prank calls that slow down genuine emergency responses.

    LASAMBUS reiterated its call for residents to use the emergency lines (767 and 112) responsibly. The agency revealed that a significant number of calls they receive are either prank calls or false alarms, which delay responses to real emergencies.

    “We urge Lagosians to call only when there is a real emergency. Every second counts in saving a life,” Makinde said.