Category: Health

Speaking at a forum in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, the campaigners noted that addressing policy gaps while expanding access to screening, treatment and palliative care will help reduce caseload and deaths linked to the cancer of the cervix.

Kenya is hosting a week-long meeting bringing together policymakers and health advocates from 13 African countries to discuss new tools that should be adopted to re-energize the fight against cervical cancer in the continent.

The meeting was convened by FIND, an international health lobby that advocates for equitable access to diagnosis, the African Cervical Health Alliance and KILELE Health Association, a Nairobi-based health advocacy group.

Patrick Amoth, acting director-general for health at Kenya’s Ministry of Health, stressed that high-impact interventions including policy reforms, sufficient funding and scaling up vaccination will ensure that cervical cancer is not a threat to Africa’s public health security.

“We need to harness new tools, data and roll out community-centered interventions as we embark on the journey to declare the continent free from debilitating impacts of cervical cancer,” Amoth said.

In Kenya, cervical cancer is the leading cancer among women of reproductive age, with over 5,000 new cases and 3,000 deaths being recorded annually, Amoth said, adding that vaccination against the human papilloma virus (HPV) targeting adolescent girls has accelerated to help avert new infections.

Joseph Ndung’u, the regional director of FIND, said health policies in Africa should be aligned with targeted cervical cancer prevention, treatment and long-term care for patients in hard-to-reach areas.

Benda Kithaka, the executive director and founder of KILELE Health Association, said African countries should prioritize training of health workers, grassroots advocacy, investments in high-impact diagnostic tools and affordable treatment to reduce cervical cancer cases and deaths.

According to Kithaka, 19 out of the 20 countries bearing the highest burden of cervical cancer globally are found in Africa, necessitating the urgency to roll out mass vaccination and screening.

Maud Mwakasungula, the chairperson of Malawi’s Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Alliance, said that African governments should empower community health workers with knowledge and digital tools to help them identify new cervical cancer patients and put them on treatment.

The ministry said the disease is spread through touching the eyes of infected persons or contaminated surfaces.

In an advisory to the public on the measures to be taken to avoid infection, the ministry urged those infected to avoid going to crowded places, hugging and shaking hands.

It also cautioned those infected to avoid swimming in public water pools and sharing sanitation and other materials.

Sharing of beddings for family members infected with the disease is also discouraged.

“The disease presents with red watery eyes,” the ministry said.

It advised those with severe symptoms including redness, swelling and blurred vision to urgently seek medical attention to avoid the risk of sight impairment.

This came after regional countries Kenya and Tanzania reported the outbreak of red eye disease.

The disease is suspected to be caused by a virus, adenovirus, according to health officials.

Cervical cancer, a major health concern, has seen progress in preventive measures. Over the past decade, vaccination programs for girls have been underway, with 95% of girls having received the vaccine.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, announced a comprehensive program in the next two years, aiming to test and immunize all women. Those testing positive will promptly begin receiving treatment, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis.

Statistics for 2022 reveal 635 cases of breast cancer, including the unexpected occurrence of 26 cases in men. Cervical cancer recorded 617 cases, while 491 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Dr. Nsanzimana expressed concern about the shift towards younger demographics developing prostate cancer and emphasized the need for nationwide standards to detect potential risks annually.

Dr. Nsanzimana emphasized that 40% of all cancers are preventable through lifestyle modifications, including dietary changes. Stomach and throat cancers are on the rise, and he linked these trends to dietary habits, particularly the consumption of alcohol.

Excessive alcohol intake is associated with damage to local tissues, leading to abnormal changes and growth.

Cancer incidence has been steadily rising since 2018, with 3,275 new cases reported. Although there was a slight decrease in 2020, subsequent years saw an upward trajectory, reaching 5,283 new cancer patients in 2022. Tragically, 1,000 people succumb to cancer in Rwandan hospitals annually.

Dr. Nsanzimana assured that 80% of resources needed for cancer treatment are available in Rwanda. The country boasts the Rwanda Cancer Center at Kanombe Military Hospital and five other facilities equipped for chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Rwanda has a dedicated team of medical professionals, including 12 doctors specializing in cancer treatment, two breast surgeons, two gynecologic oncologist , and 15 oncologists.

Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates 20 million new cancer cases and 10 million deaths annually.

Alarmingly, projections indicate a 60% increase in cancer patients by 2040, reaching a staggering 30 million people.

The Ministry of Health is actively advocating for preventive measures and early detection to combat this growing health crisis.

A special ceremony was held at the headquarters of the Africa CDC in the southern suburb of Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital on Wednesday to mark the African Union (AU) autonomous specialized healthcare agency’s seventh anniversary.

The celebration, under the theme “A journey of action and commitment to safeguarding Africa’s health security,” highlighted the Africa CDC’s successes in supporting public health initiatives on the continent and strengthening the capacity of public health institutions in Africa to detect, prevent, control and respond quickly and effectively to disease threats.

Since it was established in January 2016 by African leaders and officially launched one year later, the agency has withstood various public health threats, ranging from the Ebola virus outbreak to the most recent COVID-19 pandemic, said Director-General of the Africa CDC Jean Kaseya.

“It’s a great pride to see our Africa CDC growing, thriving, and achieving more than what one has ever thought of in just seven years of its existence. As we reflect on our collective achievements, we are inspired by the impact created, the lives saved, and the resilience of our continent,” he said.

“As Africa CDC, we have relentlessly advocated for a New Public Health Order for Africa, emphasizing the necessity for a fundamental shift in our approach to public health on the continent,” he said.

“Our journey forward will be rooted in the foundational principles of the 5Cs — community, connectivity, capacity, collaboration, and climate. These pillars have not only anchored our progress but will remain the guiding light as we aspire to shape a New Public Health Order for Africa,” he added.

According to the AU, the occasion marked a significant milestone in the existence of the young organization since its establishment, witnessing transformative growth at the institutional, strategic, and operational levels.

Africa CDC, as a platform for strategic guidance and knowledge exchange among member states, is steadfast in its commitment to continental health security, the AU noted.

Deputy Chairperson of the AU Commission Monique Nsanzabaganwa said the Africa CDC has been playing a critical role in the promotion of timely response to health emergencies on the continent.

“The results we can see today are significant, and proof beyond doubt that Africa CDC is well placed to carry out the mandates entrusted to it,” she said.

To mark the occasion, Africa CDC honored Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, the former chair of the AU Commission, and John Nkengasong, the inaugural director of Africa CDC, by naming the twin towers of its headquarters after them in recognition of their contributions to the establishment and development of the agency, respectively.

The Chinese-built Africa CDC headquarters, which is regarded as a flagship project in China-Africa public health cooperation, was officially inaugurated in January last year.

In November last year, the Africa CDC also unveiled a China-aided reference laboratory at its headquarters. It said the completion of the laboratory marks a milestone in its pursuit of a strong continental public health institution that will support AU members in improving disease diagnosis, surveillance and outbreak response.

Cancer, characterized by abnormal cell growth, can manifest in any part of the body, with Rwanda experiencing more than 100 types. The prevalent types in the country include cervical, breast, stomach, blood, and bladder cancers.

Mr. Marc Hagenimana, the Acting Director of the Cancer Prevention and Treatment Unit at RBC, expressed deep concern over the rising cases, particularly noting the prevalence of breast and cervical cancers.

In 2023, 97,077 individuals underwent testing for cervical cancer, revealing 610 cases, while 130,133 were tested for breast cancer, detecting 605 cases. Over the past five years, 372,904 Rwandan women have been screened for cervical cancer.

Hagenimana stressed that these figures represent only a portion of actual cases, urging Rwandans to undergo regular screenings. Efforts are underway to raise awareness, especially for cervical and breast cancer screenings, with Hagenimana emphasizing the preventability and eradication of cervical cancer through vaccination and early symptom screening for 12-year-old girls.

He also highlighted the potential for complete cure when certain cancers are detected early, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis and treatment for higher recovery chances.

Vestine Tuyisenge, a resident of Mukarange, emphasized the significance of awareness and healthcare access after undergoing screening at a local health center, driven by the loss of her sister-in-law to cervical cancer.

Jacqueline Tuyisenge, from Irebero village in Mukarange, touched upon the declining role of traditional healers in treating cancers, now discouraged in favor of modern medical approaches.

The Rwandan government, in collaboration with partners like SFH Rwanda and Partners in Health, is actively focusing on providing support for cancer patients, including medications.

Currently, five hospitals in Rwanda are equipped to handle cancer cases: Kigali University Teaching Hospital (CHUK), Butare University Teaching Hospital, Kanombe Military Hospital, King Faisal Hospital, and Butaro Hospital.

In the context of sub-Saharan African countries where the quality of medical services is often questionable, Rwanda stands out due to substantial government investments in healthcare infrastructure. The NST1, a seven-year program aimed at accelerating sustainable development, specifically addresses the enhancement of health services in Rwanda.

According to the 2022 census, the average life expectancy for Rwandans has risen to 69 years, attributed to an improving standard of living and effective healthcare. In 2023, the inauguration of the BioNTech vaccine manufacturing plant marked a milestone, producing vaccines for Covid-19, malaria, and other diseases. The Ministry of Health is actively working to boost the annual number of graduates from medical, nursing, and midwifery schools, aiming to increase it from 2,000 to 8,000.

During the 19th National Dialogue Council held on January 23-24, 2024, Prime Minister Dr. Edouard Ngirente highlighted the construction of six new hospitals since 2017, including Gatunda, Gatonde, Munini, and Nyabikenke. Additionally, existing hospitals like Byumba and Nyarugenge have been renovated. This builds upon the existing 52 hospitals and includes the establishment of 12 new health centers, supplementing the existing 495.

Prime Minister Ngirente emphasized the expansion of health posts from 473 in 2017 to 1252, aiming to facilitate easier access for those seeking treatment for less serious conditions. The improved medical infrastructure has led to a 93% rate of mothers giving birth in a medical facility, a significant increase attributed to enhanced infrastructure and healthcare services.

Efforts to combat malaria include providing mosquito nets to families, encouraging their use, and employing insecticides in homes. Drone technology has been utilized to control the spread of the disease. Prime Minister Ngirente reported a substantial reduction in malaria deaths, from 427 in 2017 to only 35, expressing the aspiration to achieve zero malaria deaths.

Looking forward, the government plans to further increase the number of health centers, introduce specialized services for cancer and mental illness treatment, and intensify the fight against epidemic diseases. Notably, the construction of the first maternity hospital in Kabgayi and the development of Kigali Health City, featuring projects such as IRCAD Africa, align with Rwanda’s vision of becoming a multi-service hub, integrating advanced medical technologies.

This initiative aims to enhance the likelihood of mothers giving birth to healthy babies without malnutrition issues. Dr. Nsanzimana explained, “It will reduce the risk of a child being born underweight, or being born prematurely, which also has a major impact on the child’s stunting.”

This announcement took place in the context of additional measures introduced to combat diseases in the Ngororero region. As part of the effort to address obesity, young people are encouraged to improve their diet, ensuring their health during pregnancy. This initiative aligns with Rwanda’s goal of reducing child stunting from 33% (as per the 2020 Health and Social Survey data) to less than 19% by 2024.

The fight against tuberculosis is also emphasized, with a shift in focus towards caring for newborns and protecting fetuses. In response to perceived inadequacies in existing health institutions, new strategies against stunting are being implemented. These strategies involve increased efforts to prevent stunting before conception and during pregnancy.

The innovative approach, known as Antenatal Multiple Micronutrient Supplement (MMS), is a novel system globally. Minister Nsanzimana highlighted that pregnant women will now receive a dose containing 15 vitamins and minerals, a significant increase from the previous two-nutrient standard. The program will commence in regions with higher poverty rates, including Rutsiro, Rubavu, Nyabihu, Ngororero, Musanze, Burera, and Gicumbi.

Special attention is given to the youth, recognizing their role in combating obesity and promoting future parental health. Minister Nsanzimana stressed the importance of preparing young adults for parenthood by encouraging healthy dietary habits.

He emphasized the comprehensive approach, stating, “It will go hand in hand with the supplements they receive during pregnancy—all that put together will help us fight malnourished babies. It’s like reaping what we sow, when the child is born, unlike when there used to be a lot of effort put in when the child was already born.”

The guidelines underscore the importance for young people to avoid excessive alcohol consumption, as well as foods and drinks high in salt, sugar, and fat, while emphasizing the consumption of vegetables and fruits from a young age.

People would always use the word ‘adolescent’ to criticize one’s behavior, body structure and, most of the time, their face. They would always be like ‘look at her pimpled face’ and after that, they’d laugh out loud as if they were watching a very fascinating comedy show.

As if that wasn’t distressing enough, unfounded myths surrounding the causes and treatment of acne exacerbated the ordeal, particularly the prevalent misconceptions that acne is triggered by dirt and can be cured with semen. Nevertheless, science and healthcare professionals categorically refute these claims.

Among them, myths that acne is caused by dirt and that they can be cured using semen were the most popular. However, all these are false according to science and healthcare professionals.

{{What is the real cause of acne?}}

Literally, acne is a skin condition just like others. It happens when dead cells and sebum (the oil that keeps the skin from drying) blocks the pores of the hair follicles under the skin. This in the end, leads to the outbreaks of lesions (acne, commonly known as pimples or zits). It usually appears on the face but can also develop on any other body part.

{{Causes of acne}}

Among the causes of acne, there are excessive production of oil in the pore, buildup of dead skin cells in the pores, and bacterial growth in the pores. An increase in production of sex hormones, certain medications, age and family history can increase the risk of developing acne while stress, high humidity, scrubbing your skin too much and wearing tight clothes can worsen them.

{{Treatment of acne}}

Physicians give treatments that aim to cure the already formed acne, stop the unformed from forming and prevent scarring. Also, the doctor will recommend medicines according to the severity of acne.

In cases of mild acne, the doctor may recommend topical medications that are only applied to the skin. These will be made up of chemicals that are capable of decreasing sebum production and killing some bacteria. He might also prescribe Retinoids (medications that are made of vitamin A) that treat lesions and prevent the formation of scars.

In cases of severe acne, the doctor will mostly recommend medicines that are taken orally or intravenously (injections). These medications are usually composed of antibiotics that stop the growth of bacteria in one’s skin pores, and other chemicals that cure lesions and stop scarring.

If you’re a woman, the doctor will also consider hormonal therapy to stop the effect of sex hormones in the development of acne.

Though acne has been taken as nothing serious, but just a blemish, it is about time to break the myth and perceive it as a medical condition. As long as your acne is making you uncomfortable in any possible way, it would be a good decision to consult a dermatologist or any other healthcare professional.

In this loud world where humans, machines and everything make intolerable noises, it is almost impossible to spend an hour in total silence. Even if one chooses to, it always feels like a lethal penalty, because after all, our lips are there to express what our brain thinks.

Even after experiencing abuse, torture and humiliation, sometimes our emotions are too strong to be easily pronounced. Even if they were, sometimes the truth that none is going to understand or give a real meaning to what you’re feeling hits hard, and that is when you wish you could just choose silence even when it is not easy.

Every living human seeks for understanding. None wishes to be misunderstood at least when their lips are not sealed. This is probably why everyone struggles to speak, be it for the purpose of winning an argument, showing their knowledge or simply getting themselves from any kind of trouble. However, though speaking for yourself can really help, the power of silence should never be neglected.

When I asked my friend if she thinks silence really helps, she smiled a bit and gave me a satisfying answer. “Keeping silence is really a powerful tool when it comes to creative thinking. There is this time when I felt like I couldn’t think anymore. I am a content writer, so thinking was a part of my job. When that happened, I tried all possible things but none worked. That’s when I decided to practice silence. It was only after 2 hours that I started getting ideas, and from then, silence has become my loyal assistance in thinking and creating new things,” she said.

Silence exists as a free tranquilizer in times of uneasiness. During all troubles and stress that we experience in life, silence emerges as the best way to endure all of it. It gives us a sense of peace and mental clarity. It additionally improves our listening, learning and decision-making ability.

According to Dr. Cloninger, silence gives us time and space to understand who we are. “Silence leaves us alone with our inner dialogue, which allows us to reflect, resolve conflicts, and understand our feelings by granting us access to higher levels of our own creativity and inspiration. Being alone with our inner voices is crucial to knowing ourselves” he said.

Though silence is not everyone’s pill to swallow, especially, in this roaring world, it carries hidden treasures once embraced. It is undoubtedly worthwhile when practiced.

This situation has led many youths to opt for one-night stands, friends with benefits, or even abstain from dating altogether. Now, the question arises: How safe are these alternatives? I’ll leave it to you to ponder.

Pistanthrophobia is identified as the fear of being hurt in a romantic relationship, classified as a type of anxiety disorder characterized by persistent, irrational, and excessive fear. Individuals with phobias tend to avoid triggering situations or people to alleviate anxiety, even when there’s no real threat. These fears can disrupt daily routines, strain relationships, hinder work productivity, and diminish self-esteem.

Although there isn’t extensive research on Pistanthrophobia specifically, it falls under the category of specific phobias related to a particular situation or object. Those with this phobia often harbor a fear of getting hurt again, leading them to avoid entering new relationships as a defense mechanism against potential pain. However, avoiding relationships also means missing out on the positive aspects they can offer. This avoidance may hinder the chance to gain perspective or understanding from future relationships.

Similar to other phobias, Pistanthrophobia is often triggered by a past experience or a person. Negative encounters in past relationships, such as feeling hurt, betrayed, or rejected, can instill deep fear in individuals. Dr. Gail Saltz, an associate professor of psychiatry, notes that some people with this phobia may not have experienced a bad relationship but harbor anxiety, low self-esteem, and a fear of potential rejection or betrayal.

The aftermath of a traumatic relationship, marked by feelings of rejection, betrayal, hurt, sadness, and anger, contributes to the phobia.

My friend Acacia, aged 26, provides a real-life example. Having experienced two past relationships labeled as EXs, she has been single for two years. Her excuses are that in this generation it’s very hard to find true love, loyalty, someone to trust and dedicate yourself to, they always lie, or leave and the worst scenario breaks..

Acacia has faced advances from men, characterized by societal standards as “chic” with looks, wealth, and not lacking in character. Surprisingly, she has rejected them all, and upon reflection, it seems that Acacia, like many of us, may be grappling with this disorder. Do we recognize it? Can we overcome it? Should our past dictate our future?

In seeking answers, we turned to Acacia’s mother, Auntie Ruth, for guidance. According to her, such fears were not prevalent in their time.

Back then, love started with respect, and a man would express interest by taking a woman to his home. The progression from there often led to a family. The question remains: What should we do in the face of this modern-day struggle with fear of romantic involvement and love? Will this lead to Gamophobia, a fear of getting married or being involved in a committed relationship?