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Your Work Could Be Your Calling

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Your job is your occupation, work or trade. It is your business. Business is usually taken as a commercial or industrial enterprise which provides goods and services, involving financial, commercial and industrial aspects.

A well-known economic theory teaches that the primary purpose of business is to maximise profit for the shareholders or owners, while maintaining corporate social responsibility. It has also been defined as offering value (through products and/or services) to customers, who pay for the value with cash or equivalents.

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A career is something you choose to do for yourself. A career promises status, money, and power. Many people choose professions like Medicine, Pharmacy, Engineering and Law because of the prestige and money that they offer. Admission into Nigerian universities is tough because many candidates want to get into these professional courses for the reasons stated above.

I always remember the advice my uncle gave me when I was to choose a course for university admission. He counselled me not to choose a course because of the prestige or money it offered. I quite agree with this. Indeed, these external considerations should not be the parameters for choosing a career.

A vocation may be loosely defined as a calling, employment, occupation in which you are trained. Vocation implies having a strong desire to spend your life doing a certain kind of work, e.g., religious work. The word “vocation” has the Latin root of vocare which means “to call” and from vox which means “voice”.

The ultimate of whatever you do is your calling. What has God created you to do? In other words, what is God’s purpose for your life? A calling is something you do for God. For some people, the end of their career may even be the beginning of their calling. Your calling may bring you some difficulties and suffering, which may be opportunities used by God to shape you.

Whenever the word “call” is mentioned, the first reaction of many is to think of serving God as apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers, or other services related to church. Let me say that these are primary callings of people of God. Usually, they are described as ministries. However, we must note that the actual meaning of ministry is service. If you are serving, you are ministering. Ministers, whether in church or government, are those who are in the service of others.

Since your calling is something you do for God, you should be asking yourself whether God has approved what you are doing. You may be a pastor, carpenter, teacher, trader, singer, actor, painter, farmer, lawyer, draftsman, medical doctor or taxi driver. What you do is not as important as for whom you do it and the purpose of doing it. After all, we are all unique individuals and have been given different talents according to our abilities to use them. The society cannot function if everyone is an aircraft engineer or medical practitioner. We need artisans and labourers also. The crucial question is, are you serving and pleasing God?

You can choose your profession or career but you cannot choose your calling. Instead, you receive your calling. You discover it because it was there before you were born. In Jeremiah 1:5, God said, “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee, and I ordained thee a prophet unto the nations.

Do you realise that this statement equally applies to you, if you believe? To discover your calling, listen very carefully to what God’s still small voice is telling you. You must bear in mind that you are like clay in the hands of a potter. The potter wants to mould you to become a useful vessel. If you don’t surrender your life to God and allow Him to mould you, you may be pursuing something you are neither called nor equipped to do.

Trying to do what God has not called you to do causes anxiety and stress.  Generally, when God calls you into a service, He equips you and provides what you need to succeed in the assignment. Philippians 2:13 says, “For God is working in you, giving you the desire and the power to do what pleases him” (NLT).

A good percentage of the labour force is engaged in the wrong jobs, where their talents and gifts are not being fully or properly used. Such people end up frustrated and miserable. I totally agree with Mike Murdock who said, “If you have chosen the right kind of work for your personality and calling, it will be the source of great delight for your entire lifetime.”

In the right type of work, which is your calling, God can make you extraordinary. I am always excited when I read Exodus 35:30-35. When the Tabernacle was being built, God anointed two artisans – Bezalel  and Aholiab – to carry out special craftsmanship. He filled them with His Spirit, in wisdom and understanding, in knowledge and all manner of workmanship, to design artistic works in gold, silver and bronze. These men excelled because they were called and equipped by God. This can be your portion in whatever you do for God, if you believe.

IUO VC, Bisi Bright, Others Task Pharmacy Students On Excellence

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…As IPSF holds first Leaders in Training workshop in Nigeria

The premises of Nigeria’s premier private university, Igbinedion University Okada, Edo State, were recently aglow with excitement, as the institution played host to pharmacy schools across the country for the International Pharmacy Students Federation (IPSF) Leaders in Training (LIT) Workshop.

The three-day intensive workshop, which had the theme “Promoting Health Care System In West Africa Through Health Campaign Initiative” was meant to foster friendships, enforce professionalism, equip pharmacy students with a renewed zeal to propagate the tenets of the profession, as well as sensitise them on how to work professionally after graduation.

L-R, Mr. Sylvester Adeyemi, LOC chairman; Pharm. Seun Omobo, chairperson, FIP-YPG; Mr Olumide Ibikunle, PANS president, Igbinedion University, Okada, Edo State; Pharm. (Mrs) Bisi Bright, vice chairman and chief executive officer, LiveWell Initiative (LWI) and Mr. Aniekan Ekpenyong, secretary, IPSF African regional office.

Speaking during a courtesy visit to his office by the delegates, the vice chancellor, Igbinedion University, Okada, Prof. Eghosa Osaghie, commended the efforts of the pharmacy students in the school and urged them to continue in the tradition of excellence that the school and the college of pharmacy were known for, adding that they should endeavour to be good ambassadors of the pharmacy profession.

The vice chancellor also showered praises on the IPSF team for their renewed commitment to promote and improve public health through the provision of information, education and networking, alongside a range of publications and professional activities.

Also speaking, the Dean, Dora Akunyili College of Pharmacy, Igbinedion University, Prof. J.M Oke, stated that the workshop  was a huge success, noting that its aim was to foster co-operation among the upcoming healthcare workforce and generate a pool of skilled students capable of handling a worthy health campaign, among other mandatory skills.

“With a team of competent facilitators and a range of topics and subtopics, information was disseminated, activities were taken head on in several bouts of brainstorming and new frontiers were forged, and I am highly impressed. The aim of the event was achieved as the workshop did more than just bring people together; it had a lot of informing and educating in its wings,” Oke said.

In her lecture, titled, “Promoting Healthcare System In West Africa through Health Campaign Initiatives” Pharm. (Mrs) Bisi Bright, vice chairman and chief executive officer, LiveWell Initiative (LWI), urged the students to contribute their quota to the growth and development of the healthcare sector in the country.

According to Bright, who was once secretary general of West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacists (WAPCP), a modern public health approach of improving health and quality of life through prevention and treatment of diseases requires a multidisciplinary team of public health workers and professionals including the pharmacist.

She added that there was need to strengthen the healthcare system through incorporation of both curative and preventive approaches to health and wellness.

“When Steve Jobs introduced the iPod in 2001, he said, “In our own small way, we are going to make the world a better place.” So like Steve Job, I dare to say with utmost pride and confidence that in our own small way, we pharmacists and the upcoming ones should strive to make Nigeria a strong and healthy nation, a nation full of wellness. Beyond that, we pharmacists should endeavour to make West Africa a hub of wellness and a fount of health campaign initiatives.”

Bright further said that the roles and importance of pharmacists in promotion of health campaign initiatives cannot be overemphasized, noting that such roles include advocacy, counselling, awareness, screening and treatment facilitation, among others.

Corroborating Bisi Bright, Pharm. Seun Omobo, chairperson, FIP-YPG, said that the collaboration between the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigeria Students (PANS) and the Young Pharmacists Group (YPG) presented a great opportunity for development of healthcare and its human resource in the country and beyond, adding that the students should see beyond the challenges besetting the profession presently, and hope for a better tomorrow.

Pharm. Omobo who spoke on the topic, “YPG-PANS Collaboration: Prospects, Challenges and Way Forward” explained that the YPG was established in 2001 as an interest group within the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), to encourage young pharmacists to be actively involved in the international community of pharmacists, adding that its membership is open to all PANS members across the country.

Some ex-students and LIT trainers were not left out in the programme, as they were given opportunities to enlighten the students on some important topics.

Also lending his voice to the discussion, Pharm. Arinze Awiligwe, immediate past national president, PANS, who delivered a lecture titled “ICT  and Quality and Accessibility of Health Care Services” asserted that the pharmaceutical industry enjoys the biggest benefits of ICT, adding that access to medical data and research data helps in assessing medicine requirements.

Online Nursing Programmes Acceptable Only If Endorsed By NUC – NANNM Chairman

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nursingMrs Catherine Eseine is the director of nursing services (DNS) in Esan Central LGA of Edo State, and chairman of National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) Edo State chapter. In this exclusive chat with Pharmanews, Nurse Eseine speaks on various burning issues among nurses, including the importance of home-based nursing care and the need for nurses to embrace teamwork, describing it as a means of facilitating better healthcare services to patients. Excerpts:

When did you become position the state NANNM’s chairman, and what motivated you to vie for the office?

I became the chairman of NANNM Edo State chapter on 23 October 2015, after my victory at the delegate’s conference that day in Benin City. My motivation stems from a long-time desire to serve my colleagues. I had often held leadership positions from my days at school and since I joined the service. I had served as a two-time vice chairman of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Esan Central Government chapter, as well as being chairman of the Forum for Local Government Nurses and Midwives (FOLGONM) Edo State chapter.

It is interesting to be able to surmount some seemingly impossible  challenges with the help of God and my colleagues in order to bring smile to some faces. When the opportunity came to move up to NANNM, I decided to take a bold step and I won the election.

What are your goals for nurses in the state?

My goals for nurses in the state include ensuring unity among nurses in the various units in the state, whether at the local government, state or federal health institutions; enhancing the welfare of all nurses through prompt response to issues affecting them; bridging the gap between management (our employers) and our members; ensuring that salaries and other benefits due to nurses are given to them through dialogue and negotiation; and ensuring that the NANNM House, which belongs to every nurse in the state, is given a facelift.

I will also work towards promoting the good image of  nurses and the nursing profession; while ensuring there is harmonious relationship and synergy between NANNM and other unions in the state.

International experts in nursing are advocating collaborative nursing, as a way to boost nurses experience .They advise other nurses to collaborate with nurses and non-nurse specialists, for a better patient outcome. Is this practicable in our clime?

Collaborative nursing is very important and practicable in an enabling environment. Health in general requires a team approach because no one can do it alone. Even within nursing, there are various areas of specialisation. Each one needs to collaborate with others to enhance better health services to the patient.

It has also been suggested that nurses should decentralise from being institution-based, to providing home-based services. Does the Nursing Act support home-based services?

Home-based care is part of the duties of the nurse. It forms part of the nursing curriculum of training and hence supported by the Nursing Act. The nurse provides home-based care for health promotion, prevention and follow-up after discharge from hospital.

Domiciliary midwifery is also an age-long practice. The major challenge to home-based care is the dearth of nurses in our facilities. Most facilities do not have adequate number of nurses to cover the patients even in the hospitals. Most hospitals do not have a health visiting unit to provide home-based services. However, it is practicable and encouraged.

There is an ongoing campaign for nurses to upgrade from being diploma holders to degree holders. Is online nursing training programme acceptable for your members,  since affords them the opportunity to further their education without losing their present careers?

The ongoing campaign for nurses to upgrade from being diploma holders to degree holders is a welcome development and supported by NANNM. Online nursing programme is acceptable if backed by necessary recognition by the Nigerian University Commission (NUC). All institutions which run nursing programmes must be accredited by NUC and Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) to be acceptable in the country.

Recently, Edo State nurses, particularly the UBTH members have been in the news lamenting the kidnap of their colleagues. What can you attribute to this negative development and what were the steps taken to address the situation?

The negative development of kidnapping nurses is most unfortunate. You will agree with me that there is a general hike in the level of criminal activities in the country, which could be attributed to the various cycle of poverty, unemployment, laziness, get-rich-quick, syndrome and other vices. Nurses are perceived to be of high status with fat take-home pay at the end of the month. Some individuals could also have negative perceptions about nurses and thus want to carry out such criminal activities.

In response, NANNM has written to security agencies informing them of this ugly development. There was also a protest match to the Crown Prince of Benin Kingdom, community and other leaders to sensitise them and seek their support in putting an end to this ugly trend.

In view of this development, what is the plan of the state’s NANNM to boost the security apparatus of nurses, especially when on duty?

The issue of security is a national one. However, NANNM is discussing with security agencies particularly the Police on the need to beef up security and surveillance around certain places. We are also discussing with the management of hospitals to have security services in and around the hospitals.

We are also using this medium to appeal to churches, mosques and the general public to enlighten their members on the dangers of kidnapping and that they should learn to see nurses as their friends. We call on all vigilante groups around these areas to help protect our nurses. Nurses also need to be more vigilant and security-conscious in and outside their work environment.

Pharm. Derrick Nkemakolem Osondu

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Pharm. Derrick Nkemakolem Osondu is the national sales manager of Greenlife Pharmaceuticals Limited.

An indigene of Owa, in Ika North-East Local Government Area of Delta State, Osondu had his elementary education at the Victory Primary School, Benin-City in the old Bendel State. He also attended the famous Christ the King College, Onitsha for his secondary school education.

A studious and dedicated Osondu was admitted to the University of Benin in 1992 to study Pharmacy, where he bagged his B.Pharm in 1997. Shortly after his graduation, he proceeded for his internship and compulsory national service at the University of Port-Harcourt Teaching Hospital between January 1998 and January 2000.

As a greenhorn in the profession, he started his career with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Medical Centre in Warri, Delta State, from where he moved to May and Baker Plc as a Market Development Executive, covering some parts of Lagos and Ogun States.

The enterprising pharmacist diversified into telecommunications industry in 2004, when he joined the then newly formed indigenous telecommunications company, Globacom Nigeria Limited as a corporate sales executive, with the responsibility of selling corporate mobile telephony solutions to organizations.

Owing to his passion for healthcare delivery, Osondu found his bearing back to the pharmaceutical industry in 2006, joining the services of a leading pharmaceutical company; Greenlife Pharmaceuticals Limited. Having fallen in love with what he loves doing; he has risen through the ranks from business development to product management and to marketing and sales.

He is presently the national sales manager of a strategic business unit within the firm.

 

Pharm. Osondu has attended numerous trainings both home and abroad, which include

but not limited to :Measuring marketing performance at the Lagos Business School 2011,

and Measuring marketing effectiveness using various metrics , organized by the Charted

Institute of Marketing U.K. in Manchester 2015.

A committed member of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) Osondu has succeeded in introducing series of successful products to the business of his present employer. He was awarded the best Market Development Executive in 2003 during his time at May and Baker Plc.

He is happily married with three wonderful children.

 

 

 

FG Needs Strong Political Will To Implement Pharmacy Laws – ACPN Spokesman

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Pharm. Chima A. Ogbu is the national publicity secretary, Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), and managing director, Medigate Pharmacy, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. In this informative interview with Pharmanews, the outspoken pharmacist speaks on the intricacies of his office as ACPN’s image maker, as well as strategies that can be adopted by the government to combat infiltration of the pharmacy profession by charlatans. Excerpts:

How has it been combining your duties as a community pharmacist with your responsibilities as ACPN image maker?

It has been highly challenging; nevertheless, I have been coping well. You know, when you combine roles, you expect challenges, but when you are prepared for those roles, you try to manage them. As a publicity secretary, you are the interface between the public and the association, in terms of making sure that the association’s policies are communicated to the outside world and internally to our colleagues; therefore, there must be free flow of communication at all times.

Besides, such communication must be right, precise, and targeted at a desired audience. So, while I would say it has been quite challenging, one must still find a way of combining both responsibilities to the best of one’s capabilities; and that is exactly what I am doing.acpn

As someone who was mostly trained to be a pharmacist, what made you feel equipped for the role of publicity secretary?

Pharmacy is all-encompassing. This is why pharmacists are the best trained professionals. In fact, we often say that the society only makes use of about 25 per cent of the learning a pharmacist acquires in training.

As pharmacists, we are well exposed to social dynamics. When you talk of the work of a public relations officer, the work of a pharmacist is somehow related to it because community pharmacists are the most accessible healthcare professionals. This shows that we are in direct touch with people more than any other group in the healthcare system. In essence, we are daily exposed to inter-human relationship; and thus I have some experiences that I am using as a PRO to discharge my responsibilities.

 

Some people see community pharmacists as mere traders and noisemakers. As the image-maker of the association, what can you say about this?

How can they say that a trained pharmacist is a noisemaker? It does not appeal to common sense as much as I know. A noisemaker is someone whose sound is not projected towards achieving any aim; but when a pharmacist speaks, you will know that a professional is talking.

It is only in Nigeria that you will see drug-selling being ridiculed to the extent that the practice is being exposed to all manner of charlatans in unconventional situations; and you have open markets where these products are subjected to temperature effects, humidity effects and poor storage.

Our agitation over the years has always been that things should be done rightly, and we are not doing it for selfish aims; we are doing it for the benefit of the public and our nation, because a healthy populace will generate a healthy economy. We will continue to agitate until the right thing is done in Nigeria. So, when you see us agitating, don’t call it noisemaking. We are telling the authorities, and those that matter in the society that Nigerians deserve the right to healthy living.

This is an era of pharmaceutical care, and when we say that, we are actually saying that even after giving out drugs, it doesn’t end there; we counsel patients – there are times you are supposed to take the drugs; there are certain foods you are not supposed to take with the drugs; there are conditions in which you are not supposed to take certain drugs, etc. You don’t  get such advice from a noisemaker. So, when you see a pharmacist, know that the person has acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to sell and administer drugs.

 

What is your assessment of community pharmacy practice in Nigeria?

All over the world, pharmacists are highly regarded; but, in Nigeria, people still see them as mere drug-sellers. Meanwhile, community pharmacy practice goes beyond drug-selling; an added value has been embraced all over the world by the practitioners to the extent that we now call it pharmaceutical care, patient management and targeted medication.

These things are developing and we are not even ready yet to start with the basic one like pharmaceutical care. The world is moving ahead to deploy other methods of making sure that, at the end of the day, people are healthy, and that they benefit from the enormous potentials that you find in pharmacy practice.

 

What aspects of your job as national publicity secretary do you consider particularly challenging?

Publicity is not an easy job as, most times, your utterances are susceptible to being misconstrued or taken out of context; but your job is to make sure your audience gets the right message. The challenge therefore has been that of trying to change the psyche of our people. I believe that every practitioner knows what to do but because they operate in different environments, you are not supposed to give the same information to all of them.

Due to population stratification and the knowledge base available, you are bound to have challenges because you are now managing different levels of population distribution and you must find an interface to give you a common goal in terms of the information you pass across.

On the other hand, we have the challenge of the government not being forceful in implementing the law. The Nigerian pharmacy law is one of the best you can get in Africa, but what is the difference between others and Nigeria? The political will. That is to say, if the law says one cannot get a prescription drug outside a pharmacy, those countries are making sure that this is implemented to the letter. In Nigeria, however, if you walk into any market, you can buy Ampicillin, for example, because it is so common. This is a wrong practice that we are campaigning against. It has not been easy but we will continue to advocate and use every means of social communication to reach out to the populace and the policy-makers. I believe that if the government is sincere, there would be a political will to implement the law.

 

What do you think contributed to the large turnout of participants at the last ACPN national conference and what is your office doing to further project the image of ACPN?

First and foremost, the publicity department is working day and night to ensure that information is available to our members at every point in time, just like we did for the last national conference. We are now into what we call network enhancement with which we want to make sure that practitioners can interact with one another. We are in the era where social media plays a very important role; so we want to improve networking. We want to ensure that our members are connected to social media and are deployed to our different pharmacies.

This is the era of information technology and we are advocating that all community pharmacists should flow with the trend. Recently, we have developed an app through which we are going to make sure that members connect to ensure effective community practice all over the world. The community pharmacist section of the international society (FIP) is the most important arm of the international body. Here in Nigeria, the story is the same – ACPN is the most important arm of the PSN and that should tell you the importance of community practice in the whole world.

We are not ignorant of the challenge posed by my position in terms of making sure that information is properly disseminated; so we are developing all sorts of systems to raise the bar of publicity high.

 

Professor Tayo Decries Effects Of Severe Fiscal Policies On Manufacturers

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Renowned pharmacist and pro-chancellor, Caleb University, Imota, Lagos State, Prof. Fola Tayo, has attributed lack of political will by successive governments to implement various policy recommendations in the health sector as the reason for the deteriorating state of healthcare system in the country.

Prof. Fola Tayo who disclosed this at a recent colloquium held to mark Chief Adebowale Omotosho’s 80th birthday, at the Westwood Protea Hotel, Ikoyi, Lagos, lamented that one of the key challenges confronting Nigeria’s pharmaceutical market is  drug counterfeiting, adding that it is easy to import all sorts of drugs into the country with very little taxation, while indigenous manufacturers are faced with unbearable taxation from all levels of government, forcing many of them to close their businesses.

Speaking further, the respected university don noted that no nation can grow without the manufacturing sector, noting that it is not possible to be a consumer and importer of products alone and expect to be great or to develop.

“It is not possible for us as a nation to rely solely on importing products and expect the country to develop; except our government considers this and invites seasoned technocrats, not the corrupt ones, to help work on this, it is not a curse, we will continue sinking,” Prof. Tayo said.

The Caleb University pro-chancellor added that it would be commendable if the  government could make and enforce a policy banning importation of any drug that can be conveniently produced in the country.

“Until we start to take the bull by the horns, we may not be able to achieve anything,” he warned.

Noting that the manufacturing industry is a pivot that could take Nigeria to economic greatness through production of medicines such as anti-malarials, paracetamol and others in large quantities, Prof. Tayo however bemoaned certain factors that have made the manufacturing of such drugs in Nigeria difficult.

The impeding factors, according to him, include high interest rates imposed on manufacturers; lack of pragmatic implementation of policies and lack of moratorium which have caused manufacturers slow pace of production; as well as ineffectiveness on the part of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and other regulatory agencies.

He urged government to invest in manufacturing companies, as a matter of urgency and give them encouragement, tax concessions, easier loans with very little interest, as well creating an enabling environment for them to operate.

While calling for the reorganisation of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in order to enhance its efficiency, the respected clinical pharmacy expert also said those found guilty of producing or selling fake drugs should be given the death sentence, saying a drug faker is not different from a hired assassin who kills for a living.

He further advised the government to look inward, consult with pharmaceutical industries and show interest in what they are doing, so that the health sector can maximally benefit from this, adding that without medicine, health is useless.

“If we support the pharmaceutical manufacturers, the nation will get to a point in which it will be respected and good medicine at cheaper cost will be available for all citizens of this country. Some pharmaceutical companies that have worked tirelessly and are closer to getting the World Health Organisation (WHO) prequalification should also be encouraged and supported so that we can all benefit from it as a nation,” he advised

Revealed:Why medical representatives fail to meet target

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A training and human resource expert, Pharm. Tunde Oyeniran, has identified reasons medical and sales representatives often fail to live up to expectations.

Speaking to a team of sales and regional managers during a three-day training on “Sales Management: Roles and Responsibilities” at the head office of Miraflash Pharmaceuticals in Magboro, Ogun State, Oyeniran who is chief operating officer (COO) of Pharmanews-White Tulip Consulting, explained that the challenge of motivating a sales team to bring in results lies with the management.

While explaining the evolution of sales pitching, Oyeniran declared that the art of commerce and selling actually began centuries ago when salesman were peddlers engaging one another through trade by barter.

mir
L-R: Yusuf Olukunle, assistant national sales manager, Miraflash Pharmaceuticals; Pharm. Tunde Oyeniran, chief operating officer, Pharmanews-White Tulip Consulting; Pharm Moses Oluwalade, managing director, Miraflash Pharmaceuticals; Mr Adekola Adediran, business development manager, Pharmanews-White Tulip Consulting and Mrs Ronke Alabi, Miraflash sales supervisor. Standing at the back are other participants and a facilitator

“Therefore when medical or sales representatives are not making the numbers, the responsibility of ensuring that every member of the sales team is successful and performing at optimum levels lies entirely with management,” Oyeniran said.

Explaining further, the training expert said, “You need to start asking straightforward questions to identify why the salesperson is underachieving. Questions like: Are they visiting enough clients/prospects? How proactive are they? Are they talking to the right people within those client/prospect organisations and are they able to penetrate the formal Decision Making Unit (DMU) and get to the main MAN?” he said.

The Pharmanews-White Tulip COO also cautioned field staff against mistaking sales for marketing.

According to him, sales is the activity involved in selling products or services in return for money or other compensation, while marketing improves the selling environment and plays a very important role in sales.

Oyeniran further explained that the marketing department’s goal is to increase the number of interactions between potential customers and the company. This, according to him, entails the sales team using promotional techniques such as advertising, sales promotion, publicity, public relations, creating new sales channels, or creating new products (new product development), among other things.

“Marketing and sales are very different, but have the same goal,” Oyeniran said. “To put it mildly, sales starts with the seller and is preoccupied all the time with the needs of the seller. Aside seeking to convert products in to cash, sales also views the customer as the last link in the business. Marketing, on the other hand, starts with the buyer and focuses constantly on the needs of the buyer. Unlike sales, marketing views the customer as the very purpose of business,” he stressed.

The expert also stressed the importance of personal selling, which he described as the strength of many medical representatives.

“Today, personal selling involves the development of longstanding client relationships. Compared to other marketing communications tools, such as advertising, personal selling tends to use fewer resources and pricing is often negotiated.

“More often than not, there is some contact between buyer and seller after the sale, so that an ongoing relationship is built,” he emphasised.

It would be recalled that Miraflash Nigeria Limited, as at 2005, was only involved in the local manufacturing of four oral dry suspension powder which are Miramox (amoxycillin), Miraclox (ampiclox), Mirapicin (ampicillin) and Cephaflash (cephalexin) 125miligrammes.

However, through hard work and purpose driven management, Miraflash has since made tremendous progress with the introduction of a capsule line at its newly commissioned factory. Approval for the new range of capsules was given by both the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria (PCN).

Today, the company sells over 37 high quality products at affordable prices all over Nigeria.

Repositioning the National Health Insurance Scheme

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The National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), conceptualised as a strategy to ensure that Nigerians have easy and affordable access to quality health care delivery, is no doubt due for retooling. This is not just for the purpose of tackling the challenges besetting it, but to unshackle the concept in itself, in order to make it truly effective in the provision of universal health care.

When the scheme became operational in 2005, even though the law that established it was signed way back in May 1999, the then president, Olusegun Obasanjo, gave a presidential mandate that was to ensure that by 2015, the NHIS should have had universal coverage of all Nigerians through the social health insurance.

Sadly, however, even though the scheme has more enrolees than when it first started, the presidential mandate given at its inception was not realised in 2015. In actual fact, only about 11 per cent of Nigerians subscribed to it; and worse still, the players and managers involved in the scheme now seem more interested in in-fighting, instead of pulling in the same direction to help take the scheme to the next level.

While doctors are complaining of being underpaid by the Health Management Organisations (HMOs) for services rendered, pharmacists and other health professionals are equally vociferous in flaying the global capitation template which makes them wait on the doctors for payment for services they render to patients under the scheme. Some enrolees of the scheme, too, have complained of either being ignored while trying to access treatment or being ill-treated while receiving care.

It is therefore heartening that the newly appointed Executive Secretary of the NHIS, Prof. Usman Yusuf has not only acknowledged that there are rots to be purged from the scheme but also reiterated that it is now imperative to reposition the scheme for effective service delivery. Speaking during the NHIS management retreat held in Kaduna, recently, Prof. Yusuf said he had a fresh mandate from the presidency to make the scheme work for all Nigerians. Decrying the irregularities of some HMOs and widespread ill-treatment of enrolees, he made it emphatically clear that the HMOs had not done well in the past and pledged to purge the scheme of endemic corruption and inefficiency.

While we commend the new NHIS boss for his bold admission that the NHIS needs urgent repositioning, we must equally state that mere diagnosis is not enough to strengthen and stabilise the ailing scheme; what it needs are well-articulated strategies, backed by the required political will to effect changes. We urge the NHIS boss and his team to begin to walk the talk, or risk having the fresh presidential mandate given to him end up as a pipe dream, just as other targets of past administrations.

To begin with, we recommend that Prof. Yusuf spearhead a holistic review of the scheme’s operation and, if necessary, reassess the enabling statutes in order to effect necessary amendments that will guarantee the scheme’s overall efficiency.  For instance, the legal instrument that created the NHIS posits that health insurance is voluntary, instead of mandatory. Issues like this have to be revisited before vigorously pushing for the expansion of the scheme to more Nigerians through the universal coverage drive. Countries that have made huge success of the health insurance concept have all had mandatory schemes.

It is also important to engage state and local governments in order  to fast-track the expansion of the NHIS to every part of the country, including the rural areas. In addition, the new leadership of the scheme must extend its focus to the largely untapped informal sector. This, however, will require making more concerted efforts to accredit more HMOs to take care of this group as the numbers of HMOs operating in the country presently is inadequate to cater for the huge population.

More importantly, it is essential to ensure that all health professionals operating under the scheme are fairly treated and adequately compensated. Except this is done, patients may not get the quality care they deserve. A neglected caregiver cannot be expected to give the best attention to a desperate patient.

Beyond this, vigorous attempts must be made to enlighten and persuade Nigerians to embrace the scheme. Despite the fact that the NHIS has been in operation for eleven years, millions of Nigerians, especially in the informal sector, know little or nothing about it. Therefore, the new NHIS leadership must see it as a priority to create awareness about the scheme, using every available media channel.

We have no doubt that the NHIS, if strategically repositioned, can deliver on its mandate to help safeguard and fortify all Nigerians, regardless of social or economic status, against the daunting exigencies of ill-health.

 

Tobacco control – A response to the global tobacco pandemic

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National Environmental Health Association has planned to celebrate “World Environmental Health Day”  today, September 26, along with the International Federation of Environmental Health (IFEH) and many others to shed light on the important work of environmental health around the world to engage with the community on the issues of second and third hand tobacco exposure (National Environmental Health Association, 2016).

This year’s theme is “Tobacco Control” with a specific focus on the negative health effects of second and third hand smoke to both individuals and societies (American Public Health Association, 2016).

DO YOU KNOW?

According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2015),

  • 1 in 4 non-smokers (58 million people) in the US are still exposed to second hand smoke (SHS)
  • 2 in every 5 children (including 7 in 10 black children) are exposed to SHS
  • More than 1 in 3 non-smokers who live in rental housing are exposed to SHS

WHAT IS TOBACCO

Tobacco is a green, leafy plant that is grown in warm climates. It is used in different ways. It can be chewed or snuffed through the nose. Nicotine is one of the 4,000 chemicals in cigarettes and it’s smoke. It is the chemical that make tobacco additive or habit forming. Once one smoke, chew or snuff tobacco, the nicotine goes into the blood stream and the body wants more. The nicotine in tobacco makes it a drug. This means that when we use tobacco, it changes our body in someway. Because nicotine is a stimulant, it speeds up the nervous system. It also makes the heart beat faster and raises blood pressure (Healthliteracy World, 2016).

HEALTH DANGERS

According to Healthliteracy World (2016), cigarettes do not just harm the people who smoke, they also harm the people who are near cigarettes and breathe the smoke. This includes fetus, causing still birth, underweight baby, birth defects and premature birth. They breathe the second-hand smoke. It is also called passive smoke, involuntary and environmental tobacco smoke. About 53,000 people die from second-hand smoke every year. When we breathe second-hand smoke, we are breathing the same 4,000 chemicals a cigarette the smoker breathes. 51 of those chemicals causes cancer.

According to International Federation of Environmental Health (2016), smoking and the use of tobacco is the primary cause of preventable illness and death. 6 million people are killed globally by tobacco every year. There is a clear evidence to link tobacco to lung cancer but there is also evidence of an association with cancer of the kidney, cancer of the larynx, head and neck; breast cancer, bladder, oesophagus, pancreas and stomach cancer. About a half of all life-long smokers will die prematurely and on average, cigarette smokers die 10 years younger than non-smokers. Smoking is therefore a public health and environmental health issue worldwide.

WHAT CAN BE DONE?

  • Federal Government should monitor second-hand smoke exposure, educating the public about the dangers of second-hand smoke, regulating tobacco products, encouraging smoke-free policies in subsidized and public housing, creating tobacco-free environment for employees, customers and partners.
  • State and community can work to prohibit smoking in all indoor public places, support efforts to prohibit smoking in multi-unit housing, fund comprehensive tobacco prevention and control programs.
  • Healthcare providers can ask patients whether they use tobacco products, encourage those who do to quit, provide helps with quitting, encourage their non-smoking patients to avoid exposure to second-hand smoke where they live, work and talk with them about the dangers of second-hand smoke.
  • Everyone can make their homes and vehicles 100% smoke-free; opening a window or using fans; not allowing anyone to smoke around children and talk to the children about why they shouldn’t smoke or be around second-hand smoke (CDC, 2015).

 

REFERENCES

American Public Health Association (2016). Tobacco harms in more ways than one: Take a second look! Retrieved from http://www.apha.org/events-and-meetings/apha-calendar/2016/world-environmental-health-day

Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (2015). Secondhand smoke: An unequal danger. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/tobacco/

Healthliteracy world (2016). From the first to the last ash: Health dangers of smoking for non-smokers. Retrieved from http://healthliteracy.worlded.org/docs/tobacco/Unit5/1health_dangers.html

Healthliteracy world (2016). From the first to the last ash: History, economic and hazards of tobacco. Retrieved from http://healthliteracy.worlded.org/docs/tobacco/Unit1/1what_is.html

International Federation of Environmental Health (2016). Smoking and the use of tobacco. Retrieved from http://www. Ifeh.org

National Environmental Health Association (2016). Tobacco and environmental health implications. Retrieved from http://www.neha.org/world-eh-day

 

Compiled by:

Olaleye, Abisoye G.

Ajayi, Alexandra D.

 

For: Institute of Nursing Research, Fellowship of Christian Nurses, South West Zone, Nig

Seeking to reverse Nigeria’s family planning stagnation

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(By Dimos Sakellaridis)

It’s shocking that after many years of family planning promotion in Nigeria, the percentage of married women using modern contraception is only 9.8 percent (Nigeria Demographic & Health Survey 2013). That figure hardly changed from the 9.7 percent recorded five years previously.

That’s lower than all countries in West Africa except Gambia, Guinea and Mauritania, according to the 2016 World Population Data Sheet. The average for all of West Africa is 13%.

Clearly, family planning has stagnated in Nigeria over the last 17 years. The reasons are many but certainly family planning myths that contraceptives damage a women’s health play a huge role. Actually, the opposite is true: Contraceptives improve the health of women and children.

World Contraception Day on Sept. 26 provides a good opportunity to reflect on the current situation and how we can improve on it so that every Nigerian woman who wants contraception can find and access it.

The good news is that 16.1% of married women in Nigeria want to use family planning but are not using it now. The figure is even higher among sexually active unmarried women: 21.8 percent of them want to use contraception. This provides us with a huge opportunity for reaching these women who are already convinced about the value of contraception and how it can help their families.

dkt-nigeriaWhy family planning? Decades of research have shown that modest investments in family planning can save lives and improve maternal and child health. On the global stage, there is a growing effort to emphasize family planning because of the cross cutting role it plays in contributing to many, if not most, of the broader development goals.

And if that is not compelling enough, consider that family planning has been proven to be one of the most cost-effective health interventions. In short, family planning improves the economic well-being of families, communities and nations.

My organization, DKT International, came to Nigeria in 2013 to help change the family planning paradigm. Using social marketing, we launched Kiss and Fiesta condoms, Postpill emergency contraception, Levofem oral contraceptive, Sayana Press injectable, Implanon NXT and Jadelle implants, Lydia intrauterine devices (IUDs) and Miso-Fem (Misoprostol). After only three years, we contributed 14% of Nigeria’s contraceptive prevalence rate in 2015.

We plan to introduce other products like contraceptive vaginal rings, Caya diaphragm, hormonal IUS, post-partum IUD and various contraceptive pills in the near future so that every women finds her most suitable form of contraception. We want to make affordable contraceptives as easily available in Nigeria as Coca-Cola.

Early this month, we launched a new family planning communications campaign that coincides with World Contraception Day on Sept. 26. The target audience of our campaign is young women ages 18-34 (primary) and young men ages 20-34 (secondary) in the lower middle and working classes of southwest Nigeria. These groups are increasingly well-connected to the internet and social media, and we plan to use these technologies to reach them.

The theme of the campaign is “Be Sharp.” The phrase is common slang that resonates with the target audiences. It means be smart, not dull. It means making the right decisions, especially concerning birth control and contraception, to avoid unwanted surprises.

This new website, http://honeyandbanana.com/, will serve as the central hub of the campaign and will be the destination for other traffic sources, such as Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. It will educate our target audiences about our products as well as other topics that interest them.

But we will not rely only on digital and social media. We will also use community radio to reach rural, peri-urban and less connected young people.

Like women’s beauty products or hairstyles, modern family planning should be consumer-oriented and easy to understand, access and use. It should not be a mysterious subject riddled with high-sounding but confusing terms like contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR), method mix and unmet need.

When a woman wants to feel beautiful and attractive, she walks to a nearby store and buys a beauty product or service. Family planning should be obtained for the same consumer benefits — to enable women to feel beautiful by allowing them to manage their fertility and life.

If we can motivate Nigerian women to adopt family planning and support the Nigerian government towards achieving the 36% CPR target for 2018, we will save the lives of many women and girls in Nigeria.

Dimos Sakellaridis is the country director of DKT Nigeria, a non-profit and non-governmental organization, and has worked for many years for commercial organizations in different countries including Nigeria.

Make in India – Prescribed drugs

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Info on the Pharmaceutical Sector (Up to date 26/09/16).

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Gowon Advises NAPharm To Partner NAFDAC On Anti-counterfeiting Crusade

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General Yakubu Gowon, former head of state and honorary Fellow of the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy (NAPharm), has urged the academy to team up with the National Agency for Food and Drugs Administration and Control (NAFDAC) in its campaign against counterfeit medicine.

This charge was contained in the former head of state’s goodwill message which was read at NAPharm investiture of new members and awards dinner, held recently at Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Ikeja, Lagos.

Gowon, who apologised for his absence which he said was due to his tight schedule, congratulated the new inductees, saying he strongly believed that even in his absence, the academy would neither induct nor present award to anyone who was less than a giant in his own right.

“Today’s event, like those before it, marks another milestone in the eventful history of NAPharm. Usually, we talk of milestones in relation to forward movement. No one counts landmarks in reverse gear or when he is stuck in a rut,” Gowon said. “The passion for excellence that gave birth to NAPharm is the primary reason I always endeavour to honour every invitation that is extended to me by the academy.”

The honorary Fellow of the academy also posited that the pharmacy profession had developed well beyond the province of ‘dispensers’ or neighbourhood ‘chemists,’ adding that it is now more concerned with wellness in all its ramifications.

He further emphasised on what he said he considered to be the pharmacy profession’s most critical area of needful intervention – overcoming the challenge of adulteration and counterfeiting of drugs in Nigeria.

“As professionals, you must join hands with the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to fight the scourge of faking medicaments, whose perpetrators are far from being chased out of the market,” he said.

The former head of state also used the opportunity to shower encomium on Prof. Julius Okojie, NAPharm 2016 Lifetime Achievement awardee.

Referring to Prof. Okojie, he said: “As a professor, you more or less already know everything there is to know in your profession. Outside of your academic and administrative calling, you have also excelled. The Lifetime Achievement Award is, therefore, just the icing on the cake of your life achievement.

“I have only this to say: This award did not come by chance. You have earned it! So it is yours to keep, to spur you into doing more, particularly for the benefits of generations coming after you.”

In attendance at the event were Chief (Pharm.) Olu Akinkugbe; Pharm Ahmed Yakasai, president, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN); Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, NAPharm president; Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi, NAPharm vice president (south); Pharm Lolu Ojo, former chairman, Association of Industrial Pharmacists of Nigeria (NAIP); Prof. Kemi Odukoya, former dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos (UNILAG); and Prof. Chinedum Babalola, dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan.

Others were Prof. Fola Tayo, NAPharm general secretary; Dr Poly Emenike, chairman of Neros Pharmaceuticals Limited; Chief Emma Umenwa, managing director of Geneith Pharmaceuticals; Sir Nnamdi Obi, managing director, Embassy Pharmaceuticals Limited; Pharm. Bruno Nwankwo, former chairman, Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN); Pharm Lekan Asuni, former managing director, GlaxoSmithKline (Pharma); and Prof. Cecilia Igwilo, chairman, education committee of the academy.

World Pharmacists Day: ACPN Canvasses Proper Positioning of Pharmacy Practice

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As Nigeria joins the rest of the world in celebrating the 2016 World Pharmacists Day, which is usually marked on every September 25, the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN), Lagos State Chapter, has called on all stakeholders in the healthcare sector to begin to work towards practice models, that will ensure and guaranty access to primary healthcare through the window of pharmacy.

Speaking at an event organised to mark this year ‘World Pharmacy Day’ which was held at Eti-Osa East LCDA, Ajah, Lagos recently, the Chairman, ACPN, Lagos chapter, Pharm. (Mrs) Abiola Paul-Ozieh, explained that emerging new inter-professional collaborative models of primary healthcare delivery, have changed the way pharmacists are caring for patients and working with other healthcare professionals in developed countries, adding that such practice models that will integrate Pharmacists into primary care teams will become inevitable if Nigeria will fulfill her goal of universal health coverage.

The programme also offered free counseling and screening “on HIV, blood sugar, blood pressure, breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostrate cancer, dental check and tuberculosis to the people of Eti-Osa, Ajah community and its environs.

“World Pharmacists Day was the brainchild of the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), with the FIP council voting to establish the event in the late 2000s during a conference they staged in Istanbul, Turkey. The aim of the day is to bring attention to pharmacies and the positive benefits they offer when it comes to health, and FIP encourages all its members to get involved to make the event a success.”

Revealed: How To Get Rid of Your Acne

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Many have given up to fate about their acnes, as their several attempts through the use of different formulas have proved abortive. However, the story of an acne-riddled patient – Brian Turner, who overcame the disease sounded genuine.

The interesting story of Turner, 23, as published by Daily Mail, revealed that he was able to completely clear his acnes from his face, through the use of veggies and at least three litres of water per day.

Turner, who said “I took Accutane for over 70 weeks without a perpetual  effective” said he  turned to veganism after exhausting every possible solution to rid his face of the large pus-filled cysts that had haunted him since puberty.

black-acne-forehead

He guaranteed others could banish acne if they dropped all dairy out of their diet, drank a gallon of water a day and ate at least 10 to 16 servings of vegetables a day.

“So I used to have super severe acne all over my face. I had nodular cysts – four, five, six of them – over my face every single day of my life”, he said.

“Eventually I was able to clear it up. And a lot of you guys having been asking me, ”How did you get clear? What did you do?”.

Mr Turner initially said he used Accutane, a heavy duty anti-acne drug, but his skin problem returned once he weaned off it.

“After I took it I started to relapse a little bit and I could see my acne starting to come back in little dots.

So what I did is I tried multiple different things but the thing I ended up sticking with was going vegan.

So that means no animal-based products at all. But it also for me meant drinking way more water”.

Mr Turner ‘guaranteed’ that his prescription of water and vegetables would help acne sufferers.

“If you have acne…drop all dairy out of your diet, drink at least a gallon of water a day and eat at least 10 to 16 servings of vegetables a day”, he said.

 

Malaria In Pregnancy Does More Harm To The Fetus- Ntadom

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Malaria in pregnancy should be considered a medical emergency as it does more harm to the fetus than envisaged, the Head, Case Management Branch, National Malaria Elimination Programme, Dr. Godson Ntadom has said.

He noted that while malaria parasites in non pregnant persons feed on nutrients from the red blood cell of its host that of pregnant women prefers to stay in the placenta where it feeds on the nutrients meant to supply the fetus because of its richness, thereby starving the fetus to death.

Speaking during the NMEP, Health Communication Capacity Collaboration and Health Editors interactive section in Lagos recently, he said, “during the period the parasites are feeding on the nutrients coming into the placenta meant for the fetus, the woman will not feel the signs of malaria because technically the placenta is not part of her body. It is when the parasites are full and satisfied that they now move into the woman’s blood stream, and at which point, she will start noticing malaria symptoms.”

malaria

Ntadom said it was a medical emergency because the point the woman starts noticing malaria signs means the parasites have starved the fetus of its needed developmental nutrients and are satisfied with the placenta.

“By this time they will then move to the woman’s blood where she will start filling the symptoms of the disease. There is a high possibility that at this point the damage may have been done to the fetus. That is why it is a medical emergency to see if the situation can be remedied,” he added.

He said contrary to popular belief that anti-malaria drugs were not good for treating malaria in pregnancy, the medical expert said it was the parasites that kill the fetus and not the drugs.

“Often times, pregnant women start treating malaria when they start noticing malaria signs, but what most people don’t know is that before a pregnant woman start noticing the symptoms, the parasites must have done damage to the fetus through feeding on the placenta. It is when the parasite is done with the placenta (probably damaged the fetus) that the woman can start noticing signs,” Ntadom said.

Meanwhile, Ntadom has reiterated Federal Government’s earlier decision to ban the use of Chloroquine and mono-therapy drugs for the treatment of malaria in Nigeria.

 

He said the emphasis on the ban on Chloroquine and mono-therapy drugs were necessary as some persons still sell them to unsuspecting patients.

“Apart from mono-therapy injections which are used for treatment of severe malaria, its drugs and Chloroquine have long been banned by government. It is a criminal offense for any health personnel to sell them to patients,” he added.

In the same vein, he said Nigerians do not need medicines for the prevention of malaria, adding that only pregnant women and foreigners should be given such recommendations.

“The one presently recommended now is Malarone which is a combination of two medicines and it is for foreigners who probably would be staying in the country for a short time.

He said the citizens were free to visit NMEP website www.ncmp.gov.ng for information on malaria in Nigeria.

This Day News

2016 World Pharmacists Day: PSN Spells Out Pharmacists’ Roles In The Healthcare Team

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Nowhere is the need for essential drugs more evident in the day-to-day management of patients than in the provision of this unique specialized commodity. Indeed, effective medicine can be practiced only where there is efficient drug management. This is an axiom that applies with equal validity to both developed and developing countries. Yet, time and again, in less affluent settings, inadequacies in the provision of primary health care are attributable to shortcomings within the drug distribution chain. Only when the pharmacist has been accepted as a vital member of the healthcare team can the necessary supporting services be organized with the professionalism that they demand. In highly industrialized countries, acceptance of the need for professionalism in the supply and dispensing of drugs and health appliances has long since been indispensable because of the complexity of modern healthcare technology. Recently, however, a striving for economy engendered by the ever burgeoning costs of healthcare within the public sector has lent much credence and immediacy to arguments that a redefinition of the role of the pharmacist could serve the interests of both individual patients and the public at large.

The day-to-day activities of the pharmacist in these two starkly different settings may appear, superficially, to be very different.Everywhere, the call for pharmaceutical expertise is founded upon the same precepts. Pharmacists are uniquely qualified because:

 

psn

  • They understand the principles of quality assurance as they are applied to medicines;
  • They appreciate the intricacies of the distribution chain and the principles of efficient stock-keeping and stock turnover;
  • They are familiar with the pricing structures applied to medicinal products that obtain within the markets in which they operate;
  • They are the custodians of much technical information on the products available on their domestic market;
  • They are able to provide informed advice to patients with minor illnesses and often to those with more chronic conditions who are on established maintenance therapy;
  • and not least, they provide an interface between the duties of prescribing and selling medicines and, in so doing, they dispose of any perceived or potential conflict of interest between these two functions.

This inventory of activities identifies the dispensing of medicines as the pivotal responsibility of the pharmaceutical services. This is, without question, destined to remain the case in virtually every national setting. However, the distinctive expertise of the pharmacist provides members of the profession with a suitable background to assume diverse responsibilities in both public administration and drug manufacture and supply. The competence of the pharmacist is already proven and evident:

  • In the direction and administration of pharmaceutical services;
    • In drug regulation and control;
    • In the formulation and quality control of pharmaceutical products;
    • In the inspection and assessment of drug manufacturing facilities;
    • In the assurance of product quality throughout the distribution chain;
    • In drug procurement agencies;
    • and in national and institutional formulary committees.

In these activities, the pharmacist serves as a member of a multidisciplinary team rather than in an autonomous capacity; but in any particular country the profession can only be an efficiently organized element of the health care system when it has gained representation within the senior ranks of administration in both government and industry, and when pharmaceutical education has become established at university level.

Similarly, the pharmacist has indisputable functions at various levels in national drug registration and regulation. The responsibilities of the regulatory authority are to ensure that all products subject to its control conform to acceptable standards of quality, safety and efficacy; and that all premises and practices employed to manufacture, store and distribute these products comply with requirements to assure the continued conformity of the products to these standards, until such time as they are delivered to the end user. A small regulatory authority will rarely, if ever, undertake independent, comprehensive assessments of the safety and efficacy of individual products. In this case, the administrative and technical responsibilities that fall within its ambit are largely of a pharmaceutical nature and they are directed primarily to quality assurance.

Wherever pharmacy establishes its roots as a profession, it is within the healthcare institutions and in the community itself that pharmacists will serve in greatest numbers and with the most immediate effect on patient welfare. Pharmacists’ specialized knowledge of the management and properties of medicines in an increasingly sophisticated health care environment brings them closer to prescribing doctors as a source of independent information about therapeutic options and about the consequences – both positive and negative – of treatment. It also brings them closer to patients in the community as readily accessible dispensers not only of medicines but also of health-related information. Their basic training should aim to confer upon them competence to offer skilled advice on the treatment of minor illness and the adoption of healthy lifestyles, and it should endow them with the insight necessary to recognize when the best interests of the patient are served by prompt referral to a medical practitioner.

The contribution of pharmacists to healthcare is based, in most countries, upon a body of knowledge and expertise acquired from a university degree (or equivalent) education, followed by a formally designated period of supervised pre-registration practical experience. Basic professional education is reinforced by a professional obligation to observe both statutory and professional measures related to control of safety and quality of drugs and procedures, and increasingly by continuing education, which in some places is required as a condition of continuing registration or licensure.

From their basic education and pre-registration training, students acquire a broad understanding of the scientific principles and techniques of the pharmaceutical sciences and the ability to keep pace throughout their careers with developments in pharmacy. Their knowledge and expertise extends to all aspects of the preparation, distribution, action and uses of drugs and medicines, and they should have acquired sufficient scientific discipline of mind to enable them to be efficient self-learners and to benefit from continuing education, as well as to enable those who wish to continue their studies to undertake postgraduate training or research.

With the development of specific and potent synthetic drugs, the emphasis of the pharmacist’s responsibility has moved substantially towards the utilization of scientific knowledge in the proper use of modern medicines and the protection of the public against dangers that are inherent in their use.

Pharmacists are employed in regulatory control and drug management, community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, the pharmaceutical industry, academic activities, training of other health workers, and research. In all these fields, their aim is to ensure optimum drug therapy, both by contributing to the preparation, supply and control of medicines and associated products, and by providing information and advice to those who prescribe or use pharmaceutical products.

Community pharmacy

Community pharmacists are the health professionals most accessible to the public. They supply medicines in accordance with a prescription or, when legally permitted, sell them without a prescription. In addition to ensuring an accurate supply of appropriate products, their professional activities also cover counselling of patients at the time of dispensing of prescription and non-prescription drugs, drug information to health professionals, patients and the general public, and participation in health-promotion programmes. They maintain links with other health professionals in primary health care.

Today, an increasingly wide range of new and analogous products are used in medicine, including high-technology biological products and radio-pharmaceuticals. There is also the heterogeneous group of medical devices, which includes some products analogous to medicines, some of which demand special knowledge with regard to their uses and risks (e.g., dressings, wound management products, etc.).

Hospital pharmacy

Hospitals and other institutions and facilities, such as outpatient clinics, drug-dependency treatment facilities, poison control centres, drug information centres, and long-term care facilities, may be operated by the government or privately. While many of the pharmacist’s activities in such facilities may be similar to those performed by community pharmacists, they differ in a number of ways. Additionally, the hospital or institutional pharmacist:

  • Has more opportunity to interact closely with the prescriber and, therefore, to promote the rational prescribing and use of drugs;
  • In larger hospital and institutional pharmacies, is usually one of several pharmacists, and thus has a greater opportunity to interact with others, to specialize and to gain greater expertise;
  • Having access to medical records is in a position to influence the selection of drugs and dosage regimens, to monitor patient compliance and therapeutic response to drugs, and to recognize and report adverse drug reactions;
  • Can more easily than the community pharmacist assess and monitor patterns of drug usage and thus recommend changes where necessary;
  • Serves as a member of policy-making committees, including those concerned with drug selection, the use of antibiotics, and hospital infections (Drug and Therapeutics Committee) and thereby influences the preparation and composition of an essential-drug list or formulary;
  • Is in a better position to educate other health professionals about the rational use of drugs;
  • More easily participates in studies to determine the beneficial or adverse effects of drugs, and is involved in the analysis of drugs in body fluids;
  • Can control hospital manufacture and procurement of drugs to ensure the supply of high-quality products;
  • Takes part in the planning and implementation of clinical trials.

Industrial pharmacy

Statutory provisions in some countries including Nigeria may require that certain positions be held by pharmacists. The main activities of industrial pharmacists are described below.

Research and development

Pharmacists contribute to research, and their expertise in formulation development is of particular relevance to the biological availability of active ingredients.

Manufacture and quality assurance

The pharmacist’s broad knowledge of the pharmaceutical sciences ensures an integrated approach to quality assurance (including good manufacturing practice) through the validation of the various stages of production and the testing of products before release.

Drug information

The pharmacist has the knowledge and expertise to provide detailed information on medicines to members of the health professions and the public. Also, pharmacists provide an information service within the company.

Patent applications and drug registration

The pharmacist is ideally qualified to understand and collate the diverse information required for patent and authorization submissions.

Clinical trials and post-marketing surveillance

The pharmacist has the knowledge of drugs and health care provision required to facilitate collaboration between companies, health professionals and governments in relation to clinical trials and surveillance.

Sales and marketing

The pharmacist, whose professional ethics demand a concern for the interest of patients, can make a contribution to proper marketing practices related to health care and to the provision of appropriate information to health professionals and the public.

Management

The inclusion of pharmacists in all levels of management promotes an ethical approach within management policies.

 Academic Pharmacy

Academic pharmacists engage in education, pharmaceutical practice, and research in schools of pharmacy. These three aspects of academic activity are interrelated, and at the same time connected with manpower planning and management. Undergraduate, postgraduate and continuing education require the educators to have expertise in the various pharmaceutical sciences, but, in view of the professional and vocational goals of pharmacy education and the necessary interaction of education and research with service, the academic staff must also include a substantial component of pharmacists with appropriate postgraduate education.

General/Training other health care workers

Training provided by pharmacists may include efforts to optimize drug therapy, by promoting the rational use and storage of drugs and methods of reducing drug abuse, and is directed to medical and other prescribers or suppliers of drugs, including community health workers who handle drugs. Pharmacists with training responsibilities should receive some training in the planning and management of training programmes in relation to the educational and health goals being served.

Medicine is the heart of the health care profession. Pharmacists are committed to improve global health by advancing pharmacy practice and science to enable better discovery, development, access to and safe use of appropriate, cost-effective, quality medicines in the best interest of the patient. Pharmacists believe that patient is the king and the epicenter of the healthcare delivery system. The well-being of the patient (The King) is paramount to pharmacists and the pharmacy profession.

Your pharmacist truly cares for you. Talk to him, ask him questions about your health, befriend him and he will care for you and your wellbeing.

On behalf of the National Executive Council and the Council members of Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, I wish all Nigeria Pharmacists, Pharmaceutical scientists and the general public happy World Pharmacists Day.

Pharmacists: Caring for you.

 

PHARM. AHMED I. YAKASAI, FPSN, FPCPharm, FNAPharm, FNIM

PRESIDENT

PHARMACEUTICAL SOCIETY OF NIGERIA (PSN)

JUTH May Suspend In-patients Feeding If Beneficiaries Remain Ungrateful

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The Management of  the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH), has threatened to stop the feeding of in-patients, if complaints against the gesture persisted.

The Chief Medical Director (CMD), Prof. Edmund Banwat, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Jos, during the week that the initiative, which was heavily subsidised by the hospital, might stop, if patients were not appreciative.

He said, “we see the feeding of in-patients as a social service, which we run at a heavy loss; as a specialist hospital with referral cases, we know that feeding form part of the patients’ management therapy. “We subisdise the feeding, as we charge N100 for breakfast and N150 for lunch and super each. “Our desire is to ensure that patients are fed with food rich in the required nutrients that are crucial to their recovery process, as prescribed by the physicians. “We expect the patients to cooperate with us and appreciate this gesture and not complaints from people; alleging that we are forcing people to pay for food they do not want to eat. “We have tried to educate them but we may be forced to review the gesture if the complaints persist”.

juth

He expressed surprise on the allegation that diabetic patients were being forced to eat carbohydrates, stressing that it was the physicians’ instructions that determined the meals. Banwat said the programme was even of advantage to the patients’ relations, since JUTH was far from Jos city centre, saying that it would save them the cost of bringing food to patients from the town everyday. “The feeding has also helped to minimise cases in which, relations of patients turned all corners of JUTH into cooking points that caused smoke to spread all over the place,” he said.

Corroborating Banwat, Sir Michel Odi, the JUTH’s Chief Catering Officer, said that the feeding of patients used to be free until the outfit became a teaching hospital. He explained that, “as a specialist hospital, feeding is part of the therapy and one crucial way of managing patients on admission. “The doctors determine what constitutes the meals of patients. They decide whether or not the meals should contain high protein, low salt, carbohydrate, sugar, starch.  “We, therefore, insist that patients should pay for the food while depositing money for drugs and beds but some patients oppose such policy, insisting that, “we cannot force them to eat here. “But we have a duty to manage them; since they are here, they should subject themselves to the rule in their own interest,” he said.

On diabetic patients, Odi said that dieticians usually review their cases to determine the quantity of carbohydrates or protein permissible in their meals.

NAN

 

Open drug markets to close down by 2017, says PCN

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As part of the efforts to regulate the drug distribution system in the country, Registrar of the Pharmacists  Council of Nigeria (PCN), Pharm. Elijah Mohammed, has disclosed that come 2017, all open drug markets would be closed down.

At the investiture and awards ceremony of the Nigerian Academy of Pharmacy (NAPharm) in Lagos, Mohammed, said government would effect a big change in the drug distribution network by next year.

According to him, the council in conjunction with Federal Ministry of Health (FMoH) and National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has put in place coordinated wholesale centres in specialized areas where these open drug market would be relocated, and well regulated.

Mohammed, who was part of the six pharmacists inducted as fellows of NAPharm, noted that open drug market has created a leeway for abuse and misuse of drugs by Nigerian because even prescribed drugs are easily accessible.

He described the act of people recommending drugs for others without any medical advise as improper, as such acts has lead to antibiotic and drug resistance among Nigerians.

He added “there are special drugs that must be taken or bought with doctor’s prescription, but owing to the system, they are available to whoever wants to buy.”

Similarly In his address, President of NAPharm, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi regretted that hawking of antibiotics and other medicines across the streets of Nigeria is not a pleasant sight and needs to be curbed.

This he said has contributed not only to drug related fatalities in people, but has worsened the scenarios of antibiotic resistance in the country.

Adelusi-Adeluyi advanced, “to make matters worse, unscrupulous traders still connive with similar- minded manufacturers to make fake and adulterated medicines capitalizing on poverty and ignorance of millions of people who patronize them.”

The NAPharm boss maintained that the challenges faced by pharmacists are enormous, hence the need to partner with other healthcare colleagues to ensure that the mass gains of the past are not eroded.

He appealed to not only to government, but to well meaning Nigerians to avail appropriate funding and support for pharmaceutical related research to aid discovery of new antibiotics in the face of the ongoing abuse.

Also at the event was Former Nigerian Ambassador to the United Kingdom (U.K), Dr. Christopher Kolade, the guest lecturer who charged the academy members to demonstrate good leadership traits in their various spheres of practice.

Kolade in his lecture, “Improving Our Leadership Performance, Nigeria Needs a true profession,” noted that change is the order of normal life and leaders should therefore be the driving force in the growth of the people and “the establishment of the academy should continue to heights the pertinent values attached to the pharmacy profession.”

 

The Guardian

 

 

 

Checkout The 7 Natural Diuretics For Your Body

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Are you battling with excess fluid in your body? Studies have established that accommodating unnecessary fluid in the body poses as a threat to the heart, because it could trigger different heart diseases, beginning with high blood pressure. Diuretics are used to rid the body of extra fluid or salt. People with high blood pressure, heart failure, swollen tissues, and kidney disease often use diuretics to treat these conditions.

Extra fluid in the body makes it hard for the heart to work properly and can make breathing difficult. Prescription diuretics are commonly called water pills and will increase urination to begin with. This typically improves quickly, however.

According to a new study released by Medical News Today,  it stated that there are several foods, drinks, herbs, and spices that work as natural diuretics in the body. Unless someone has a certain condition that causes their body to retain fluid, they should not increase their intake of diuretics.

The list of the natural  diuretics is as follows:

  1. Nigella sativa

Nigella sativa, also known as black seed, is one of the more effective natural diuretics.

Nigella sativa, also called black cumin, black seed, or black caraway, is a natural diuretic shown to be as effective as a popular prescription diuretic. Nigella sativa increases urine output and in turn reduces sodium and potassium levels.

The seed has a strong peppery flavor and used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine. Nigella sativa is being studied as a possible treatment for high blood pressure. High doses of Nigella sativa may cause liver damage.

  1. Hibiscus

The Hibiscus sabdariffa plant works as a natural diuretic and also prevents the body from getting rid of potassium. Hibiscus sabdariffa is also known as roselle or red sorrel. It is often used as a medicinal supplement or made into a tea. Hibiscus tea is made by steeping the dried petals of the hibiscus flower in hot water.

  1. Alcohol

Alcohol is a well-known diuretic that works by increasing urine output. However, alcohol has many adverse health effects and should always be consumed in moderation.

  1. Dandelion

A common wildflower found in many parts of the Northern hemisphere.

  1. Ginger

Caffeine has a diuretic effect, although it is mild and short-term.

Both dandelion and ginger are popularly used in drinks and teas claiming to be detoxifying because of their diuretic qualities. No sound human studies have proven their effects, however.

  1. Parsley

A study found that parsley seed extract given to rats increased their urine volume significantly. Parsley has been used as a home remedy diuretic for many years.Parsley is often used as a spice, either fresh or dried, and pairs well with Italian cuisine, chicken, or fish.

  1. Caffeine

Caffeine may have a mild, short-term diuretic effect. Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks. People who regularly have drinks with caffeine can develop a tolerance to caffeine and will not see any difference.

Theophylline, a compound found in tea, enhances the diuretic effect of caffeine.

Who uses diuretics?

Swelling caused by excess fluid in the body’s tissues is known as edema. While mild edema often goes away on its own, some cases need to be treated with diuretics.

Fluid retention can be caused by many different medical conditions, as well as some drugs. Anyone who is thinking of using diuretics to get rid of extra fluid should discuss the possible causes of fluid retention with a doctor first.

Taking diuretics can be helpful for people with kidney disease whose kidneys cannot filter potassium. This can cause a buildup that leads to serious health issues. Diuretics can also alter the body’s levels of other important minerals such as magnesium.

It is important to have sodium, potassium, and magnesium levels frequently checked when using diuretics. It is also important for people to have their kidney function and blood pressure tested regularly while taking diuretics.

Side effects of prescription diuretics can include:

Tiredness

Weakness

Frequent urination

Thirst

Dehydration

Muscle cramps

Dizziness

Adapted from Medical News Today

Workshop on Strategic Negotiation Skills

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Image result for strategic negotiation skills

Course Objectives: At the end of the program, participants will

  • Understand the Principles, Strategies and Tactics of Negotiation
  • Become More Familiar with the Whole Process of Negotiation from Preparation to Closing the Deal
  • Be Able to Resolve Conflicts and Deadlocks in Negotiation Easily
  • Enable The Participants Explore The Possibilities of a Wide Range of Options

Date: October 11-12, 2016  

Venue: Pharmanews Training Centre, 8, Akinwunmi Street, Mende, Maryland, Lagos

Programme Content:

  • Understanding Negotiation
  • Communication Skills for Effective Negotiation
  • Negotiation concepts: Options, Interest, ZOPA, BATNA, WATNA, Costs etc
  • Negotiation Power and Positions
  • Principled Negotiation
  • Developing Strategies for Negotiation
  • Planning for a Negotiation Session
  • Defining the Negotiation Objectives
  • Managing a Negotiation Meetings
  • Pitfalls in negotiation
  • Negotiation Styles and colour
  • Personality traits, types and negotiators
  • Dealing With Win Lose Negotiators
  • Handling Objections in Negotiation
  • Negotiation with Customers

For Whom: 

Senior/Middle level Managers, Managers, Heads of Units/Departments, Medical Directors, Purchasing Officers/Managers, Key Account Managers, Public Sales Managers, Project Managers, Business Development Managers/Executives, Customer Services/Relationship Managers/Executives

Investment Value:  N60,000.00

The worldwide guide to pharmaceutical pricing & reimbursement

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BMI Research

For budget conscious healthcare payers, “value” has become a widely used term that plays a central role in the decision-making process alongside quality of care, particularly for pharmaceuticals. Increasingly, value is expressed in economic as well as medical terms and companies are expected to provide evidence of both. In some markets, economic assessment has been formalised and takes place alongside an assessment of medical benefit. The broader concept of value is, therefore, open to varying interpretations around the world, depending on the local needs of national and regional healthcare providers and has become central to pricing and reimbursement decision-making processes.

For the pharmaceutical industry, pricing and reimbursement decisions are important in determining the likely commercial success of a pharmaceutical product in the marketplace. So how is pharmaceutical pricing established? There is no simple answer to this question. For other consumer goods, pricing may be as simple as the manufacturer setting a price at which their product can reasonably be sold in a particular market. In other words, a competitive price that is both affordable for the customer and allows the manufacturer to make a profit. For pharmaceutical companies, pricing is often far more complicated. Governments and health insurance providers around the world strive to contain costs while providing effective medicines for their patients. Their efforts to do so have resulted in national pricing policies that include various direct and indirect pricing controls. For prescription pharmaceuticals in particular, the issues of pricing and reimbursement are inextricably linked, as one is dependent on the other.

In the majority of countries surveyed for this report, there is some form of pricing control for pharmaceuticals that are reimbursed under the public health system, whether direct or indirect. National pricing authorities employ various methods of arriving at pharmaceutical prices, such as reference pricing schemes, medico-economic assessment, fixed generic price reductions, fixed wholesale and pharmacy mark-ups, or limitations on company profits. Rather than relying on one method of price control, government agencies generally employ several tactics to minimise reimbursement costs. These may be directly enforced, or the subject of negotiation between government and industry.

Internal reference pricing schemes are often used to calculate the reimbursement rate for a particular therapeutic group of drugs. These may only come into play once generic alternatives are available for a group of drugs with the same active ingredient, or they may include a wider range of patented drugs with a similar therapeutic effect.

External reference pricing, also known as international reference pricing, is often employed for products that are new to the market. Put simply, a pricing authority will compare the manufacturer’s suggested price for the product with the price in a basket of other countries in which it is marketed. There are numerous variations among external reference pricing schemes. A basket of countries may include as few as three neighbouring states with a similar standard of living, or as many as 30 countries from various parts of the world. The reference price may be calculated as the median price among a group of countries; the mean average of a defined number of countries, to which a percentage reduction may or may not be applied; or it may simply be the lowest price among all countries in the basket. In other words, there are almost as many variations of reference pricing schemes as there are countries that operate them.

Reference pricing schemes in Western Europe have faced particular criticism from industry as a result of austerity measures in countries like Greece and Spain during the economic crisis, which resulted in dramatically reduced prices in those markets. It has been argued that the continued inclusion of these countries in reference baskets has a ripple effect across other markets, causing prices to fall in countries with a higher standard of living.

For a prescription medication to be used by the widest possible number of patients, it needs to be included in a reimbursement scheme, which is rarely straightforward. In some countries, reimbursement and pricing go hand in hand, so that once a price has been arrived at, the product is automatically available for reimbursement. In others, the product will need to be included on a positive reimbursement list, or be recommended by a national health technology assessment (HTA) agency. In some markets, reimbursement decision-making may be at provincial or local level, or rest with individual insurance companies, health maintenance organisations or pharmacy benefit managers. All of these variations add complexity to market access.

For the pharma industry, the shift to value-based pricing emphasises the importance of a well thought out pricing strategy as new products are launched around the world in order to maximise revenue and minimise price erosion. Among the key concerns among pharmaceutical companies, according to a 2015 Global Price Management benchmarking survey, is a lack of global collaboration internally. The survey also highlighted the importance of investing in robust analytical capabilities to assist companies to negotiate profitable prices, diminish parallel import losses and reduce the effects of reference pricing. Survey respondents also expressed concerns about the lack of integration of data sources, including competitor pricing and reimbursement data, country reference rules, indication and launch information, sales and budget data, tender information, external reference pricing and financial systems. This lack of comprehensive information leaves companies with an incomplete picture on which to make decisions.

BMI Research report examines the various strategies employed by healthcare stakeholders in 64 countries around the world in order to secure the medicines they require at the best possible price.

This best-selling report will help you determine the likely commercial success of any pharmaceutical product in 64 markets across the globe, answering key questions such as:

  • What impact will price controls have on the market and industry across 64 countries?
  • Which countries operate positive or negative lists for reimbursing drugs?
  • What negative effects are being seen from external reference pricing, and where?
  • Should internal reference pricing be used more widely to reflect a country’s specific health environment?
  • How are austerity measures driving prices down?
The Worldwide Guide to Pharmaceutical Pricing & Reimbursement

Source: BMIresearch.com

8 Proven Ways to Prevent Cancer

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The dreaded c-word rightly strikes fear into hearts across the globe. But lifestyle changes could stop a staggering 40 per cent of cancers from ever occurring, previous research has claimed. One reason may be down to epigenetics, a new area of research into the way our environment and lifestyles influence the genetics we’re born with.

Writing for Healthista, medical journalist Anna Magee reveals the eight proven ways to lower your risk. From wearing SPF30 factor sunscreen to losing some weight and exercising, here’s what you could do to lower the odds of getting it.

  1. LOSE TEN POUNDS

Some 60 per cent of Brits are overweight or obese. And being the fat man of Europe causes a staggering 52,000 cases of cancers each year including those of the breast, womb, liver, prostate and pancreas. Obesity is second only to smoking which causes 64,000 cases annually.

‘The heavier you are the greater your risk of these particular cancers,’ says Linda Bauld, professor of healthy policy at the University of Stirling. She explains even if you’re more than 20 pounds overweight, any weight loss will lower your risk.

Earlier this year, the World Cancer Research (WCRF) released new evidence linking obesity with stomach cancer, which is the third biggest cancer killer in the world.

  1. STICK TO A GLASS A NIGHT

Earlier this year, chief medical officer Dame Sally Davies declared no level of alcohol consumption was safe.She changed weekly recommendations to 14 units for both men and women.The key reason was the link between even low alcohol consumption and seven types of cancers including those of the breast, liver, bowel, mouth and throat.

The WCRF’s research recently linked three or more drinks a day to stomach cancer too.

‘The risk of cancer starts at even low levels of alcohol so it’s best to stick to a glass a night,’ Professor Bauld says. How about saving up all your units for Friday night, then?

‘Alcohol is ethanol which is metabolised into a substance called acetaldehyde which the body finds difficult to process,’ she explains.

‘High levels cause dehydration which makes cells more vulnerable to multiplying, and this effect is greater the more alcohol you drink on one occasion.’

  1. EAT YOGHURT

Our gut bacteria or microbiome has been linked with everything from mood to obesity in recent months.

And a growing number of studies are now linking it to lowered cancer risk.

The latest, published last month in the journal PLOS One gave one group of mice beneficial bacteria through probiotic supplements and the other non-beneficial bacteria.

The mice receiving the good bacteria produced metabolites known to prevent cancer in their guts and were also better able to metabolise fats.

‘Although most of the studies done on gut bacteria and cancer prevention are still on mouse models, the results are positive,’ says Tim Spector, professor of Genetic Epidemiology at King’s College London.

‘That’s probably because the microbes help break down some of the toxins in the gut that might normally cause cancer.

‘But also because they keep the immune system in great shape generally so it beats off the cancer cells.’

To keep your gut bacteria in good shape, eat a mix of probiotic foods such as live yoghurt, kefir and sauerkraut.

Also include prebiotic foods such as fruit, vegetables and high fibre whole grains and legumes to feed bacteria and help it grow, Professor Spector explains.

  1. Take An Aspirin

We’ve known for some time that taking a low-dose aspirin a day may help prevent the risk of heart attack.But now, growing evidence suggests it could help prevent colorectal or bowel cancer, which strikes over 40,000 Brits each year.

In April, the United States Preventative Service Task Force updated its guidelines to recommend all adults aged 50-59 should take a low dose aspirin for ten years.

Though the UK is yet to follow, many medical experts are convinced of aspirin’s benefit.

‘The evidence is strong that taking aspirin for five years or more reduces the risk of developing bowel cancer,’ says Professor Johnson.

‘It’s also been found that people who do get cancer are at less risk of having it spread if they take aspirin.’ If there is an inherited tendency toward bowel cancer, taking a low-dose aspirin is a good idea, he suggests.

‘Aspirin may work by reprogramming the way the immune system works in particular affecting the inflammation pathways in the lining of the gut, and thus having some effect on its ability to recognise very early cancers and remove them,’ Prof. Johnson says.

But it comes with risks such as bleeding from ulcers in the stomach, so talk to your doctor before taking it.

  1. MARINATE YOUR MEAT

In the 1990s the biggest study into nutrition and cancer began tracking the diets of 500,000 healthy people aged 45-79 across ten countries in Europe and Britain to see who would get cancer.

Among the key findings from European Study on Diet and Cancer (EPIC) were processed and red meat are associated with a higher risk of developing bowel and stomach cancers.

Current recommendations suggest sticking to 70 grams a day – two rashers of bacon.

According to Cancer Research UK, this one change could prevent a staggering 8,800 cases of bowel cancer each year.

Research also suggests charred or well-done meats may be associated with increased risk.

This is because of cancer-causing heterocyclic amines (HCAs) which form when meat is cooked at high temperatures.

But meat lovers don’t despair, fascinating research from Kansas State University found marinating meat in spices such as rosemary, thyme, oregano, basil, sage and marjoram before cooking could lower the HCA components in meat.

  1. GO FOR FIBRE

Increase fibre: Whole grains such as oats, brown rice and wholemeal bread have been linked to a lowered risk of bowel cancer

Simply increasing your fibre and your fruit and vegetable intake to five portions a day could help prevent 14 different types of cancers, the EPIC study found.

Increasing your intake of whole grains such as oats, brown rice and wholemeal bread was particularly associated with a lowered risk of bowel cancer.

Some research has suggested it may help prevent breast and prostate cancers too.

It’s not certain how it happens but some speculate that this too might be about gut bacteria.

‘Studies like EPIC show consistently that people who eat lots of fibre, fruit and vegetables have low levels of cancer,’ says Professor Spector.

 

‘The reason could be that these people consequently have a healthy gut microbiome that helps the immune system fight off cancers.’

  1. USE SPF 30

Though cases are up by a staggering 360 per cent since the 1970s, skin cancer is among Britain’s most preventable cancers.

In April this year, a study at Ohio State University confirmed wearing SPF 30 could help prevent not only burns but also malignant melanoma.

The researchers genetically engineered rodents to develop melanoma following application of different chemically-based SPF30 sunscreens.

All were found to reduce the incidence of tumours the mice developed.

‘Sunscreen is important but its also crucial to get in the shade when the sun is strong to wear a hat and to protect kids as children who have been exposed to sunburn are more likely to develop skin cancer as adults,’ says Professor Bauld.

When covering up, Spanish research found that blue and red fabrics offered better sun protection than white or yellow ones.

Make sure you protect areas where sun hits as these are where most cancers develop.

Think bald heads and torsos in men and or exposed calves in women.

  1. GET MOVING

Being active each day could prevent around 3,400 cases of breast, bowel and womb cancers in Britain.

The EPIC study found those who did 30 minutes of exercise each day or had an active job had lower chance of developing cancer.

While other research has confirmed being active each day could prevent around 3,400 cases of breast, bowel and womb cancers in Britain.

‘Being active improves hormone levels which can hep reduce a woman’s risk of developing breast and womb cancer,’ says Professor Johnson.

‘It also helps transit times in the intestine, helping food move through faster so there’s less chance of anything in the food you’ve eaten setting off an inflammatory reaction in the bowel which is how is lowers bowel cancer risk.’

 

Adapted from Daily Mail

World Alzheimer’s Day 2016 – Remember Me

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September 21 of every year is a day on which Alzheimer’s organizations around the world concentrate their efforts on raising awareness about Alzheimer’s and dementia. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, a group of disorders that impairs mental functioning. Every 68 seconds, someone develops Alzheimer’s disease. At current rates, experts believe the number of Americans living with Alzheimer’s will quadruple to as many as 16 million by the year 2050 (The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation, 2016). The theme for 2016 campaign is REMEMBER ME, a campaign to raise awareness and challenge stigma.

Alzheimer’s disease is often called a family disease, because the chronic stress of watching a loved one slowly decline affects everyone (The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation, 2016). It is named after a German physician, Alois Alzheimer, who first described it in the early 20th century. It has rapidly emerged as a major public health issue throughout the world. The cost of caring for those afflicted is enormous and most probably beyond the capability of most developing countries including Nigeria (Salawu, Umar and Olokoba, 2011).

What is Alzheimer’s disease?

According to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (2016), Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive, degenerative disorder that attacks the brain’s  nerve cell, or neurons, resulting in loss of memory, thinking and language skills, and behavioural changes. It is the most common cause of dementia, or loss of intellectual function among people aged 65 and older.

More than 25 million people in the world today are affected by dementia, most suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. In both developed and developing nations, Alzheimer’s disease has had tremendous impact on the affected individuals, caregivers, and society (Qiu, Kivipelto and Strauss, 2009).

The rates of dementia differ greatly around the world, from the lowest rates in Africa, India, and South Asia, to the highest rates in Western Europe and especially North America. The incidence of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease is significantly lower for Africans in Nigeria than for African Americans in Indianapolis, for example—up to five times lower.When people move from their homeland to the United States, Alzheimer’s rates can increase dramatically. Therefore, when Africans or Asians live in the United States and adopt a Western diet, their increase in Alzheimer’s risk suggests that it’s not genetics (Greger, 2015).

Alzheimer’s Association (2016) highlighted the risk factors for Alzheimer’s as follow:

Age: Although Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of growing older, the greatest risk factor for the disease is increasing age. After age 65, the risk of Alzheimer’s doubles every five years and after age 85, the risk reaches nearly 50 percent.

Family history: Research has shown that those who have a parent, brother, sister or child with Alzheimer’s are more likely to develop the disease. The risk increases if more than one family member has the illness. When diseases tend to run in families, either heredity (genetics) or environmental factors or both may play a role.

Genetics: There are two categories of genes that influence whether a person develops a disease: risk genes and deterministic genes. Researchers have found several genes that increase the risk of Alzheimer’s. APOE-e4 is the first risk gene identified, and remains the gene with strongest impact on risk. Deterministic genes directly cause a disease, guaranteeing that anyone who inherits one will develop a disorder. Scientists have found rare genes that cause Alzheimer’s in only a few hundred extended families worldwide.

Nevertheless, increasing evidence strongly points to the potential risk roles of vascular risk factors and disorders (eg, cigarette smoking, midlife high blood pressure and obesity, diabetes, and cerebrovascular lesions) and the possible beneficial roles of psychosocial factors (eg, high education, active social engagement, physical exercise, and mentally stimulating activity) in the pathogenetic process and clinical manifestation of the dementing disorders (Qiu, Kivipelto and Strauss, 2009).

The most striking early symptom of Alzheimer’s disease is the loss of memory (amnesia), which usually manifests as minor forgetfulness that becomes steadily more pronounced with the progression of the illness, with relative preservation of older memories. As the disorder progresses, cognitive (intellectual) impairment extends to the domains of language (aphasia), skilled movements (apraxia), recognition (agnosia), and those functions closely related to the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain (such as decision-making and planning) as they become disconnected from the limbic system, reflecting extension of the underlying pathological process (Bhat, 2011).

 

How is Alzheimer’s disease managed?

According to Geriatric Mental Health Foundation (n.d.)., the primary goals of treatment for individuals with AD is to improve the quality of life of the patient and caregiver as well as maximize functional performance by enhancing cognition, mood, and behavior. Treatments include pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches.

Ensuring that someone with AD feels mentally and physically secure is an important and meaningful part of care giving. People with AD need help minimizing confusion and maintain a sense of stability and comfort in their lives. Establishing a daily routine in familiar surroundings is one way to help.

It is also important to provide nutrious meals on a regular schedule for optimal health. Keeping patients in touch with family and friends and reminding them of past memories, current events, and important dates are good mental exercises.

Several drugs have been developed to alleviate some of the cognitive as well as the behavioral symptoms of AD. Pharmacological treatments for the cognitive symptoms includes: drugs such as tacrine (cognex), donepezil (Aricept) and rivastigmine (Exelon). These agents may also have beneficial effects on behavioral symptoms in some patients and prolonged therapy may delay nursing home placement. Clinical trials of other agents to improve cognitive function are ongoing.

Treatment of behavioral and mood changes is also critical as these symptoms can be dangerous to both the patient and the caregiver. Co-morbid conditions associated with AD are common and treatable. They include AD with delirium, AD with depression, and AD with delusions.

In addition, many patients developed agitated or aggressive behaviors. All of these conditions can lead to functional disability.

Antipsychotic drugs can produce a modest improvement in some behavioral symptoms in dementia such as risperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine, oxazepam, lorazepam, fluphenazine, haloperidol, thloridazine, and clozapine.

People with AD should visit their physician on a regular basis.

 

Prevention

According to Bhat (2011), Alzheimer’s disease can be prevented in the following ways:

  • Intellectual stimulation (e.g., playing chess or doing crosswords
  • Regular physical exercise
  • Regular social interaction
  • Cholesterol-lowering drugs (statins) reduce Alzheimer’s risk in observational studies but so far not in randomized controlled trials
  • Long-term usage of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), used to reduce joint inflammation and pain, is associated with a reduced likelihood of developing AD, according to some observational studies.

 

REFERENCES

Alzheimer’s Association (2016). What we know today about Alzheimer’s disease. Retrieved from http://www.alz.org/research/science/alzheimers_disease_causes.asp

 

Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (2016). About Alzheimer’s disease. Retrieved from http://www.alzfdn.org/AboutAlzheimers/definition.html

Bhat, S. P. (2011). Alzheimer’s disease – Clinical features, diagnosis and treatment. Retrieved from http://www.positivehealth.com/article_favorites/add/2972

Geriatric Mental Health Foundation (n.d.). Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Retrieved from http://www.aagponline.org/index.php?src=gendocs&ref=Dementia_factsheet&category=Foundation#backtotop

Greger, M. (2015). Where are the lowest rates of Alzheimer’s in the world? Retrieved from http://nutritionfacts.org/2015/11/12/where-are-the-lowest-rates-of-alzheimers-in-the-world

Qiu, C., Kivipelto, M. & Strauss, E. (2009). Epidemiology of Alzheimer’s disease: Occurrence, determinants, and strategies toward intervention. Dialogues Clinical Neuroscience, 11 (2). Retrieved from http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3181909

Salawu, F. K., Umar, J. T. & Olokoba, A. B. (2011). Alzheimer’s disease: A review of recent developments. Annals of African Medicine, 10 (2).

The Fisher Center for Alzheimer’s Research Foundation (2016). World Alzheimer’s day: September 21. Retrieved from https://www.alzinfo.org/articles/world-alzheimers-day/

Compiled by:

Agbonze, Peter O.

Faleti, Daniel D.

For: Institute of Nursing Research, Fellowship of Christian Nurses, South West Zone, Nigeria

Got Stretch Marks? Tryout these smart ways of treating it

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The skin is the body’s largest organ and has the remarkable ability to expand and contract as needed. The skin is strong and elastic, but its supporting tissues can be damaged if they are stretched too far or too quickly.

Stretch marks are a common problem that affects men and women of nearly all ages and skin types.Up to 90 percent of women get stretch marks during pregnancy, though they also affect men, women, and teenagers. They often occur during periods of growth and body changes such as significant weight gain, puberty, and extreme muscle building.

What are stretch marks?

Stretch marks are lines or bands caused by stretching of the skin’s connective tissue.Stretch marks fade to a white or silver colour over time. Although they are not physically painful, they can be disfiguring in severe cases.

When the middle layer of skin gets stretched too quickly, some of its collagen fibers can break. This allows underlying blood vessels to show through, leaving behind the telltale red or purplish marks.

Over time, they fade to a white or silver colour as blood vessels heal. Typically, the marks don’t go away fully.Though they are not physically painful, stretch marks can affect a person’s confidence and self-esteem. They can be disfiguring in severe cases.

Because of their psychological effects, experts have tried for years to find an effective treatment for these marks. Unfortunately, no treatment has been shown to erase them fully. New ways of treating stretch marks are emerging, however, and some of them show promise.

Risk factors

The reason why some people get stretch marks and others don’t remains unclear. Some people may simply be more prone to getting stretch marks due to genetics or certain hormone levels.

A study in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology suggests that women who are pregnant at a younger age tend to get them more frequently, as do women who gain more weight during pregnancy. However, these factors alone do not guarantee a woman will get stretch marks.

Higher levels of steroid hormones in the body appear to play a role in some cases. People who have Cushing disease tend to get stretch marks more frequently than those who don’t have this condition.

Similarly, people who are taking steroid medications or using topical steroid creams may be more likely to get stretch marks. Experts believe this is because steroid hormones may weaken collagen in the skin, making it more likely to break.

Treatments for stretch marks

Treatments available through skin doctors and plastic surgeons offer some hope for reducing the appearance of stretch marks. Though no solution has been shown to work for everyone, many patients find success with some of the following treatments.

Retin-A

A 0.1 percent tretinoin  (retinoic acid) cream was shown to help diminish early stretch marks in one study, but later results have shown mixed results.

Tretinoin is often called by its brand name Retin-A. It can cause side effects such as redness and peeling. This drug should not be used by pregnant or nursing women.

It can get through the upper layer of skin and rebuild collagen, which explains how it improves stretch marks for some people.

Laser or light therapy

Laser and light therapy are proven ways to significantly improve the appearance of stretch marks, although they are very expensive.

Laser therapy is one of the newest treatments for stretch marks that appear to be effective in reducing their appearance. Pulsed dye lasers and intense pulsed light can improve the appearance of stretch marks and increase collagen production over time. These treatments are performed by a plastic, cosmetic, or skin surgeon.

The American Society for Dermatologic Surgery (ASDS) recommends laser or light therapy as the only proven ways to significantly improve the appearance of stretch marks. The ASDS estimate each treatment costs $200 to $400. Up to 20 treatments may be needed for full results.

Platelet-rich plasma with ultrasound

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy has gained popularity as a way to revive skin and increase collagen production. PRP therapy uses PRP taken from the patient’s own blood immediately before the procedure.

A study in the Journal of Cosmetic and Laser Therapy indicates that PRP therapy coupled with an ultrasound device may be a good treatment for reducing stretch marks. More than 70 percent of participants reported “good” or “very good” improvement in their appearance.

Plastic surgery

A tummy tuck, thigh lift, and other such procedures work by removing excess skin and tightening remaining skin and tissue. They are often suggested for people who have sagging skin due to weight loss or pregnancy. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the ideal candidate for this surgery:

Is at a stable weight and in good health

Does not smoke

Has realistic expectations about what the surgery can do

These procedures are not specifically designed to remove stretch marks. However, losing the marks can be an added benefit when the affected skin is removed from the body.

If the skin is not loose, this type of plastic surgery may not be an option. Patients should discuss possible risks and benefits with their surgeon before undergoing any surgical procedure.

Alternative and home remedies for stretch marks

Some creams, oils, and other topical skin products on store shelves claim to prevent or reduce stretch marks. Popular ingredients include cocoa butter, olive oil, and almond oil.

Despite the claims on the bottle, no over-the-counter cream or oil has been proven to help prevent or treat stretch marks. Stretch marks occur in the deep dermal layer of the skin, where moisturizers and creams cannot reach.

A summary of six clinical trials found that preventing stretch marks with topical skin care products is not successful. In addition, applying moisturizers or creams after the marks have appeared does not have an effect on their appearance.

Stretch marks occur in the deep dermal layer of the skin. Therefore, despite claims, moisturizers do not help to prevent stretch marks.

Although stretch mark creams may not be effective, taking proper care of skin can help it look and feel its best. The American Academy of Dermatology suggest:

Proper sun protection. Sunscreen alone can’t prevent stretch marks, but it does improve skin’s overall health and appearance in general. Sun exposure may make existing scars and marks more noticeable. It also significantly increases the risk of skin cancer. In addition, sun exposure can break down skin’s collagen fibers, making a person more at risk of stretch marks.

Keep skin hydrated. Using a moisturizer right after bathing, while skin is still damp, can help products penetrate better and keep skin soft and supple. Pregnant women may find that the rapidly expanding skin on the belly tends to itch, and moisturizers often provide some relief.

Stretch marks cannot be completely prevented, but a healthy lifestyle can lower the risk of getting them. Drinking plenty of water, eating a variety of nutritious foods, and exercising regularly can keep weight stable and promote good health in general.

Avoiding sudden weight changes and working toward healthy and gradual weight gain during pregnancy are also helpful. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommend 25 to 35 pounds of total weight gain for normal weight women before giving birth.

If stretch marks are severe or interfering with a person’s mental well-being, treatment options are available. People can see a doctor who specializes in treating them to learn about possible solutions and ways to reduce their appearance.

MedicalNewsToday

 

 

 

 

Biofactura announces non-exclusive license agreement with Momenta pharmaceuticals

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biofactura-logo-vector-png700
BioFactura, Inc., an emerging Maryland biopharmaceutical research and manufacturing company, announced today entry into a non-exclusive license agreement with Momenta Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NASDAQ: MNTA), a biotechnology company specializing in the characterization and engineering of complex drugs, relating to one of the biosimilar product candidates that Momenta is developing.  As part of this non-exclusive license agreement, BioFactura is developing a cell line using its NS0-based StableFastTM Biomanufacturing Platform, a proprietary system to rapidly generate stable cell lines that have the potential to lower cost, produce follow-on biologics and are single-use technology compatible.  The companies are actively working together to further optimize productivity.  Momenta has the right to obtain an exclusive research and commercial license to StableFastTM for clinical development and commercial manufacture of the undisclosed biosimilar product candidate.
BioFactura’s Chief Executive Officer and President, Darryl Sampey, said, “This agreement has the potential to benefit patients worldwide.  We believe that this commitment by a proven leader in our industry is an endorsement of the value our StableFastTM Biomanufacturing Platform brings.  We look forward to continuing to work with Momenta and the expansion of BioFactura’s efforts in biosimilars development.”
BioFactura’s Chairman of the Board and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Jeffrey Hausfeld, said, “BioFactura believes that the establishment of this agreement between BioFactura and Momenta attests to the value of BioFactura’s proprietary technology in this space. Our organization is pleased to support the scientific and business development teams at Momenta.”
 
About BioFactura
BioFactura (Frederick MD) develops and commercializes high-value, highly similar biosimilars (i.e., follow-on biologics or generic biopharmaceuticals) using its patented StableFast™ Biomanufacturing Platform, the optimal system for bringing these drugs to market with faster, lower cost, superior-quality manufacture.  For over 10 years, BioFactura has been advancing life-saving medicines from the research bench to the patient using its innovative drug development and manufacturing technologies. Current and past programs include biodefense drugs against smallpox and Ebola, novel medicines for cancer, and low-cost/high-quality biosimilars for autoimmune and infectious diseases.
James Chisum
Vice President
Miller Geer & Associates
o: (562) 493.6023
c: (714) 496.0541

Top 10 Remedies For Heartburn Relief

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Heartburn is a medical condition in which the contents of the stomach move backward and upward into the food pipe. Heartburn is also known as gastrointestinal reflux.

The diaphragm and a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter usually prevent heartburn. However, this muscle can sometimes relax and leave the food pipe unprotected from stomach acid.

Heartburn is experienced when stomach acid comes into contact with the lining of the food pipe. This can cause the following symptoms:

A feeling of burning behind the breastbone, neck, and throat

Taste changes

Coughing

Voice hoarseness that is made worse by eating, leaning forward, and lying down

The discomforts of heartburn can last for several hours and may progress into a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD. GERD can cause frequent heartburn, food sticking, damage to the food pipe, blood loss, and loss of weight.

There are some things that people can do to prevent and treat the symptoms of heartburn. Not all remedies work or are safe for everyone, however. It is important for people to speak with their doctor about the best remedy for them.

Heartburn may progress into a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD.

Simple remedies for heartburn relief include:

Quitting smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke

Wearing loose fitting clothing to avoid unnecessary pressure on the stomach

Considering prescription medications: People with heartburn should also speak with their doctor to see if the use of prescription medications is right for them.

Losing weight: People who are in need of losing weight or are obese may want to consider a diet and exercise weight loss program. Each person reacts to these changes differently, however. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider about losing weight.

Raising the head of the bed: There are many ways to raise the head of the bed to allow gravity to reduce the symptoms of heartburn. Placing blocks under the top bedposts, raising the bed by around 6-8 inches may work. Foam wedges can also be placed between the mattress and box spring to raise the angle of the head of the bed. Pillows are not effective in reducing heartburn symptoms.

Trying over-the-counter medications: People with heartburn should speak with their doctor about over-the-counter medications to relieve their symptoms. They may be recommended to try antacids, acid reducers like famotidine or ranitidine, or acid blockers such as lansoprazole and omeprazole.

Using herbal preparations: The use of certain herbal preparations may also be useful. The Mayo Clinic report that licorice, slippery elm, chamomile, or marshmallow could help in treating the symptoms of GERD. It is important for people to speak with their doctor about potential side effects and drug interactions before starting any herbal supplements.

Trying acupuncture: Although there is limited evidence to support its use, acupuncture may be beneficial in relieving the symptoms of heartburn in some people.

Relaxing: Stress and tension can wreak havoc on the body. Relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation could provide the body with calming relief to some symptoms.

Making some simple diet changes: There are certain dietary triggers that can affect the presence and severity of heartburn. People should try avoiding spicy or greasy foods, chocolate, caffeinated drinks like coffee, tomato products, garlic, peppermint, alcohol, and fizzy drinks.

People should sit upright for 3 or more hours after a meal to reduce heartburn symptoms. People should also eat smaller meals and avoid meals in the 2-3 hours before sleep.

MedicalNewsToday

Study Reveals Why Men Sleep Better Than Women

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Are women more likely to have disturbed sleep than men, and if so, why? A new study published in PNAS suggests that being male or female has an impact on how well we are likely to sleep.

A woman’s sleep cycle appears to be different from a man’s. Insomnia is thought to be twice as common in women as in men.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that around 1 in every 4 Americans occasionally lacks sleep, and that 10 percent of the population live with chronic insomnia.

A person with insomnia will lie awake at night, unable to fall asleep. If they do drop off, they may wake up often and have difficulty sleeping again. If they do sleep, they may surface too early in the morning and feel as if they have not slept.

Poor sleep has been linked to a range of health issues, including diabetes, heart disease, obesity, depression, and other mental health problems. It is also responsible for a number of accidents on the road and at work.

The CDC call for sleep to be considered a “vital sign of good health.”

Are women’s sleep patterns set differently?

A team led by Dr. Diane B. Boivin, of McGill University’s Department of Psychiatry and the Douglas Mental Health University Institute in Montreal, Canada, had already found in previous studies that a woman’s menstrual cycle affects the natural rhythms of body temperature and sleep.

Fast facts about sleep

In a 2014 survey, 45 percent of Americans said poor sleep had affected their performance in the last week

Americans sleep an average of 7 hours and 36 minutes a night

The average American goes to bed at 10:55 p.m. and wakes up at 6:38 a.m. on workdays.

Learn more about sleep problems

Now, they wanted to compare how the body clock affects sleep and alertness in men and in women.

The researchers looked at the sleep and alertness patterns for 15 men and 11 women.

The authors studied women at two phases of the menstrual cycle, and they took into account the potential effects of the cycle and of any hormonal contraceptive use.

The study focused on an ultradian sleep-wake cycle (USW). An ultradian rhythm cycle refers to a cycle that lasts for less than 24 hours. Circadian rhythms, in contrast, last for 24 hours. Ultradian rhythms affect the heartbeat, body temperature, breathing, and sleep patterns.

Observations took place over 36 cycles, in which 60-minute waking episodes alternated with 60-minute “nap opportunities.”

The researchers took measurements for core body temperature, salivary melatonin, alertness, and sleep.

The results suggest that women are ready for sleep at a later stage in their rhythm cycle than men. This, say the authors, could be one reason why women are more likely to experience sleep disturbances.

 

Dr. Boivin explains that the participants did not appear to experience any sleep problems during the study, but the results do point to a reason why women tend to wake up earlier in the morning than men, and why they feel sleepy in the morning.

 

“For a similar sleep schedule, we find that women’s body clock causes them to fall asleep and wake up earlier than men. The reason is simple: Their body clock is shifted to a more easterly time zone. This observed difference between the sexes is essential for understanding why women are more prone to disturbed sleep than men.”

Dr. Diane B. Boivin, director, Center for Study and Treatment of Circadian Rhythms at the Douglas Institute.

Women were also found to be less alert at night than men, suggesting that night shifts could be better suited to men than to women.

This confirms the findings of another recent study, which looked at the effect of circadian rhythms on mental functioning in men and women. The researchers found that women were more likely to experience impairment in cognitive performance during the night, compared with men.

The authors of the present study call for additional research to find out more and to develop interventions that match the health of men and women.

 

MedicalNewsToday

Nurses Appeal To Doctors To Shelve Planned Strike

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Nurses under the aegis of University Graduates of Nursing Science Association (UGONSA) have made a passionate call on the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) to shelve its planned strike. The association affirmed that the oath of allegiance sworn to God and humanity by health workers is sacrosanct and no reason is good enough for anyone to breach it in the name of strike.

In a statement issued in Ibadan on Thursday by its National Secretary, Nurse G.I. Nshi, the association decried the incessant strikes in the health sector stating that it is innocent Nigerians that are unnecessarily punished each time care delivery is disrupted by industrial action.

”It is to say the least, a bop of inhumanity, for anybody to contemplate visiting more hardship on innocent Nigerians that have been significantly crouched by the economic downturn in the country, by grounding healthcare services.

”When the elite have headaches, they travel outside the country to get treatment. It is the ordinary Nigerians, who do not have the wherewithal to go abroad for treatment, that are unnecessarily punished each time the health sector is grounded by strike.

”We appeal passionately to NARD to have a rethink of its position. Striking breaches our oath of allegiance and should in no way be an option at all in the health system that is very critical,  to the lives and general well being of the populace, as we cannot ‘re-create’ or recover any life lost to strike.

”We should instead be all preoccupied with how to help lift the country out of its present economic predicament. At a trying period like this, patriotic compatriots think of what they can do to help the country and not how to worsen an already bad situation. Embarking on strike would only add to the woes of ordinary Nigerians.

UGONSA further commended the “change begins with me” drive of President Buhari saying that the campaign is apt, timely and mostly needed in the health sector.

”Ethical values have unfortunately been eroded among our healthcare providers such that at the sound of a “strike gong” they throw away their very essence of living .i.e. the patient, trample upon all ethical values and bastardize the oath of allegiance. Such anomalous behaviour is unacceptable and must be stopped.

”The change must begin with our abiding by our sacred oath of allegiance to God and humanity. We must develop alternative ways of handling industrial disputes other than embarking on strikes.

The association, however, urged government to always be proactive, equitable and prompt in attending to genuine requests or agitation of groups in the health sector to forestall the avoidable scenarios that are usually latched onto to push for industrial actions.

”Government at different levels should not wait until health workers embark on strike before addressing their issues. They should also lead the “change begins with me” campaign, in the health sector, by placing premium on infrastructural upgrade and as well on the welfare of care providers by handling their genuine demands and complaints promptly, inclusively and equitably to properly cover the avoidable lacunas that fuel the unfortunate agitation with strikes- the statement concluded.

 

 

 

Professor Okojie wins NAPharm 2016 Lifetime Achievement Awards

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-As Academy Inducts Four Pharmacists

Prof. Julius Okojie, former executive secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC) has been announced as the winner of Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy (NAPharm) 2016 Lifetime Achievement Award.

The award ceremony which took place during the investiture of new fellows into the academy held at Sheraton Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos on September 16, 2016, witnessed a huge turnout of distinguished pharmacists, stakeholders in the pharmaceutical sector and government functionaries.

  • While presenting the award to Okojie, Prince Juli Adelusi-Adeluyi, president of the academy described him as a great personality, whose singular commitment and resilience culminated into the attainment of Pharm. D.napa-2

“We can indeed count NAPharm as contributor to the emergence of the Pharm. D degree, in Nigeria’s universities.

“For this, we must commend the foresight and dare I say, sagacity, of the NUC leadership. It is no happenstance that Professor Julius Okojie is our distinguished award recipient today,” he remarked.

Last year’s edition of the Lifetime Achievement Award was won by Professor Attahiru Jega, immediate past INEC Chairman.

In a related development, Dr Christopher Kolade, Nigerian high commissioner to the United Kingdom and Professor Rahamon Bello, vice chancellor, University of Lagos (UNILAG) were also honoured with awards.

While Kolade was decorated for honouring the invitation to take the keynote address, Bello was given a special recognition for facilitating NAPharm Secretariat at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Lagos, Idi-Araba.

PSN Officially Receives Pharm.D Approval Letter

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In what has been adjudged a milestone achievement for the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) the Ahmed Yakasai led PSN has successfully received the official approval letter for Pharm.D, from the National Universities Commission (NUC).

The epoch making  event, which took place at the office of the new NUC Executive Secretary Prof. Abubakar Rasheed on Wednesday 14th September 2016, was witnessed by the PSN president and his entourage in Abuja.

Shortly after the official document was presented to him, he appreciated God and all who had worked tirelessly to make it a possibility. “We thank God for His blessings as I collected the official letter of Pharm. D approval from NUC today.May God help all those who contributed in making this milestone possible. Congratulations to all Pharmacists and friends of the profession”.

Meanwhile, accolades have continued to pour in from pharmacists across the country on the achievement.Some of their comments below:

Professor Chinedum Peace Babalola : “All the glory to God for this victory. I pray that we will use this opportunity God has given us to take our profession to an enviable position. May we receive God’s favour as educators to implement it well. As men of honour let us join hands”.

entourage

Ibrahim Mohammed: “Pharmacists have spoken. A wise decision to have a good head. Congratulations my president”.
Michael Tomori:” Very hard working PSN President different from the rest because of the ABU genes. My Presido check your in box for my request sir- not personal one but professional”.

George Deprince Ukoima:” Congratulations, Pharmacy. Weldone, Mr. President. God bless everyone that contributed to this Success”.

Arikawe Bags UK’s I Love My Pharmacist Award

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Olutayo Arikawe, 39, a community pharmacist in Dudley has been chosen as the national winner of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society’s ‘I Love My Pharmacist Award’.

Running for the third year, the national title has been awarded to Olutayo for going above and beyond the call of duty in the name of excellent patient care.

The I Love My Pharmacist Award recognises the vital role pharmacists play across the NHS.  Often, the unsung heroes of the health service, work alongside GPs, nurses and hospital staff, as well as in the community, providing expert advice and crucial services such as medication reviews and stop smoking services.

Olutayo, who works at The Priory Community Pharmacy in Dudley, was shortlisted by an expert panel to become one of 23 regional finalists back in June 2016. Thousands of members of the public then voted for their favourite pharmacist and in August Olutayo was announced as the regional winner for Midlands and East.

The final stage of the competition took place in London on September 9th and saw Olutayo, along with five other regional winners, meet with and present to the judging panel to determine the eventual winner of I Love My Pharmacist 2016.

The judges chose Olutayo as this year’s winner due to her outstanding contribution in improving the lives of her patients. They believe Olutayo’s pharmacy is a community asset as it is more than a place that just dispenses medicines.

Olutayo’s commitment to patient care is second to none, helping patients improve their health in a wide variety of ways, for example promoting alcohol awareness and supporting alcohol dependent patients. She has converted the pharmacy’s boardroom into an exercise room for patients and she has also created a ‘safe space’ where people who have worries – especially people with mental health and drug dependency problems – can come and speak to her and discuss their problems. Olutayo’s commitment doesn’t stop there; she is involved locally by giving lectures at the University of Wolverhampton, as well as giving career advice to pharmacy students.

Olutayo Arikawe said: “I am really honoured and delighted to be the winner of I Love My Pharmacist Award 2016’. Patient care is at the core of everything that we do at the Priory Community Pharmacy – I believe that if you take care of the community, they will in turn take care of you.

“I’m overwhelmed that so many of my patients took the time out of their day to vote for me. It shows that all the hard work that my team and I put into our community does not go unnoticed. I want to say a big thank you to the Royal Pharmaceutical Society for this opportunity and a big thank you to my staff and patients for all their support throughout this award.

“The judging day was an eye opener – it was a pleasure to meet the other finalists and to learn about the great work they do. I Love My Pharmacist Award is a fantastic platform to showcase the extra mile these pharmacists went for their patients. Together we can create greater awareness of the role of pharmacists in the NHS.”

 

Swank Pharm

Bedtime habits that will help you lose weight

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Getting a better night’s sleep is one of the easiest ways to lose weight. And, impressively, it’s one of the most effective. Case in point: In one Annals of Internal Medicine study, dieters who got 8.5 hours of sleep per night lost twice as much fat as those who scraped by on 5.5 hours—even though they all cut the same number of calories each day.

As you might have guessed, how you get ready for bed has a huge impact on whether or not your sleep results in weight loss.

Add these habits to your bedtime routine, and you’ll make your weight-loss journey so much easier:

  1. Fine-tuning the thermostat a couple of hours before bed can make drifting off to dreamland (and actually staying in it) way easier. “We need our body temperature to drop in order to sleep through the night,” says Rebecca Scott, Ph.D., research assistant professor of neurology at the NYU Langone Comprehensive Epilepsy Center—Sleep Center.

Plus, research published in Diabetes shows that when people sleep in rooms set to 66.2 degrees, they convert some of their calorie-storing white fat into calorie-burning brown fat. Why? Because brown fat’s in charge of heating your body, says board-certified family and bariatric physician Spencer Nadolsky, a doctor of osteopathic medicine.

  1. Winding down before bed can seem like a waste of time when most of us are rushing to get everything done right up until we get in bed,” says Scott. But it’s actually better to take the 30 minutes before hitting the hay for yourself—even if that means going to sleep a little later, she says.

Do a relaxing activity that you truly enjoy, like reading. This helps protect your sleep and energy.

  1. Even without a bedtime gadget habit, bright lights coming through your bedroom windows can cut down on your body’s production of sleepy-time melatonin, interfering with sleep quality, says Nadolsky. That explains why women who slept in the darkest rooms were 21 percent less likely to be obese than women who slept in the lightest rooms. But if you want to get the biggest benefit from “lights out,” you need to dim your indoor lights along with the setting sun. Think about it: If you spend your evening hours in a brightly lit living room, you’re missing out on a ton of melatonin that boosts your sleep.
  2. It might help you drift off (errr, pass out?), but it won’t help you stay that way. “Alcohol consumed too close to bedtime can interfere with sleep quality in the second part of the night,” says Scott. That’s because metabolizing the sugar in alcoholic beverages doesn’t let your body actually rest, he says. That results in longer light sleep stages, decreased dream sleep, and more fragmented dream sleep. In one 2015 University of Melbourne study, researchers said that the disruptions in a sleeping brain’s wave patterns after a night of drinking are similar to those induced by mild electric shocks.

 

  1. When it comes to snacking within an hour or two of your bedtime, there are a few things to consider: First, research does link late-night calories to the potential for weight gain. One study found that eating right before turning in can make your snooze time more restless, and that sets you up for fatigue and bingeing the next day. Also, late-night noshing tends to be associated with stress eating, which leads to overindulging in high-fat comfort calories.

Womenshealthmag

A portion of oily fish a day increases the risk of diabetes in women- Researchers

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Eating too much of oily fish can actually increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by up to a quarter, a  new study has found.

The study conducted by French scientists found that those who ate a portion a day had a 26% higher rate of type 2 diabetes.

The researchers, according to the report published on Daily Mail studied the eating habits of more than 70,000 women, after which they came up with their findings on the consumption of oily fish for different set of people.

Previous studies to this have indicated that oily fish contain Omega-3, which has been found to help stave off cancer and heart diseases. However, experts have suggested that people consume no more than 4 portions a week.

While experts recommend eating up to four portions of oily fish such as mackerel and salmon a week, those who eat more than that could be doing themselves harm.

Oily fish is rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) which are said to boost brain power, keep hearts healthy and reduce inflammation of the brain, cardiovascular system and other cells.

HOW MUCH OILY FISH SHOULD YOU EAT?

Health experts recommend eating at least one portion – around 140g when cooked – of oily fish a week.

Oily fish can contain low levels of pollutants that can build up in the body.

For this reason, there are maximum recommendations for the number of portions we should be eating each week. These recommendations are different for different groups of people.

The general population is advised to have no more than four portions of oily fish a week.Women who are planning a pregnancy or who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding should eat no more than two portions of oily fish a week.

This is because pollutants found in oily fish may affect the future development of a baby in the womb.Children, pregnant women and women who are trying to get pregnant should not eat swordfish, as it contains more mercury than other fish. Other adults are advised to eat no more than one portion of swordfish per week.

They found those who ate the most omega-3 -which is also found in red meat – increased the risk of developing diabetes by more than a quarter, compared to those who ate the least.

The participants were from a 1990 study initiated investigating the risk factors associated with cancer and other major non-communicable diseases in women.

Women in the top third, who ate roughly 1.6g of polyunsaturated fatty acid – the equivalent of a portion of sardines or salmon a day – had a 26 per cent increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

This was when compared to those who consumed less than 1.3g per day and after other factors like BMI were taken into account.

Meanwhile, high omega-3 consumption was associated with a 19 per cent increased risk of diabetes among overweight women.

Closer examination also showed eating an omega-3 fatty acid called DPA (docosapentaenoic acid), which is also found in red meat, increased the risk of diabetes in non-overweight and overweight women by 45 per cent and 54 per cent, respectively.

The same occurred with the omega-6 faty acid, arachidonic acid (AA), which is also abundant in oily fish and meat.

A high level of this was associated with a 50 per cent increased risk of diabetes in people of a healthy weight and a 74 per cent increased risk for overweight women.

Dr Guy Fagherazzi, of University Paris-Saclay, Villejuif, France, said: ‘Different polyunsaturated fatty acids appear to have different effects regarding the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

A high consumption of docosapentaenoic acid and arachidonic acid may contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes.’

He added: ‘We wouldn’t necessarily recommend cutting these sources out of our diet, but perhaps diminishing meat intake, as it is often consumed in quantities much greater than our nutritional requirements.’

The findings were presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) meeting in Munich.

 

6th international conference and exhibition on pharmaceutical regulatory affairs & IPR

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 - Regulatory Affairs 2016

Conference Series LLC invites all the participants across the globe to attend the 6th International Conference and Exhibition on Pharmaceutical Regulatory Affairs & IPR (Regulatory Affairs 2016) slated on September 29-30, 2016 at Orlando, USA. Regulatory Affairs 2016 provides the perfect one-stop resource with the information and knowledge resources to help you develop skills and learn proven strategies and techniques to help you overcome the challenges you face in the Regulatory profession.

  • The global revenue for advanced drug delivery systems is estimated to be $151.3 billion in 2013. In 2018, revenues are estimated to reach nearly $173.8 billion, demonstrating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.8%.
  • Europe contributed about 27% of the total drug delivery market in 2010 and was $36 billion. BCC expects this market to grow to $49 billion by 2016 at a CAGR of 5.6%
  • The global generics sector reached $269.8 billion in 2012. This sector is expected to reach $300.9 billion in 2013 and $518.5 billion in 2018, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.5%.

Conference Highlights

 Other Highlights:

  • 300+ Participation (70 Industry: 30 Academia)
  • 5+ Keynote Speakers
  • 50+ Plenary Speakers
  • 20+ Exhibitors
  • 14 Innovative Educational Sessions
  • 5+ Workshops
  • B2B Meetings

Track 1: Regulatory Affairs

Regulatory affairs is a comparatively new profession which developed from the desire of governments to protect public health by controlling the safety and efficacy of products in areas including pharmaceuticals, veterinary medicines, medical devices, pesticides, agrochemicals, cosmetics and complementary medicines. Regulatory Affairs is involved in the development of new medicinal products from early on, by integrating regulatory principles and by preparing and submitting the relevant regulatory dossiers to health authorities. Regulatory Affairs is actively involved in every stage of development of a new medicine and in the post-marketing activities with authorised medicinal products. The Regulatory Affairs department is an important part of the organisational structure of pharmaceutical industry. Internally it liaises at the interphase of drug development, manufacturing, marketing and clinical research. Externally it is the key interface between the company and the regulatory authorities.

Track 2:  Regulatory and Pharmacovigilance

Regulatory affairs (RA), also called government affairs, are a profession within regulated industries, such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, energy, banking, telecom etc. Regulatory Affairs also has a very specific meaning within the healthcare industries (pharmaceuticals, medical devices, biologics and functional foods). Regulatory affairs (medical affairs) professionals (aka regulatory professionals) usually have responsibility for the following general areas:

Working with federal, state and local regulatory agencies and personnel on specific issues affecting their business i.e., working with such agencies as the Food and Drug Administration or European Medicines Agency (pharmaceuticals and medical devices); The Department of Energy; or the Securities and Exchange Commission (banking).Advising their companies on the regulatory aspects and climate that would affect proposed activities. i.e., describing the “regulatory climate” around issues such as the promotion of prescription drugs and Sarbanes-Oxley compliance.

Track 3: Clinical Affairs & Regulatory Strategies

A regulatory-science driven regulatory strategy is essential as part of today’s biopharmaceutical product early development planning.  A well-prepared regulatory strategy will align the proposed clinical development plan with business objectives, and pre-emptively identify challenges, as well as, proposed alternative/innovative approaches to new product development which leverage new standards for evidence generation supporting continuing development and global market authorization.

A regulatory strategy helps to define key issues/challenges to proactively discuss with Regulatory authorities and also defines key program milestones that are often considered business catalysts driving investor interest and financing.  Most importantly, a timely, well-prepared and well-maintained regulatory strategy, with proactive and collaborative interaction with regulatory authorities, is often a differentiating factor for industry leaders bringing commercially successful and innovative products to market in today’s competitive marketplace.

Regulatory strategy is a major component of successful biopharmaceutical product development.  Covance Global Regulatory Affairs prepares and maintains regulatory-science driven and product-specific global regulatory strategies for many product types, e.g., drugs, biologics, drug-device combinations, vaccines, gene-therapies, cell-therapies, across a range of therapeutic areas and full regulatory strategy support for product development initiatives.

Why Should I Attend?

  • Novel approaches about the drug delivery systems development and industrializing insights & gain the latest technologies about novel drug delivery systems and applications
  • Meeting with 50+ industrial experts, 50+ academic speakers, 50+Pharmaceutical Companies, 120+decision-makers interacting
  • Finding novel opportunities of doing NDDS business and dynamically providing the “value addition” to pharmaceutical R&D businesses
  • Bridging the gap between Academia and Industry in novel research methods of DDS
  • Emphasis on novel strategies for formulation and drug delivery system’s latest updates to drive your market share accordingly
  • Learn on the applications of novel DDS for treating major diseases to progress the drug portfolio industrialization pathways

Who Should Attend?

Pharmaceutical, biotech, CRO, diagnostic and academic professionals specializing in:

  • Drug Delivery
  • Product Development
  • Formulation / Pre-Formulation
  • Structure and Informatics
  • Pharmaceutical Development
  • Technology Assessment
  • PK / PD
  • Medicinal Chemistry
  • Licensing
  • Outsourcing
  • Partnering / Alliance Management
  • Regulatory Affairs
  • Lifecycle Management
  • External Manufacturing

Source: conferenceseries.com

Pharma and healthcare social media market: Great trends in near future, 2025

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Image result for Pharma and Healthcare Social Media Trends

Social media platforms refer to the interaction among the people that involves creation, sharing and exchange of information and ideas in virtual networks and communities. However, use of these social media tools for marketing pharma content is still debatable. The rationale behind this is that the regulatory teams of several pharma companies demand the prevention of comments or sharing features resulting in only a one way interaction, which in turn deprives these sence of social media marketing. However, with the impact of these tools, there is an increased adoption rate of these platforms for strategic decisions.

Efforts of pharma sector to leverage the benefits of social media tools to widen their customer base, strengthen customer relationship and enhance brand performance further fuels the usage of social media pharma and healthcare marketing. Other major aspects favorable for pharma sector are building investor relations, corporate communication and customer service at the corporate level. The involvement of regulatory authorities in drafting and issuing guidance for use of interactive media for drugs and biologics proves to be instrumental in deciding the importance of social media marketing in pharma industry. For instance,in second week of January 2014, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a guidance draft for industry that needs to fulfill the regulatory requirements for post marketing submissions of interactive promotional media for animal and human drugs and biologics. Through this draft, the US-FDA provided clarity on working with bloggers and content creators to disseminate branded information.

Incorporation of consumer feedback and their experiences would prove decisive for the companies in the course of novel drug development and other crucial strategy building. Hence social media involvements are further expected to increase product sales in the near future. For instance, Novartis has initiated the use of social media platforms to enhance the sales of its over-the-counter drugs such as Comtrax, Bufferin and Orofar. Another illustration for the use of these social media platforms is by Johnson & Johnson that uses these platforms for crisis management during recall of its products. It has used these social media platforms for apologizing to the consumers for irregularities found in its manufacturing plant by U.S. FDA. It is company’s mode of being personally, emotionally and socially in touch with its clients.

The pharma and healthcare social media market can be analyzed by the extent of use of social media platforms such as Twitter, YouTube, etc. by pharma industries along with benefit and risk ratio analysis of these tools in healthcare. In addition, impact or effect of these tools on healthcare stakeholders such as hospitals, patients/consumers, healthcare professionals and biotechnology companies coupled with a geographical landscape focusing on the popularity of these tools also can be provided. The geographical landscape includes the analysis of four major regions namely North America, Asia-Pacific, Europe and RoW.

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The major factors favoring the growth of the market are increased expenditure by pharmaceutical companies for online advertising along with increasing adoption rates of online marketing tools by the consumers. As per few research studies in the year 2012, the overall pharmaceutical and healthcare spending increased nearly by 45 percent year-on-year to approximately USD 1.1billion of which 6 percent represented online advertising costs. This revenue is generated through paid advertisements and subscriptions from various electronic devices and unique IP addresses. On the other hand, the disadvantages and risk factors of these platforms such as privacy and security in question along with improper content validation are some of the issues that might pose the challenge for the growth of the market. Some of the companies engaged in use of social media are Johnson & Johnson, Novo Nordisk, Pfizer, Inc., Novartis and Bayer AG.

ABOUT US:

Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature. FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.

CONTACT: 

616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018, Valley Cottage, NY 10989,  United States  T: +1-347-918-3531  F: +1-845-579-5705 Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.com Website: www.futuremarketinsights.com

Real reasons Olive Oil is good for you

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Olive oil has been used for several purposes before now, and dermatologists are also coming up with more uses of the oil as an effective skincare agent.

It was asserted that extra virgin organic olive oil, has  higher levels of antioxidants, especially vitamin E and phenols, the same compounds found in grapes, because the olive oil is less processed.

Chances are, olive oil is a staple in your kitchen whether you use it for everyday cooking, whipping up easy salad dressings, or for dipping your favorite breads. The possibilities are endless.

As if you needed another reason to love the healthy fat, it also happens to be pretty great for your appearance. From moisturizing your skin to helping you fight the appearance of aging, womenshealthmag.com has listed some of the biggest beauty benefits of olive oil.

It Smoothes Hair

The vitamin E found in olive oil can help reduce dandruff, says Julie Russak, M.D., a dermatologist in New York City. “Just mix a teaspoon of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon to the scalp,” she says.

It Removes Makeup

People often think that adding olive oil to already-oily skin will worsen the problem, but that’s not actually the case. “Olive oil grabs onto other oil-based products, making it a great makeup remover,” says Russak.  “Use it as a pre-cleanser (followed by warm water and the face wash of your choice) or by itself—it’s gentle enough for everyday use.

It Softens Cuticles

“It’s important to keep cuticles supple so they don’t crack and split, which can allow bacteria and fungus to get under the nail,” says Elizabeth Tanzi, M.D., founder and director of Capital Laser & Skin Care in Maryland. “Just apply a drop to cuticles at night before you go to bed.”

It Helps Your Nails Grow

On top of keeping cuticles healthy, olive oil can actually help your nails grow. “Because of the rich vitamin E olive oil contains, it is extremely moisturizing and easily absorbed, which makes it great for nail growth,” says Russak. “Soak your nails in olive oil for about 20 minutes once a week to feel its full effect.”

It Moisturizes

If you have extra olive oil on your hands from cooking, don’t be so quick to rinse it off. “Olive oil has great moisture-holding properties, so it can hold water against the skin to keep it smooth.

It Soothes Irritation

If you’re experiencing dry, itchy, or inflamed skin, Russak suggests forgoing a prescription cream and instead trying olive oil to relieve discomfort. “Many people find that olive oil calms irritated and inflamed skin, thanks to a compound called oleocanthal,” she says. Add some olive oil to a warm bath for allover relief.

It Fights Aging

Last but certainly not least, going for the bottle now may save you from going under the needle later on. “Olive oil contains potent antioxidants,” says Tanzi. “These include vitamin E and polyphenols, which help to gather and neutralize free radicals that can otherwise damage the skin and advance the appearance of aging.

Home Healthcare Software Market Analysis and Forecast, 2015-2025

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Future Market Insights has announced the addition of the “Home Healthcare Software Market: Global Industry Analysis and Opportunity Assessment, 2015 – 2025″ report to their offering. 

IOT Shrivastava (Wipro Ltd 2015)

Home Healthcare Software is the most evolving and cutting-edge technology in the healthcare industry in the recent years. In the past decade, medical documentation was not only difficult to maintain, but also time consuming. It involved a lot of paper work to maintain patient and clinical records.

Home Healthcare solutions are extremely user friendly solutions that provides error free healthcare information which increases the operational efficacy and also enables home care agencies and physicians to communicate effectively to provide quality care to the patients. These solutions provides all healthcare professionals with real time information to deliver superior patient care.

These specially designed software’s are used for maintaining patient electronic medical records, medication history, billing records, scheduling, and point-of-care clinical documentation.

Home Healthcare Software Market: Drivers

Today, aging population is a key factor for driving home healthcare software market. With the advancement of technology and growing adaptation of home healthcare based solutions. There is a pressure to reduce healthcare cost, patient readmission and increase in the quality of care in home care settings. These solutions are cost effective, ease of use and provides error free medical information. With this cutting edge technology and remarkable investments from the stakeholders, this market is expected to create a better business opportunities in the coming years.

Home Healthcare Software Market: Segmentation

Based on the commercially available software products, global home healthcare software market is segmented as follows:  Hospice Systems  Agency Software Systems  Tele-Health Systems   Clinical Management Systems

Furthermore, the global home healthcare software market is classified based on usage mode as:

·         Non Clinical Homecare Systems

·         Clinical Homecare Systems

Based on the delivery mode, the global home healthcare software market is segmented as follows:

  • Cloud-based software
  • On-premises software
  • Web- based software

The major end-uses of this market include:

  •        Private duty
  •        Hospice agencies
  •       Homecare agencies
  •       Others

Cloud based software segment is currently growing at a faster rate due to its offered advantage of data storage and accessibility. Tele-Health Systems is the fastest growing product segment among other commercially available home healthcare software products.

Home Healthcare Software Market: Overview

With rapid acceptance of technology and taking into account the above mentioned drivers and other macroeconomic factors, it is expected to grow at a rate of around 13-15% in the forecast years (20152025). The home healthcare software market will reach four times by 2025. There was an immense demand for home healthcare software in the recent past and as per our estimates, it will witness further growth in the forecast years as well. The emphasis of using such kind of systems by different healthcare agencies has prompted companies to focus more on the existing technologies and products.

Home Healthcare Software Market: Regional Outlook

Geographically, the global home healthcare software market is segmented into North America, Latin America (LATAM), Western Europe, Eastern Europe, Asia Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ), Japan and Middle East and African regions. At present, North America dominates the global home healthcare software market followed by Western Europe. Factors such as existence of highly developed healthcare infrastructure, rapid adoption of advanced technologies and higher rate of implementation of innovative technology in the practice are driving the North America home healthcare software market towards growth. Asia-Pacific is lucrative market for home healthcare software due to the easy availability of skilled manpower, innovations and highly developed information technology sectors in the emerging countries mainly China and India. India accounts for second largest population pool in the world. With aging of population in country like India, the prevalence of chronic diseases will be higher, which will result in higher patient population and thus demand for home healthcare software to grow more in such country.

Home Healthcare Software Market: Key Players

Some of the major companies contributing to the global home healthcare software market are Agfa Healthcare, NextGen Healthcare Information System LLC, Cerner Corporation, GE Healthcare, MEDITECH, Mckesson Corporation, Medical Information Technology, Inc. (Meditech), Siemens Healthcare and Allscripts Healthcare Solutions, Inc.

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ABOUT US:

Future Market Insights (FMI) is a leading market intelligence and consulting firm. We deliver syndicated research reports, custom research reports and consulting services, which are personalized in nature.

FMI delivers a complete packaged solution, which combines current market intelligence, statistical anecdotes, technology inputs, valuable growth insights, an aerial view of the competitive framework, and future market trends.

CONTACT:

Future Market Insights

616 Corporate Way, Suite 2-9018, Valley Cottage, NY 10989,  United States  T: +1-347-918-3531  F: +1-845-579-5705 Email: sales@futuremarketinsights.com Website: www.futuremarketinsights.com

HIV/AIDS: Need for increased and robust awareness

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(By Pharm Idam Augustine)

“We are not all infected, but we are all affected”

Scientists had since long believed that the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is the mutated form of the Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV).This mutation was facilitated by the hunting of Chimpanzees for meat by our forebears. The SIV was first identified in Chimpanzees in West Africa. The aim of this article is not to contest this claim, but to as a matter of necessity and urgency call to the attention of the readers, the effects of HIV/AIDS in our society and how rampant the scourge has become.

On a typical clinic day somewhere in North-West Nigeria, where the writer, a pharmacist, is presently having his one year mandatory and uninterrupted internship training program, the Antiretroviral Therapy section of the pharmacy department, usually witness the visit of the young, the old and the aged, in their numbers on a daily basis. They are usually seated at the facility provided by the institution, while awaiting the pharmacy technician on duty to call their names for the collection of their drugs

Just last month, August 2016, the institution recorded and attended to 19 new cases of People living with HIV/AIDS(PLHIV), and 3 new cases of PLHIV were recorded as at September 8, 2016. This is not an attempt to ridicule or stigmatize the PLHIV or to portray any section of the country in bad light. What then is responsible for this increase in the incidence of HIV/AIDS?

There are many undocumented cases of PLHIV, some are not even aware they are carriers, some are aware that they are carriers but because of the fear of stigmatization, will not come for their medications.

There is therefore need for increased and robust awareness and sensitizations about the scourge of HIV/AIDS. Health workers need to work in concert with the patients. Physicians, pharmacists, nurses, counselors and patients need to work in concert for a better outcome. Patients should be made to know that HIV/AIDS is not a death sentence. With compliance and proper adherence. patients can lead a normal and healthy life. In fact, malaria kills in one year the equivalent of the number of patients HIV/AIDS kills in five years.

The society should stop stigmatizing the PLHIV. A larger proportion of the PLHIV sincerely did not apply to have the virus. Carelessness on the part of healthcare providers, for instance, negligence in screening of blood before transfusion, the innocent child who stumbles on a needle or razor blade used by HIV positive people, the child whom Prevention of Mother to child transmission(PMTCT) could not save from coming down with the infection.

The church-The Roman Catholic Church and other such religious bodies should step down from their moral high ground. The Pope’s stand against the use of  condom for catholics is faulty and should be reviewed if possible. I do not claim to know the Bible more than the Pope, but there is no section of the Bible where condom use is condemned. People should be told to abstain but where they cannot as a result of marriage or hormonal reasons, then, they should be allowed to use condoms. HIV/AIDS is not only kept in check, people also are able to give birth to the number of offspring they can cater for by using condoms, in this way as a family planning tool.

Muslim leaders need also tell their congregation that polygamy is not the ultimate law of Allah; it is only prescribed where the man can love all the women equally. Experience and observations have shown that this is practically not possible. Humans as rational and bias beings tend to lean onto one wife. This will also ensure that the HIV is kept in check. Over 70 per cent of the clients in the Antiretrovirals facility where this writer works are from polygamous families. The reasons are simple and easy to decipher.

Female genital mutilation should equally be discouraged. This exercise is carried out using unsterilized knives and blades without anesthetics. The innocent girl child thereafter leads a troubled and traumatized life.Female genital mutilation does not make a woman chaste. It only leads to pain and spreads the virus.

Other measures like running HIV/AIDS jingles on the televisions and radios should be encouraged and promoted. The Ministry of Information can do more of this and every news and print media, should as a matter of their contribution to riding the world of the virus, do same.

Lastly, “AIDS no dey show for face”, ABSTINENCE until marriage remains the best way to avoid the virus, but where you cannot abstain ,USE CONDOM.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Hypertensive? Try out these natural remedies

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High blood pressure-also known as hypertension or “the silent killer”-affects roughly 67 million people, and that number only continues to grow. 90-95% of cases are known as primary hypertension, which is hypertension with no underlying medical cause. The small left-over percentage is caused by conditions such as kidney disease.

It’s important to note that supplements and other forms of alternative medicine should not be used as a substitute for standard care treating high blood pressure.

Uncontrolled high blood pressure may damage organs in the body and increase the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and vision loss.

Blood pressure ranges include:

  • Normal: Less than 120/80
  • Prehypertension: 120-139/80-89
  • Stage 1 high blood pressure: 140-159/90-99
  • Stage 2 high blood pressure: 160 and above/100 and above

Here are some natural remedies you can use to treat high blood pressure.

Garlic

This pungent seasoning can do more than just flavor your food and ruin your breath. Garlic has the ability to lower your blood pressure by causing your blood vessels to relax and dilate. This lets blood flow more freely and reduces blood pressure.

Ginger

Ginger may help control blood pressure, as it has been shown to improve blood circulation and relax the muscles surrounding blood vessels.

Vitamin D

Found naturally in fish, eggs, fortified milk and cod liver oil and produced naturally during exposure to the sun, low levels of vitamin D may have a role in developing high blood pressure.  Studies note that blood pressure is often elevated when there is reduced exposure to sunlight/vitamin D.

Tea / Reduced Caffeine Intake

Caffeine intake can result in a temporary but marked increase in blood pressure. It does this to a greater degree in people with high blood pressure compared with those with normal blood pressure. An alternative to higher-caffeine beverages is green tea, as green tea catechins have been found in some studies to reduce blood pressure.

 

 

Alcohol in Moderation

Some studies suggest that moderate alcohol intake, particularly red wine, is linked with increasing levels of HDL and a slight reduction in blood pressure, however, excessive consumption may raise triglyceride levels and increase blood pressure.

Reduced Sodium Intake

Too much sodium may lead to fluid retention which can raise blood pressure, especially in people who are sensitive to sodium. It is estimated that 60 percent of people with essential hypertension may decrease their blood pressure to some degree by reducing their sodium intake.

Low potassium can raise sodium in cells because sodium and potassium balance each other.

Sip Some Hibiscus

Cultures across the world have used hibiscus to naturally manage blood pressure, but it wasn’t until the past decade that studies were actually conducted that showed there was more to the remedy than just folklore. First, hibiscus acts as a diuretic, which draws sodium from the bloodstream, thus decreasing the pressure on the arterial walls. Even more interesting is how it can mimic angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. ACE inhibitors are a common group of pharmaceutical drugs used to treat high blood pressure. They work by hampering the angiotensin-converting enzyme, which plays a crucial role in the renin-angiotensin system- a hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid balance. As a result of this inhibition, blood vessels relax and blood volume is lowered, decreasing blood pressure. While certainly not as potent as those ACE drugs prescribed, it can still be surprisingly effective.

Drink Coconut Water

Coconut water is found inside the shell of green, unripe coconuts that retains its natural benefits in organic and raw form. It contains potassium and magnesium, both of which relate to regular muscle function, and of course, the heart is a big giant muscle. While there have been some limited studies on the effect of coconut water on hypertension, many people report anecdotally that it has helped lower blood pressure. In studies, it seemed to particularly affect systolic blood pressure, or the force that takes place when the heart pumps blood away from it. If you don’t have a problem with coconut water, it may prove to be a solid remedy for you.

Cut the Salt

Salt is not the problem when it comes to high blood pressure, per say, but rather its chemical component sodium. A little bit is fine, but too much sodium disrupts the balance of fluid in the body. To “flush” the excess salt from your system, water is drawn from surrounding tissues. The higher volume of liquid results in the heart working harder to pump the blood-hence, high blood pressure.

 

 Exercise

Along with diet, exercise should really be number one on this list. Nothing can replace what exercise does for the body, and in a society where we are becoming increasingly sedentary, it can take a bit more effort to get out and get moving-but it’s worth it, especially if you have high blood pressure. The heart is a muscle, and it will grow stronger with exercise. It becomes easier to pump blood and takes less effort, keeping your heart in better condition and lowering how much force it exerts on your arteries, thus lowering blood pressure. Exercise is, in many cases, all that you need to get your blood pressure back on track. The top number in a blood pressure reading indicates systolic blood pressure, which is created by the heart pumping blood away from it. Exercise can lower this reading by an average of 4 to 9 millimeters of mercury (a unit of pressure), which is easily as much as some prescription blood pressure medications. A pleasant side effect of exercise is weight loss, which also does your heart and arteries a great favor.

Global Mental Health Software Market to Value US$ 4.51B in 2021

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According to a report published by Persistence Market Research, “Global Market Study on Mental Health Software: Industry Analysis and Forecast 2015-2021”, the global market valued US$ 2,203 million at the end of 2015 and is projected to register a CAGR of 12.7% through the forecast period to reach the value of US$ 4,509.6 million at the end of 2021. Government initiatives and growing ageing population are the major factors to which the market trend can be attributed.

Spreading use of mobile devices and wearable gadgets, along with growing per capita expenditure on healthcare are major drivers in the global market. Rising incidences of chronic diseases of the ageing population is expected to fuel demand for remote patient monitoring. Healthcare organizations are opting for integration of behavioral healthcare services into care continuum to improve quality of healthcare services. On the other side, uncertainty in regards to privacy and security of data, and lack of awareness in emerging regions such as Latin America, MEA, and Asia Pacific are major challenges, restraining the global market.

In terms of deployment mode, the market is segmented into on-premise and subscription method of deployment. Subscription segment is projected to grow at the fastest rate of 24.2% through the forecast period. In terms of mode of access, the global market is segmented into desktops/laptops and tablets/smartphones. The desktops/laptops segment is the dominating segment in the global market, estimated to account near 70% share in the global market by the end of the forecast period.

In terms of function, the global market is segmented into telehealth, ledger, payroll, business intelligence, revenue cycle management, clinical decision support, and electronic health record (EHR). Telehealth segment in the third largest segment in terms of revenue, accounting for over 16% share in the global market in 2015.

In terms of application, the global market is segmented into commercial and residential. Commercial segment is further sub-segmented into hospitals and clinics, and others. Others subsegment is further segmented into psychiatrists, social workers, psychologists, counselors, nurse practitioners, and group therapists.

The global mental health software market is segmented on the basis of region into North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Europe. Asia Pacific and North America accounted for over 65% share in terms of revenue, collectively, at the end of 2015. Due to rising amount of ageing population and growing incidences of chronic diseases in Asia Pacific is expected to drive the market at the fastest rate through the forecast period.

Epic Systems Corporation, Netsmart technologies Inc., Credible Behavioral Health Inc., Cerner Corporation, Core Solutions Inc., Nextgen Healthcare Information Systems LLC., Qualifacts Systems Inc., Valant Medical Solutions Inc., Welligent Inc., and MindLinc are the leading global players in the mental health software market worldwide.

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Day: No amount of alcohol is safe in pregnancy

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Anytime is a good time to raise awareness about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders but every year, on September 9th, International Fetal Awareness Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day is observed. People all around the world gather for events to raise awareness about the dangers of drinking during pregnancy and the plight of individuals and families who struggle with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). This day was chosen so that on the ninth day of the ninth month of the year, the world will remember that during the nine months of pregnancy a woman should abstain from alcohol (FasWorld, 2013). The theme for this year is NO AMOUNT OF ALCOHOL IS SAFE DURING PREGNANCY.

 

According to Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (2016), there is no known safe amount of alcohol use during pregnancy or while trying to get pregnant. There is also no safe time during pregnancy to drink. All types of alcohol are equally harmful, including all wines and beer. When a pregnant woman drinks alcohol, so does her baby.

 

What is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder?

 

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is an umbrella term describing the range ofeffects that can occur in an individual whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. These effects may include physical, mental, behavioral, and/or learning disabilities with possible lifelong implications. An individual would not receive a diagnosis of FASD.Four diagnoses fall under the umbrella of FASD, namely, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Partial Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Static Encephalopathy/Alcohol Exposed and Neurobehavioral Disorder/Alcohol Exposed (FAS Diagnostic and Prevention Network, n.d.).

 

There’s no guarantee that a baby will be born healthy or grow up healthy. However, there is an absolute guarantee that a child will not have a fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) if a mother does not drink alcohol while pregnant. No alcohol during pregnancy is the safest choice (American Academy of Paediatrics, 2016).

 

An estimated 40,000 babies are born each year with FASDs, which can result in birth defects, intellectual or learning disabilities, behavior problems and trouble learning life skills. These difficulties last a lifetime. FASDs are completely preventable by abstaining from alcohol while pregnant (and while trying to conceive). Despite myths, there is no scientific evidence available that sets a “safe” amount of alcohol that will not affect the developing fetus (American Academy of Paediatrics, 2016).

 

Drinking alcohol in the first three months of pregnancy can cause the baby to have abnormal facial features. Growth and central nervous system problems (e.g., low birth weight, behavioral problems) can occur from drinking alcohol anytime during pregnancy. The baby’s brain is developing throughout pregnancy and can be affected by exposure to alcohol at any time (CDC, 2016).

 

If a woman is drinking alcohol during pregnancy, it is never too late to stop. The sooner a woman stops drinking, the better it will be for both her baby and herself. FASDs are completely preventable if a woman does not drink alcohol during pregnancy (CDC, 2016).

 

Women are encouraged to talk with their obstetricians, pediatricians and other health care providers so they can not only understand the risks, but also make the best choice for the health of their baby (American Academy of Paediatrics, 2016).

 

Focusing on reducing the incidence of fetal alcohol spectrum disorders, it is imperative to raise awareness on substance abuse and its effects; awareness should be created on FASD; there should be capacity building of health care providers, educator, social workers, other relevant stakeholders to identity women at risk and offer suitable intervention to stop alcohol usage in pregnancy and make appropriate referrals for diagnosing and offer comprehensive management; and early identification, prevention, management of people with FASD.

 

The cost of managing any birth defect is more than the cost of preventing it. In other words, prevention is more cost-effective than management or treatment.

 

INR-FCNSWZN joins the rest of the world in declaring war against FASD.

 

FASD is 100% preventable.

 

Avoid drinking alcohol during pregnancy.

 

REFERENCES

 

American Academy of Pediatrics (2016). Alcohol and pregnancy: It’s just not worth the risk. Retrieved from http://www.aap.org

 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2016). Alcohol use in pregnancy. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/fasd/index.html

 

FAS Diagnostic and Prevention Network (n.d.). The 4 diagnoses under the FASD umbrella. Retrieved from https://depts.washington.edu/fasdpn/htmls/fasd-fas.htm

 

FasWorld (2013). FASD awareness day September 9th. Retrieved from http://www.fasday.com/

 

Compiled by:

Faleti, Daniel D.

Olaniyi, Glory D.

 

For: Institute of Nursing Research, Fellowship of Christian Nurses, South West Zone, Nigeria.

 

 

Nursing & Midwifery Council of Nigeria gets a new registrar

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The Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN) has recently experienced a change in leadership as  Mrs A. G. Yusuf has been appointed as the new Ag. Registrar.

The exchange of headship baton of the council was imperative as the former Ag. Registrar, Mrs E.C. Azuike was due for retirement.
According to the statement announcing the new position, it was stated that the new Ag. Registrar takes over the vacant position with immediate effect.

Expert blames health professionals for Nigerians’ self-medication practice

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A consultant physician has posited that insensitivity on the part of healthcare professionals is one of the major contributing factors some Nigerians have taken to self medication.

While delivering a lecture on management of pain and headache at the 8th edition of The Panel held recently at Classique Events Place, Oregun, Lagos, Dr. Juliet Nebe, consultant physician with Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) explained that there are people in the society today who have been confined to the world of perennial drug abuse.

“These people don’t know the difference between Panadol and paracetamol (regardless of which company produces them). Consequently, they tend to combine the doses all in the name of treating headache. Little did they know that the drugs they tend to combine perform the same function,” she said.

nebe
Dr. Juliet Nebe

 

While narrating some of the day-to-day harrowing experience Nigerians go through to access quality medical attention, Nebe blamed doctors and pharmacists for not showing enough empathy for the plight of patients.

According to her, pharmacists are the first and, sometimes, only source of headache advice to patient.

“That was why I mentioned earlier that the pharmacy team plays a vital role in educating the public. Unfortunately, many have failed in this primary responsibility,” she stressed.

The consultant physician declared that she has personally been to so many pharmacies especially in my local government (Amuwo Odofin) and discovered that majority of them are not managed by pharmacists.

Consequently, Nebe called on the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) and Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) to help sanitise the profession by making it mandatory for pharmacies to be managed by qualified practitioners whose lackadaisical attitude wouldn’t put off patients into resorting to self-medication.

The expert also took a swipe at doctors at both grassroots and tertiary level for not empathising with the masses.

“Our doctors must set aside greed. They must learn to be accommodating and constantly remind themselves that they are offering humanitarian service. I am however happy that many Nigerians are more enlightened now than in the past,” she urged.

 

PCN launches online MCPD platform for re-certification of pharmacists

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In fulfilment of its pledge, the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) has launched the long awaited online platform for the Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) Programme aimed at keeping pharmacists abreast of developments in current trends and practices in Pharmacy.

In a circular distributed to pharmacists in the country, Pharm. Elijah Mohammed, registrar of the council, announced that effective from September 1, 2016, registered Nigerian pharmacists across the globe should endeavour to visit the PCN website to take their outstanding mop up modules 10, 11 and 12.

“You would recall that as part of my 4-point agenda on assumption of office, I had a dream to transform pharmacists in Nigeria from mere career professionals into intellectual practitioners with strong critical thinking skills.

 

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Pharm. Elijah Mohammed, PCN registrar

 

“This objective I promised to achieve with the instrumentality of MCPD platform. However, I wish to admit that what we have developed so far is not the ultimate platform but it is a great start,” he enthused.

Speaking further, Mohammed noted that the council has built a seamless platform that can handle the end-to-end process from registering for the module to printing out the completion certificates.

The registrar explained that the primary objective at this stage is to introduce convenience into the programme by leveraging on technology.

“This therefore means that pharmacists from the comfort of their homes or offices can use either their laptops or mobile devices to access the online MCPD content.

It is however instructive that to state that the traditional classroom MCPD will run alongside the online platform. Colleagues therefore have the option of either running online or classroom option,” he said.

The MCPD Programme is a three-year cycle of courses developed into three modules. Each module is to run for two days at a time. To qualify for re-certification, a Nigeria-licensed Pharmacist must obtain a minimum of 30 credit units.

In a given year, Pharmacists are expected to attend not more than two modules, given that each module carries a maximum of 10 credit units.

It would be recalled that the need for Mandatory Continuing Professional Development (MCPD) Programme in the re-certification of all health professionals was recognised at the maiden National Health Summit in 1995.

This recognition was followed by the directives of the honourable minister of health in 1996 to all professional regulatory bodies for health to discuss the modalities for the early take-off of the programme.

The Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), in line with the Federal Government’s directive, commenced the first and second cycles of the MCPD Programme (formerly called the

Mandatory Continuing Professional Education, MCPE), for the re-certification of pharmacists in April 1998 and September 2005 respectively, and rounded off the initiative in 2003 and 2007 respectively.

The third and fourth cycles commenced in January 2008, and June 2013, respectively. The programme is designed to update the knowledge of Pharmacists by equipping them to keep abreast of developments in pharmaceutical service delivery and current international trends and practice in Pharmacy. As the name of the Programme suggests, all registered pharmacists in Nigeria must undergo all aspects of the Programme, to the complete satisfaction of the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria.

“The next stage for us is quite an exciting one. Effective January 1, 2017, Module 13 will be released. Participants of the online platform will have the option of selecting practice specific courses to make the required module.

“This introduction will satisfy the age long desire of Nigerian pharmacists to continuing education courses that have a direct bearing on their day-to-day practice. It is our belief that pharmacists will avail themselves of the opportunity with the expectation of making change agents out of us all in our various practice spheres,” Mohammed said.

The Pharmacists Council of Nigeria is a public corporation created by the Federal government in 1992, with the sole authority for registering, monitoring, regulating and controlling all aspects of pharmacy practice in Nigeria, including the education and training of pharmacists and pharmacy-related personnel.

 

Mundipharma partners with Munir Sukhtian to strengthen its consumer healthcare business

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  • HiGeen® product range complements Mundipharma’s existing consumer healthcare portfolio, which includes the flagship brand  BETADINE®
  • Partnership to increases access to the HiGeen® range of products for millions of people across the Middle East and Africa region

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Mundipharma (www.Mundipharma.com.sg) has entered into a long term partnership that provides it with the commercial rights to market Munir Sukhtian Group’s portfolio of HiGeen® treatments in more than 50 countries across the Middle East, Africa

The two companies have a long history of partnership in Jordan where Sukhtian group has been Mundipharma’s distributor for several years. Munir Sukhtian group is a family-owned, diversified Jordanian company. Its HiGeen® range includes best-selling hand sanitizers, HiGeen® Harrar Massage Cream, HiGeen® Barrad Cold Gel, HiGeen® Daffaq Cream, HiGeen® HerboHeal Jaddad Ointment, HiGeen® Fungazi Foot Cream which are marketed in Europe, Asia and Latin America through distributors.

Ashraf Allam, Vice President of Mundipharma Middle East and Africa said “Mundipharma has a proud heritage in the consumer healthcare space and The HiGeen® range complements our current portfolio and fits very well with our growth and expansion strategy. Most importantly, This collaboration for HiGeen® brand products allows us to offer products from prevention to treatment and to realize further contribution to the improvement of the quality of life of patients and customers.”

Deemah Sukhtian, Managing Director of Munir Sukhtian Group said, “The complementary nature of HiGeen® and Mundipharma’s products will ensure that both companies provide a stronger proposition to patients in the area of wound care and prevention of infectious diseases. We are confident that our alliance, leveraging on Mundipharma’s expertise and global network, will enhance access to our innovative products and further improve the quality of life of patients and customers.”

About Mundipharma:
Mundipharma’s (www.Mundipharma.com.sg) independent associated companies are privately owned entities covering the world’s pharmaceutical markets. Mundipharma is a prime example of a company that consistently delivers high quality products while standing by the values that represent the company. Our mission is to alleviate the suffering of patients with cancer and non-cancer pain and to substantially improve their quality of life. Mundipharma is dedicated to bringing to patients with severe and debilitating diseases the benefit of novel treatment options in fields such as pain, oncology, oncology supportive care, ophthalmology, respiratory disease and consumer healthcare.

For more information please visit:  www.Mundipharma.com.sg

About Munir Sukhtian:
Established in 1933, the Munir Sukhtian Group (www.Sukhtian.com) is a family-owned Jordanian company with diversified business across pharmaceuticals, medical and consumer products, veterinary, agriculture, and chemicals. The company has direct presence in the Middle East and works through distributors in Europe, Asia and Latin America.

For more information, please visit: http://www.Sukhtian.com/

®: HiGeen and BETADINE are registered trademarks.

SOURCE
Mundipharma Pte Ltd

Amazing health benefits of pear

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Pears are valuable fruits that have been widely used and savoured for their delicious flavour since ancient times. Beyond being a tasty addition to the diet, pears are also packed with nutrients and nutritional value. Pears are full of fiber, a crucial nutrient for your skin. “Fiber slows the release of sugar into your blood, a good thing because repeated sugar spikes can damage collagen, a protein that keeps your complexion plump and smooth. It is also refers to as an anti-aging fruit which gives your skin a big beauty boost, whether you eat it or apply it!

pear

Pears also have vitamin C, which fights free radicals.

Pears have earned very special recognition. Researchers now know that certain flavonoids in food can improve insulin sensitivity, and of special interest in this area have been three groups of flavonoids (flavonols, flavan-3-ols, and anthocyanins). All pears contain flavonoids falling within the first two groups, and red-skinned pears contain anthocyanins as well. Intake of these flavonoid groups has been associated with decreased risk of type 2 diabetes in both women and men. However, a new analysis of the Nurses’ Health Study has shown that among all fruits and vegetables analyzed for their flavonoid content, the combination of apples/pears showed the most consistent ability to lower risk of type 2 diabetes.

Recent studies have shown that the skin of pears contains at least three to four times as many phenolic phytonutrients as the flesh. These phytonutrients include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory flavonoids, and potentially anti-cancer phytonutrients like cinnamic acids. The skin of the pear has also been show to contain about half of the pear’s total dietary fiber.

The health benefits of pear fiber also extend into the area of cancer risk. Fiber from pear can bind together not only with bile acids as a whole, but also with a special group of bile acids called secondary bile acids. Excessive amounts of secondary bile acids in the intestine can increase our risk of colorectal cancer (as well as other intestinal problems). By binding together with secondary bile acids, pear fibers can help decrease their concentration in the intestine and lower our risk of cancer development. In the case of stomach cancer (gastric cancer).

Pears are an excellent source of dietary fiber, and fiber is good for the heart. Studies have shown that fiber can lower levels of bad cholesterol by binding to bile salts—which are made from cholesterol—and carrying them out of the body. Eating pears can also reduce risk of stroke by up to 50 percent.

Although few studies have been done on the subject, doctors generally consider pears to be a hypoallergenic fruit because they are less likely than other fruits to produce an allergic response when eaten. For this reason, pears are generally considered “safe” and are often one of the first fruits given to infants.

Pears are one of the lowest calorie fruits; an average pear has just over 100 calories, which is 5% of daily calorie allowance of a healthy diet. However, the nutritional supplementation it gives you is immense, and the fiber makes you feel full. Therefore, people trying to lose weight often turn to pears to get the most “bang for their buck”. It is a high-energy, high-nutrient food with a low impact on weight gain and obesity.

Pears are a wonderful source of potassium, which means that pears can have a significant impact on heart health, because potassium is a well-known vasodilator. This means that it lowers blood pressure, which reduces strain to the entire cardiovascular system and makes it harder for clots to form or harm you. Furthermore, it increases blood flow to all parts of the body, which oxygenates the organs and promotes their effective function. Lowering blood pressure is also connected to a lower chance of cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes.

For patients that suffer from anemia or other mineral deficiencies, pears can be very helpful, due to its content of copper and iron. Copper facilitates and improves the uptake of minerals into the system, and increased levels of iron mean that red blood cell synthesis increases. Iron is an important part of hemoglobin and anemia is another name for iron deficiency. You can prevent fatigue, cognitive malfunction, muscle weakness, and organ system malfunction by consuming foods high in iron and copper, both of which are found in significant amounts in pears.

The high mineral content of pears, which includes magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, calcium, and copper, means that you can reduce bone mineral loss and debilitating conditions like osteoporosis and general weakness of the body due to lack of support from the bones.

One of the most versatile vitamins in the human body is Vitamin A. Pears are high in vitamin A, and its subsequent components, like lutein and zea-xanthin.  They act as an antioxidant as well as participating in a number of enzymatic reactions and organ functions, pears can reduce the effects of aging on the skin, like wrinkles and age spots. This powerful fruit can also reduce hair loss, macular degeneration, cataracts, and various other conditions associated with the aging process.

What you need to know about skin rashes

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A skin rash is an area of skin that has become swollen or irritated. Skin rashes can include skin bumps or sores, scaly or red skin, and itchy or burning skin. Skin rashes can be caused by many medical conditions. Some skin rashes occur right away, while others take some time to develop. The location, appearance, and color of a skin rash are all important to help your doctor make the right diagnosis and start the right treatment.

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  1. Chickenpox: A skin rash made up of blisters

The virus known as varicella zoster, more commonly called chickenpox, creates a skin rash of itchy blisters on the face that spreads down to cover the chest and back. It’s typically accompanied by fever and sore throat. Even though a vaccine is available, chickenpox is still common in children under age 12. Treatment is aimed at controlling symptoms, including fever with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), and the itch with creams and cold compresses.

  1. Rubella: Red spots all over the skin

Another viral skin rash that affects children and young adults is rubella, or German measles. Rubella causes a rash of red skin spots that spreads like chickenpox from the face down. The skin rash can be itchy. Other symptoms include sore throat, fever, swollen glands, headache, and runny nose. There is a vaccine for rubella, but about 10 percent of young adults are still susceptible. Rubella can be very dangerous for pregnant women because it can cause birth defects. Treatment is similar to that for chickenpox.

  1. Hives: Sudden, itchy skin bumps

Urticaria, also known as hives, is a skin rash that comes on suddenly and causes pale, itchy, or pink swellings on your skin, and burns or stings. This skin condition can occur anywhere on the skin. Up to 20 percent of people may experience hives at least once in their lifetime. Hives may last for a few days or a few weeks and may be caused by an allergic reaction to a food or medication. The most common treatment is to avoid the cause and treat the symptoms with an antihistamine medication.

  1. Psoriasis: A Disease affecting the growth cycle of skin cells

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that can cause patches of thick, dry skin covered with silver scales. Known as plaques, these itchy patches can occur anywhere on the body. An estimated 7.5 million Americans have psoriasis, which occurs when a faulty immune system accelerates the growth cycle of skin cells. Many people with the condition also suffer from psoriatic arthritis, which causes joint pain and swelling. The exact cause of psoriasis is unclear, but genetics play a role. Treatments such as topical creams, light therapy, and medications can help manage psoriasis symptoms.

  1. Skin Rashes Caused by Medication

A drug-induced skin rash can be from an allergic reaction to a drug, a side effect of a drug, or from sensitivity to sunlight caused by a drug. A drug rash can occur right away after taking the drug, or up to several hours later. Types of drug rashes include hive or skin bump eruptions, purple or red skin discoloration, or scaly and thickened areas of skin. This skin condition can occur anywhere on the skin or even inside the mouth. Treatment is to stop taking the drug and manage the symptoms with antihistamines or steroids. In rare cases, drug-induced rashes can be serious or even fatal, so check with your doctor.

 

  1. Prickly Heat: A Skin Rash that Stings

Prickly heat, or heat rash, causes red skin that stings and itches. Small skin bumps may form as well. Heat rash is caused when sweat gets blocked in your pores. This is a common rash in babies, but can occur at any age. This skin condition tends to form where skin rubs against skin, such as in skin folds of the neck, breasts, groin, and underarms. The best treatment is to cool off, dry off, and reduce friction.

  1. Intertrigo: A Skin Rash in Body Folds

Intertrigo is a skin condition that occurs in skin folds, under the breasts, on the inner thighs, under armpits, or under belly folds. Chaffing causes a rash of red skin or brown skin that gets infected with yeast or bacteria and becomes raw. The skin rash may ooze and itch. This rash is more common in people who are overweight and in people with diabetes. Treatment involves keeping the areas dry, treating infections, and using steroid creams.

  1. Rosacea: A Red Rash on the Face

Rosacea is a common skin condition that occurs on the face of adults. Symptoms of rosacea include redness of the cheeks, nose, forehead, and chin. Small blood vessels may be seen on the surface of the red skin, along with skin bumps and pimples, though this is not related to acne breakouts. Rosacea only affects the face. The cause is unknown and there is no cure, although treatment with antibiotics can minimize symptoms.

  1. Eczema: Red, Itchy Skin

Another word for eczema is dermatitis, or inflammation of the skin. Eczema causes your skin to be dry and itchy. Scratching makes your skin red and inflamed. Eczema is not contagious, and common causes include detergents, soaps, wool, and synthetic fibers. Eczema is common in babies and children, but can be seen at any age. The best treatment is avoiding substances that your skin is sensitive to.

  1. Contact Dermatitis: A Skin Rash Caused by Irritation or Allergy

Contact dermatitis can be caused by any allergy-causing substance or irritating substance that touches your skin. Irritating substances are more common and include solvents, acid, and detergents. Allergic contact dermatitis is commonly seen with poison ivy, cosmetics, and medications that are applied to the skin. The skin rash of contact dermatitis can appear as red skin, skin bumps, blisters, scales, crusts, or sores. Itching is common. Treatment of contact dermatitis includes washing the skin and using anti-itch lotions and steroids.

  1. Impetigo: A Skin Rash Caused by Bacteria

Impetigo is a rash caused by a skin infection, usually traced to one of two bacteria, group A streptococcus or Staphylococcus aureus. This skin rash appears as brown, crusty sores or blisters around the nose or mouth area. The rash is very itchy and very contagious. Scratching the rash and then touching other areas of the body, or other people, will cause it to spread. Treatment of impetigo is with antibiotic creams or lotions, and for more severe cases, with oral antibiotics.

Is bending over in pregnancy safe?

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There have been divergent views on the best posture in pregnancy, as regards picking objects from the floor. One school of thought says bending over in pregnancy poses a lot of risk to the bundle of joy, while another sect believes that bending during pregnancy will not hurt your baby in any way. But what is the medical position on this issue? Nature provides a wonderful cushioning system for the growing fetus. Gynecologists are of the view that the amniotic fluid allows the baby to move his arms, legs, practice breathing movements and flip around in your womb. They said it helps the baby to adapt easily as the mother changes position. Bending over will in no way affect your baby’s health adversely, they maintained.

The medical experts further submitted that bending does not harm the baby in any way. But as the baby grows, it will become difficult for the mother to bend. It may even increase her risk of tripping and may even cause other discomforts.

Here’s how bending down while pregnant can spell danger for the mother and her baby:

  1. Increases the risk of falling:

The biggest danger due to bending is that it increases the risk of tripping or falling. Falling and injuring your abdomen can prove dangerous during pregnancy. It can cause placental abruption or separation from the uterine wall and lead to vaginal bleeding or even miscarriage. The risk to the fetus due to bending and falling increases ten folds during the third trimester as the uterine wall thins out and the baby’s head drops into the pelvis.

  1. Causes dizziness:

Bending over while pregnant sends a rush of blood to the head, leaving you dizzy. Dizziness can lead to a loss of balance or consciousness and injury, which may adversely affect your baby.

  1. Leads to heartburn:

Bending increases the stress on the stomach and can aggravate heartburn, a common problem in late pregnancy. It can cause acid reflux or the reverse flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. It can lead to belching, a burning sensation in the food pipe and an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

  1. Causes strain:

Due to the growing baby bump, your centre of gravity will shift during pregnancy. Bending forward and then leaning back will strain your spine and damage your weakened ligaments further during pregnancy.

How to bend while pregnant

If you have to perform a task that requires bending, you should keep the following things in mind:

Remember to lower your knees instead of stretching your back.

You should also get up slowly using your hands, thighs, and knees rather than straining the muscles of the abdomen and stomach. It will help protect your back and strengthen your legs while allowing you to perform daily activities as your pregnancy advances.

While lifting an object, try to hold it under your baby bump to align it with your shifted center of gravity.

Remember to approach your everyday chores in a cautious way.

Maintaining good posture during pregnancy:

Good posture during pregnancy involves training the body to walk, sit, lie and stand in positions where you do not feel any strain. The bulging belly may make you feel like you are going to topple. But by taking a few steps, you can effectively maintain proper body mechanics. Here are a few posture tips that you must follow during pregnancy:

  1. Standing position:

While standing, your neck, head, and back should be in a straight line. Stand with your back against the wall for a few minutes every day. It is a great way of straightening your spine. Avoid standing in the same position for a long time.

  1. Sitting position:

Sit with your shoulders and spine straight. Your derriere should touch the back of the chair. You can use a pillow, rolled-up towel, a lumbar roll to support your back while sitting.

  1. Driving position:

While driving also, you must use a back support. The knees should be at the same level or even higher than your hips. You can also adjust your seat to allow your feet to reach the pedals, bend your knees and yet keep the steering wheel 10 inches away from your belly. Most importantly, always wear lap and shoulder safety belts while driving. You must place the lap belt as low on your hips as possible.

  1. Correct way to lift objects:

Ask for help when lifting heavy objects. If you are lifting the object alone, then make sure you have a firm footing. If you are picking up an object lower than your waist, then keep your back straight and bend your hips and knees. Never bend forward at the waist with your knees straight.

If you are lifting an object from the table, then slide it to the edge of the table to hold it close to your body. Exercise caution while holding heavy objects that are above your waist level.

  1. Sleeping and lying positions:

A good posture is crucial even when you are resting. You should not lie flat on your back or stomach while sleeping. Lying on the back during the third trimester can cause more stress on your heart and increase your chances of suffering from a backache.

Lying on the stomach will not be a very comfortable position for you. It can also reduce the blood flow and add pressure on the fetus. Most of the doctors advise pregnant women to lie on their left side during the third trimester. It will allow the blood to flow to the kidney, uterus and, of course, the fetus. So avoid the temptation of slumping at the end of a long day.

Hygiene products you should never share with anyone

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Often we tend to share some of our hygiene products with some friends, roommates or partners; however there are some products that should be reserved for your body alone. While it is advisable to always remember that some of these apparently harmless items actually can seriously hamper your health.

Hygiene Bars of soap

Seems innocent enough, right? Well, not exactly. It was said that those who shared soap were more likely to have recurring infections of Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), an antibiotic-resistant staph infection. While soap’s self-cleaning nature does minimize germ-swapping, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention recommend using liquid soap to prevent infections.

Antiperspirants

Deodorants are all about stopping bacteria’s stink, meaning they come packed with antimicrobial properties. Antiperspirants, however, only slow your sweating—so they won’t kill the germs that are swiped onto your stick, according to the Mayo Clinic. Plus, while it probably won’t cause infection, you can transfer skin cells and hair particles from pit to pit as you share antiperspirant or deodorant sticks—a pretty stomach-churning reality.

Razors

Case studies of razors contributing to the transmission of hepatitis B, C, and HIV all abound, according to dermatologist Bethanee J. Schlosser, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Women’s Skin Health Program for Northwestern Medicine. “Sharing of razors has also been known to cause transmissions of fungal infection—specifically tinea corporis, known more commonly as ringworm—and bacterial infections, she says.

Towels

Think twice before re-using your friend’s towel: According to the CDC, it’s possible to spread infections ranging from pink eye to gonorrhea by sharing dirty towels (especially wet ones).

Toothbrushes

Even sharing a toothbrush with your partner is risky. It’s an established risk factor for the transmission of blood-borne infections that is according to dermatologist Bethanee J. Schlosser, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Women’s Skin Health Program for Northwestern Medicine. And while, no matter what, brushing your teeth temporarily increases the levels of bacteria in your bloodstream, she says, there’s no reason to boost those levels any higher than they have to be.

Nail clippers

Two words: Nail fungus. Plus, they may also pose a risk of transmitting blood-borne viral infections—especially if you accidently clip the skin, Schlosser says. So if your friend asks to borrow your pair, it is advisable not to share.

Midwives scheme laments poor allocation of funds

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The Chairman, Evidence Sub-Committee, Lagos State Accountability Mechanism for Maternal and Newborn Health (LASAM), Mr Baruwa Basit, has revealed that the state’s midwives service scheme got less than 25 percent of its budget last year.

Basit made the disclosure while giving an update on the 2015 Health Budget Scorecard and Dissemination of Lagos State Maternal and Newborn Health Scorecard in Lagos.

The chairman said the poor allocation of funds to the state midwifery scheme was one out of a number of issues that came out of the findings of the study undertaken to understand how government was keeping up with its responsibility in reducing child and maternal mortality deaths in the state.

The report was released by the LASAM and Mamaye Evidence for Action.

The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, who was represented by the chairman, LASAM, Dr. Folashade Oludara, said more work needed to be done especially in the area of increasing the number of health workers across the Primary Health Care (PHC) centres across the state.

Daily Trust News