Professor Okojie wins NAPharm 2016 Lifetime Achievement Awards

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”.

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

By

-

16/09/2016

3

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

By

-

15/09/2016

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:

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.

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.

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.
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.

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

By

-

15/09/2016

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

By

-

15/09/2016

Conference Series LLC invites all the participants across the globe to attend the “6^th 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

By

-

14/09/2016

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.

Visit More Information: http://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/sample/rep-gb-403

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

By

-

14/09/2016

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

By

-

14/09/2016

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.

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.

Visit More Information: http://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/home-healthcare-softwaremarket

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

By

-

14/09/2016

(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

By

-

12/09/2016

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

By

-

10/09/2016

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

By

-

09/09/2016

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

By

Temitope Obayendo

-

09/09/2016

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

By

-

08/09/2016

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 8^th 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.

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

By

-

08/09/2016

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.

“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

By

-

08/09/2016

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

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

By

-

07/09/2016

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!

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

By

-

07/09/2016

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

By

-

07/09/2016

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:

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.

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.

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.

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:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

By

-

07/09/2016

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.

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

By

-

06/09/2016

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

NAFDAC sets to purge the system of corrupt staff

By

-

06/09/2016

The Acting Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Mrs. Yetunde Ani, has vowed to fight the devastating effects of corruption, which had rendered the agency from achieving its statutory mandate.

The NAFDAC boss made her stand known during a re-orientation training programme for senior staff of the Agency in the North West zone, recently in Kaduna.

According to her, since she took over the mantle of leadership, the current management under her supervision had pledged to be decisive, firm, courageous, bold and transparent in running the affairs of the Agency.

She explained “Over the years, the Agency in the discharge of its statutory functions has been battling with the devastating effects of corruption and lackadaisical attitude of staff in the discharge of their duties.”

Ani further noted that the type of corruption prevalent in the system is the use of official time by staff to engage in their personal businesses, saying, this has grossly affected the operations of the Agency.

She maintained that efficient service delivery is what workers were employed to carry out as public servants, stressing that, “service is what we offer ourselves and what the people are entitled to expect from us.”

The DG reminded the staff to be conversant with the four main principles of efficient service delivery, which are commitment to work, consideration of the needs and rights of Nigerians, dedication to deliver services to which the citizens are entitled and absolute transparency.

“This is a re-awakening of our consciousness, zeal and determination to take the agency to greater heights. This exercise is not a jamboree but a pragmatic effort on the part of our management to re-dedicate regulatory officers to higher productivity, efficient service delivery and transparency. ”

The Guardian

Studies reveal antibiotics increase the risk of eczema in infants

By

-

06/09/2016

Studies on almost 400,000 people found that giving antibiotics to infants increased their chance of developing the painful skin allergy by up to 41 per cent, and their risk of hay fever by up to 56 per cent.

Children given antibiotics before the age of two are more likely to develop eczema in later life, experts have found.

It means that when exposed to relatively harmless foreign substances such as pollen; their immune system over-reacts, sparking an allergic reaction.

According to the report published on Daily Mail, the scientists, who will present their data today at the European Respiratory Society congress in London, compiled the results of 22 studies. They found the increased risk of eczema ranged from 15 to 41 per cent depending on the type of study analysed, rising to 14 to 56 per cent for hay fever.

The risk of both allergies went up if the babies had been treated with two courses, rather than a single course, said Dr Fariba Ahmadizar, of Utrecht University in the Netherlands.However, last night doctors said children should still take antibiotics when needed.

Prescriptions data for children is not routinely recorded by the NHS, but experts estimate that the average child in the UK has taken ten courses of antibiotics by the age of 16 – more than one every two years.

Doctors are desperate to reduce the use of antibiotics among children, particularly in cases where they are never needed in the first place.

As well as increasing the risk of allergies, evidence suggests overuse of the drugs also increases the risk of type 1 diabetes and of obesity.

But experts are most concerned that over prescription of the drugs is creating a breed of untreatable superbugs. Antibiotic resistance occurs when germs adapt and find ways to survive the effects of medicines. The more that the bugs are exposed to the drugs, the quicker they evolve.

A major study led by Bristol University last year found that 48 per cent of youngsters in Britain with a common bladder complaint were carrying germs resistant to Ampicillin, a go-to drug used for a variety of illnesses.

Professor Dame Sally Davies, England’s chief medical officer, last year said parents should stop asking GPs for antibiotics for their children.

‘Using antibiotics when we don’t need them, or not always taking the full course properly, gives bacteria in our bodies that opportunity to become resistant to antibiotics.’

Over 37 pharmaceutical outlets sealed in Lagos

By

-

06/09/2016

Over 37 illegal pharmaceutical outlets were at the weekend sealed by the Lagos State Government in a bid to curb the unwholesome distribution of medicines in the state.

The recent raid, which was done in Ikorodu Local Government Area of Lagos, as reported by Vanguard, affected illegal pharmacies in Ikorodu Central, Agric, Agbede, Ita-Oluwo, Eyita, Odongunyan, Igbogbo, Itamaga and Ijede.

Remarking on the exercise, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Primary Healthcare, Dr. Olufemi Onanuga disclosed that a total of 37 outlets out of 49 were sealed off for various offences ranging from engaging quacks, licensed patent medicine shops operating beyond their scope, illegal sale of ethical products and dispensing drugs to unsuspecting citizens of the state.

Other offenders include; illegal operatives of unregistered premises who displayed and stored drugs in an unconducive environment. The raid was carried out in collaboration with the State Task force on Counterfeit, Fake Drugs and Unwholesome Processed Foods, representatives of National Agency for Food Drug Administration and Control, NAFDAC, Pharmacists’ Council of Nigeria, PCN, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria Federal Taskforce and Officers of the State.

4th Global Experts Meeting on Neuropharmacology

By

-

06/09/2016

Conference Series LLC invites all the participants from all over the world to attend ‘4^thGlobal Experts Meeting on Neuropharmacology’ during September 14-16, 2016 in San Antonio, USA which includes prompt keynote presentations, Oral talks, Poster presentations and Exhibitions.

Neuropharmacology 2016 is the learning of how drugs influence cellular function in the nervous system, and the neural mechanisms through which they influence behavior. The studies are more concerned with the interactions of neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, neurohormones, neuromodulators, enzymes, second messengers, co-transporters, ion channels, and receptor proteins in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Advanced studies are being made to improvise developments in drugs to treat numerous diverse neurological disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases known to be Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease, pain, addiction, psychological disorders and many more. Conference Series LLC organizes a conference series of 3000+ Global Events with over 600+ Conferences, 1200+ Symposiums and 1200+ Workshops in USA, Europe & Asia with support from 1000 more scientific societies and publishes 700+ Open access journals which contains over 30000 eminent personalities, reputed scientists as editorial board members.

Gallery Image

Why to attend???

With members from around the world focused on learning about neuropharmacology and its advances; this is your best opportunity to reach the largest assemblage of participants from the Neuropharmacology community. Conduct presentations, distribute information, meet with current and potential scientists, make a splash with new drug developments, and receive name recognition at this 3-day event. World-renowned speakers, the most recent techniques, developments, and the newest updates in Neuropharmacology are hallmarks of this conference.

Target Audience:

Neuropharmacology Students, Scientists
Neuropharmacology Researchers
Neuropharmacology Faculty
Medical Colleges
Neuropharmacology Associations and Societies
Business Entrepreneurs
Training Institutes
Software developing companies
Manufacturing Medical Devices Companies
Data Management Companies

Conference Highlights

Source: confrenceseries.com

2nd International Conference and Expo on Biopharmaceutics and Biologic Drugs

By

-

05/09/2016

3

Conference Series LLC proudly announces the commencement of “2^nd International Conference & Expo on Biopharmaceutics and Biologic Drugs” which is going to be held during September 14-16 at San Antonio, USA. The conference theme “Biopharmaceutics the Life within Drugs”. The event offers a best platform with its well organized scientific program to the audience which includes interactive panel discussions, keynote lectures, plenary talks and poster sessions on the topics Biopharmaceutics, Drug delivery, drug toxicity research, Novel Approaches, Product Development, Biowaiver Approaches, Current Issues in Bioequivalence of oral Products, Pharmaceutical Innovation in the 21^st Century, New scientific approaches to international regulatory standards. The conference invites delegates from Biopharma laboratories, Pharmacists, Academicians, Clinicial, Researchers, Health care professionals, students, business delegates and Young researchers across the globe providing a better podium, interconnecting the latest research, technological developments in the area as well as therapeutic aspects. Participating at Biopharma International conference will be an excellent opportunity to meet eminent personalities in the fields of Biopharmaceutics and learn about the latest technological advancements.

Biopharma industry is one of the major contributors in global economic progress. The global biopharmaceuticals market, in 2009, was $106 billion. The global biopharmaceutical industry is currently worth over $145 billion, according to research conducted by Bio Plan Associates. The industry should exceed $167 billion in 2015. Realizing the importance, Conference Series LLC is organizing Biopharma conference in San Antonio, USA this year paving way for sharing views and research, which will help the scientific world to adopt solutions for the problems of critical importance.

Why to attend?

With members from around the world focused on learning about Pharma and its advances; this is your best opportunity to reach the largest assemblage of participants from the Pharma community. Conduct presentations, distribute information, meet with current and potential scientists, make a splash with new drug developments, and receive name recognition at this 3-day event.

Target Audience:

Presidents/Vice Presidents, Academic Scientists, Students, Researchers and Research scholars, Government Organizations, Pharmaceutical companies, Investors, Regulatory Officials, Advocacy groups, Institutional Board members any others interested in learning about the current trends in Biopharma.

We therefore encourage all colleagues from all over the world to participate and help us to make this an unforgettable important and enjoyable meeting.

Conference Highlights

Source: conferenceseries.com

6th Pharmacovigilance Congress September 28-30, 2016

By

-

05/09/2016

3

Conference Series LLC organizing gratifying Pharmaceutical conferences, welcomes you to attend the 6th Pharmacovigilance congress to be held during September 28-30, 2016 in Toronto, Canada focuses on the advancements in pharmacovigilance and risk management.

The field of Pharmacovigilance is growing rapidly and its development is making tremendous impacts in medical sciences and pharmaceuticals. 6th Pharmacovigilance congress emphasizes on how the importance and significance can be gauged by the fact that it has made huge advancements over the course of time and is continuing to influence various sectors. Main theme of 6th Pharmacovigilance congress is “Ensuring Drug Safety in Healthcare System”.

Gallery Image

Why to attend???

With members from around the world focused on learning about Pharmacovigilance and its advances; this is your best opportunity to reach the largest assemblage of participants from the Pharmacovigilance community. Conduct presentations, distribute information, meet with current and potential scientists, make a splash with new drug developments, and receive name recognition at this 3-day event. World-renowned speakers, the most recent techniques, developments, and the newest updates in Pharmacovigilance are hallmarks of this conference.

Target Audience:

Pharmacovigilance Students, Scientists
Pharmacovigilance Researchers
Pharmacovigilance Faculty
Medical Colleges
Pharmacovigilance Associations and Societies
Business Entrepreneurs
Training Institutes
Software developing companies
Manufacturing Medical Devices Companies
Data Management Companies.

Conference Highlights:

Red alert on Lassa Fever as new cases are found in four states

By

-

05/09/2016

Reports from the northern part of the country at the weekend showed that its not yet Uhuru for Nigeria, as the issue of Lassa Fever is concerned, as five more cases of the disease have been reported in four states, indicating the possibility of a spread further.

Confirming the new cases, as reported by Channels TV, Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) said that two cases were reported from Plateau State, one from Rivers, and one each from Bauchi and Gombe. They all occurred between August 24 to September 2.

The individual with the Lassa fever in Gombe died on August 22 while others are still alive.

According to the agency, public health response has commenced in all the affected states under the leadership of the respective state’s Ministries of Health.

“Resources were immediately mobilised from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and its partner, the Nigerian Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Programme (NFELTP), to support the investigation and management of cases in the affected states,” the agency said in a statement.

Natal multimammate mouse is the primary animal host of the Lassa virus.

The Chief Executive Officer of the NCDC, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu, stressed the need for early detection of the disease and reporting of the cases.

“We commend the early detection and reporting of the most recent cases, as it significantly improves the likelihood of survival for the cases and also reduces the risk of further transmission. We also urge all States to report cases immediately for Lassa fever while improving on the timeliness of their reporting generally,” Dr. Ihekweazu stated.

As a result of increasing number of cases of Lassa fever, the NCDC also issued an advisory to all States, reminding them of the steps they have to take to prepare and respond to cases of Lassa fever and other haemorrhagic fevers, as well as the resources that they can access for this.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control further reiterated its commitment to supporting the States to prevent the spread of Lassa fever in Nigeria.

Virus Spreads To Human

Lassa fever fresh cases resurfaced on August 22, with Delta State recording the death of a medical doctor.

After his death, several other persons have been placed under surveillance in different states, with sensitisation campaigns also increasing.

The virus spreads to human from rodents and it is then shed in their excreta (urine and feces), which can be aerosolised.

In fatal cases, Lassa fever is characterised by impaired or delayed cellular immunity leading to fulminant viremia.

Infection in humans typically occurs by exposure to animal excrement through the respiratory or gastrointestinal tracts.

Inhalation of tiny particles of infectious material (aerosol) is believed to be the most significant means of exposure.

It is possible to acquire the infection through broken skin or mucous membranes that are directly exposed to infectious material.

Transmission from person to person has also been established, presenting a disease risk for healthcare workers.

Channels TV

NAPharm VP seeks FG’s intervention over scarcity of drugs and raw materials

By

-

05/09/2016

Vice President of the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy (NAPharm) and Publisher of Pharmanews, Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi, has re-echoed the need for the Federal Government to urgently intervene in the scarcity of drugs and raw materials for drug production, saying this portends a lot of negative development for the health sector.

Atueyi, who spoke to the Guardian in an exclusive chat, listed the impact of forex and limited infrastructures to the industry, which included influx of fake drugs, poor patients’ outcome, exorbitant prices of drugs, and others.

Details below:

How would you describe research developments in the country with respect to your profession?

There is no doubt that research is what defines the future. And I do not know of any scientific discipline that does not value research. I can safely say that a great deal of research goes on in various faculties of Pharmacy in our universities. But of course, you and I know the situation with our universities, especially with regards to funding. Our universities are grossly under-funded. Pharmaceutical research, on the other hand, is not cheap. So, that portends a problem. Pharmacists in academia can only do the best they can within the limitations that are imposed on them by funding.

Another limitation is infrastructure. When you are a researcher, you shouldn’t ordinarily worry about diesel to power your generator and all of that. You should ideally be fully immersed in your research work. But here, working can be quite stressful and it affects the quality and productivity of intellectual work. But even with these, academics have been fairly productive in the area of research over the years, although a lot more could have been done, if the environment had been more conducive. This is why Nigerian pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists are doing better in developed countries.

As for the pharmaceutical companies, I am not aware of any serious research and development going on, apparently because of the cost. The Nigerian Institute of Pharmaceutical Research and Development Abuja is a good initiative by the government to help drive pharmaceutical research and development. It has been productive in the past and has even done a great deal of work in the area of Sickle Cell Disease. Perhaps you’ve heard of NIPRISAN. That is a product of their research, which has been proven to be good at controlling crises outbreaks in sickle cell patients. But as with most government establishments, it needs better funding. Such a drug needs to be produced at commercial quantities and funds are required for this.

Indeed, this is one of the key areas where the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy is striving to make a difference. We are raising awareness as to the importance of research in the health sciences in general and also encouraging wealthy Nigerians to sponsor and endow research projects and research institutes. We are also encouraging young people to pursue research-inclined careers, in the pharmaceutical and health sciences.

What impact does the lingering foreign exchange crisis have on the sector and Nigerians?

Nigerians actually pay more than what they ought to pay for medicines. Cost of medicines could be much lower, if the right infrastructure were in place and pharmaceutical companies did not have to invest so much in such overheads as power, infrastructure, distribution and even security. Also there is the fact that our pharmaceutical industry is highly import-dependent. You find that between 65 per cent and 70 per cent of finished products are imported, which means that only about 35 per cent or so is locally manufactured. You may be surprised to know that, in pharmaceutical manufacturing, practically all of the raw materials we use are imported. The implication is that, when there are fluctuations in the foreign exchange regime, as it has been in recent times, the industry is impacted very significantly.

Currently, the dollar is being exchanged above N400 at the parallel market and many pharmaceutical companies are unable to access foreign exchange at official window. This is a red flag, not only for the pharmaceutical sector, but for the health of all Nigerians. If drugs or the raw materials for drug production become too expensive, then a large proportion of the public would naturally be unable to afford them. This is what fundamentally encourages the influx of fake drugs. Unscrupulous elements in society cash in on the problem and import fake and substandard drugs into our country and worsen their health conditions or even kill them.

We are facing a real emergency situation and I believe the industry has since implored the Federal Government to intervene to facilitate access of the pharmaceutical industry to foreign exchange. The government should also consider reduced interest rate on loans by the industry. Government should give priority to the health of the citizens.

You mentioned the fact that raw materials are generally imported, what future do you see with any possible growth in the petrochemical industry?

The existing government-owned refineries focused all their attention on refining fuels and did not take the petro-chemical aspect very seriously. That is one of the reasons there is excitement around recent announcements that Dangote refinery will focus on the petro-chemical aspect as well as fuel refining. This will make a huge difference in the pharmaceutical sector and the larger industrial sector, even if it’s only a small line of petrochemical products that is made available in the short term.

I give you an example. Imagine the tonnes of plastics that are imported into the country. In the pharmaceutical industry, we use plastics for much of the packaging like bottles, syringes, corks and many others. Even food and beverage companies rely heavily on plastics. Imagine the cost savings to our economy in terms of foreign exchange, if we remove plastics from our import list by producing them. So, petrochemicals will spur our industrial sector and the pharmaceutical sector in particular, to greater heights because it will help to make most of our chemicals-based raw materials more readily accessible and affordable. This will translate to enhanced value for the larger economy because companies will deploy the savings to other key areas.

What would you say about Nigeria’s investment in human capital, particularly in your sector, as part of keeping up with global trends?

Despite the constraints in the environment, I would say that pharmaceutical training is keeping up with the dynamics of the profession. Across the world, the focus of Pharmacy has shifted. It used to be on drugs, but now the focus is on the patients. What this means is that Pharmacy is now more clinically-oriented. Curriculum is therefore evolving. Pharmacists must, in addition to all of the chemistry and pharmacology, which they ordinarily emphasise, also demonstrate clinical interest. I must say that this is already happening in Nigeria. Indeed, the Nigerian Universities Commission (NUC) has since approved the Pharm.D, or Doctor of Pharmacy degree, which is a clinical pharmacy degree. It is currently being offered at the University of Benin, and will, in due course, be adopted in other pharmacy schools across the country.

There are still challenges, with the biggest being funding, equipment and manpower. But these challenges are not peculiar to Pharmacy. They affect every sector in Nigeria. So, going back to your question, Nigeria does not invest enough in its human capital. We really ought to be doing more than we are doing. There is too much emphasis on politics and wealth acquisition and ostentation. We really need values-reorientation. Those of our colleagues who still do research in the universities are doing a Herculean job. They deserve praise.

How is the Academy going about these challenges in terms of solutions?

As I mentioned earlier, one of our objectives has been to raise awareness on the essence of scientific research and development. This advocacy is very important, because in the face of a multiplicity of interests that are jostling for attention of the government, there is a lot of pressure on available resources. Government needs to recognise the imperative of investment in training, manpower development and research and an academy like the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy is helping to bring this issue to the attention of policy makers. Secondly, we are also encouraging the wealthy few among us, as well as public-spirited foundations, to sponsor research and development.

Funding research is a desire of the Academy, although we haven’t come to that stage yet. But whatever it is that will help to bring scientific or specifically, pharmaceutical research to the front burner, we will continue to support, because we recognise that it will have manifold economic benefits, even social ones, for our society. The only way by which we can overcome the plague of diseases like malaria and others is through committed research.

What are you doing to help to enlighten people and to drive good health among Nigerians?

You are correct that our society needs a great deal of enlightenment, especially with regard to public health issues. Pharmacists are actually doing a lot in this area and complementing the efforts of other health professionals in public enlightenment. Indeed this is a key activity that different technical groups within the profession handle. They enlighten people on the safe use of medicines and there is also a great deal of education on public health challenges like HIV/AIDS, the need for immunisation and other issues. You’d be amazed at the level of enlightenment that pharmacists who are located in the rural areas do. In many of these rural areas, the pharmacist is often the first port of call when there is a health challenge, and they have a huge task to enlighten the people on such issues as the need to wash hands regularly, family planning, HIV/AIDS, immunisation and so many others.

Nigeria is one of the few countries where medicines are hawked. What are the setbacks to the fight and economic implications?

Ours is actually the only country where this happens. Quacks hawk and sell drugs with impunity – on the bus, in petrol stations, on the street, and in every nook and cranny of the country. Nigeria is peculiar for open drug markets in places like Onitsha, Kano and even Lagos. Drugs are poisons and ought to be strictly controlled. We are doing something, but it is a difficult task. Some of the factors militating against this are weak regulation and implementation, ignorance and poverty. It is so widespread that we can’t send all the offenders to jail.

In Nigeria, drugs come in from everywhere because of our porous borders. Control of drug distribution is a function of the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN), but this is a government regulatory body, which despite its best efforts must still contend with infrastructure, manpower and even funding problems. Our problem is peculiar, so the solutions must be peculiar. We must understand the gravity of the situation.

One area we are working on very aggressively is that of public education. When people are better enlightened about the dangers of buying medicines from the streets or buses and other places they will gradually become more circumspect with regard to that, even in the face of poverty. We recognise too, that many people are financially challenged and believe that medicines purchased on the streets are cheaper than the same medicines in proper outlets. But with better enlightenment, gradually, people are recognising that this could be a fatal error of judgement that is best avoided.

I believe there is hope, and that hope hinges on education and that’s where pharmacists and the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) have been doing a lot of work. When people are better educated, they will be less likely to endanger their health by patronising quacks. Of course, our advocacy for strengthening the regulatory mechanisms is ongoing. Strict regulation, especially of drug distribution is key. Thankfully, government is now committed to ensuring that open drug markets such as those in Idumota, Onitsha and Kano will be shut down from August 2017. This will be a very big step going forward.

What achievements so far would you ascribe to the Academy?

The first will be that we have eventually been able to debut as an academy. The academy was established in 2014 and this is the fifth academy in Nigeria. There are four others. The academy has the highest level of academics, innovators and professionals who have contributed to the society.

We took off in 2014 and have established a strong link with our colleagues in the Diaspora. We work closely with the Nigerian Association of Pharmacists and Pharmaceutical Scientists in the Americas (NAPPSA). There are over 5,000 Nigerian pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists in the Americas and we are establishing strong links with them.Through NAPPSA, we attract help and support. Some of them have been coming to establish professional practices either in academics or commercial ventures. A good number of pharmacists from Nigeria attend their scientific conferences every year.

A major achievement has been the education summit, which we convened in April, 2015. The summit attracted participation from the United Kingdom and, of course, the United States. We invited deans of schools of pharmacy, PCN, PSN and NAFDAC. The main objective was to re-examine the curriculum of the pharmacy schools in Nigeria in the light of the dynamics of the profession to help ensure that training of pharmacists continues to be in tune with the needs of society such that pharmacists churned out from our universities will be of optimal value to the society.

We also launched a vibrant scheme last year that is aimed at mentoring young pharmacy graduates. Young pharmacists are tutored and guided as to career options by more experienced pharmacists. It’s an ongoing scheme and has been quite beneficial.

What legacy would you personally want to be remembered?

When I might have finished my divine assignment here on earth, I would like to be remembered for pharmaceutical journalism and for Pharmanews. I’m not a person of many interests. I’m a man of one interest. I want people to readily associate Ifeanyi Atueyi with pharmaceutical journalism in Nigeria. Today Pharmanews is read in print and online anywhere in the world. We started in 1979 and thanks to God for sustaining it till date. Pharmanews is the only professional journal in Nigeria that has consistently published for 37 years without ever missing a month. In our little way, we have helped to add value to the wellbeing people and economy of Nigeria.

By Chijioke Nelson

The Guardian

Why pharmacy schools need a uniform curriculum – PANS-UDUS president

By

-

02/09/2016

Abubakar Umar is president of the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigeria Students (PANS), Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS) Chapter. In this exclusive interview with Pharmanews, the 500-level pharmacy student reveals some of his plans for PANS-UDUS within the next one year. He also expresses his views on some crucial issues affecting pharmacy education in Nigeria. Excerpts:

Whose decision was it for you to study Pharmacy?

It was a personal decision, even though I had some form of motivation and orientation from different personalities, including my family members, since there is no self-made man. Besides, it has become a tradition, though it can be faulted, that majority of the students who pass through Nagarta College, Sokoto, where I had my secondary school education, end up studying health-related courses. So, it was natural that I too should have such ambition and I must admit that it also contributed to my decision to study Pharmacy. I have never had any regret choosing Pharmacy, despite the enormous challenges I encountered.

What prompted your decision to get actively involved in PANS politics?

Actually it was coincidental. It began with consultations and suggestions made by some members of my class who observed that I had some potentials in me which they believed could be useful for the development of our institution. Also, it had been my dream and aspiration to add my quota to the development of PANS-UDUS. And to the glory of God, I started working towards it and, today, the dream has come to fulfillment.

Tell us about some PANS-UDUS’ activities and programmes for 2016

The activities and programmes of my chapter are in two categories – those that have been successfully accomplished and those that are still in the pipeline. Those in the first category include renovation of the general faculty’s notice boards and suggestion box; as well as constitution of committees, such as education committee, financial committee, editorial committee, guidance and counseling committee, among others.

Programmes that are still in the pipeline include orientation of fresh students; students-lecturers interactive session, which will be organised by the social committee; inter-state quiz/ debate competition, which will be organised by the education committee’; creation of an official website for the chapter; construction of a “pestle and mortar” statue; publishing of the chapter’s magazine, which will be launched during the Pharmacy week, among others.

What would you say are the challenges facing pharmacy education in Nigeria and how best can they be tackled?

The challenges facing pharmacy education are numerous, but the major one is non-conducive learning environment. Most pharmacy schools have the challenge of inadequate laboratories and classrooms that can conveniently accommodate students. Therefore, there is need for adequate laboratories, classrooms, libraries and other learning facilities.

Another issue is the discrepancy in the pharmacy curriculum. It has been discovered that different schools adopt different versions of the curriculum. This negatively affects many students; so there is need for a uniform curriculum across the nation.

Manpower challenge is another important issue that is affecting pharmacy education in the country. There’s inadequate manpower in pharmacy education and this has a great drawback on the profession. Those concerned should put this into consideration. There is also the challenge of lack of research grants for pharmacy students,

What can you say about the activities of your chapter of PANS at the national level?

Our chapter has never been inactive at the national level – more so now with the coming in of a newly restructured PANS administration, under the able and mature leadership of Comrade Chika Emeghebo, PANS national president, I will say we have been more active at the national level. We have been part of all the programmes, and I am hopeful that the forthcoming convention will be an unprecedented one.

In addition, one of our own, Mr Jubril Chado, is currently an executive member at the national level. I too had the opportunity to attend the last National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held at the national secretariat at the Faculty of Pharmacy, Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Anambra State, early this year.

However, I would advise the national body to find other ways of bringing the associations from all pharmacy schools together, with the aim of engaging them all the time, rather than waiting for the annual convention which comes only once in a calendar year. Also, the executive members should endeavour to visit other chapters, if not all, before the end of their tenure, so as to give them a sense of belonging and enhance cordial relationship among them.

What areas of the pharmacy profession do you think stakeholders in the profession should address urgently?

First and foremost is the issue of recognition. Even though a lot has been done, there is need to put more effort to enlighten the general public about the role of pharmacists in the health care delivery system.

Next is the need for sufficient raw materials to enable efficient manufacturing of pharmaceutical products. There’s also need for access to funds by the government and stakeholders, so as to boost the manufacturing process all over the nation. This will go a long way in reducing the importation drugs into the country.

Where do you see PANS-UDUS by the time you will be leaving office?

With the few innovations I have brought, combined with the efforts of my dedicated executive members – majority of whom will be in the next cabinet – I see PANS among the top associations in this University.

Ghanaian community nurses wage war against their executives

By

-

02/09/2016

Scores of disgruntled community health nurses have expressed anger over what they call a disregard of the constitution by their national executives in the discharge of duties.

According to the nurses, their national executives have squashed the constitution of the Association and have currently adopted for themselves powers that are not provided by the constitution of the Association.

In a statement, the group outlined their concerns as follows:

Illegal and fraudulent deduction of an additional amount of 5.00gh cedis as dues without passing through the due process laid down for such purposes and it subsequent approval by the national delegates congress of the Association which is a breach of article 19 clause (2) of the constitution of the Association.

Breaching of the constitution of the Association by staying in 0ffice as national executives though their constitutionally mandated period of three (3) years that is from April, 2012 to April, 2015. With this, they have stayed on as national executives for additional sixteen (16) months without the approval of the highest decision making body of the Association supported by article 19 clause (2), which is the national delegates congress. We therefore consider all their activities from May 2015 till date to be unconstitutional.

Non- accountability of dues deducted from the salaries of members since its inception about five (5) years ago as well as the mismanagement of funds by the national chairperson (Madam Esther Bamfo) is unwarranted.

Unconstitutionally denying the duties of the national treasurer for someone who is not elected to perform the duties of the national treasurer of the Association.

No annual audit report of the Association account as provided by article 33 clause (2).

The refusal of the outdated national executives to organize a national congress to elect new national executives to enhance the smooth running of the activities of the Association.

It is prudent to state that we have not been informed on the decision to withdraw the group from the mother association which is GRNMA as proposed by article 19 clause(2) of the constitution. We wish to state here and now that, such a major decision has not been well thought through and must be rescinded immediately because it has to be widely discussed by the majority of members of the group and be approved by the highest decision making body of the Association which is the national delegates’ congress.

The aggrieved nurses have therefore given the various stakeholders including the National Labour Commission, the Ghana Health Service as well as the Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association a one-week ultimatum, seven (7) days to address the above concerns.

The nurses have threatened to head to the law courts to seek redress if their concerns are not given the necessary attention.

Source:Pulse Nigeria

Women beware: One glass of alcoholic drink per day reduces fertility by 18%

By

-

02/09/2016

Although this may sound incredible to lovers of wine and other alcoholic drinks, but a new study by Danish researchers have validated it that just one large glass of wine a day slashes a woman’s chance of conceiving.

Experts believe that too much alcohol interrupts the female natural cycle and may also damage the egg.

According to the study published in the BMJ and reported on Daily Mail, the researchers noted that women can still drink small amounts when trying for a baby as there is no evidence the odd glass hampers fertility.

The Danish researchers studied 6,120 women from aged 21 to 45 who were trying to conceive, from June 2007 to January 2016.

They all completed questionnaires on how often they had alcohol and exactly what they drank.

The results showed that women who had at least a 250ml glass a day – equivalent to 14 servings a week – were 18 per cent less likely to conceive over a year.

But women who had slightly less – one to 13 servings – did not experience any reduction in conception chances.

The researchers from Aarhus University Hospital in Denmark also found that spirits seemed to have a small effect on fertility.

Women who drank one measure a week were 11 per cent less likely to conceive while those who had two measures reduced their chances by 13 per cent.

Optometrist warns against excessive use of smartphones

By

-

02/09/2016

An optometrist, Dr Henry Emelike has urged Nigerians to desist from excessive use of smartphones because of their negative effect on the sight.

Emelike, who works at the Gwamna Awan General Hospital, Kakuri, Kaduna State, gave the advice in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Kaduna.

He said the number of cases of short-sightedness among young people have-soared due to high use of smartphones and tablets. “Since the launch of smartphones in 1997, there has been a 35 per cent increase in the number of people with advancing myopia (short-sightedness) according to a research carried out by David Allamby, founder of Focus Clinics in the United States of America (USA).”It is estimated that the problem would increase by 50 per cent in the next 10 years. Allamby dubbed this condition “screen sightedness. “This, along with time spent using computers and watching television, is putting children and young people at the risk of permanently damaging their sights. The average smart phone or tablet user holds the device 30cm from their faces with some holding them just 18cm away, com-pared with newspapers and books which are held 40cm away from the eyes.’

He said excessive screen watching at close proximity keeps the genes that control myopia activated well beyond the age that myopia (short-sightedness) would historically have stabilised which was about 21 years.

“Myopia used to stop developing in people in their early 20s but, now, it is seen progressing throughout the 20s, 30s, and even 40s. It is predicted that if things continue as they are, about 40 to 50 per cent of 30-year-olds could have myopia by 2033 as a result of smartphones and lifestyles in front of the screen which would become an epidemic called “screen sightedness.”

Meanwhile, children are actually able to focus at close distances for extended periods of time than adults, and experience less eye-strain than adults. This is due to the higher elasticity and resilience cum proper functioning of ocular muscles in children and younger people. Still, the American Academy of Paediatrics recommends limiting a child’s screen time (including TV, computer, game console, tablet and smart phone) to no more than two hours a day. “I’m not sure how realistic that is, because most class-rooms use computers and tablets nowadays,” he said. Emelike said that the phenomenon of “screen sightedness” was due to difficulty and discomfort of the constant work of accommodation and convergence as contents from mobile phones seem to appear in front of the screen rather than behind it.

He said these involved interplay of intrinsic ocular muscles as well as extra ocular muscles’ fatigue. “In this our “technology centric” world, use of these screen devices is, however, pretty hard to avoid,” he said. The optometrist listed the following symptoms to be associated with short sightedness: Sore, tired, burning, itching, dry or watery eyes. Others are blurred vision, difficulty in focusing, headaches, sore neck and shoulders. He, however, noted that there were few healthy tips that could help one override screen sightedness.

“The 20-20-20 Rule: For every 20 minute work at the screen or any close-up work, take a break for 20 seconds and focus on an object 20 feet away…”

Source: NAN

Nigerian Academy of Pharmacy to induct six new fellows

By

-

01/09/2016

The Nigerian Academy of Pharmacy (NAP) will on September 15 in Lagos, inducts six distinguished professionals into its esteemed ranks.

According to Professor Fola Tayo, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Caleb University who doubles as General Secretary of the Academy, one of the high points of this year’s investiture event will be a feature presentation by Nigeria’s former High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Dr. Christopher Kolade.

“We have every confidence that Kolade will ignite robust self-appraisal in the profession with his lecture which will examine the place of Pharmacy in the enhancement of quality and accessibility of healthcare in Nigeria,” said Tayo.

The investiture event, said Tayo, which is billed for September 15 in Lagos, would also assess progress so far made regarding the Pharmacy degree curriculum reviews currently ongoing across Faculties of Pharmacy in Nigeria’s universities.

“Globally, the curriculum for Pharmacy training is rapidly evolving in response to the growing needs of the larger society and we want to ensure that this is happening at the right pace in Nigeria too, such that the health and wellbeing of Nigerians can continue to be impacted optimally by Nigeria’s pharmacists working in tandem with other health professionals.”

The Academy, said Tayo, “is of the view that emphasis on research and development in the sciences in general and pharmaceutical and health sciences in particular, has waned considerably in Nigeria, and believe that this can only spell disaster for a developing country like ours.” Funding of research by government is poor while the private sector hardly sees the need to fund research. This, he said, is not good for the country, as the only way by which better remedies can be discovered and/or developed for ailments that afflict mankind, including those, like malaria that are particularly endemic in Africa and kill millions annually, is by research and development. “The Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy is therefore driving advocacy to raise awareness in this area in order to prod government to better fund research and scientific education in general, as well as encourage wealthy individuals and charitable foundations to sponsor scientific research.”

The new inductees into the Academy, said Tayo, all have sterling profiles and have distinguished themselves over the years, in different spheres of professional life. “We are very confident that they will add real value to our quest to positively impact the health and wellbeing of Nigerians, not only through robust training of pharmacists and pharmaceutical and health scientists but also through research and research-oriented learning and development.”

The Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy brings together distinguished pharmacists across different spheres of life and helps to drive thought leadership, providing expert opinion on matters pertaining to the pharmacy profession. In so doing, it helps to ensure that the profession remains relevant to the needs and aspirations of Nigeria. Founded in 2014, it is the fifth such specialized academy in Nigeria with others being the academies of Science, Letters, Arts and Engineering, respectively.

The Guardian

NHIS charges HMOs to be innovative, flexible

By

-

01/09/2016

United States (U.S.)-trained bone marrow transplant surgeon and Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Prof. Usman Yusuf, has charged the 48 Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) in Nigeria to be innovative and nimble.

Also, the Chairperson of Avon Healthcare Limited/Chief Executive Officer of Avon Medical Services Limited, an HMO, and overseer of the healthcare investments of Heirs Holdings, Dr. Awele Vivien Elumelu, has taken up the challenge by Yusuf even as she called proper monitoring, accountability and equitable distribution of the funds within the system.

What is NHIS doing to make health insurance mandatory? Yusuf said: “Making NHIS mandatory and changing the laws have to do with the legislators and that is why I am reaching out to them. If you see I went to the House of Representatives to see the Chairman and Deputy of the House Committee on Health. And I am going to see the Speaker and the President of the Senate, and I am meeting all Governors. They need to see that there is value in doing that. We need to be able to explain to them. Remember they are the people that are going to explain to their people why we are taking their money. So they need to be educated themselves.

IHMS — Executive Secretary of the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), Prof. Usman Yusuf (middle); Chairperson of Avon Healthcare Limited/Chief Executive Officer of Avon Medical Services Limited and overseer of the healthcare investments of Heirs Holdings, Dr. Awele Vivien Elumelu (right); and Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Avon Healthcare Limited (Avon HMO), Adesimbo Ukiri at a meeting of the Standing Committee of NHIS and the Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs) in Abuja

“So it is our responsibility to go and advocate and talk on behalf of the enrollee why they should be mandated? How much should it cost? What will be the benefit? We have a lot of work in front of us and I am just three weeks in this business and that is why I am here.”

How are you going to address the many challenges of the enrollee? The NHIS boss explained: “These are legacy issues I met. It is going to be a very slow thing reaching out to people and telling them that we are all partners. I cannot do this alone; I need you all. It is me educating the public, telling them where we are, this is our fault and this is how we can get better for people to trust us again and educating people because a lot of people do not know about the scheme.

“It is our responsibility, nobody else’s to go and educate the people about the scheme. So it is our responsibility and that is why I am going out to see anybody that matters: the governors, the emirs, the clerics, the students, the vice chancellors, and the chief medical directors. I have a lot of work to do; I hope you come with me. You are partners in this.”

Some of the HMOs are calling for the equitable distribution of lives especially from workers in the formal sector. How is that going to happen? Yusuf said: “You see when the NHIS happened there were very few HMOs and it was the NHIS that distributed lives that is enrollees to those HMOs and helped them to start and they have over time grown and they have grown bigger. So new ones have come and they want piece of the lives. It I just like the old banks and the new banks.

“The new banks could not have survived if they have not been innovative. The GT Banks and the Zeniths are good on the Internet but if the old banks remained like that they will fizzle out. What I encourage the new HMOs to do is to be innovative, be nimble. No more free lunch: Not from us nor from the government. They need to go out, market themselves and get more lives, end of story.”

What does Avon intend to do in the next five years to increase the number of enrollees and getting better towards achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC)? Elumelu said: “I think to a large extent what we need to do is that there a big problem of trust and transparency. Until we can overcome that, it will be a problem. So what do we need to do? We need to put steps in place. To increase the trust in us we need to be out there more transparent, let people see our financial credibility. Let people know our financial capacity and that way they know that they are sure where they are putting their money, they are sure of where they are going.

“So we need to do things like that. We need to make sure that even on the level of NHIS, there is proper monitoring, there is proper account keeping, account taking and to ensure that there is equitable distribution of the funds even within the NHIS because we have a lot of people who do not actually trust the system. They believe it is not done equitably so they are not happy be it government, be it private. So they need to make sure at that level you build that trust, you build that confidence in the system. And with that we will have the spread, we will have the increase coverage and so on.”

The NHIS indicted the HMOs on the issue of corrupt practices and inefficiency. Do you agree with that? Elumelu said: “To some extent that is certainly the case but I think the problem has partly been lack of oversight on the part of the regulators. Now that we have as it is the new Sheriff in town, we have a new broom which is still clean they are going to ensure that there is enforcement, which laws are there but they just haven’t been enforced.

“But you know if have no one enforcing things, what gets done is what is being measured and what is being checked. So now that we have a new person there that will say these things I going to insist that they are been done, we will see a change. We will see an end to seeming corruption that has been in the system, the seeming lack of work and the seeming people ignoring the enrollees; that way there will be a change for sure.”

How is your experience in Heirs Holding impact your work in Avon HMO in terms of meeting your mandate on UHC? The Avon HMO boss said: “Basically the main vision driving Heirs Holdings is that the group recognizes that the private sector has to take a role, take up its own role in improving the economy. So that is the main vision driving Heirs Holding.

“For us, we are in the health sector and we all know health is wealth. So as a private player in the health sector, we know that we in our own way will contribute our own quota to the health of the individual and therefore the health of the economy.”

The Guardian

FIP statement of policy on green pharmacy

By

-

01/09/2016

Introduction:

Medicines are crucial tools to prevent or treat diseases, but there is growing evidence that residuals of pharmaceuticals can also be found in the water, atmosphere or soil, with possibly negative impact on the environment and health. Similarly, activities associated with the research, development, production, distribution and dispensing of medicines may also have an impact on the environment.

Such impact is influenced by changes observed globally in population demographics, migration and urbanisation among others.

It is critical that efforts to implement solutions do not compromise the availability of medicines and patient access to these medicines. Patient needs are of utmost importance.

The impact of pharmaceuticals on the environment is a challenge of global significance, and one in which individual pharmacists and professional associations can provide leadership that makes a difference. Throughout the pharmaceuticals supply chain efforts can be made to mitigate the negative impact of pharmaceuticals and related activities on the environment.

To make this difference it is important that pharmacists accept professional responsibility for the entire medicines-use process and take responsibility for mitigating the environmental risk of the medicines for which we are responsible. This responsibility extends across the entire medicines-use continuum, from manufacturing and distribution, prescribing, dispensing, pharmaceutical care, disposal of unused medicines and, ultimately, to the reduction in the discharge of metabolic waste into the environment. In all countries, regardless of place of employment or practice, pharmacists should seek to change the medicines-use process so as to minimise the adverse environmental effects of medicines and related activities.

By recognising the pharmacist’s role in, and accepting as the profession’s challenge, the reduction of medicines in the environment, our profession can provide meaningful leadership in an area that is virtually devoid of leadership. FIP believes that pharmacists and their associations are well positioned to provide the needed leadership in resolving many of the issues surrounding pharmaceuticals and the environment.

Against this background FIP recommends that:

Environmental effects of pharmaceuticals are considered in:

Pharmacy school/college curricula
The research, development, manufacturing and marketing of medicines
The administrative and legislative processes regulating medicines
All pharmacist practice areas

FIP member organisations:

Lead in raising public awareness as well as that of other health care professionals of this issue.
Provide leadership to their membership and governments in resolving the environmental issues surrounding medicines and their use.
Develop and promote the use of “green-office” concepts for practices.
Promote consumer- and practice-friendly pharmaceutical-waste disposal, including supporting take-back programmes and/or legislation that do not place the financial burden in pharmacy practices.

Schools of pharmacy:

Teach green principles and pharmacist’s responsibility to educate patients on waste disposal as elements of pharmaceutical-care practice, and how to apply these.

Pharmacists:

Implement green chemistry practices in all research and manufacturing and compounding processes.
Collaborate with prescribers to raise awareness of the environmental classifications of medicines in their practices, where available.
Adopt environmentally friendly procedures in procurement and distribution processes.
Work with allied health professions to encourage rational prescribing practices such as starter doses (and limiting the number of doses prescribed and dispensed) to reasonable amounts.
Work to incorporate counselling on the environmental impact and potential risks of all medicines as an integral part of medical and pharmacy practices.
Recognise the contribution of non-adherence to prescribed regimens to the production of medicines waste.

Governments:

Incorporate appropriate environmental risk assessments as part of the registration/approval process to assure proper handling of all medicines.
Promote the global availability of environmental hazard data on medicines and support the development of national programmes on environmental-risk classification of pharmaceuticals.

Support the development of environmentally friendly practices in pharmacies aimed at limiting environmental hazards due to medicines.

FIP tasks pharmacists on reducing environmental effects of medicines

By

-

01/09/2016

Pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists must take responsibility for mitigating the environmental consequences of medicines, the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) says. An official policy statement adopted by the FIP Council in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and released yesterday, specifies that this responsibility encompasses the entire course of medicines use, from manufacture and distribution to prescribing and dispensing, and to disposal and reduction of the discharge of metabolites of medicines into the environment.

The policy statement sets out a number of recommended actions for FIP member organisations (national professional associations of pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences), schools of pharmacy, individual pharmacists and governments. For example, it recommends that pharmacists work to encourage rational prescribing practices, such as the use of starter doses and starter quantities and limiting the general number of doses prescribed (and dispensed) to reasonable amounts, and that they make counselling on the environmental impact of medicines part of their practice. The statement also highlights the contribution non-adherence makes to medicines waste.

The new FIP policy, “Environmentally sustainable pharmacy practice: Green pharmacy”, also says that “green” principles should be taught by pharmacy schools and it calls on governments to include appropriate environmental risk assessments as part of medicines approval processes.

“This statement of policy recognises the global challenge of the detrimental effect of pharmaceuticals on the environment. FIP believes that pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists are well placed to give meaningful leadership in conquering this challenge and urges them, national organisations and governments to do so, ensuring at the same time that any solutions do not compromise access to medicines,” said FIP Vice-President Ms Eeva Teräsalmi.

Pharmacy profession is advancing in many countries – FIP

By

-

31/08/2016

New report shows how the pharmacy profession is advancing in different countries with the help of FIP resources

Buenos Aires, 30 August 2016 — Universities, professional organisations and authorities around the world have been enabled to take steps towards ensuring that pharmacists are capable and competent thanks to resources produced by FIP Education (FIPEd), the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) has found.

A new report, “Transforming our workforce”, released today by FIP at the 76th World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Buenos Aires, Argentina, offers a collection of 14 achievements ranging from the credentialing of advanced pharmacy practice in Australia and the set-up of a new pharmacy curriculum in Chile to the adoption of a competency framework in Croatia and the development of a model to evaluate health care professionals in Jordan. All six World Health Organization regions are represented through these pharmacy workforce development success stories.

“This report is the most comprehensive collection of evidence so far of the value of FIP’s actions in the area of education and workforce. Since FIP started to focus on workforce and education in 2008, we have developed 23 resources and 10 strategic tools which are freely available to colleagues around the world,” said Professor Ian Bates, FIPEd development team director and editor of the report.

FIP’s Global Competency Framework, for instance, was an important reference for the Royal Pharmaceutical Society in developing support tools for the UK, and FIP’s framework for quality assurance of pharmacy education has inspired the creation of a national taskforce to ensure quality education in India. Both are examples of FIPEd resources being used in steps to transform the pharmacy workforce.

Professor Bates added: “This new report is in itself a resource. We see it as a document that describes evidence-based and tested mechanisms, enabling policymakers and leadership bodies to advance the education of the pharmacy workforce.”

The report also gives an overview of FIPEd resources. “Transforming our workforce” is the latest addition to a body of work by FIP that feeds into the global agenda of universal health care delivery and promotes the value and potential of pharmacists within this agenda.

Notes for editors

Full report: “Transforming our workforce” and all the FIP Education resources described in the report are available at http://fip.org/educationreports. The success stories come from 14 countries: Australia, Chile, Croatia, India, Jordan, Malawi, New Zealand, Kenya/USA, Serbia, Spain and Spain/Angola, Thailand and the UK.

About FIP: The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) is the global federation of national associations of pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists, and is in official relations with the World Health Organization. Through its 137 member organisations, it represents over three million practitioners and scientists around the world. www.fip.org

About FIPEd: FIP Education brings together all FIP’s education actions. Its purpose is to ensure that education and training provides the foundation for developing pharmaceuticals, pharmaceutical services and the profession in order to meet societal needs for medicines expertise.

About the World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences: FIP’s 76th annual World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences is being held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from 28 August to 1 September 2016 with the theme “Reducing the global burden of disease”.

PRESS CONTACT
Lin-Nam Wang, communications manager
Email linnam@fip.org
Tel +31 6 316 29160

PSN Establishes a Working Relationship With APhA

By

-

31/08/2016

Among the distinguished achievements of the 2016 FIP conference for the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) is the establishment of a cordial relationship with the American Pharmacists Association (APhA).

The milestone, which was disclosed by the PSN President, Pharm. Ahmed Yakasai on his Facebook Timeline, noted that he has been invited to the FIP American Reception by the Head of the APha and the newly Vice President of FIP, Mr Thomas E. Menighan, to perfect the affiliation between the two bodies.

His words:” From now on, PSN and APhA will work collaboratively and closely. It is a milestone”.

FIP President Rates Community Pharmacists’ Roles as Crucial

By

-

31/08/2016

“Health care can no longer be separated from social issues”, said Dr Carmen Peña, President of the International Pharmaceutical Federation, at the opening of the 76th World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Pharmacists and other health care professionals need to be more concerned with continuity, integration of processes and socio-health coordination, which is an important but often forgotten role of community pharmacies, she said.

Dr Peña used her opening address to focus on people — patients and health care professionals. “People” is one of the three areas in her “Two times two” plan for pharmacy. “Today’s patients have new demands. New needs. They are increasing in number and age. Many of our health systems were created in the 20th century for a society of patients with acute illnesses, but nowadays we live in a society of patients with chronic illnesses, many of whom require polymedication,” she said.

This new profile demands new areas of action from pharmacists in terms of home care as well as health care. Self-care and non-prescription medicines also deserve greater attention in this new era of health care, she added.

Dr Peña called for policies that enable cooperation and care coordination between health care professionals, with respect for their various functions, for the benefit of patients. But she also said that fostering trust, improving communication and sharing information should include non-health professionals, such as hospital managers, lawyers and economists, all of whom are essential to building a new concept of health care.

Dr Peña gave particular mention to clinical records. Patients should be the ones to decide the extent to which information is shared among health professionals, empowering them to look after their own health.

“We need to rethink health care. We need to break down barriers and prevent patients from getting lost in labyrinths of specialties and bureaucracy. The system should follow patients, rather than patients following the system,” she said.

AIDS pharmacist Recieves FIP’s highest honour for practitioners

By

-

31/08/2016

Buenos Aires, 29 August 2016 — Dr Ana I. Martinez, a pharmacist from Puerto Rico, USA, was recognised today with the International Pharmaceutical Federation’s (FIP’s) highest honour for pharmacy practitioners: the André Bédat Award.

Dr Martinez began her career as a hospital pharmacist. She then went on to lead the Pharmaceutical Affairs Branch in the Division of AIDS (DAIDS) of the US National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases until 2015. In this role she conceived and implemented a clinical trial model which incorporated DAIDS pharmacists in the design of clinical trials and clinical site pharmacists in the conduct of research studies. She successfully brought this model to fruition initially in the US and subsequently in Africa, Asia and Latin America. This approach led to a strong involvement of pharmacists in HIV/AIDS clinical trials.

On winning the award, Dr Martinez said: “I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the André Bédat Award. This represents the culmination of a long career in research pharmacy. I share this award with my colleagues in all the programmes around the world in which I have been privileged to participate.”

Notes for editors

About FIP: The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) is the global federation of national associations of pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists, and is in official relations with the World Health Organization. Through its 137 member organisations, it represents over three million practitioners and scientists around the world. www.fip.org

FIP believes it is of utmost importance to support and recognise individuals who, through their vision and commitment to their profession, are making outstanding contributions to pharmacy practice and pharmaceutical sciences, serving as examples for others. Each year it honours those who have demonstrated commendable work and dedication in areas which parallel its overall mission of advancing pharmacy practice, science and education for the betterment of global health.

About the André Bédat Award: The André Bédat Award is one of FIP’s highest honours and is awarded every two years.

About the World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences: FIP’s 76th annual World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences is being held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from 28 August to 1 September 2016 with the theme “Reducing the global burden of disease”.

PRESS CONTACT
Lin-Nam Wang, communications manager
Email linnam@fip.org
Tel +31 6 316 29160

Global pharmacy awards go to pharmacists in seven countries

By

-

30/08/2016

Ten pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists from seven countries were recognised for their services to pharmacy at the opening ceremony of the 76th World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences in Buenos Aires, Argentina. They received awards from the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) as follows:

Distinguished Science Award to Professor Shinji Yamashita (Japan; collected by Dr Teruko Imai)
Joseph A. Oddis Award for Exceptional Service to FIP to Dr Dieter Steinbach (Germany)
FIP Fellowships —

Professor Ralph Altiere (USA)
Professor Michael Anisfeld (USA)
Professor Parisa Aslani (Australia)
Mr Thony Björk (Sweden)
Professor Timothy Chen (Australia)
Mrs Manjiri Gharat (India)
Professor Michiho Ito (Japan)
Ms Lindsay McClure (United Kingdom)

About FIP: The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) is the global federation of national associations of pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists, and is in official relations with the World Health Organization. Through its 137 member organisations, it represents over three million practitioners and scientists around the world. www.fip.org

FIP believes it is of utmost importance to support and recognise individuals who, through their vision and commitment to their profession, are making outstanding contributions to pharmacy practice and pharmaceutical sciences, serving as examples for others. Each year it honours those who have demonstrated commendable work and dedication in areas which parallel its overall mission of advancing pharmacy practice, science and education for the betterment of global health.

About the Distinguished Science Award: The Distinguished Science Award recognises an individual or group that has made an outstanding contribution to pharmaceutical science and is awarded every two years.

About the Joseph A. Oddis Award: The Joseph A. Oddis Award is given on an ad-hoc basis to officers or individuals who have rendered exceptional service to FIP.

About FIP Fellowships: An FIP Fellowship recognises individual members of FIP who have exhibited strong leadership internationally, who have distinguished themselves in pharmacy practice or the pharmaceutical sciences, who have contributed to the advancement of the practice of pharmacy or pharmaceutical sciences, and who have served FIP. FIP Fellows may use the designation “FFIP”.

About the World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences: FIP’s 76th annual World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences is being held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from 28 August to 1 September 2016 with the theme “Reducing the global burden of disease”.

PRESS CONTACT
Lin-Nam Wang, communications manager
Email linnam@fip.org
Tel +31 6 316 29160

World Water Week opens in Stockholm

By

-

30/08/2016

Water can be the unifying power for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

Stockholm (29 August 2016) – Leaders and experts in the water, climate and development communities have gathered in Stockholm to discuss how water can enable the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Press contact: Rowena Barber, Communications Manager, Tel +46-8-1213-6039

Under the theme Water for Sustainable Growth, some 3,000 people from over 120 countries are meeting in Stockholm this week for the 26^th annual World Water Week. With water crises being listed as one of the top global risks in the coming years by the World Economic Forum, and a rapidly growing world population putting pressure on scarce water resources, seeking solutions to the world’s many complex water challenges is becoming ever more urgent for the researchers, policy-makers, and representatives of civil society and the private sector meeting in Stockholm.

Opening the Week, Torgny Holmgren, Executive Director of the organizer, Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) said: “Without reliable access to water, almost no Sustainable Development Goal will be achieved. To make that happen, we must ensure water’s centrality to the entire Agenda 2030. This will show the power water has a connector.”

“Water connects not only sectors, but also nations, communities and different actors. Water can be the unifying power, the enabler for progress in both Agenda 2030 and the Paris climate agreement”, said Holmgren.

The Mayor of Stockholm, Karin Wanngård, underlined the role cities need to play in realizing the development agenda. “Cities represent a large portion of future growth. We have the job growth, the universities, the creative ideas. We also face the biggest emissions, the social problems, and housing shortage. Our participation in the struggle for sustainable solutions is key for global success. And that means a growing responsibility, a moral responsibility towards future generations and their ability to live in cities where it is possible to work, live in security, breathe the air and drink the water.”

Addressing the opening session, Sweden’s Foreign Minister Margot Wallström reinforced the message that water is a connector and an enabler in realizing the SDGs. “Successful realization of Goal 6 of the 2030 Agenda will underpin progress across many of the other goals, particularly on nutrition, child health, education, gender equality, healthy cities and healthy water ecosystems and oceans.”

The Secretary General of the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Angel Gurría, said that water, from having been a subject that was rarely discussed with urgency, has come to the front and centre of international deliberations. “Water now has the place it needs to have in international priorities”, said Gurría.

About Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) and World Water Week

SIWI is a policy institute working for a water wise world. SIWI does independent research, generates knowledge and provides expert analysis and advice on water issues to decision-makers and other agents of change. SIWI organizes the World Water Week in Stockholm – the leading annual global meeting place on water and development issues – and hosts the Stockholm Water Prize and the Stockholm Junior Water Prize, which will be awarded during World Water Week.

On Tuesday 30 August, the Stockholm Junior Water Prize will be awarded to one national team out of the 29 competing nations by H.R.H. Prince Carl Philip of Sweden.

On Wednesday 31 August, the prestigious Stockholm Water Prize will be awarded to Joan Rose, for her tireless contributions to global public health; by assessing risks to human health in water and creating guidelines and tools for decision-makers and communities to improve global wellbeing. The prize will be awarded to Joan Rose by H.M. Carl XVI Gustaf, King of Sweden, during a ceremony in Stockholm City Hall.

Note to Editors:

Information about World Water Week and the Stockholm International Water Institute; worldwaterweek.org and www.siwi.org
Online programme: http://programme.worldwaterweek.org
Press kit, events, press releases and interview requests: http://www.worldwaterweek.org/pressroom
Photos and video: http://www.siwi.org/mediahub
Twitter: @siwi_water, #WWWeek
Facebook: World Water Week in Stockholm
Instagram: siwi_water
Snapchat: WorldWaterWeek
Essential background reading: SIWI’s The Water Report 2016: http://www.siwi.org/publications/the-water-report/

WHO statement on the international spread of poliovirus

By

-

30/08/2016

IHR Emergency Committee recommendations regarding the international spread of poliovirus

The tenth meeting of the Emergency Committee under the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR) regarding the international spread of poliovirus was convened via teleconference by the WHO Director-General on 11 August 2016.

The Emergency Committee reviewed the data on wild poliovirus (WPV1) and circulating vaccinederived polioviruses (cVDPV).

The Secretariat presented a full report of progress for all affected IHR States Parties previously considered by the Emergency Committee. The following IHR States Parties presented an update on the implementation of the WHO Temporary Recommendations since the Committee last met on 12 May 2016: Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Nigeria.

Wild polio

The Committee was gravely concerned by the report from Nigeria of two new cases in July of acute flaccid paralysis in children due to WPV1 from Borno State from two different local government areas (LGA): Gwoza and Jere. The Committee noted that genetic analysis indicated that the two viruses detected had circulated undetected for several years. These cases, together with the cVDPV2 reported in May 2016 also from Borno, indicate polioviruses have been circulating undetected in the area for several years and that significant gaps in surveillance remain. Such gaps are compounded by a recent increase in the area of inaccessibility in the state. The Committee was also concerned that Gwoza district has a long border with the Extreme North province of Cameroon and is considered inaccessible. Noting the history of poliovirus transmission in the Lake Chad area, and the international borders around Borno with Cameroon, Chad and Niger, the Committee concluded that the risk of international spread between these four countries was extremely high and may already be happening. Further international spread would significantly delay progress towards global eradication. The Emergency Committee was concerned that the Nigerian Polio Presidential Committee has not met in 2016, and that there have been delays in government funds being released for the polio response.

The Committee applauded the progress being made in Afghanistan and Pakistan, and the renewed emphasis on cooperation along the long international border between the two countries noting that this constitutes an epidemiological block between the two countries. The Committee applauded the strong progress being made in Pakistan, with consistent evidence of reduced transmission in 2016, and welcomed Pakistan’s determination to complete eradication this year. The Committee was pleased that as a result of these efforts, there has been no international spread of wild poliovirus between Pakistan and Afghanistan since the previous meeting.

Whilst border vaccination between these two countries is limited to children under ten years of age, efforts are being made to vaccinate departing travellers of all age groups from airports. The committee was pleased that progress had been made in Afghanistan where some foreign embassies now facilitate implementation of Temporary Recommendations through adopting procedures that include proof of polio vaccination as part of visa application processes for travellers departing from Afghanistan.

The Committee, however, was concerned by the deteriorating security in parts of Afghanistan leading to more children becoming inaccessible, heightening anxiety about completion of eradication in 2016, thereby delaying the global polio endgame. The Committee also noted that globally there are still significant vulnerable areas and populations that are inadequately immunized due to conflict, insecurity and poor coverage associated with weak immunization programmes. Such vulnerable areas include countries in the Middle East, the Horn of Africa, and Central Africa.

The Committee noted that in Equatorial Guinea (last case 3 May 2014) and Cameroon (last case 9 July 2014), although more than 24 months have passed without new infection by poliovirus, neither country had yet provided a final report as requested. Furthermore, Equatorial Guinea had weak surveillance indicators, and there were concerns about routine immunisation and Cameroon is now vulnerable to importation of WPV from Nigeria.

Vaccine derived poliovirus

The Committee noted that there have been no new cases of cVDPV since the previous meeting in May 2016.

In Guinea, the outbreak appears to be confined to one region, Kankan, where the most recent case had onset in December 2015. The Committee, however, felt there appears to be a medium to high risk of spread to neighbouring areas, as active surveillance has only recently started and the likelihood of missing transmission cannot be ruled out. Furthermore, surveillance indicators in neighbouring Liberia and Sierra Leone are below required standards and more efforts are needed to enhance surveillance in all these countries.

The Committee remains very concerned that in Nigeria a circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) has been detected in an environmental sample in March 2016 in Maiduguri, Borno State, north-east Nigeria. The Committee noted that a very robust outbreak response is under way by the Government of Nigeria, but the new incidence of WPV1 now complicates that response.

In Myanmar, Laos and Madagascar, where the most recent cases had onset of paralysis on : 5 October 2015 from Rakhine province, 11 January 2016 from Vientiane province, and 22 August 2015 from Sud-Ouest province, respectively, recent outbreak assessments showed much progress, but uncertainty about ongoing transmission remains due to gaps in surveillance.

In the Ukraine, where two cases of cVDPV1 occurred in 2015, the outbreak assessment recently concluded that poliovirus transmission had ceased, and as it is now 13 months since onset of the last case (7 July 2015) the outbreak is considered closed.

Conclusion

The Committee unanimously agreed that the international spread of poliovirus remains a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC), and recommended the extension of the Temporary Recommendations for a further three months. The Committee considered the following factors in reaching this conclusion:

The new outbreak of WPV1 in Nigeria highlighting that there are high-risk areas where surveillance is compromised by inaccessibility, resulting in ongoing circulation of WPV for several years without detection. The risk of transmission in the Lake Chad sub-region appears extremely high.
The continued international spread of wild poliovirus during 2015 and 2016 involving Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The current special and extraordinary context of being closer to polio eradication than ever before in history.
The risk and consequent costs of failure to eradicate globally one of the world’s most serious vaccine preventable diseases. Even though global transmission has fallen dramatically and with it the likelihood of international spread, the consequences and impact of international spread should it occur would be grave.
The possibility of global complacency developing as the numbers of polio cases continues to fall and eradication becomes a possibility.
The continued necessity of a coordinated international response to improve immunization and surveillance for wild poliovirus, to stop international spread and reduce the risk of new spread.
The serious consequences of further international spread for the increasing number of countries in which immunization systems have been weakened or disrupted by conflict and complex emergencies. Populations in these fragile states are vulnerable to outbreaks of polio. Outbreaks in fragile states are exceedingly difficult to control and threaten the completion of global polio eradication during its end stage.
The importance of a regional approach and strong crossborder cooperation, as much international spread of polio occurs over land borders, while recognizing that the risk of distant international spread remains from zones with active poliovirus transmission.
Additionally with respect to cVDPV:
- cVDPVs also pose a risk for international spread, which without an urgent response with appropriate measures threatens vulnerable populations as noted above;
- The emergence and circulation of VDPVs in four WHO regions demonstrates significant gaps in population immunity at a critical time in the polio endgame;
- There is a particular urgency of preventing type 2 cVDPVs following the globally synchronized withdrawal of type 2 component of the oral poliovirus vaccine in April 2016;
- The ongoing challenges of improving routine immunization in areas affected by insecurity and other emergencies, including Ebola;
- The global shortage of IPV poses fresh challenges.

Risk categories

The Committee provided the WHO DirectorGeneral with the following advice aimed at reducing the risk of international spread of wild poliovirus and cVDPVs, based on the risk stratification as follows:

Wild poliovirus

States currently exporting wild poliovirus;
States infected with wild poliovirus but not currently exporting;
States no longer infected by wild poliovirus, but which remain vulnerable to international spread.

Circulating vaccine derived poliovirus

States currently exporting cVDPV;
States infected with cVDPV but not currently exporting;
States no longer infected by cVDPV, but which remain vulnerable to the emergence and circulation of VDPV.

The Committee applied the following criteria to assess the period for detection of no new exportations and the period for detection of no new cases or environmental isolates of wild poliovirus or cVDPV:

Criteria to assess States no longer exporting (detection of no new wild poliovirus or cVDPV exportation)

Poliovirus Case: 12 months after the onset date of the first case caused by the most recent exportation PLUS one month to account for case detection, investigation, laboratory testing and reporting period, OR when all reported AFP cases with onset within 12 months of the first case caused by the most recent importation have been tested for polio and excluded for newly imported WPV1 or cVDPV, and environmental samples collected within 12 months of the first case have also tested negative, whichever is the longer.
Environmental isolation of exported poliovirus: 12 months after collection of the first positive environmental sample in the country that received the new exportation PLUS one month to account for the laboratory testing and reporting period.

Criteria to assess States no longer infected (detection of no new wild poliovirus or cVDPV)

Poliovirus Case: 12 months after the onset date of the most recent case PLUS one month to account for case detection, investigation, laboratory testing and reporting period OR when all reported AFP cases with onset within 12 months of last case have been tested for polio and excluded for WPV1 or cVDPV, and environmental samples collected within 12 months of the last case have also tested negative, whichever is the longer.
Environmental isolation of wild poliovirus or cVDPV (no poliovirus case): 12 months after collection of the most recent positive environmental sample PLUS one month to account for the laboratory testing and reporting period

Temporary recommendations

States currently exporting wild poliovirus or cVDPV

Currently Pakistan (last wild poliovirus exportation: 1 February 2016) and Afghanistan (last wild poliovirus exportation: 6 June 2015).

Exporting countries should:

Officially declare, if not already done, at the level of head of state or government, that the interruption of poliovirus transmission is a national public health emergency; where such declaration has already been made, this emergency status should be maintained.
Ensure that all residents and longterm visitors (i.e. > four weeks) of all ages receive a dose of oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) or inactivated poliovirus vaccine (IPV) between four weeks and 12 months prior to international travel.
Ensure that those undertaking urgent travel (i.e. within four weeks), who have not received a dose of OPV or IPV in the previous four weeks to 12 months, receive a dose of polio vaccine at least by the time of departure as this will still provide benefit, particularly for frequent travellers.
Ensure that such travellers are provided with an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis in the form specified in Annex 6 of the IHR to record their polio vaccination and serve as proof of vaccination.
Restrict at the point of departure the international travel of any resident lacking documentation of appropriate polio vaccination. These recommendations apply to international travellers from all points of departure, irrespective of the means of conveyance (e.g. road, air, sea).
Recognising that the movement of people across the border between Pakistan and Afghanistan continues to facilitate exportation of wild poliovirus, both countries should further intensify crossborder efforts by significantly improving coordination at the national, regional and local levels to substantially increase vaccination coverage of travellers crossing the border and of high risk crossborder populations. Both countries have maintained permanent vaccination teams at the main border crossings for many years. Improved coordination of crossborder efforts should include closer supervision and monitoring of the quality of vaccination at border transit points, as well as tracking of the proportion of travellers that are identified as unvaccinated after they have crossed the border.
Maintain these measures until the following criteria have been met: (i) at least six months have passed without new exportations and (ii) there is documentation of full application of high quality eradication activities in all infected and high risk areas; in the absence of such documentation these measures should be maintained until the state meets the above criteria of a ‘state no longer exporting’.
Provide to the WHO DirectorGeneral a monthly report on the implementation of the Temporary Recommendations on international travel, including the number of residents whose travel was restricted and the number of travellers who were vaccinated and provided appropriate documentation at the point of departure.

States infected with wild poliovirus or cVDPVs but not currently exporting

Infected countries (WPV1)

Nigeria (last case 13 July 2016)

Infected countries (cVDPV)

Nigeria (last env isolate 23 March 2016)
Guinea (last case 14 December 2015)
Madagascar (last case 22 August 2015)
Lao People’s Democratic Republic (last case 11 January 2016)
Myanmar (last case 5 October 2015)

These countries should:

Officially declare, if not already done, at the level of head of state or government, that the interruption of poliovirus transmission is a national public health emergency; where such declaration has already been made, this emergency status should be maintained.
Encourage residents and longterm visitors to receive a dose of OPV or IPV four weeks to 12 months prior to international travel; those undertaking urgent travel (i.e. within four weeks) should be encouraged to receive a dose at least by the time of departure.
Ensure that travellers who receive such vaccination have access to an appropriate document to record their polio vaccination status. Intensify regional cooperation and crossborder coordination to enhance surveillance for prompt detection of poliovirus and substantially increase vaccination coverage among refugees, travellers and crossborder populations.
Maintain these measures until the following criteria have been met: (i) at least six months have passed without the detection of wild poliovirus transmission or circulation of VDPV in the country from any source, and (ii) there is documentation of full application of high quality eradication activities in all infected and high risk areas; in the absence of such documentation these measures should be maintained until the state meets the criteria of a ‘state no longer infected’.
At the end of 12 months without evidence of transmission, provide a report to the WHO DirectorGeneral on measures taken to implement the Temporary Recommendations.

States no longer infected by wild poliovirus or cVDPV, but which remain vulnerable to international spread, and states that are vulnerable to the emergence and circulation of VDPV

Currently Somalia, Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon, Niger*, Chad* (WPV1) and Ukraine (cVDPV1)

These countries should:

Urgently strengthen routine immunization to boost population immunity.
Enhance surveillance quality to reduce the risk of undetected wild poliovirus and cVDPV transmission, particularly among high risk mobile and vulnerable populations.
Intensify efforts to ensure vaccination of mobile and crossborder populations, Internally Displaced Persons, refugees and other vulnerable groups.
Enhance regional cooperation and cross border coordination to ensure prompt detection of wild poliovirus and cVDPV, and vaccination of high risk population groups.
Maintain these measures with documentation of full application of high quality surveillance and vaccination activities.
At the end of 12 months without evidence of reintroduction of wild poliovirus or new emergence and circulation of cVDPV, provide a report to the Director General on measures taken to implement the Temporary Recommendations.

These countries should provide a final report as per the table below:

Country	Most recent case onset / +ve environmental isolate	Final Report due
Equatorial Guinea	3 May 2014	June 2016**
Cameroon	9 July 2014	August 2016**
Somalia	11 August 2014	Septmeber 2016
Ukraine	7 July 2015	August 2017

*Niger and Chad have not previously been subject to Temporary Recommendations, but the Committee concluded that the extraordinary circumstances in Nigeria made these countries (and Cameroon) highly vulnerable, and the Temporary Recommendations for vulnerable countries were appropriate to limit the risk of international spread.

**Reports overdue; however the epidemiological situation indicates heightened vulnerability currently.

Additional considerations for all infected countries

The Committee strongly urged global partners in polio eradication to provide optimal support to all infected countries at this critical time in the polio eradication program for implementation of the Temporary Recommendations under the IHR. Recognizing that cVDPV illustrates serious gaps in routine immunization programs in otherwise polio free countries, the Committee recommended that the international partners in routine immunization, for example Gavi, should urgently assist affected countries to improve the national immunization program. Investment in regional mechanisms such as the recent formation of a polio joint task force for Lake Chad is needed.

The Committee reviewed an analysis of the public health benefits and costs of implementing temporary recommendations that require exporting countries to vaccinate all international travellers before departure. The initial analysis suggests that this approach is cost-effective as there is ample evidence that air travelers may transmit polio and that vaccinating them would be effective in preventing international long distance spread. The committee requested further analysis around the cost-benefits of this approach including consideration of the opportunity costs that may result from diverting human resources to implement airport immunisation interventions. Notwithstanding this, the committee noted that as both Pakistan and Afghanistan have significant numbers of migrant workers utilizing air travel, implementation of these international travel recommendations are justifiable, and should continue to be supported by the countries and by partner agencies.

The Committee urged all countries to avoid complacency which could easily lead to a polio resurgence. Surveillance particularly needs careful attention to quickly detect any resurgent transmission.

Based on the advice concerning wild poliovirus and cVDPV, and the reports made by Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Nigeria, the WHO DirectorGeneral accepted the Committee’s assessment and on 22 August 2016 determined that the events relating to poliovirus continue to constitute a PHEIC, with respect to wild poliovirus and cVDPV. The WHO DirectorGeneral endorsed the Committee’s recommendations for countries falling into the definition of ‘States currently exporting wild polioviruses or cVDPV’, for ‘States infected with wild poliovirus or cVDPV but not currently exporting’ and for ‘States no longer infected by wild poliovirus, but which remain vulnerable to international spread, and states that are vulnerable to the emergence and circulation of VDPV’ and extended the Temporary Recommendations as revised by the Committee under the IHR to reduce the international spread of poliovirus, effective 22 August 2016.

The WHO DirectorGeneral thanked the Committee Members and Advisors for their advice and requested their reassessment of this situation within the next three months.

Pharmacists Chart Path On Reducing Global Diseases Burden

By

-

30/08/2016

Pharmacists across the globe are deliberating on the role of pharmacy in reducing the global burden of diseases at the ongoing 76th FIP World Congress of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences 2016.Below are some of the photographs taken at the event, holding at Buenos Aires, Argentina, August 28 – September 1, 2016.

FIP 2 — A cross section of top Nigerian pharmacists including PCN Registrar, Pharm.Elijah Mohammed, left; Immediate past PSN President, Pharm. Olumide Akintayo, second from left; and PSN President, Pharm. Ahmed Yakasai, fifth from left, at the international conference in Argentina.

Details Later

Essentials of Brand Management

By

-

30/08/2016

Brands (bundles of benefits) need champions to fight their course and pilot them from conception to maturity. Brand managers are expected to have the skills, knowledge and interest to plan, implement and control for success in the market place. The programme is designed to provide the above skills and others, to operate successfully in the complex world of productmanagement and highly competitive marketplace.

Programme Content:

• Overview of Product Management

• Roles and Responsibilities of Product/Brand Managers

• Marketing Elements

• Marketing Planning and Planning Process

• Segmentation Positioning

• Understanding Competition and Marketing Environment

• Marketing Warfare

• Market Research & Product Database

• Consumer Behaviour

• New Product Development

• Forecasting and Budgeting

• Channel Management and Promotions

• Consumer promotion

• Integrated Marketing Communications Management.

• Product Planning Portfolio Analysis-BCG, GE Matrix Systems, etc

• PLC & Product Management

• Strategies for Growth

• Elements of Interpersonal and influencing skills and Management.

For Whom:

Product Managers, Brand Managers, Marketing Managers, Sales Managers, Marketing Practitioners, Customer Service Managers, Trade Marketing/Commercial Managers/Directors, Key Account Managers, etc.

Investment Value: N90,000.00 (before 19^th September and N95,000.00 after)

Programme Date: September 27-29, 2016.

For further information, please contact:

Chinwe Odita – +234 706 812 9728

Adekola Adediran – +234 703 225 2123

Click here to download training brochure of courses for 2016

Leading Regions in Global Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients Market

By

-

29/08/2016

According to report by Persistence Market Research, “Global Market Study on Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API): Industry Analysis and Forecast 2015-2020”, the market reached the value of US$ 127Bn at the end of 2014. The increased demand for pharmaceutical drugs owing to the rising ageing population, increasing incidences of chronic illnesses and infectious diseases is major factor fueling the global API market.

The growing prevalence of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, neurological, and cardiovascular
diseases is a major driver in the global market. Manufacturers are making the shift from small molecules
manufacturing to biologic drugs. This is resulting in increased opportunities for contract manufacturing
companies in the global market. The blockbuster drugs being taken off the shelf as well as in-house
manufacturing of biologics owing to intellectual property concerns are major challenges in the global API
market.
In terms of manufacturing process, the global market is segmented into captive manufacturing and
contrast manufacturing. On the basis of product type, the market is segmented into synthetic chemical
API and biological API. The biological API segment is the fastest growing in the global API market with
a high growth rate of 8% through the forecast period of 2015-2020.

In terms of drug type, the market is segmented into branded prescription drugs, generic prescription
drugs, and OTC prescription drugs. The branded prescription drugs segment is the leading segment in the
global market owing to aggressive marketing by the players. The generic prescription drugs segment is
the fastest growing segment in the global API market through the forecast period 2015-2020.
In terms of therapeutic area, the market is segmented into cardiovascular disorders, metabolic disorders,
neurological disorders, oncology, musculoskeletal disorders, NSAIDs, and other therapeutics uses. The
cardiovascular disorders and NSAIDs segments collectively account for the major share in the global
market.
In terms of region, the global API market is segmented into North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and
Rest of the World. North America is the largest market segment owing to the highest consumption and
imports of API across the globe. India and China are the leading suppliers of API to North America owing
to low cost of labor and production. Asia Pacific is the second largest market region owing to low cost of
production facilities and labor, along with the presence of large number of global and domestic players in
the region, especially in China and India.

Key players in the global API market include WuXi AppTec, Allergan Plc., Pfizer, Inc., Sandoz (Novartis
AG), Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories, BASF SE, Lonza Group, Boehringer
Ingelheim GmbH, Cambrex Corporation, and Mylan N.V. Leading players in the market are focusing
towards increasing their product portfolio and higher market penetration.

To get more information:
http://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/market-
research/active-pharmaceutical-ingredient-market.asp

NMA links deteriorating health conditions of Nigerians to unpaid wages

By

-

29/08/2016

The Nigerian Medical Association on Sunday has said that non-payment of workers’ salaries in many states of the federation had worsened the health condition of Nigerians.

The NMA’s position was contained in a communique issued at the end of its National Executive Council meeting in Enugu.

In the communique, read by its President, Prof. Mike Ogirima, the medical association asked the Federal Government, to, as a matter of urgency, provide special bailout for workers’ salaries and prevail on state governments to pay them as and when due.

“The continuous handling with levity of workers’ salaries by some state governors is worsening the health of Nigerians which depend on out-of-pocket payments and also causes internal and external brain drain, thus undermining the training and quality of service rendered by health professionals,” the NMA said.

Ogirima added that the earlier bailout given to the states by the Federal Government was mismanaged.

He said the medical body was canvassing another salary bailout for the states by virtue of its role as the ‘custodian’ of the people’s health.

“The NMA and Nigerians are aware that some governors received bailout funds.\

“We are also aware that some governors diverted the bailout funds even when the workers are being owed.

“The NMA, as the custodian of the people’s health, is urging the Federal Government to do the needful because indices we are getting about the health implications of the non-payment of workers’ salaries on people’s health is worrisome,” Ogirima explained.

The NMA also demanded the full implementation of the provisions of the National Health Act, 2014, and expanded access of the National Health Insurance Scheme.

The association noted that failure to fully implement the law had undermined the aspirations of ordinary Nigerians for better health care delivery.

“This (nonimplementation of provisions of NHA, 2014) has led to worsening health indices with persistent high maternal and under-five mortality rates, infrastructural decay and poor motivation of health professionals.

“The current economic crisis in our country and high rate of out-of-pocket payments for health care services, coupled with the low accessibility of the National Health Insurance Scheme, is not only threatening the health care delivery system but has made achieving universal health coverage in Nigeria a mirage,” the communique said.

Ogirima described as unacceptable, a system where most civil servants were not captured in the NHIS.

The Punch News

NNMDA DG tasks pharmacists on the availability of herbal products

By

Temitope Obayendo

-

26/08/2016