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Do you know Tomatoes are great fruits?

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Tomatoes are often considered as vegetable, though in reality they are citrus fruits. Tomatoes are incredibly versatile food. They are deliciously eaten raw, in salads or on sandwiches, and taken on a wonderful sweetness when cooked. Their high acid content makes them a perfect food for canning.

One medium whole tomato contains around 22 calories, 0 grams of fat, 5 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of dietary fiber, 1 gram of protein and 6 milligrams of sodium. It also provides 40 percent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C, 20 percent of the RDA of vitamin A, 2 percent of the RDA of iron, and 1 percent of the RDA of calcium.

Here are some of the health benefits of tomatoes.

  1. Ward off Cancer:

Numerous studies have concluded that the more tomatoes people eat the lower their risks of certain cancers, especially lung, stomach and prostate cancers. A substance called lycopene, which is responsible for tomatoes red color, is thought to be the reason for this cancer protective effect. Processed tomatoes contain even more lycopene than raw ones. The process of cooking breaks down the cell walls, helping to release the lycopene. Eating tomatoes with a little bit of fat, such as olive oil, helps lycopene to be better absorbed by the body.

  1. Prevent DNA Damage:

Tomatoes are high in important antioxidants such as vitamin C and Vitamin A. These vitamins work to fend of DNA damage from free radicals. Consequently, tomatoes may help to ward off age related diseases such as atherosclerosis and diabetes.

  1. Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease:

Tomatoes contain important nutrients, such as niacin, folate and vitamin B6, that have associated with the reduction of heart disease risk. One study found that women who ate 7 to 10 servings of tomato products per week had a 29 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease than women who consumed less than a serving and a half of tomato products each week. Results were even more impressive when the women ate oil-rich tomato products.

  1. Protect Against Thrombosis:

Another study showed that drinking 8 ounces of tomato juice daily reduced platelet aggregation significantly, among study subjects. Those drinking a placebo showed no benefit. It’s important to drink low-sodium tomato juice if you are trying to protect against thrombosis (blood clots in the blood vessel), as high sodium levels can cause negative effects for this type of disease.

  1. Ward off Inflammation:

A double blind study found that drinking a glass of tomato juice a day can reduce blood levels of TNF-alpha by 34 percent. TNF-alpha causes inflammation. High levels have been found in individuals with most chronic, degenerative diseases such as heart disease, cancer, osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s.

  1. Improves vision:

Vitamin A, present in tomatoes, helps to improve your eyesight as well as prevent night-blindness and macular degeneration.

  1. Maintaining blood health:

Research suggests that a single tomato can provide about 40% of the daily vitamin C requirement and also contains vitamin A, potassium, and iron that is essential for maintaining normal blood health. Vitamin K, which is controls bleeding and blood clotting, tomatoes help in blood circulation.

  1. Good for digestion:

Eating tomatoes daily can keep your digestive system healthy as it prevents both, constipation and diarrhoea. It also prevents jaundice and effectively removes toxins from the body.

Pear: The super protective fruit

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Pears provide a very good source of fiber and are also a good source of vitamin B2, C, E, copper, and potassium. They also contain a significant amount of pectin, which is a water soluble fiber.

Pears are actually higher in pectin than apples. This makes them effective in helping to lower cholesterol levels and in toning the intestines. They are often recommended by health care practitioners as a hypoallergenic fruit that is high in fiber. They are less likely to produce an adverse response than other fruits. Pears are often recommended as safe fruit to introduce to infants. Pears are an extraordinary source of dietary fiber when the skin is eaten along with the flesh. Pears are also an excellent source of vitamin C and vitamin E, both powerful antioxidants and essential nutrients.

The Benefits are as follows

  1. Blood pressure: Pears have anti-oxidant and anti-carcinogen glutathione which help prevent high blood pressure and stroke.
  2. Cancer prevention: The high vitamin C and copper content act as good anti-oxidants that protect cells from damages by free radicals.
  3. Cholesterol: The high content of pectin in pears make it very useful in helping to lower cholesterol levels.
  4. Colon health: When not juicing, eat the pear whole for its precious fiber that are highly beneficial for your colon health.
  5. Constipation: The pectin in pears is diuretic and have a mild laxative effect. Drinking pear juice regularly helps regulate bowel movements.
  6. Energy: You can get quick and natural source of energy from pear juice, due largely to its high amounts of fructose and glucose.
  7. Fever: The cooling effect in pear is excellent in relieving fever. Best way to bring a fever down quickly is by drinking a big glass of pear juice.
  8. Immune booster: The anti-oxidant nutrients in pears are critical in building up your immune system. Drink pear juice when you feel a cold coming.
  9. Inflammation: Pear juice has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps relieve sufferers of much pain in various inflammatory conditions.
  10. Osteoporosis: Pears contain high level of boron. Boron helps the body to retain calcium, thus prevents or retards osteoporosis.
  11. Pregnancy: The high content of folate (folic acid) prevents neural tube defects in infants.
  12. Shortness of breath: The summer heat may cause children to have shortness of breath with excessive phlegm. Drink pear juice during this period to help clear the phlegm.
  13. Throat problem: The pears are in season during the summer for a reason. Drinking pear juice every morning and night helps to cool your body down during this time. It nourishes the throat and helps prevent throat problems.
  14. Vocal cord: Boil two pear juice with some raw honey and drink warm. This is extremely healing for the throat and the vocal cord.
  15. Fiber: Pears are an excellent source of natural dietary fiber. One pear will give you 24% of your recommended daily allowance of fiber. Fiber contains no calories, and is a necessary element of a healthy diet as it helps sustain blood sugar levels and promotes regularity.

 

Lifestyle management, sure way to prevent BPH- Alege

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Pharm. Lanre Alege, of the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, UITH, has harped on the need for men to embrace lifestyle changes  in order to reduce the risk of Benign Prostate Hyperplasia, BPH.

Alege, who made the call in a lecture at the weekend entitled : “Minimising the Risk of BPH” during the monthly Keep Fit Exercise for members of staff of the UITH held at the Kwara Stadium, explained the essence of lifestyle management to the members and why it is important to initiate earlier.

According to him, the lifestyle changes include: nutrition, limitation of alcohol intake, exercise, sitting habit, dressing mode and regular sexual intercourse.

He described Benign Prostate Hyperplasia, BPH, as a non cancerous growth of the prostate gland.

Mr. Alege explained that studies in some developed countries had shown that 50 per cent of men in their 60s and about 80 per cent of those in their 80s suffered from Benign Prostate Hyperplasia, BPH.

“The prostate gland is a secretary gland in the male reproductive organ which is a disease common in men aged 50 and above,” he stated.

According to him, as the prostate gland expands, it squeezes the urethra or causes the muscles around the urethra to contract, making it difficult to urinate.

“Frequent urination, especially at night, reduces or weakens the flow of urine, difficulty or hesitation in starting urine or holding urine or feeling of incomplete emptying of the bladder after urination,” he said.

“Consumption of red meat everyday triples the chances for prostate disease. Milk intake everyday also doubles the risk while not taking fruits and vegetables multiply the risk.

“Men should avoid tight under wear, as it impacts on circulation around the groin and heat up a bit. Regular sex is good for the prostate,” he said.

The Acting Head of Department, Nursing Services, Elizabeth Aina, lauded the management of UITH for sustaining the programme.

According to Mrs. Aina, the importance of exercise in improving the physical, mental, social and emotional build up cannot be over emphasised.

The state Director of Sports, Tunde Kazeem, noted that the attendance was not encouraging and charged UITH Heads of Departments to encourage their staff to always participate in the programme, considering its importance.

(NAN)

 

Why You Need To Start Drinking Green Tea

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Green tea has increasingly become a very popular drink worldwide because of its immensely powerful health benefits. It is extraordinarily amazing what green tea can do for your health. Depending on body system, some can take up to 3 to 4 cups of green tea in a day; however, to enjoy the health benefits of green tea, you must drink it daily in moderate quantity. Here are the 25 reasons why you should start drinking Green Tea

  1. Green Tea and Cancer

Green tea helps reduce the risk of cancer. The antioxidant in green tea is 100 times more effective than vitamin C and 25 times better than vitamin E. This helps your body at protecting cells from damage believed to be linked to cancer.

  1. Green Tea and Heart Disease

Green tea helps prevent heart disease and stroke by lowering the level of cholesterol. Even after the heart attack, it prevents cell deaths and speeds up the recovery of heart cells.

  1. Green Tea and Anti-Aging

Green tea contains antioxidant known as polyphenols which fight against free radicals. What this means it helps you fight against aging and promotes longevity.

  1. Green Tea and Weight Loss

Green tea helps with your body weight loss. Green tea burns fat and boosts your metabolism rate naturally. It can help you burn up to 70 calories in just one day. That translates to 7 pounds in one year.

  1. Green Tea and Skin

Antioxidant in green tea protects the skin from the harmful effects of free radicals, which cause wrinkling and skin aging. Green tea also helps fight against skin cancer.

  1. Green Tea and Arthritis

Green tea can help prevent and reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. Green tea has benefit for your health as it protects the cartilage by blocking the enzyme that destroys cartilage.

  1. Green Tea and Bones

The very key to this is high fluoride content found in green tea. It helps keep your bones strong. If you drink green tea every day, this will help you preserve your bone density.

  1. Green Tea and Cholesterol

Green tea can help lower cholesterol level. It also improves the ratio of good cholesterol to bad cholesterol, by reducing bad cholesterol level.

  1. Green Tea and Obesity

Green tea prevents obesity by stopping the movement of glucose in fat cells. If you are on a healthy diet, exercise regularly and drink green tea, it is unlikely you’ll be obese.

  1. Green Tea and Diabetes

Green tea improves lipid and glucose metabolisms, prevents sharp increases in blood sugar level, and balances your metabolism rate.

  1. Green Tea and Alzheimer’s

Green tea helps boost your memory. And although there’s no cure for Alzheimer’s, it helps slow the process of reduced acetylcholine in the brain, which leads to Alzheimer’s.

  1. Green Tea and Parkinson’s

Antioxidants in green tea helps prevent against cell damage in the brain, which could cause Parkinson’s. People drinking green tea also are less likely to progress with Parkinson’s.

  1. Green Tea and Liver Disease

Green tea helps prevent transplant failure in people with liver failure. Researchers showed that green tea destroys harmful free radicals in fatty livers.

  1. Green Tea and High Blood Pressure

Green tea helps prevent high blood pressure. Drinking green tea helps keep your blood pressure down by repressing angiotensin, which leads to high blood pressure.

  1. Green Tea and Food Poisoning

Catechin found in green tea can kill bacteria which cause food poisoning and kill the toxins produced by those bacteria.

  1. Green Tea and Blood Sugar

Blood sugar tends to increase with age, but polyphenols and polysaccharides in green tea help lower your blood sugar level.

  1. Green Tea and Immunity

Polyphenols and flavenoids found in green tea help boost your immune system, making your health stronger in fighting against infections.

  1. Green Tea and Cold and Flu

Green tea prevents you from getting a cold or flu. Vitamin C in green tea helps you treat the flu and the common cold.

  1. Green Tea and Asthma

Theophylline in green tea relaxes the muscles which support the bronchial tubes, reducing the severity of asthma.

  1. Green Tea and Ear Infection

Green tea helps with ear infection problem. For natural ear cleaning, soak a cotton ball in green tea and clean the infected ear.

  1. Green Tea and Herpes

Green tea increases the effectiveness of topical interferon treatment of herpes. First green tea compress is applied, and then let the skin dry before the interferon treatment.

  1. Green Tea and Tooth Decay

Green tea destroys bacteria and viruses that cause many dental diseases.It also slows the growth of bacteria which leads to bad breath.

  1. Green Tea and Stress

L-theanine, which is a kind of amino acids in green tea, can help relieve stress and anxiety.

  1. Green Tea and Allergies

EGCG found in green tea relieves allergies. So, if you have allergies, you should really consider drinking green tea.

  1. Green Tea and HIV

Scientists in Japan have found that EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) in green tea can stop HIV from binding to healthy immune cells.

The hidden benefits of plantain

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Plantains, also known as plátanos, are closely related cultivars of fruit or dessert banana. Generally, they are regarded as vegetables in the kitchen much like fellow tropical produces such as potatoes, taro, breadfruit, sweet potatoes, etc. Indeed, plátanos are one of the staple sources of carbohydrates for larger populations in Asia, Oceania, Africa, and Central Americas for centuries, served in main courses.

Plantains belong to the same family as bananas but they have to be cooked to be eaten. Plantains are delicious and can be found in many places in the world. Here are a few health benefits of plantains:

  1. Plantains are very reliable sources of starch and energy.
  2. Plantains contain a high amount of dietary fibre which helps ensure healthy bowels and reduces constipation.
  3. Plantains have more vitamin C than bananas. Consumption of foods rich in vitamin-C helps the body develop resistance against infectious agents and scavenge harmful oxygen-free radicals.
  4. Plantains have more vitamin A than bananas. In addition to being a powerful antioxidant, vitamin A plays a vital role in the visual cycle, maintaining healthy mucus membranes, and enhancing skin complexion.
  5. As in bananas, they too are rich sources of B-complex vitamins, particularly high in vitamin-B6 (pyridoxine). Pyridoxine is an important B-complex vitamin that has a beneficial role in the treatment of neuritis, anemia, and to decrease homocystine (one of the causative factors for coronary artery disease (CHD) and stroke episodes) levels in the body.
  6. Plantains also contain folates, niacin, riboflavin and thiamin. Folates (folic acid) are essential for healthy pregnancy.
  7. Plantains also provide adequate levels of minerals such as iron, magnesium, and phosphorous. Magnesium is essential for bone strengthening and has a cardiac-protective role as well.
  8. Plantains have more potassium than bananas. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure, countering negative effects of sodium.
  9. Plantains are famed to be diuretic and can help prevent kidney and bladder problems.
  10. Plantains ease the discomfort associated with the menstrual period.

Have You Washed You Hands Today? #2015GlobalHandWashingday

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Temitope Obayendo
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Hand washingIf the Ebola Virus Disease epidemic has caused Africans so much loss, it however did us one good by spreading the hand washing consciousness in the sub-African where the fear of the virus made both small and great embarked on regular hand hygiene all to prevent the disease.

The truth of the matter is that the Global Hand washing Day was instituted in October 15, 2008, by the UN General Assembly to drive home the importance of washing hands with soap and water, but this was not generally popularised in Nigeria and other African countries until the outbreak of EVD in 2014.

With the theme of this year’s campaign being: “Raise a Hand for Hygiene”, it is imperative for ALL to be part of the sanitation crusade. In fact, you don’t have to be involved in the water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sector to celebrate Global Hand washing Day. Hand washing is important for everyone, everywhere, and we encourage you to tailor the ideas towards your daily individual and family life.

Below is 10 Real Reasons you must participate in Hand Washing Campaign

  • Hand hygiene at the right times saves lives.
  • Hand hygiene in health care has saved millions of lives in the last years.
  • Hand hygiene is a quality indicator of safe healthcare systems.
  • Health-care problems, like diarrheal, respiratory infections, intestinal worm, skin and eye infection which are often invisible but nevertheless still occur, can be prevented through regular hand washing.
  • Infections can be stopped through good hand hygiene, and patient and health worker harm prevented for less than $10.
  • Affordable life-saving technology is available! Alcohol-based handrub, which costs approximately $3 per bottle, can prevent HAI and millions of deaths every year.
  • #Handhygiene exists in the media, which means it exists as an important topic, whether due to HAI or outbreaks of deadly diseases like Ebola.
  • Embedding specific moments for hand hygiene action into health worker workflow makes it easier to do the right thing every minute, every hour, every day.
  • Infection prevention is at the heart of strengthening health-care systems. Hand hygiene is core to all interventions, whether inserting an invasive device, managing a surgical wound, or giving an injection.
  • The social epidemic has already begun to spread with SAVE LIVES: Clean Your Hands, a successful global campaign promoting hand hygiene action at the point of patient care.

 

Checkout the 32 natural remedies of onion

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Onions have been used for thousands of years as an ingredient in various dishes by many cultures around the world. This vegetable can be eaten raw, cooked, fried, dried or roasted. They are commonly used as flavouring and seasoning agent in many dishes. Aside from adding an excellent taste to dishes, onions also provide many health benefits to its users. In Chinese medicine, onions have been used to treat angina, coughs, bacterial infections, and respiratory problems. And even the World Health Organization (WHO) also supports the use of onions for the treatment of poor appetite and preventing atherosclerosis.

Health Benefits

  1. It is an immediate cure for fever, common cold, cough, sore throat, allergies, etc. A mixture of onion juice and honey can cure these problems easily.
  2. A small piece of onion can work against side effects of fever if it is kept on the forehead.
  3. A small piece of onion, when inhaled, can stop or slow down the bleeding through the nose.
  4. An onion a day can cure insomnia or sleeping disorders. This will surely give you a good night’s sleep.
  5. Onions can improve the digestive system. If you have a digestion problem, then onions can cure it by increasing the release of the digestion juices.
  6. Onions have antibiotic, antiseptic, antimicrobial and carminative properties to help you stay away from infections.
  7. Onions are rich in sulphur, fibers, potassium, vitamin B, vitamin C and they are low in fat, cholesterol and sodium.
  8. Onion juice can cure burnt skin or an insect bite or a bee bite. It may burn more but it can heal it very effectively.
  9. Onions can be used to prevent cancers. It works against head, neck and colon cancers.
  10. You can protect yourself from osteoporosis and atherosclerosis by consuming onions daily.
  11. Onions increase the insulin in the body and also treat diabetes by controlling the sugar levels in the blood.
  12. The bad cholesterol that causes heart problems can be burnt or removed if an onion is consumed daily. It keeps you safe from the coronary diseases and also protects the good cholesterol.
  13. Inflammation from arthritis in the joints can be healed with onions.
  14. There is a small trick with onions to get some relief from body pains. Onions should be fried in sesame or castor oil and can be used to heal any aches.
  15. One of the well-known tricks to remove dark patches or pigments on your face is to apply onion and turmeric juice on that area.
  16. Onion juice is also used to cure ear and eye problems. This juice is used for infants as eye drops for clear vision.
  17. This is also used for toothaches and tooth decaying.
  18. Onions have rejuvenation properties on the body tissues.
  19. For a few types of moles, onion juice works efficiently by removing them.
  20. For a good memory and a strong nervous system, consuming onions is your best bet.
  21. Onions cure menstrual disorders. Raw onions should be consumed before a few days of the beginning of your cycle.
  22. Use onion juice on the hair or the scalp to get rid of lice and hair fall. This is one of the most prominent of onion benefits for hair.
  23. Onions contain water, protein, fats, starch, fibers, minerals, calcium, vitamin C, iron and B complex.
  24. Anti-Ageing Benefits: Onions possess enormous anti-ageing benefits. The antioxidant vitamins A, C and E fight against the damage caused by the harmful UV rays as well as prevent free radical damage that is responsible for causing premature ageing of our skin. Onion is one of the richest sources of quercetin, the most powerful antioxidant that can keep your skin wrinkle-free. Vitamins and sulphur, on the other hand, protect your skin, and keep it soft and supple. The anti-ageing qualities of onion can be attributed to the presence of sulphur-rich phytochemicals. Massaging your skin with fresh onion juice helps increase the blood circulation and improves the overall appearance of your skin by imparting a more youthful and radiant appearance.
  25. Treatment of Acne: The antimicrobial, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities of onion can work wonders on your skin. It is a powerful antiseptic that protects your skin from acne-causing bacteria and other skin infections. Onions can be used in the treatment of acne and pimples. For this purpose, you can mix 1 tablespoon of onion juice or extract with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and apply it on your face. Leave it on for 20 minutes and then wash off. Apart from topical application, the regular consumption of onion can also give you miraculous results in the case of acne.
  26. Lightens the Complexion: Onions help in purifying your blood and supply your body with flavonoids that assist Vitamin C in its important functions. The consumption of onions can keep your skin healthy and glowing. You can prepare your own face mask by combining 1 ½ tablespoons of freshly extracted onion juice with 2 tablespoons of gram flour, ½ teaspoon of milk and a pinch of nutmeg. Mix all these ingredients to form a thick paste and add some more milk, if required, to reach the desired consistency. You can also add a few drops of lavender essential oil to beat the smell of onions. Apply it all over your face after cleansing and leave for 15 to 20 minutes or until it dries. Dab a cotton ball in milk and remove the pack by massaging in gentle circular movements. This will exfoliate the dead skin cells and lighten the skin tone.
  27. Treatment of Dark Spots and Pigmentation: Onion juice is excellent for getting rid of dark spots and pigmentation. The rich variety of phytonutrients and antioxidants in onion nourish your skin while removing the skin impurities. You can prepare a face pack by mixing equal quantities of onion juice and fresh yogurt. You can also add a few drops of any essential oil for a pleasant aroma. Massage your face with this mixture, using gentle circular movements for 10 to 15 minutes. This should be done daily for best results.
  28. Treatment of Stings and Bites: Onions can be used to soothe stings and bug bites. All you need to do is place an onion slice on your sting or bite. The anti-inflammatory properties of onion help in reducing the burn, itchiness and swelling caused by insect and bug bites.
  29. Treatment of Thinning Hair: Onion is quite helpful in treating thinning hair. All you need to do is juice an onion in a juicer and add ½ teaspoon of honey to it. You can add any essential oil of your choice to suppress the smell. Apply this mixture all over your hair or onto the portions that appear thin. Leave it overnight and do not cover your head. Shampoo your hair the next morning. This should be done at least once to thrice a week for best results.
  30. Treatment of Hair Loss and Dandruff: You can prepare a hair mask using an onion to combat hair loss, dandruff and an itchy scalp. Onion juice is particularly beneficial for increasing the length of your hair. All you need to do is grind or mash an onion and strain it through a grinder to obtain the juice. Mix this juice with equal amounts of olive or coconut oil and apply it on your scalp and hair. Cover your head with a shower cap and leave it for 2 hours. Rinse it off with a shampoo to get rid of the stickiness in the hair. This hair pack will improve the ability of your hair to regrow besides imparting a shiny, glossy look to your hair. It should be applied twice a month for best results.
  1. Maintains Hair Colour: You can apply onion juice on your hair to impart a nice coppery shade as well as to make your hair glossy. However, if you wish to maintain the natural color of your hair, you can blend an onion with adequate amounts of mustard oil and apply it on your hair. The mustard oil will suppress the color lightening effect of onion.
  2. Natural Conditioner: To condition your hair naturally, you can apply a mixture of onion and fenugreek paste on your hair. Keep it for half an hour and wash off with a mild shampoo.

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Pharmacologist, two others, win 2015 Nobel Prize in Medicine

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Novel prizeThree scientists from Ireland, Japan and China respectively have won the 2015 Nobel prize in medicine for discoveries that helped doctors fight malaria and infections caused by roundworm parasites.

Tu Youyou, a Chinese-born pharmacologist discovered one of the most effective treatments for malaria while working on a secret military project during China’s Cultural Revolution.

The 84-year-old pharmacologist was awarded half of the prestigious 8m Swedish kronor (£631,000) prize for her discovery of artemisinin, a drug that proved to be an improvement on chloroquine, which had become far less effective as the malaria parasites developed resistance.

A Fellow of the American Society of Pharmacognosy (ASP) Professor Satoshi Ömura, along with William C. Campbell, an Irish-born researcher who did his work in the U.S, shared the other half of the Prize for their works on the microbial production of the avermectin class of compounds, which was initial discovered by Ömura, and later followed up by Campbell. These compounds are important in the treatment of river blindness and other parasitic diseases

Satoshi Ömura, noted natural products chemist , shared the 2015 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine for his discovery of the microbial production of the avermectin class of compounds. These compounds are important in the treatment of river blindness and other parasitic diseases. Ömura isolated avermectin from Streptomyces avermitilis isolated from Japanese soil. William Campbell followed up on this discovery for applications in livestock and other domestic animals. Youyou Tu also shared the prize for work with artemisinin, used in the treatment of malaria. Ömura and Williams shared one-half of the prize, while Tu received the other half.

Together, the scientists have transformed the lives of millions of people in the developing world, where parasitic diseases that cause illness and death are most rife.

“The two discoveries have provided humankind with powerful new means to combat these debilitating diseases that affect hundreds of millions of people annually,” the Nobel committee said. “The consequences in terms of improved human health and reduced suffering are immeasurable.”

 

More Reasons You need an Apple A Day

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Apples ranked second for highest antioxidant activity. However, they ranked highest for the proportion of free phenolic compounds, which means they are not bound to other compounds in the fruit and therefore may be more easily absorbed into your bloodstream.

7 Benefits of an Apple

Prevent High Blood Pressure

There is overwhelming evidence that one-third of all cancer cases and half the incidences of cardiovascular disease and hypertension can be attributed to diet.Because apples are high in potassium, a mineral that helps control blood pressure, they can help reduce the risk of stroke.

Protect Your Heart

University of California-Davis researchers found that apples and apple juice may help slow the oxidation process that is involved in the buildup of plaque that leads to heart disease. Participants added only two apples or 12 ounces of apple juice to their diet daily and positive effects were evident after only six weeks.

Reduce Cholesterol

A medium apple provides five grams of fibre – more than most cereals. Apples are one of the top fruits with plenty of pectin, a soluble fibre that reduces cholesterol. Pectin prevents cholesterol from building up in the lining of blood vessel walls, thus reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease.

Protection against Colon Cancer

When the natural fibre in apples ferments in the colon, it produces chemicals that help fight the formation of cancer cells, according to new research from Germany.

Reduced Risk of Asthma

A study completed at Aberdeen University found there is strong evidence that a healthy diet rich in anti-oxidants and vitamins is good for asthma. Researchers found that when children sipped on apple juice their symptoms were relieved. Dr Peter Burney, who led the project, believes that the ‘phytochemicals’ in apples, such as flavanoids and phenolic acids, help calm inflammation in the airways.

Bone Protection

Researchers believe that a flavanoid called phloridzin, found only in apples may protect post-menopausal women from osteoporosis and may also increase bone density. Boron, another ingredient in apples, also strengthens bones.

Stave Off Alzheimer’s disease

Apples contain quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that protects brain cells from degeneration in rats and might do the same in humans. Dr. Ramani Soundararajan from Dalhousie Medical School and Dr. Vasantha Rupasinghe at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College found that Red Delicious flavonoids had strong neuroprotective effects.

Signs of Heart Disease

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Many people associate heart disease with obvious symptoms like chest pain. But there are some not-so-obvious connections, like swollen feet or bleeding gums that should also merit a heart check from your doctor.

Heart disease symptoms in women and men could include shortness of breath or chest pain. But your doctor may also look for some surprising heart disease signs during an examination.

Knowing the signs of heart disease is important because you may have them before you have any of the common heart disease symptoms. Letting your doctor know about these warning signs could help you get an early jump on heart disease.

“Signs like ankle swelling or weight gain do not necessarily mean you have heart disease, but taken together with other symptoms of heart disease, laboratory studies, and family history, they are an important part of making a diagnosis of heart disease or heart failure.

Swelling of the Feet and Lower Legs

Retention of fluid in the feet and legs is known as peripheral edema. Edema may appear as “sock marks” at the end of the day. Mild peripheral edema is common. Your doctor may check for this sign by pressing a finger against your ankle or shin bone to see if a depression is left behind. This is called “pitting edema.”

Edema may be a sign of heart failure because, when your heart is not pumping well, fluid from inside your blood vessels tends to leak out into surrounding tissues. The legs and ankles are common areas for edema because of the effects of gravity.

Peripheral edema may be caused by a host of issues, and the bottom line is that most people with peripheral edema do not have heart disease, but it could be an important sign if there are other signs and symptoms of heart failure.”

Male Pattern Baldness

Several large studies have confirmed the link between baldness and heart disease. Compared to men with a full head of hair, men with crown loss have an increased risk of heart disease of about 23 percent. Men with complete loss of hair on the top of their head have an increased risk of 36 percent.

The combination of hair loss, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol pushes the risk even higher. This link may be due to too much of the male hormone testosterone, which interferes with hair growth on the head and causes hardening of the arteries. That doesn’t mean you are doomed to heart failure if you are bald, but it does suggest you should be screened more carefully for other signs and symptoms of heart disease.

Yellow Bumps on the Skin

Xanthomas are deposits of fat that build up under the skin. They may appear as small yellow bumps or as flat, wide plaques on your elbows, knees, hands, feet, or buttocks. A type of xanthoma called “xanthelasma palpebra” appears on the eyelids. These yellow, fat deposits can potentially be signs of heart disease because they may indicate high levels of fats in the blood.

“Xanthomas may be a sign of a rare, inherited type of blood disorder in which high levels of triglycerides accumulate in the blood. Xanthomas may also be a sign of increased cholesterol and they may disappear once cholesterol levels are under control.

Signs of Heart Failure

Heart failure means the heart is not functioning as well as it should. It doesn’t mean the heart has failed. Another term for heart failure is congestive heart failure, or CHF. Heart failure gradually gets worse over time. Some early warning signs may include:

  1. Weight gain: If your heart starts to fail and fluid starts to build up in your tissue, causing edema, you might see a sudden weight gain.
  2. Frequent urination: Heart failure may cause decreased blood flow to the kidneys, which causes you to retain more fluid. One of the signs of this fluid may be frequent urination.
  3. Cataracts: Although the exact connection is not known, studies show that people who have cataracts are at higher risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. “This link is probably more of an association than a sign of heart disease.”
  4. Nighttime cough: “One of the signs of heart failure may be the build-up of fluid in the chest and heart when lying flat at night. This pressure can cause a nighttime cough.

 

Pharmanews, White Tulip partner on health practitioners’ training

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Temitope Obayendo
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white tulipPoised to spread their capacity building wealth of experience across all borders in the health care industry, Pharmanews limited and White Tulip Consulting Limited have signed a two-year-contract for training health professionals across the country.

Speaking at the press conference on Wednesday, the Publisher of Pharmanews, Sir, Ifeanyi Atueyi said the partnership is a step forward in a capacity building journey which the company began some twenty-two years back, adding that the goal of the pact is to build a stronger training force for health practitioners.

Why Women Should Drink More Water During Pregnancy

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Admin
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Drink More Water During Pregnancy
Drink More Water During Pregnancy

To Keep Hydrated: We are all familiar with the effects of dehydration, common symptoms being headaches, nausea, and dizziness. While pregnant, women are no strangers to these symptoms — why not take away one more potential cause of making one feel more ill than she already is?

Some studies suggest that drinking too much sugar-infested soda can result in an increased risk of contracting     gestational diabetes. There is an increased risk of cavities forming in pregnant women as well, and drinks with sugar   in them will help those cavities form.  Drinking water will hydrate you enough so you won’t go reaching for that tempting can of soda.

For Smooth and Clear Complexion: Pregnancy hormones can wreak havoc on one’s face. What was once smooth can now be riddled with pimples. It’s an age old beauty industry truth that drinking water helps maintain a clear complexion.

Prevents Infections: Pregnant women are prone to urinary tract infections. By keeping the urine diluted with a high volume of water, you minimize the risk of contracting one.

Prevents Edema: Many women suffer from edema when pregnant. Swelling that is more than normal is usually associated with elevated blood pressure. Drinking water helps flush out the sodium, thereby minimizing the swelling.

Amniotic Fluid Balance: Your baby needs a deep swimming pool to nestle in, and maintaining a good level of amniotic fluid is of utmost importance. Drinking water helps ensure the amniotic fluid levels don’t go too low, according to some studies.

Enhances Easy Blood Flow: Pregnant women are no strangers to blood draws. When you are hydrated, your blood flows better which makes it easier to access and draw blood without the vein collapsing. And who wants to risk a painful, drawn out date with your local phlebotomist?

Prevents Heat: Heat intolerance is a common complaint of pregnant women. With a higher susceptibility to heat stroke and exhaustion due to the need to cool themselves as well as the babies inside of them, drinking water is an easy method to quickly cool down. There is also a danger to the baby a woman carries when her inner temperature gets too high, so drink away.

Prevents Overeating: A common dieting technique is to drink plenty of water as it helps trigger the “full” indicator inside the body. Many women struggle with excessive weight gain during pregnancy for an assortment of reasons. Drinking water can help prevent overeating.

Prevents Constipation: Water also helps prevent constipation which many women suffer from during pregnancy when their bowel movements get sluggish due to physical changes, iron supplements, and hormonal changes. Of course, after birth drinking water is also imperative, especially for nursing mothers who are maintaining a milk supply for their babies.

All You Need To Know About Carrots

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Admin
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Carrot also known as the Crunchy Powerfood is a very good source of vitamin A. With this orange-coloured rich powerful food, you are sure to get loads of vitamin A and a host of other health benefits including beautiful skin, cancer prevention, and anti-aging.

Maximum benefits from this amazing fruit.

  1. Improves vision

Carrots being “good for the eyes” are one of the few we got right. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the liver. Vitamin A is transformed in the retina, to rhodopsin, a purple pigment necessary for night vision.

Beta-carotene has also been shown to protect against macular degeneration and senile cataracts. A study found that people who eat the most beta-carotene had 40 percent lower risk of macular degeneration than those who consumed little.

  1. Helps prevent cancer

Carrots reduce the risk of lung cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer. Researchers have just discovered falcarinol and falcarindiol which they feel cause the anticancer properties.

Falcarinol is a natural pesticide produced by the carrot that protects its roots from fungal diseases. Carrots are one of the only common sources of this compound. A study showed 1/3 lower cancer risk by carrot-eating mice.

  1. Slows down aging

The high level of beta-carotene acts as an antioxidant to cell damage done to the body through regular metabolism.  It help slows down the aging of cells.

  1. Promotes healthier skin

Vitamin A and antioxidants protects the skin from sun damage. Deficiencies of vitamin A cause dryness to the skin, hair and nails. Vitamin A prevents premature wrinkling, acne, dry skin, pigmentation, blemishes, and uneven skin tone.

  1. Helps prevent infection

Carrots are known by herbalists to prevent infection. They can be used on cuts – shredded raw or boiled and mashed.

  1. Promotes healthier skin (from the outside)

Carrots are used as an inexpensive and very convenient facial mask.  Just mix grated carrot with a bit of honey. See the full recipe here: carrot face mask.

  1. Prevents heart disease

Studies show that diets high in carotenoids are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.  Carrots have not only beta-carotene but also alpha-carotene and lutein.

The regular consumption of carrots also reduces cholesterol levels because the soluble fibers in carrots bind with bile acids.

  1. Cleanses the body

Vitamin A assists the liver in flushing out the toxins from the body. It reduces the bile and fat in the liver. The fibers present in carrots help clean out the colon and hasten waste movement.

  1. Protects teeth and gums

It’s all in the crunch! Carrots clean your teeth and mouth. They scrape off plaque and food particles just like toothbrushes or toothpaste.  Carrots stimulate gums and trigger a lot of saliva, which being alkaline, balances out the acid-forming, cavity-forming bacteria.  The minerals in carrots prevent tooth damage.

  1. Prevents stroke

Researchers have confirmed that people who ate more than six carrots a week are less likely to suffer a stroke than those who ate only one carrot a month or less.

2015 World Pharmacist Day: Pharmacist; Your Partner in Health

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Admin
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IMG_143256408262861
Each year, the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) which is the international body for Pharmacists and pharmaceutical societies  across the world celebrates the world Pharmacist day on the 25th of September to commemorate the day FIP was founded in 1912. One hundred and three years after that important date, the pharmacy profession has indeed added value to the world in terms of good health and prosperity. The life line of the health sector is medicine; without drugs and other pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and beauty products ,you will agree with me that our world will not have reached this age of advancement, growth and development. In this light, a day like this signifies the immense contributions of pharmacists and the pharmacy profession to our world.
Who is a Pharmacist?
Pharmacists are specialists in medicines and they understand their composition, chemical and physical properties, manufacture, uses, side effects and interactions with food and other medicines. Pharmacists are able to educate the public on the correct use of medicines and on the maintenance of health.  They also provide specialized information to doctors, nurses and other health professionals. Pharmacists are utterly involved in every aspect of the preparation and use of medicines, from research and development to eventual supply to a patient. More often than not, a pharmacist is the first person to be consulted by a patient as whether or not a doctor should be visited.
Who is a partner?
According to Oxford Advanced Learner’s dictionary, a partner is a person that you are doing an activity with. In other words, a partner is someone who is associated or united with others in an activity or sphere of common interest. Pharmacists are quite interested in working with you as your health partner in order for you to experience a healthy life.
What is health?
According to World Health Organization (WHO) health is defined in its broader sense in its 1948 constitution as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
It’s a well-known fact that the first point of call for most patients are the community pharmacies in their neighborhood.  And you will quite agree with me that the first person you often consult about your health challenges is a pharmacist. The pharmacist will decide whether you may visit a doctor or that you can be treated by one of the many remedies available in the pharmacy. In this wise, pharmacists play a big role in the health of individuals and the nation in general, For a healthy country is a productive country which is a result of healthy individuals who are productive.
 In reflection , every smart person is enjoined to have a pharmacist as a friend or as his or her health partner. A good relationship with your pharmacist will significantly enhance your health status. A pharmacist as your health partner will advise you on how and when to take your medicines for maximum effect, how to reduce side effects, how to avoid drug – drug interactions especially for patients taking plenty of drugs ( comorbidity) , food and vegetables to eat while taking medications to prevent untoward drug- food interaction  and the directions of specialized devices such as inhalers, Nebulizers and syringes. In addition, a pharmacist counsels you on the lifestyle modifications and non-pharmacological way of taking good care of your health.
It is a grim fact that pharmacists are authority on drug matters. Pharmacists are drug experts. They know the nitty-gritty of drugs, cosmetics, and other pharmaceutical products. Pharmacists are trained as communicators, counselors, and to work within a code of professional ethics that encompasses their relationship with other health professionals and the public. They have a well-developed sense of responsibility and a keen sense to details. Trust them, open up to them, follow their counsels and they will be in the best position to add value to your health.
It also pertinent for me to state here, that we are in the digital age, where information is readily available through a search on Google or any other search engines. Patients can easily access general information on any diseases but that is the more reason they need specialized information about their health. Your pharmacist is your health information specialist due to his wide knowledge in pharmacology, clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutics, pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmaceutical microbiology and pharmacognosy to give you first-hand information on why, what and how to experience optimum wellness and live a healthy life. I’ve helped many people manage stress, experience optimum wellness and stay healthy with healthy lifestyle tips and with my deep knowledge and rich experience as a drug expert and health coach.
According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, safety is the second most important need of man, where health is usually categorized. However, I quite disagree with that; without health, the physiological needs of man are useless. When a man is seriously ill or involves in an accident or going through chronic pains like cancer, he doesn’t care about food, shelter, clothe or sex, what matters most to him at that moment of time is good HEALTH. Nothing more, nothing less. Like I always advise my friends, family, and anyone who cares to listen, health is the ultimate wealth. When our health suffers, every other aspect of our lives is affected; family, finance, spiritual, mental and other facets . A wise man takes good care of his health.
I SALUTE all pharmacists across the world for their selfless service to humanity.
God bless the pharmacy profession.
Sesan Kareem is a pharmacist, author and speaker. He writes from Lagos, Nigeria. www.sesankareem.com
Plot 3, Emmanuel Keshi Street, Magodo, Lagos,   Nigeria. +2348072983163

How to combat fraud in pharmacies and hospitals, by Oladipupo

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Admin
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Macjob Oladipupo

Macjob Oladipupo is a pharmacist, body language expert, and handwriting/statement analyst. An indigene of Ogun State, he had his secondary education at Federal Government College, Odogbolu, Ogun State before obtaining a B.Pharm degree from University of Ibadan. In this interview with Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis, the language expert reveals how health care practitioners can benefit from body language skills, statement analysis and graphology, as well as why he thinks pharmacy schools should inculcate body language into the curriculum.

Tell us about your work experience

I had my internship at the Neuropsychiatry Hospital, Aro Abeokuta and later served at Specialist Hospital, Bauchi. My official work experience started at JB Pharmaceuticals where I was a medical representative. I later left there for Assene Nigeria Limited, before moving to Novartis Pharmaceuticals, where I eventually resigned as brand manager (Cardio Metabolic Portfolio) for English West Africa. Presently, I am the CEO of Macdiptoy Consulting Limited.

What is the relevance of body language in the health sector?

Body language skill set is relevant to everyone and anyone that agrees to the fact that there is no vaccination against deception. It serves as a conduit in boosting confidence, credibility and career for all and sundry. This is key because at any interview, no one is capable of seeing your heart but your act. Therefore, much more than what you say before prospective employers, how you say what you say is very crucial. Body language skills fine-tune the presentation of the information you deploy on any auspicious occasion.

One cardinal aspect of body language is statement analysis. This is the process of analysing the statement of a friend, family, foe or business associate for deception traces, either in verbal or written statements. The benefit of this to all kinds of relationships and businesses is tremendous. Graphology and body language analysis aids better performance of medical representatives in projecting confidence and credibility before customers which is a valuable skill in closing any sale. This applies to old and new medical reps. It allows first line managers to better understand how to rightly influence their team members and, thus, ultimately helping to meet or exceed the common objective of the organisation.

handwriting.head

Another aspect of body language which is especially relevant to first line managers, HR managers or recruitment officers is handwriting analysis (graphology). Clients learn how to assess and interpret basic personality traits of anyone from a handwriting sample for the purpose of: personality profiling of individuals (e.g prospective employees or in house members of staff); vocational/career guidance/career growth and planning – which is very important in any organisation especially in the health sector; as well as team building and team bonding, especially for first line managers and direct reports. It aids good delegation processes from managers to subordinates.

As a pharmacist, why did you take special interest in body language as a professional service?

Well, I stumbled across a book on it about seven years ago and I began a research on it. After watching a movie titled “Lie to Me”, my desire to get some kind of formal education in the field increased. I discovered early enough that I had good perceptive skills, which really helped me while I was a medical representative and brand manager at Novartis Pharmaceuticals. So, I got certified in the Body Language Institute, United States of America, as the first Nigerian instructor in 2013. I also became a certified member of the American Handwriting Analysis Foundation (AHAF). Ever since, the experience has been fulfilling.

 Some people complain about doctors’ handwriting. As a graphology expert, what is your view?

I assume that you are referring to the legibility of doctor’s handwriting even though they aren’t the only professionals with handwriting that might be difficult to read.

Generally, handwriting reveals the emotional, intellectual and psychological state of anyone at a particular point in time. These qualities, as it were, can be decoded by certain parameters in graphology. A good example, very pertinent to doctors on the average, is the speed of a handwriting sample.

One main characteristic of handwriting with speed is that it does not appear too legible hence difficult to read, particularly if it is in cursive style. However, it is a reflection of the speed of thought of the individual and since the average doctor can be said to be above mediocrity in I.Q, this parameter is a good indicator of someone capable of processing thoughts at a relatively fast rate which shows some good level of intelligence.

Frauds are reported daily in retail pharmacies, hospitals and companies. Can getting acquainted with body language prevent such occurrences?

Yes, it can serve as a mitigation strategy. Currently, our organisation is planning a training package for all community pharmacists during which basic deception detection skills can be learnt with a view to reducing the problem of pilfering to the barest minimum in community pharmacies. This training is also useful to other organisations as well.

Is Nigeria really ripe for innovative measures like body language and graphology?

Yes, I believe the time is ripe now. Most of the Western countries have been using these skills for decades. For example, in France, about 85 per cent of all companies apply graphology as part of their recruitment processes.

Do we have any statistics of practitioners of body language in Nigeria?

Well, the last time I checked, I was still the only certified body language expert from the Body Language Institute in the USA. One of my dreams is to get this training package into the pharmacy school curriculum and business academies where the benefits can be taught to all those who enrol for different courses, perhaps on management and leadership.

With the busy schedule of top executives, how can they manage body language effectively?

It is nothing difficult. It only takes acquiring the necessary skills to be effective and efficient which is one of the things we specialise in at Macdiptoy Consulting Limited.

 How can you be reached for trainings or other professional engagements?

You can contact us through our emails or phone numbers as listed below: info@diptoyconsulting.com or diptoy20m@yahoo.com or call 08185346336 or 08039308226. Our website address is www.diptoyconsulting.com

 

Graphology and pharmacy practice

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Admin
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By Macjob Oladipupo

In the last edition, we talked about the importance of the baseline, slant and slope as graphological parameters that give insight into the personality of any individual. We shall continue from there in this edition to talk about a few others.

  1. Size: The size of a handwriting is an indication of how tall the writer feels inside and how much recognition he or she needs. Usually those with large or big handwriting are ego conscious. Generally, the size of the handwriting can be small, medium or large. People who write in small letters tend to be more conservative compared with those who write in large sizes. They are also often intelligent because it takes some degree of concentration and focus to write in small letters. The medium size writer is a balance between the small and the large.
  2. Shape: People whose handwriting have most of the letters in the alphabet appearing sharp or angular tend to be more energetic and aggressive in nature. An example is shown below:

On the other hand, those whose handwriting appears rather ‘thready’, that is, you can hardly see the ending letters in words they write, could indicate those with ‘quick minds’ and who are a little impatient with slow learners.

 

 

  1. Space: The space is one of the most important parameters in a handwriting. It reveals a lot about the individual, depending on whether what is considered is the space within letters, between words or between lines. It gives an insight into the distance the writer seeks to establish between himself and others. You can find out someone who is more of an extrovert or introvert just by carefully analysing the spacing between words. People who write in such a way that the spaces between their words are very tight are often those who need attention, affection and approval of others before they can be in their best elements.

 

  1. Margin: In graphological studies, movement to the right of a paper (for example an A4), talks about the future, whereas any movement of the handwriting towards the left gives insight into the past. Depending on the appearance of the handwriting of an individual on paper, we can tell whether or not he feels more comfortable with experiences of the past or prefers to let them go and move forward. Those who write from one end of the page to another without leaving any space at all or giving any considerations to the margin tend to be more hysterical. Such people do not like being given so many rules and regulation that limit their freedom as it were.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1. Pressure: This expresses energy and vitality of the personality. Pressure is not an indication of physical strength but the amount of psychic energy the individual expends. Light pressure reveals someone sensitive emotionally. Heavy pressure reveals someone dominating, materialistic, and extremely heavy pressure shows signs of frustration and anger. One way of determining the pressure in a handwriting sample is to get the original sample and palpate or feel the back of the handwriting page with your hands.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

In the next edition, we shall discuss a little about the trait stroke method of graphology to see what to look out for in a handwriting sample and what it reveals about the personality of the individual. You can’t afford to miss it. Remember that “every stroke of the pen reveals something about a friend”.

(diptoy20m@yahoo.com; 08039308226, SMS only)

 

 

How to curb erectile dysfunction and infertility

By
Temitope Obayendo
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1

Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction (ED) and infertility are two major issues generating concerns the world over, and particularly in the Sub-Sahara Africa, where the prevalence of risk factors, such as diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension, is on the increase.

ED could simply be described as a condition, in which a man experiences consistent or recurrent inability to achieve and/or maintain a penile erection, sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. This is the major sexual dysfunction that affects men.

Infertility, on the other hand, is a health condition common in both males and females. It is the inability to conceive or produce offspring, despite having regular unprotected sex. It occurs when a poor reproductive system impairs the ability of the body to perform necessary functions of reproduction.

Contrary to the misconception that ED is an age-related condition, a Consultant Urologist at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Ikeja, recently explained that erectile dysfunction has nothing to do with old age.

Defining ED or impotency as a state where a man cannot get an erection to have sex or cannot keep an erection long enough to finish having sex, she added that it is not necessarily a symptom of old age, as older men should still be able to get an erection for sexual pleasure.

The urologist listed some of the risk factors that can cause ED to include diabetes, which is high blood sugar; hypertension, which is high blood pressure; atherosclerosis, which is the narrowing of the arteries that take blood to the male organs; excessive alcohol intake; excessive smoking; and drug abuse can lead to erectile dysfunction.

Abolarinwa, therefore advised men to keep their blood sugar and blood pressure under control to prevent erectile dysfunction.

In addition to the highlighted causes of ED, Dr Anna Cole, a clinical psychologist with Mental Health Foundation, said psychological issues and problems in relationship with a sexual partner could also cause erectile dysfunction.

Feeling nervous about sex, feeling depressed and feeling stressed, including stress from work or family situations could degenerate to ED, she noted.

Also, a new research published in Science Alert with the title, “Erectile Dysfunction and Hypertension among Adult Males in Umudike, Nigeria: A Study of Prevalence and Relationships”, found it that ED affects approximately half of men of over 40 years of age and results in an inevitable loss of quality of life of the sufferer and his partner.

As regards the link between ED and infertility, Dr Michael Roizen, Medical Director of Internal Medicine, said ED and infertility are very different terms, noting that a man may be producing perfectly good sperm, but having trouble with his erection, which is what he termed ED. On the other hand, he explained that a man may have no trouble raising the rifle, but he is shooting blank, that he called infertility.

A man’s fertility generally relies on the quantity and quality of his sperm, if the number of sperm a man ejaculates is low or if the sperm are of a poor quality, it will be difficult, and sometimes impossible, for him to cause a pregnancy. Conversely, a woman’s fertility can be measured through various means, like the regularity of the menstrual cycle, among other things.

Dr Franklin Meme, a gynaecologist with the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Yenagoa, Bayelsa, said evaluation of women infertility could be done through blood tests, ultrasound examinations of the ovaries or an ovulation home test kit.”

“An irregular menstrual pattern would make us suspect an ovulation problem, but it is also possible for a woman with regular periods to have an ovulation disorder,” he stressed.

He identified conditions such as polyps; adenomyosis; an abnormal uterus; fibroid; sexually transmitted diseases (STDs); as some of the major causes of infertility in women.

 Statistics on erectile dysfunction in Nigeria

Accurate statistics are lacking on how many men are affected by infertlity, but some doctors estimate that about half of men aged 40 to 70 have frequent problems achieving or maintaining an erection. The number of men with erectile dysfunction is low for those under the age of 40, but it increases with age.

 Causes of erectile dysfunction

  • Circulatory problems: An erection occurs when the penis fills with blood and a valve at the base of the penis traps it. Diabetes, high blood pressure, cholesterol, clots, and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) can all interfere with this process. Such circulatory problems are the number one cause of erectile dysfunction.
  • Peyronie’s disease: This disease causes fibres and plaques to appear in the genitals, interrupting blood flow.
  • Cancer: Cancer can interfere with nerves or arteries that are vital to erection.
  • Surgery: Surgery to the pelvis, and especially prostate surgery for prostate cancer, can damage the nerves and arteries that are required to gain and maintain an erection.
  • Spinal cord or pelvic injury: The nerves that stimulate erection can be cut by injury to them.
  • Hormonal disorders: A lack of testosterone (male hormone or androgen) can result from testicular failure, pituitary gland problems, or certain medications.
  • Depression: This condition is a common cause of erectile dysfunction. Depression is a physical disorder as well as a psychiatric one, and it can have physical effects. This may be true even if you feel comfortable in a sexual situation.
  • Alcoholism: Chronic alcoholism can produce erectile dysfunction, even if there is no alcohol in the blood at the time of sex.
  • Smoking: Smoking cigarettes causes constriction of blood vessels. This may decrease blood flow to the penis, causing erectile dysfunction.
  • Performance anxiety: Most men have had erection problems at some point due to worrying about performing well during sexual intercourse. If this happens often, the anticipation of sex can trigger nervous reactions that prevent erection, setting up a vicious cycle.
  • Situational psychological problems: Some men have problems only in certain situations or with certain people. In troubled relationships, men may be unable to achieve erection with their partner but have no problem away from home.
  • Sexual aversion: Being repelled by sex is rare. It is most common in people who suffered child abuse and those who have been brought up in strict religious surroundings. Aversion can also exist in homosexual or bisexual people who attempt to lead a heterosexual life against their basic inclinations.
  • Drugs: The following can cause erectile dysfunction:
  1. alcohol
  2. antianxiety medications
  3. anticancer medications
  4. cocaine
  5. estrogen
  6. ganglionic and adrenergic (beta) blockers
  7. MAO inhibitors and tricyclic antidepressants
  8.  narcotic pain relievers
  9. narcotics
  10. medications prescribed to control high blood pressure
  11. sedatives

 

Symptoms and complications of erectile dysfunction

A man may sometimes have erections, (e.g., when he wakes up in the morning), but be is unable to get an erection during sex with his partner. This is often a sign of a psychological problem that may or may not have to do with that particular relationship.

If a man had regular erections in the past, but suddenly begins to have problems getting an erection, there’s a chance that it’s a nerve or hormonal problem, a circulatory problem, or the effect of alcohol, drugs, or medicine.

If a man still gets erections but they’re not as hard or long lasting as in the past, it’s quite likely that a circulatory problem is causing the dysfunction.

If surgery or injury is involved, the sufferer may already know what’s causing the erectile dysfunction. A doctor should be consulted about possible solutions.

While erectile dysfunction is inevitably going to cause some anxiety, it’s vital for sufferers to keep their relationship with their partner or spouse as regular as possible until a solution can be found. Modern medicine and therapeutic techniques can help over 90 per cent of erection problems.

 Diagnosing erectile dysfunction

To find out what’s causing erection problems, a doctor will begin by asking about other medical conditions the man might have, what medications he’s taking, when his erection problems occur, and what form they take.

Standardised questionnaires or surveys about erectile function and the satisfaction of sexual intercourse may be used to identify the nature of erectile dysfunction. Blood pressure tests and tests of hormone levels are standard.

There are tests that aim to distinguish between psychological, nervous, and circulatory causes. One is the nocturnal penile tumescence (NPT) test. A measuring device is attached to the penis to monitor erections during sleep. Men without physical disorders usually have erections during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep.

Several devices, including a Doppler radar, can track blood flow in and out of the penis and identify circulatory problems.

Treatment of erectile dysfunction

There’s a wide range of treatments for erectile dysfunction. Some are pills, and others are injections or devices that should be used just before sex. There are also treatments involving surgery.

Medications for erectile dysfunction include phosphodiesterase inhibitors, prostaglandins, and testosterone.

  • Phosphodiesterase inhibitors: This class of medications includes sildenafil,* tadalafil, and vardenafil. They work by inhibiting an enzyme called phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE-5). This enzyme normally breaks down a molecule called cGMP. Inhibiting the enzyme makes more cGMP available, which leads to relaxation of smooth muscles in the penis, allowing more blood to enter and helping to produce an erection. These medications are taken before sex and will cause an erection only when the man is sexually stimulated. The time the dose should be taken and how long the effects last depend on the medication used. The most common side effect of these medications is a headache. However, there is a potential for certain dangerous drug interactions. Anyone taking this medication must let his doctor know about any medications he’s on, and especially if he’s taking nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin spray, nitroglycerin pills, or nitroglycerin patch) for heart problems.

 

  • Prostaglandins (alprostadil): Alprostadil can be injected into the penis or inserted as a pellet through the urethra. It causes an erection that usually lasts about 60 minutes. The danger with this method is that too high a dose can cause priapism, an erection that won’t go away. This condition can cause serious bruising, bleeding, and pain. Once the doctor is sure of the right dose, the man can self-inject at home. Some doctors may prescribe a combination of alprostadil with additional ingredients such as phentolamine to help the medication work more effectively. This mixture is prepared by the pharmacy according to the directions of the prescribing doctor. It is injected into the penis before sex.

 

  • Testosterone: This is only useful for people with specific disorders like hypogonadism (small testicles) that result in lower than normal amounts of testosterone in the blood stream. Testosterone increases interest in sex, as well as erections. Common non-medication ways of treating erectile dysfunction include vacuum devices and penile implants.

 

  • Vacuum devices: This involves placing a tube over the penis, forming an airtight seal around the base. By pumping air out of the tube, blood can be drawn into the penis. Placing a ring around the base of the penis will maintain the erection.

 

  • Penile implants: This treatment involves permanent implantation of flexible rods or similar devices into the penis. Simple versions have the disadvantage of giving the user a permanent erection. The latest (and most expensive) device consists of inflatable rods activated by a tiny pump and switch in the scrotum. Squeezing the scrotum stiffens the penis, whether the person is aroused or not. The penis itself remains flaccid, however, so the diameter and length are usually less than a natural erection, and hardness is lacking, although it’s sufficient for intercourse.

 Prevention of erectile dysfunction

There are two broad categories that the causes of erectile dysfunction (ED) fall into physical and physiological.

Physical health problems are the most likely cause of erectile dysfunction as earlier mentioned, particularly in older males. Common chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure are often associated with ED and therefore, a healthy lifestyle is the best way to avoid ED.

For younger men, ED is often related to anxiety, stress or psychological trauma due to a distressing sexual experience.

Pills such as Viagra can help a man overcome psychological obstacles and give him confidence that everything is working perfectly. However, for older men, consulting a doctor can be an important step towards uncovering and treating underlying physical causes.

 Get healthy!

The seven top tips to achieve better health, both physical and physiological, are:

  • Lose weight: if you are in the overweight bracket, the excess weight may be putting your cardiovascular system under strain;
  • Quit smoking: this affects blood flow and neuro-signals which normally ensure correct blood flow into the penis;
  • Avoid drinking too much alcohol (no more than two drinks a day);
  • Maintain a balanced diet;
  • Control and monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels;
  • Be physically active: just 30min per day can improve your blood flow, state of mind and stress levels;
  • Reduce stress and get enough sleep (at least seven hours a night).

In most cases, blood vessel deterioration is the main cause of erectile dysfunction, so you want to make sure that your blood vessels are in good condition to allow normal blood flow. Depending on the state of your health, taking pills might not always prove the most effective solution.

 Beware of diabetes

Diabetes is risk factor for erectile dysfunction that is often overlooked. The damage caused to the blood vessels by abnormal blood sugar levels can, in the long run, result in ED.

Type 2 diabetes stems primarily from unhealthy diet and lack of exercise (yet another reason to maintain a healthy lifestyle to prevent ED).

 Erectile dysfunction in young men

Young men often suffer from “performance anxiety, which can result in erectile dysfunction. Being psychologically healthy does not require you to have nerves of steel. It’s simply important to be open with your feelings, and it may be beneficial to express and discuss how you feel.

Seeking help from a sexual health expert can prove very effective, especially to work through relationship issues or anxiety, both of which may result in ED. You should note that, while recreational drugs and low levels of testosterone are not directly responsible for erectile dysfunction, they may well affect a man’s sexual drive.

Old or young, remember that it is normal to experience engine failure”once in a while. Look for diversity and new experiences with your partner so that you can focus on present pleasure again rather than reviewing past failures.

Pills or emotional support?

When your confidence is at stake, taking pills such as Viagra can help you to realise that there is no problem with the engine and give you that confidence boost.

However, if you are facing bigger issues, then expert help and knowing fully what you are dealing with can help relieve your fear and anxiety.

This will help you to find out the real causes of the problem too, which will help you reach the best solution for you.

If you feel too embarrassed to raise the topic with your doctor, you can use our online services to directly contact one of our GPs. They can assess the causes of your ED and suggest a treatment that fits your needs.

 Relationship issues and erectile dysfunction

While you are working out the causes of your problem or being treated, it’s fundamental that you focus on your relationship.

Couples who have difficulties communicating on both sexual and heart matters are more likely to develop issues related to intimacy and sex. Talking about your feelings and anxieties, although this may sound difficult, is crucial: your partner needs to understand how you feel and what you need.

Just remember, if you are having problems with your impotence, your partner will be affected by this too. There is nothing to lose by talking about it; so it’s often beneficial to be pro-active by raising the issue and then working through it together. You may well find yourself addressing broader issues in your life, which can also improve your mood and relationship.

 Erectile dysfunction exercises

A recent research by the University of the West of England, Bristol, suggests that erectile dysfunction exercises may be a very effective way of improving your erections. Similar to the pelvic floor exercises recommended to women after childbirth, these exercises involve clenching the muscles you use to control urination.

Pelvic floor exercises have long been known to help patients with incontinence. The study conducted by a team of scientists in Bristol involved participants who had been suffering from erectile dysfunction for at least six months. 40 per cent of participants reported that they regained their erectile function within 3 to 6 months. A further 35 per cent reported, that they noticed a significant improvement to their condition.

The scientists from Bristol compared the effectiveness of these exercises to that of Viagra and believe regularly exercising your pelvic floor muscles may be the best way of preventing erectile dysfunction. The exercises train the muscles surrounding your penis, which improves the blood flow and improves your ability to gain and keep an erection.

Physical exercise – how sport can help

Exercising regularly is a great way to improve the state of your general health and boost your performance. A series of prolonged bad habits can damage the tissue responsible for erections over the years.

When combined with a healthier lifestyle, regular physical activity can contribute to improving your blood flow and restore your ability to get erections. All you need to do is to maintain a regular activity, even if it’s just 30 minutes a day, to improve your blood pressure, blood flow, cardio and overall health. Even walking is a good option, although it’s better to practice a sport or do some hard exercise to push yourself!

In addition, it’s important to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. This is a great long-term prevention strategy for erectile dysfunction.

However, there is one sport you may want to avoid: cycling. Long-term and long hours of outdoors cycling can damage the nerves in your pelvic area which control erections. Indoors cycling is much less hazardous as the seat is generally wider and less prone to damaging your body.

 Statistics of infertile women in Nigeria

Infertility affects nearly 25 per cent of couples in Nigeria and experts claim that 40 to 45 per cent of all consultations in gynaecological clinics are infertility-related.

 There are two types of infertility:

  • Primary infertility: where a woman who has never conceived a child in the past has difficulty conceiving and;
  • Secondary infertility: where a mother who has had one or more pregnancies in the past, is having difficulty conceiving again.

 Causes of infertility

There are many causes of infertility. Common causes of infertility in women include lack of regular ovulation (the monthly release of an egg), blockage of the fallopian tubes, age and endometriosis.

 

Treatment options for infertility

Infertility can be treated with therapies such as medication or surgery. The most common types of fertility treatments available include:

  1. Medical treatment for lack of regular ovulation
  2. Surgical procedures, such as treatment for endometriosis
  3. Assisted conception, which may be intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in-vitro fertilisation (IVF)

There are numerous clinics and medical centres in Nigeria that can help couples having difficulty conceiving children. The cost for fertility treatments varies, with IVF treatments costing between N800,000 and N1,000,000.

Note that while some couples find it easy to get pregnant quickly, it can take longer for others. However, if you have been unable to conceive after one year of trying, it’s time to consult your doctor or medical provider.

 

Compiled by Temitope Obayendo with information from Science Alert; Health Bridge Limited; WebMD; The Daily Independent Newspapers.

 

Poor sales almost drove me out of community pharmacy – Pharm. Sunmonu

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In this exclusive interview with Pharmanews, Pharm. Ismail Kola Sunmonu, managing director of Caratiyah Pharmacy, argues that the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) has not done much in rescuing the practice from the hands of the charlatans. He also spoke on the issue of chain pharmacy outlets and how it can be used to the advantage of Nigerians. Excerpts:

Pharm. Ismail Kola Sunmonu
Pharm. Ismail Kola Sunmonu

 

 Briefly tell us about your background

I was born in Akoka Lagos State a little less than four decades ago, precisely on 28 January. I had my primary education at the National Primary School, Abule-Ijesha, Yaba, Lagos (1984-1989). My secondary education started at St. Timothy’s College Onike-Yaba but was completed at Ikeja High School in 1995. From there, I proceeded to Yaba College of Technology where I obtained a National Diploma in Computer Science before going to study Pharmacy at the University of Lagos (1999/2000 session). I’m currently a part 2 student of the West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacists. I am happily married with children.

 

Tell us about your pharmacy, when did you establish it and how was it at the beginning?

Destiny, perhaps, led me to community pharmacy practice. I say that because I initially fell in love with hospital pharmacy practice as I saw it at the National Orthopaedic Hospital Igbobi, where I had my internship training. I later settled for a brief hospital practice at a private hospital after my NYSC. This gave me a good exposure to drug procurement and brought me in contact with the sales representatives of many pharmaceutical companies.

However, the decision to start Caratiyah Pharmacy was taken in year 2009 after an old friend (a pharmacologist) offered to sell a troubled business premises to me. I bought over the failed wholesale premises to start a retail pharmacy business. But to be honest with you, I contemplated quitting many times due to poor sales at the beginning. However, with words of encouragement from mentors like Pharm. Deji Osinoiki, Pharm. M. O. Sanusi and Pharm. Fred Oduwole, I was able to weather the storm.

 What is your assessment of community pharmacy practice in this part of the country?

My assessment of community pharmacy practice in this part of the country, on a scale of ten, is four. Maybe with the exception of a few pharmacies that have moved a little above six, especially those pharmacies in high-brow areas that cater mainly to the rich. Coverage is still nothing to write home about, with places like Epe and Badagry left to the mercy of patent and proprietary medicine vendors (PPMVs).

Nearly half of all the registered community pharmacists in the country are jostling for unavailable spaces in the Lagos metropolis with poor sales driving most of them into ‘register and go’ and sometimes, outright fronting for businessmen who later graduate to join the train at the open drug markets.

Still, I believe community pharmacy practice is a goldmine for pharmacists, majority of who do not even know the worth of they have. Sadly, the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) has not helped much as it appears to have lost a good part of its birthright to NAFDAC. One can only hope that with the commitment of the present registrar, coupled with the revolutionary ideas of great minds like Pharm. Bukky George, Pharm. Shina Opanubi and the relentless efforts of the Lagos PIC, things will get better.

 What will you say are the major challenges facing community pharmacists in Nigeria at the moment?

The challenges facing community pharmacists today are so many but the major ones include poor access to funds. Even where the funds are available by way of bank loans, they come with crippling double-digit interest rates of not less than 22 per cent. There is also lack of political will to implement existing pharmacy laws. Some people argue that the laws are outdated but my position is, within the limits of the powers vested in PCN, how many of the present laws have been implemented to the letter? This will lead me to mention the challenges that arise from vested interests from other professionals like doctors, nurses, laboratory scientists and others, who believe that the drug business should be open to all without recourse to strict adherence to professionalism.

 How lucrative is community pharmacy practice in this area?

I maintain that community pharmacy practice is quite lucrative and can only get better when importers and manufacturers find a way of allowing beautiful packages and good credit facilities to trickle down to the retailers rather than lock up huge sums of money in the hands of unregistered practitioners in the open drug markets.

 The retail chain pharmacy concept is becoming more popular by the day, how do you see this development?

Chain pharmacy is a welcome development if, and only if, they abide by the existing laws guiding pharmacy practice and the government is able to use the chains to solve the problem of health coverage by encouraging the chains to move into the hinterlands and rural areas.

 You had some objectives when you established your pharmacy, how many of these objectives have you achieved so far?

My main objective really was to positively affect the health outcome of my immediate community through the provision of quality pharmaceutical care and sales of affordable medicines and pharmaceuticals without necessarily running a charity home. To God be the glory, I can say with all sense of modesty that community practice is most gratifying as it gives a lot of job fulfillment. The financial gains are not enough yet but I believe it can only get better. I also hope to entrench and spread the gospel of good pharmacy practice among the middle and low income earners, from where we can gradually save up money to join the big players at the top.

 

What can you say about general happenings in the Nigerian health care sector?

The health care sector in Nigeria is still very primitive with the players playing down professionalism and quality service, while running after common product medicines, to which they all tie services both delivered and undelivered. This singular fact is what has affected the implementation of the NHIS and that is why some doctors find it difficult to do away with the fraud called “global capitation.”

 A major challenge facing pharmacy profession in Nigeria is the problem of fake drugs. How best do you think this can be handled?

The problem of fake drugs in Nigeria is one that can be tackled when the major regulatory bodies, i.e. PCN and NAFDAC, decide to work together for the benefit of Nigerians. While NAFDAC should strengthen its resolve to checkmate faking of products within and outside the country by constant monitoring and adequate audit trial of products, the PCN should wake up from its slumber and ensure that there is little or no space for unlicensed manufacturers and drug sellers to operate.

PCN officials should carry their crusade into hospitals that sell drugs without recourse to registration. They should also publish an annual list of registered pharmacists in the country and their respective places of work.

Our schools of Pharmacy should equally assist in building integrity in our graduates so they don’t leave school to hang their licences in illegal drug outlets for peanuts. I believe that with the right synergy between the two key institutions (NAFDAC and the PCN), and the right attitude on the part of all stakeholders, fake drugs will gradually disappear from our environment.

 

PCN, BOF, PMG-MAN, laud Ohuabunwa at 65 – As former Neimeth boss launches two books

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It was a gathering of pharmacists, diplomats, government functionaries and other eminent personalities, as Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, former Chief Executive Officer of Neimeth Pharmaceuticals Plc and chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group marked his 65th birthday.

Mazi book Launch
L-R: Prof. Anya O. Anya, president of Ndigbo Lagos; Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, birthday celebrant cum author; his wife, Stella; and the Rt. Rev. James Odedeji, Bishop of Lagos West Diocese, (Anglican Communion) during the book launch

The colourful ceremony which took place at Sheba Events Centre, Ikeja, Lagos on 17 August, 2015 had in attendance, Prof Anya O. Anya, President of Ndigbo Lagos; Dr Christopher Kolade, former chairman of the Subsidy Re-Investment Programme (SURE-P); Mrs Stella Ohuabunwa, wife of the author; and Bishop of Lagos West, Anglican Communion, Rt Rev James Odedeji and Sir Peter Obi, former governor of Anambra State in attendance.

Speaking on the personality of the celebrant, Obi described him as a man of virtue who has done remarkably well for both himself and his country.

Pharm. Bruno Nwankwo, chairman, Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) shared the same opinion.

“As for the celebrant, I will say that he is a very vibrant Nigerian and a successful pharmacist. A good student who makes the best use of every opportunity and also believes in sharing, he is the sort of man we in pharmacy cherish a lot,” he said.

Pharm. Ade Popoola, chairman, PSN Board of Fellows described Ohuabunwa as a trailblazer in the pharmacy profession.

“He is one of the most visible pharmacists we have around who is living to the standard. We are here to rejoice with him. On behalf of the board (because he is a member of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria too), I wish him a happy birthday and more years,” he remarked.

According to Dr Lolu Ojo, immediate past national chairman of the Nigerian Association of Industrial Pharmacists (NAIP), ‘Mazi’ has become a brand that is synonymous with Sam Ohuabunwa.

He explained that the celebrant has excelled in many ways, and not just in the pharmacy profession.

“He has been virtually everything from being President of the Economic Summit, to being President of the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce and President of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN),” Ojo said, adding that “Mazi is a man to be emulated. He is a mentor. I am happy to be invited because I believe he has such a catchment that is so big that people like us might not make the list. But his invitation shows that he considers us important.”

Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa studied Pharmacy at the University of Ife, graduating in 1976. He further had a postgraduate training in Business and Organisational Management at the Columbia University, United States. He joined Pfizer Products Plc in 1978 as a sales representative and rose to become the chairman/CEO in 1993.

In 1997, he led the management buy-over of Pfizer Inc shares in Pfizer Products Plc, transforming the resultant company – Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals Plc – into a medium-sized Nigerian R&D Based Pharmaceutical company. He voluntarily retired after 33 years of service in the industry, 18 years of which were at CEO level.

Ohuabunwa is a fellow of several Professional Organisations, including the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (FPSN); the Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy (FNAPharm); the West African Postgraduate College of Pharmacists (FPCPharm); the Nigerian Institute of Management (FNIM); the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (FNIMN); the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (FNIPR); and the Institute of Management Consultants (FIMC).

A founder of the Sam Ohuabunwa Foundation for Economic Empowerment (SOFEE) in 2009, he equally serves as the Managing Consultant of Starteam Consult, as well as being on the board of several organizations.

A Knight of Saint Christopher (KSC) of the Anglican Communion, the pharmacy icon serves as national coordinator of Strategic Operations of the Full Gospel Business Fellowship International. He was honoured as a Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), in 2001, and an Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), in 2011.

Sharing his opinion on the celebrant, Varkey Verghese, vice chairman of the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (PMG-MAN) and managing director of Jawa Group of companies described him as an embodiment of greatness.

“I have known Sam for the past 15 years and ever since I came in contact with him, I have found him to be a great personality and patriotic Nigerian. He always encourages entrepreneurship and support for local industries. That is what I like most about him,” he said.

Corroborating his view, Pharm. Chibuike Agaruwa, chief executive officer of Euromed Limited disclosed that Ohuabunwa was his classmate and professional colleague.

“We enrolled for Pharmacy at the same time in September 1972 at the University of Ife. I have known him to be forthright, intelligent and exuberant. He is always dedicated to the cause he believes in. I have no doubt that the best has not come out of him yet…Sam has combined his natural intellect with the wisdom of God. No doubt, he will continue to make tremendous progress in his lifetime,” he said.

During the event, the celebrant introduced two new books he recently published – Sam Ohuabunwa’s Paradigm: Thoughts on Contemporary National Issues and The Port Harcourt Volunteer.

The first book, Sam Ohuabunwa’s Paradigm: Thoughts on Contemporary National Issues is a compendium of selected recent articles and presentations by the author in what he calls his writing ministry.

The Port-Harcourt Volunteer is essentially the story of the Nigerian political crisis which started with the January 1966 military coup and culminated in the Nigeria Civil War (1967–1970).

It would be recalled that the author had published three similar works in the past: Preventing Business Failure, Nigeria: Need for the Evolution of a New Nation and Economic Empowerment in God’s People.

Also in attendance at the event were Pharm. Ifeanyi Atueyi, managing director of Pharmanews Limited; Pharm. Lawrence Anyafulu, a PSN Fellow; Pharm. (Mrs) Stella Okoli, group managing director of Emzor Pharmaceuticals; Pharm. Ike Onyechi, managing director of Alpha Pharmacy; Dr Femi Olugbile, former chief medical director in Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH); Pharm. Lere Baale, director of Business School of Netherlands and Pharm. (Dr) Lawrence Ifebigh, managing director of Ladith Pharmaceutical Company.

 

 

I struggled to start B.Pharm programme at Unibadan – Prof. Okpako

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In this exclusive interview with Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis, seasoned pharmacologist, Professor David T. Okpako reveals his harrowing experience while attempting to pioneer Pharmacy programme at the University of Ibadan. He also discloses the place and scope of herbal remedies in today’s society. Excerpts:

 Tell us a bit about yourself, especially your early days

My actual date of birth is unknown. But I believe it was sometime around 22 November, 1936. I started primary school a bit late in my village Owahwa, in Ughelli South LGA, Delta State, at about nine years of age. I completed it in about four years (1944-1948). After my secondary education at Urhobo College, Effurun, I entered the Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology, Ibadan for my A-Level GCE and Diploma in Pharmacy course (1956-1960)

When did you officially start practising Pharmacy?

I became a registered Nigerian pharmacist in 1960 and started out as junior pharmacist with the University College Hospital, Ibadan (1960-1961). I applied for further studies in London and Bradford Universities in the UK, culminating in a Ph.D in Pharmacology (Bradford) in December 1967 and a post-doctoral MRC fellowship at the University College, London, under the great Heinz Schild, FRS (1967-1968).

How did you find yourself in academia?

I took up an appointment as lecturer in Pharmacology at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba (1968-1969). In October 1969, I moved to the University of Ibadan where I was subsequently promoted to the rank of Professor of Pharmacology in 1977. Afterward I became both a Professor and Head of Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics at the College of Medicine, from 1978 to 1981. I was also the coordinator of pharmacy programme at the University of Ibadan (1979– 1983), a move that later led to the establishment of the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan in 1983.

Can you confidently say studying Pharmacy was a good decision for you?

I had a crack at the tough University College Ibadan (UCI )entrance examination to study Medicine in 1955 but failed. Pharmacy was more like a matter of Providence than a personal decision. I knew virtually nothing about Pharmacy when I left school. But in retrospect, I can say I am glad that I studied Pharmacy and the opportunities it offered me to end up as an academic.

What was the profession like in your day compared to today’s practice?

My one year sojourn as hospital pharmacist at UCH Ibadan (1960-1961) under Chief Callisto (chief pharmacist) and an English woman called Avis Jackson (later Mrs Fox) was a very remarkable experience. I spent most of my time in the basement of the pharmacy department where we made large quantities of lotions, ointments and mixtures. Mist mag trisiliacate with or without tincture of Belladonna was popular. We made gallons of the stuff which were lifted upstairs for dispensing.

I also worked in the sterile products room downstairs. There, we had huge glass stills and autoclaves that enabled us to make all the deionised water needed for Injection BP and all intravenous transfusion fluids needed in the hospital. Samples of each batch were tested for sterility by the Department of Bacteriology before the batch was released for general use with the pharmacist batch manufacturer identified. Most hospitals now use pre-packaged products. I have very little experience in pharmacy practice in general.

As professor of Pharmacology, do you agree with the school of thought that says herbaceutical is still an untapped niche in the health sector?

I suspect that by “herbaceutical” you mean “herbal remedies” and that you are referring to remedies that have been known to, and used by Nigerian traditional communities from the beginning of time. Well, I believe that herbal remedies have continued to play a vital role in health care delivery in our communities. In recent years, many Nigerians of different persuasions have made successful businesses out of selling herbal products, some of them claiming to have NAFDAC approval.

 

Is it an acceptable practice?

I think this is perfectly in order, provided the product can be shown to be safe in the recommended dosages. This is not different from granting a licence to proprietary medicine sellers who are not qualified to operate as doctors or pharmacists.

 Do you have reservations against such practice?

What I would object to are exaggerated claims of successes in the long term use of herbal preparations to treat diseases that the dealers themselves cannot diagnose or which pathology they do not fully understand; and persuading the public to buy those products on the basis of such claims.

They (herbal medicine dealers) claim that their use of herbal remedy is based on its use in Traditional African medicine (TAM); but they also claim to have removed the fetishes that surrounded its use in former times – that they have modernised TAM! The truth is that the so-called fetishes actually encode the theory of TAM. It is like accepting drug-use but not pharmacological theory! (see my recently published book on this subject. It is called “Science Interrogating Belief – Bridging the Old and Modern Traditions of Medicine in Africa” 2015).

The use of herbal remedies in convenient formulations such as tablets and capsules or even injections is completely different from the pattern in which they were used in TAM. Therefore, their long term safety cannot be guaranteed. Contrary to the usual argument, herbs have been used for centuries in African medicine and therefore they must be safe.

 Were there some major controversies, scandals and other disturbing issues in your day that you still vividly recall?

The most harrowing experience in my career as a pharmacist was setting up a B.Pharm programme at the University of Ibadan which had the oldest medical school in Nigeria. I am talking about a well established Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics and a large Department of Pharmacy at its nearby teaching hospital which would enable clinical (patient-oriented) pharmacy to be the major focus in a B.Pharm programme. Dr (now Professor) ‘Fola Tayo and I thought that the conditions in Ibadan were ripe for the initiation of a degree programme in Pharmacy to complete the study of drug in all its ramifications.

In 1978, the newly elected dean of the Faculty of Medicine, Professor Oluwole Akande, having reached the same idea, invited me as Head of the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics to see if Pharmacy could be a constituent part of the new College of Medicine – being then contemplated.

Did it work?

Well, Tayo and I made some recommendations, and the Faculty of Medicine approved them on 19 February, 1979. A Pharmacy Programme Task Force was subsequently constituted. It consisted of the following distinguished pharmacists: Prof E. O. Ogunlana, dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ife; Professor V. O. Marquis, head, Department of Pharmacology, University of Ife; Dr Philip Emafo, federal director of pharmaceutical services, Lagos; Mr Callisto, chief pharmacist, University College Hospital, Ibadan; Dr F. M. Tayo, Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of Ibadan; Dr Kunle Opakunle, Vita-Link Pharmaceutical Industries, and Professor D. T. Okpako, Convener and Chairman.

What was the function of that committee?

The Task Force recommended the establishment of a Department of Pharmacy consisting of Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy which in addition to the existing Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics would initiate a degree programme in Pharmacy. The Faculty of Medicine accepted this recommendation and in August 1980, the senate approved a three-year programme of instruction leading to the Bachelor of Pharmacy of the University of Ibadan. I was named coordinator of the pharmacy programme. The first batch of 25 students (most of them A-Level, some of them first degree holders) were admitted to commence the programme in October of that year, while we embarked on staff recruitment and construction of laboratory facilities.

I then wrote to the Pharmacists Board of Nigeria (PBN, now Pharmacists Council of Nigeria, PCN) informing it of the actions taken by the University of Ibadan and requesting guidelines on how to proceed from there. That was when our problems started.

What sort of problems?

For more than six months, we heard nothing from the PBN. In fact, it seemed that there were no existing guidelines. I am almost certain we were the first pharmacy school in Nigeria to be served these new guidelines: that for B.Pharm graduates to be registered to practise in Nigeria, the institution from which they graduate must be a Faculty of Pharmacy, headed by a pharmacist dean, and comprising at least four departments, each headed by a pharmacist of senior lecturer grade. This was despite the fact that all the B.Pharm programmes as of that time in Ife, Zaria, Benin and Nsukka had all started as departments of pharmacy and grew into faculties! The PBN guidelines came as a shock to the University of Ibadan and an embarrassment to us who initiated the programme.

How bad was the situation?

I was accused of misleading the university into accepting students into a programme about which I knew nothing! Calls came from the floor of the senate that the programme should be scrapped and the students sent to Ife or Benin. In the Faculty (later College) of Medicine itself, opposition and scepticism about the pharmacy programme had begun to mount. Ibadan was well recognised for its medical school, not pharmacy for which Ife was famous.

How was the whole tension doused?

Fortunately we had the full support from the then Vice Chancellor, University of Ibadan, Professor Olayide and the Provost, College of Medicine, Professor Akande. While we were struggling to satisfy the PBN guidelines, senior pharmacists, including some who had served on the aforesaid Task Force that recommended the Ibadan programme in the first place, were castigating us. One high ranking pharmacist announced in a public forum in Lagos that Ibadan was embarking on an illegal programme not approved by the PBN! Instead of encouragement from the PBN, what we got was hostility, and this was reflected in the tone of the various PBN accreditation visitation reports. We did receive accreditation eventually, but it was a harrowing experience.

What is your view about pharmacists in politics?

Nigerian pharmacists are like other Nigerian professionals. There is nothing in the code of ethics that bars those so inclined from active participation in party politics. However, for the sake of the noble profession’s image, pharmacist politicians must bring characteristic integrity and honesty to the game!

How best do you think the issue of fake drugs can be curbed?

NAFDAC must know best what the problems are. But it is obvious that if Nigerian pharmaceutical manufacturers could produce locally the drugs that are most frequently “faked”, that will help. Local production will ensure that quality assurance and good manufacturing practices are adhered to by NAFDAC for such products. In this regard, it is sad that certain WHO bureaucracies prefer to license the production of anti-malarial artemisinin combination drugs to foreign companies.

What were your key involvements in pharmaceutical activities?

Education is my concern. I was fortunate to play a leading role in the founding of the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan, and after retirement from Ibadan, I became the pioneer dean, Faculty of Pharmacy, Delta State University, Abraka. I consider these to be significant contributions to national development.

Are there some major awards given to you in recognition of your selfless service?

They include: Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (FPSN), Fellow of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (FRPharmS), in recognition of my contribution to the profession of pharmacy.

I am particularly proud of the awards of excellence from the Faculties of Pharmacy, University of Ibadan and Delta State University, Abraka. I have also been elected to fellowships of other bodies such as Chartered Biologist, Fellow of Society of Biology, UK, CBiol, FSB); Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science (FAS), and Fellow of the African Academy of Science (FAAS)

 As an elder in the pharmacy profession, what is your advice to young pharmacists?

Find a niche in which you can make an original contribution (regardless of how small that niche may appear to be) to the best of your ability.

 

 

 

Dangers of processed foods

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Ifeanyi Atueyi
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Sir Atueyi

Advances in science and technology have affected every area of life, including the food we consume. Today’s trend is to drift from the foods God has provided for us to chemically processed foods. The result is often breakdown of our body systems, which inevitably attracts debilitating diseases and premature death.

In our human wisdom, we think we can make better what God created and gave us to eat as nourishment to the body which He also created. When God created things, both living and non-living, He certified them ‘good’. In other words, they were perfect, and no created person can make it better.

The food we eat is key to good health. But because we want to gratify the desires of our flesh, we have departed from God’s way and turned to our own way. The Bible says in Hosea 4:6, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.”

Diseases and premature death are ravaging mankind today because we are deviating from God’s ways, violating His natural laws and misapplying our intelligence. As we deviate from natural foods and natural ways of preparing and preserving them and go towards artificial or synthetic processes, we shall continue to suffer from known and emerging diseases, age fast and die prematurely.

Again, in our human wisdom, the pharmaceutical industry embarks on mass production of various chemical formulations and we load our bodies with these chemicals God did not put in the human body when He created it. The body systems get more disorganised with these strange or foreign chemicals. This is an abuse or defilement of the body. 2 Corinthians 7:1 says, “Let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness out of reverence for God.”

The pharmaceutical industry will continue to flourish as long as we consume genetically modified foods, boxed, canned, jarred, and refrigerated foods. These foods are processed to make them look more attractive, to be instantly prepared, to have longer shelf life and for convenience. The industry will continue to search for new and more effective medicines as long as the food industry continues to contaminate and inoculate natural foods with chemical preservatives, flavourings, colouring agents, synthetic vitamins, sweeteners, bleaching agents, emulsifying agents, acids, alkalis, buffers etc.

These additives will continue to fill our bodies with toxic poisons, foods deprived of life-giving vitamins, minerals, and digestive enzymes. We will continue to provide our bodies with calories with only little nutrition. These foods are devitalised and dangerous. Consuming them is another way of defiling the body, instead of nourishing it.

Foods that are not natural will always interfere with the body’s functions. On the other hand, natural foods promote health and life. Processed foods promote disease and death. Many are ignorant of the fact that medicines are only trying to help where and when the natural   foods have been substituted with processed ones.

It is ironical that heavy consumers of processed foods get overfed but remain undernourished, The more processes a food goes through before it gets to the body, the less nourishment it provides. When you eat refined, processed, devitalised foods, your body is not nourished and you don’t feel satisfied. You feel hungry. Then you continue to overfeed on empty, processed, devitalised, sugary foods. This causes you to get fatter and fatter, forcing your body to gain extra weight, resulting in obesity.

Recent studies have implicated obesity in very many health issues including heart disease, atherosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes, cancer, arthritis, osteoporosis, and other painful and debilitating degenerative diseases.

Refined and processed foods are highly addictive and often contain phosphates that destroy some organs and bones and cause rapid ageing and kidney deterioration. Recent epidemiological investigation in Nigeria revealed a growing incidence of kidney problems and Type 2 diabetes among the youth. This is attributed to heavy consumption of highly refined carbohydrates and sodas containing lots of sugar. Digestion processes are ruined by processed foods because they are stripped of natural fibres, enzymes and vitamins.

Fast foods contain a lot of calories, sugar, sodium and unhealthy fats which are substances that increase your risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease. Increased health risks are directly associated with increased consumption of fast foods.

Another area of concern is the increasing consumption of genetically modified foods. There is ample evidence of health risks of such foods in animals and man, including inhibition in the development of the brain, liver, and testicles; partial atrophy of the liver; enlarged pancreas; as well as intestines and immune system damage.

Only natural foods prepared and preserved in the natural way, can supply the essential nutrients required by the body and promote health and longevity.

Sir Atueyi is a legend – PANS UNIBEN president

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PANS, UNIBEN president pix

In this exclusive interview with Pharmanews, Darry Emazor, president of the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigeria Students (PANS), University of Benin (UNIBEN), spoke on issues related to pharmacy education and practice in Nigeria. He also spoke on the performance of pharmacy schools at the recently concluded second edition of the Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi National Essay and Debate Competition hosted by UNIBEN. Excerpts:

 What prompted your decision to study Pharmacy?

As a child, I didn’t know much about Pharmacy, although we had a family pharmacist whom we visited more than our doctor. While growing up, my family wanted me to become a medical doctor. So when I finished secondary school, I applied to study Medicine; but all my efforts for about three times were in futility. Meanwhile, I had always put Pharmacy as a second choice in every of my attempts and I had even promised myself that I was going to study Pharmacy even after graduating as a medical doctor. In my fourth attempt, however, I decided to put Pharmacy as first choice and fortunately I was offered admission to study for Pharm. D in this school. So, I could say that my decision to study Pharmacy had divine backing.

 As a pharmacy student and PANS president what would you say are the challenges facing pharmacy students in your school and how can they be tackled?

In my opinion, our first major challenge has to do with the academic. The curriculum here is just too voluminous to ensure proper learning. While I commend the efforts of our lecturers, I would suggest that we expunge some things that are no longer relevant while introducing current issues and trends in the pharmacy profession.

Secondly, most students lack very good esteem of themselves and the pharmacy profession. This stems from lack of mentorship in the profession. This is an area where I think we should work and improve on, as it will eventually result in mutual respect, love and unity.

Although there are other challenges, I consider these two to be the major ones.

How do you see the Pharm.D programme? Should all pharmacy students in Nigeria now go for Pharm.D and not the Pharm.B?

First of all, I believe that the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D) degree is the lifeline of this profession. It’s a programme that sustains the relevance of this profession at a time when it is being threatened by an influx of quacks, traders and even other health workers. Pharm.D, no doubt, creates a nexus between the drug and the patient as it ensures provision of better health care services through pharmaceutical care.

Pharm.D is the one and only way forward in pharmacy education in Nigeria and, as such, I would advise that every pharmacy school in Nigeria key into it. Also, Pharm D should be made the minimum benchmark of pharmacy accreditation in all pharmacy schools just as obtainable overseas.

As a student, how would you assess pharmacy profession in Nigeria?

Pharmacy is a fast-growing profession in Nigeria and I can proudly say that our veterans have done so much to make it an admirable one as well. However I believe that much still needs to be done. There is need for unity among pharmacists; there is a saying that ‘united we stand, divided we fall’. We also need to put our resources and strengths together in order to achieve common goals. However, I strongly believe that the future is bright for our dear profession judging from the dynamic and pragmatic attitude of the new generation of pharmacists that are being produced and the desire to set best standards of practice by our older pharmacists.

What can the government do to improve the standard of pharmacy education in Nigeria?

The government, through the National University Commission (NUC), should review the pharmacy curriculum, make Pharm.D the minimum benchmark for accreditation in all pharmacy schools, build more pharmacy schools, and provide best conditions for learning and practice of Pharmacy.

 Recently, the second edition of the Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi Debate and Essay Competition was held in your school, what do you think of it?

The name and person of Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi means a lot to so many persons. Personally, I will describe him as a legend, a mentor, a leader par excellence and a rare gem. He is a blessing to this profession, a pacesetter and success personified. One outstanding quality I admire about him is his humility and piety. I consider it a blessing to know him in person and I believe that it’s his greatness that led to the birth of the Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi Essay and Debate Competition which started last year in his honour.

This competition is held annually and involves all pharmacy schools. This year, it was hosted for the second time by UNIBEN and was won by the Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife. This automatically makes them host of the next edition. Even as this competition serve as a honorary function it also serve as a means for pharmacy students all over the country to brainstorm on various issues and strengthen our unity. So we are more than grateful to Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi for this opportunity.

 

Winning 2015 Sir Atueyi Essay Contest was fulfilling – Efeobhokhan

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In this interview with Adebayo Folorunsho-Francis, winner of the 2015 Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi Essay Contest, Ezekiel Efeobhokhan, a Pharm. D student of the University of Benin (UNIBEN) Pharmacy School, Benin City, Nigeria, bared his mind on why he chose to study Pharmacy, how he felt winning the essay competition and ways to improve on it. Excerpts:

L-R: Darry Emazor, UNIBEN PANS president, Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi and Ezekiel Efeobhokhan, winner of the 2015 Essay Contest
L-R: Darry Emazor, UNIBEN PANS president, Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi and Ezekiel Efeobhokhan, winner of the 2015 Essay Contest

Tell us a bit about your educational background

I finished my secondary school in 2008 but got my SSCE in 2010. I immediately enrolled for a diploma in computer science and I graduated in 2011. That same year I got admission to the School of Pharmacy, UNIBEN. I love creative thinking; so I ventured into writing. When I was much younger, I would gather my peers around and tell them fascinating stories. Stories I cooked up in my mind. And they would all sit round to listen. You know, it is not just easy to make your peers listen while you talk but because of how fascinating the stories were, they would sit till I was done talking. Sometimes I got “tips” to tell stories.

 Why did you choose to study Pharmacy?

Pharmacy is a very good profession, no doubt. But I would be truthful to say that I knew nothing about this pot of gold until I ran out of other options. I chose pharmacy because the year I took the UTME, I was told that UNIBEN would not be admitting students into the MBBS programme. This is one of the problems the profession (Pharmacy) is facing. It lacks publicity.

 Who do you look up to as role models and why?

Early this year, I came up with a list of individuals who are to mentor me on the path I have chosen to follow. They are Pastor Oluwale Josiah, Prof. Ray Ozolua, Gilbert Alasa and Yomi Odunuga. Josiah is my pastor and someone I hold in high regard. I love the way he teaches and responds to my spiritual needs. For Ozolua, I like the way he lectures and how objective he sees life. One principle that endears me to this icon is the fact that he teaches one never to be pedantic. That is, he encourages students to be open-minded and accept changes. With the few communications I have had with him, I have learnt to emulate his level of objectivity. Alasa is an award-winning young journalist who provides me with a great arena to learn and improve my writing skills. Odunuga, on the other hand, is a Saturday columnist in The Nation newspaper. I love the way he presents facts in his write-ups.

 How did you feel winning the 2015 edition of Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi essay contest?

It felt like a dream come true. It was something that I looked forward to. It was like a validation. Although many had commended my style of writing, I needed something more tangible than mere commendations. This was what winning the essay brought to me. It brought a sense of fulfilment and a level of satisfaction. All the same, I give God the glory for the opportunity.

 Are there areas you think the organisers can improve on?

Yes. I would want the organisers to create more time for essay writers to prepare their work. This year’s competition gave just two weeks to prepare. That was too short, considering that we are students. As we all know, pharmacy students barely have enough time for their books not to talk of sacrificing time for essay competitions. Other national essay competitions I partook in usually give nothing less than two months for preparation. Also, the rewards could also be improved to motivate more writers to participate.

 If you were to study another course other than pharmacy, what would it be?

I would have opted for any course related to journalism, maybe Mass communication. Most of my mentors I listed above are all journalists except Prof. Ozolua. I could have also settled for English and Literature.

All the same, I will still find time in the future to pursue this dream of being a professional journalist. Journalism and writing is a passion.

On completion of your studies, in which area of the pharmacy profession do you hope to practise?

Pharmaceutical journalism, if there is any field as such. I may also want to lecture because of the ample time it would create for me to practise journalism. But I can assure you that anything I am going to engage in after graduation will not be far from journalism and writing.

 

Nigeria can’t advance without true professionalism, says Adelusi-Adeluyi

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Eminent pharmacist and Chairman of Board of Trustees of the Professional Excellence Foundation of Nigeria (PEFON), Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, has decried the proliferation of charlatans posing as professionals in the Nigerian society.

Adelusi-Adeluyi
L-R: Sir (Dr) Oladipupo Bailey, founder, Professional Excellence Foundation of Nigeria (PEFON); Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, chairman, PEFON board of trustees and Hon. Bala Bawa Kaoje, immediate past president of Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria (APBN) during the presentation of award to the chairman

Speaking on the theme “The Need to Renew Spirit of Professionalism in the Professional Class” at a luncheon lecture organised by PEFON, Adelusi-Adeluyi, explained that there is need to sanitise the society if Nigeria is to move forward.

The event which took place on 20 August, 2015 at Hotel Victoria in Saka Jojo area of Victoria Island, Lagos, attracted high profile professionals from all walks of life.

According to the former minister of health and social services, “We are all leaders in our right. Let me state a fact that government at all levels cannot provide all the people need. We truly need to renew spirit of professionalism as the theme suggests.”

Continuing, he said: “A professional is a professional! We cannot fail to note however that there are too many fake pharmacists, accountants, engineers and others in our society today.”

A Fellow of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (FPSN), Adelusi-Adeluyi maintained that professionals in all disciplines must revisit the issue of professionalism as way of self-regulation, adding that government would only see them as true professionals if they sanitise their professions accordingly.

“That is why I like the Rotary 4-way test which states : Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships and will it be beneficial to all concerned? “However, there should also be an enabling environment for professionals to thrive. PEFON may be young today, but it has huge benefits for the future,” he stated.

Sharing similar sentiments, one of the keynote speakers, Chief Steve Onu, immediate past president, Nigeria Institute of Town Planners, described a professional as a person who has been trained with specialised knowledge after intensive academic preparation as an expert in a given traditional profession or vocation.

The definition notwithstanding, Onu said it sometimes baffles him why banks are susceptible to distress, roads collapsing soon after construction and states unable to pay salaries, pensions and gratuity.

“The answers to the questions are not farfetched. It is either our professionals are not allowed to do their jobs professionally, are compromised, or have not internalised the attributes of professionalism,” he said.

Reacting to a question from the audience, Engr. Ibikunle Ogunbayo, past president, Council for Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) warned the public to be careful of the “The boss is always right” syndrome.

“It is a wrong assumption that has a way of landing one in trouble. How many of us recall what happened to the Second World War prisoners of war whose only excuse was that they were following orders? Even though they were not sentenced to the gas chamber, they were summarily executed for their crimes against humanity. Where we break the law, we should be ready to accept the consequence,” he said.

Towards the end of the lecture, Sir (Dr) Oladipupo Bailey, founder of PEFON, proposed a toast to celebrate the 75th birthday of Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi.

While describing the pharmacist as a man of integrity, honour and absolute humility, Bailey disclosed that he was further impressed by the manner President Muhammadu Buhari eulogised him on national television.

In the said broadcast, Buhari commended Prince Adelusi-Adeluyi’s “remarkable entrepreneurial and leadership skills which propelled him to the chairmanship of the Oodua Investment Group and also led to transformation of his well-known Juli Pharmacy into the first indigenously promoted company to be quoted on the Nigerian Stock Exchange.”

Earlier in his welcome address, Bailey declared that PEFON was about the only organisation that aims to bring distinguished professionals from all walks of life under the same umbrella.

PEFON which has Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, managing director of Juli Plc as chairman, board of trustees, aims to identify Nigerian professionals home and abroad who have excelled in their chosen fields.

Also in attendance were Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi, managing director of Pharmanews Limited; Hon. Bala Bawa Kaoje, immediate past president of the Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria (APBN); and Kunle Aderinokun, an associate editor at THISDAY newspaper.

It would be recalled that last year’s induction of Sir Atueyi increased the number of pharmacy professionals in the fold of PEFON fellowship to six. The other five are Dr (Mrs) Stella Okoli, chairman, Emzor Pharmaceuticals; Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, managing director of Juli Plc; Dr Michael Oyebanjo Paul, chairman, Mopson Pharmaceutical Limited; Dr Nelson Uwaga, former PSN president and president of Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM); and Pharm. Olumide Akintayo, PSN president.

 

 

Leadership and the PSN

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Lolu Ojo
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The Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) is the oldest most organised and most stable professional association in Nigeria. This reputation was built over the years with the gift of exceptionally good leadership. These gifted men (and women) were able to rally all elements in the profession with a unique mantra: “As men (and women) of honour, we join hands” to pursue Pharmacy’s common interests. They succeeded to a large extent in giving Pharmacy a new name and identity in corporate Nigeria. Through their leadership, pharmacists moved from being mere government dispensers to being first class scientists with specialisation in different fields of Pharmacy. The roles of pharmacists in the health care delivery system also grew tremendously in stature.

These leaders ensured that the organisation of the PSN was firmly established with the specialty or technical groups coming on-stream: NAIP (1981), NAGPP (1981), NAAP (1981) and NAHP (1982) to take care of specific needs and interests of Industrial, Community, Academic and Hospital Pharmacists. All members of this unique generation of leaders deserve accolades and should be proud of their outstanding contributions.

The history of the PSN has been well documented by the late Dr Fred Adenika in his book, Pharmacy in Nigeria (pp. 19-27). It is expected that some of the living members of this generation of leaders will document their experience to fill the gap.

 Sterling performance

The generation of leaders from 1997 to date have put in their best to sustain the momentum generated by the earlier leaders in the mould of Chief Olu Akinkugbe, Senator Ayo Fasanmi, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi and Dr Philip Emafo. From Lady Eme Ekaette through Alhaji Yaro Budah, Dr UNO Uwaga, Sir Anthony Akhimien, Azubike Okwor to Olumide Akintayo – they have collectively and individually kept the flag flying and moved Pharmacy up the ladder of progress.

However, along the line, there seems to have been some form of disconnect between the old and new generation pharmacists. I have noticed, over the years, that the key personalities running the affairs of the society remain the same. Some have even started to talk about a cabal passing the baton of leadership from one member to the other.

A few years ago, a group on the PSN Facebook page took up a fight against the PSN leadership, threatening to lead a boycott of payment of annual due to the PSN. They accused the leadership of being autocratic, indolent and lacking in integrity. They even went to extent of giving the President an ultimatum to provide specific answers to their numerous complaints.

I was not amused by the vituperations and antics of this group and I joined the debate with the hope of providing insights to the issues raised. I made it clear that our leaders were making a lot of sacrifice to keep the hope of a better pharmacy practice in Nigeria alive and that it would be wrong to reward them with abuses and unsubstantiated allegations. I warned the group that they would fizzle out of reckoning if they didn’t change their rhetoric and tactics. This notwithstanding, I knew that something was wrong somewhere and we have a responsibility, as leaders, to dig deep and locate the real issues.

 Personal testimony

In the past 10 years, I have had the privilege of working very closely with all Presidents of the society within the period. Dr Uwaga was just about to finish his term of office when I returned to Pharmacy after five years sojourn in the hospitality industry. He is a good ambassador of Pharmacy and he has proved his worth by moving on to become President of the Nigerian Institute of Management (NIM). In that position, he has projected, positively, the image of pharmacists and the pharmacy profession. Sir Anthony Akhimien succeeded Uwaga in a keenly contested election where the top three candidates were separated by as few as two to three votes!

Sir Akhimien was a very passionate President. He dedicated his entire being to the service of the profession and I was part of his presidency, as Chairman of the Presidential Inauguration Committee (2007), Chairman, Conference Planning Committee (2008) and member of the National Executive Committee, NEC (2009). Together, we planned to have a model hospital practice setting which will allow our hospital colleagues to practice decently in the hospitals. The proposal that was submitted and debated did not see the light of the day due to the burden of PCN/Ahmed Mora issue that bugged the concluding part of Tony’s presidency. You can accuse Sir Akhimien of anything in the world but his commitment to the pharmacy profession is unquestionable.

Pharm Azubike Okwor was returned unopposed as PSN President at the 2009 conference in Benin. I was a member of NEC throughout his presidency by virtue of my position as the National Chairman of the Association of Industrial Pharmacists (NAIP). He achieved the feat as the first and the only Nigerian (if not African) to be given the Fellowship of the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP). I tried to bring up the idea of the model hospital practice setting which, unfortunately, did not fly with him. He has very strong convictions and can hold his own in adversity.

Olumide Akintayo took over, again unopposed, at the 2012 conference in Abeokuta. Right from the start, he left no one in doubt as to the direction his presidency would take. He was ready and prepared to defend Pharmacy with all the arsenals at his disposal and he has discharged this duty creditably well. I was a member of his NEC for less than one year but we had worked and are still working together. His presidency has so far witnessed improved visibility for the profession, the inauguration of the Nigerian Academy of Pharmacy; and we are on the verge of having a commercially viable organisation in Ultra Logistics Company Limited.

I have gone to this length in order to debunk the erroneous impression about the leaders of the profession in recent times. I have observed, at a close quarters, that it has all been sacrifice and selfless service and certainly not the tale of ‘honey’ that flows from all corners of the President’s office. It is possible that some of the stories emanated from their ubiquitous presence at the secretariat, domination of discussions at conferences and the few board appointments that seem to rotate round their numbers. Nothing compares to an individual’s records of service. I have asked President Olumide to follow Dr Uwaga’s footsteps and move on to something else after his presidency. Overall, the society should be grateful to these gentlemen for spending their time to serve.

Also at close quarters, I have observed that there has been too much emphasis on the position and person of the President. It is a dangerous development which can make the President to hear only his own voice. The position of the secretary (and all other executive offices) need to be strengthened and made more competitive.

Paramount agenda

As we move into a new era, which is fast approaching, it is important that we set the agenda for the new set of leadership that will soon be enthroned. I have always believed that leadership is about service and it is the responsibility of the leader to know what the constituents need and to meet this need using all the instruments of power at his or her disposal. We cannot and must not be satisfied with the status quo as represented by organisation of conferences and the likes. Each President and team must have a fundamental project which will be the hallmark of that regime. This time in the history of the PSN requires a different set of leadership with a new set of skills and competencies. The little problem of yesterday has become a festering sore of today. We need a leadership that will address the following key issues among others:

–              The number of universities offering Pharmacy has ballooned in recent times. How are they managing with the observed dearth of teachers in all the universities? How is the staffing problem affecting the quality of their products? Is there anything we can do to encourage and make career in academia attractive to young pharmacists? What is the position of research in the universities? What can the society do to draw attention and funding in this direction? How do we ensure that we have adequate tools for teaching and the teachers remain motivated?

–              There are many cases of new graduates roaming the streets looking for internship placement. I believed this should not be so. PSN should work with the PCN to actively encourage companies, pharmacies, universities and hospitals to open up new internship places. There must also be direct action to make the young graduates to stay in Pharmacy post NYSC.

–              The industrial sector is still enmeshed in many issues from the high fragmentation to low quality and the disorganised distribution system. With a huge potential demand base due to high population, we are still very far from optimal level of performance.

–              The hospital system needs a new approach to make it conducive for ideal Pharmacy practice. What can we do to bring a new impetus towards the direction of change?

It is my sincere wish that the election in November this year will throw up the right kind of leadership for the profession. The day is almost here with us.

 

Dr. Lolu Ojo BPharm, MBA, PharmD, FPCpharm, FPSN, FNApharm, DF-PEFON

 

Exclusion clauses and limiting terms

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Dozie David
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Legal Angle

Pharmacist Adebayo has a contract to provide drugs and first aid supplies to the Benue State University, Makurdi. These provisions are required for the University Sports Festival to hold over the weekend. He contacts Freddy Pharmaceuticals, a wholesale distributor in Oshodi, Lagos.

Fortunately, all the required products are available. The goods can be delivered via the services of a transport company, which shuttles between Lagos and Benue. Adebayo pays for the order and signs a receipt issued to him. Subsequently, arrangements are made for despatch of the products to Makurdi.

However, the transport vehicle encounters some mechanical problems. This results in the delay of conveying the goods, eventually arriving on Monday, after the close of the Sports Festival. Consequently, Adebayo loses the contract with the university and seeks to recover his losses from Freddy Pharmaceuticals.

The distributor denies any responsibility for the loss, citing an imprint at the back of the receipt, which states that “the company shall not be liable for any damage, lateness or non-delivery, resulting from the conveyance of goods.” Adebayo maintains that he was not aware of this provision and did not even realise that there was anything written at the back of the receipt. Had he been informed, he may have made his own arrangements for the delivery of the goods. For this reason, he is holding Freddy Pharmaceuticals accountable for the late delivery and subsequent losses. In view of this, what is the legal position?

In business, parties to a contract are free to limit or exclude obligations arising from their transaction. Disputes regarding these exclusion clauses may occur when a party, usually the seller, claims exemption from his liability, thereby depriving the buyer of compensation to which he should have been entitled. These exclusion clauses or limiting terms are often written in a receipt, ticket, form or notice, which the buyer may or may not have read. To protect consumers, the courts have designed separate rules in respect to documents signed by the buyer and those not signed.

The legal issues to be considered are:

  1. The validity of an exclusion clause that the buyer is not aware of.
  2. The responsibility of the seller to bring such terms to the buyer’s attention.
  3. The effect of signing a document containing exclusion clauses.

In the case of Parker v. South Eastern Railway Company, the rules for determining the validity of an exclusion term in a document, not signed by the buyer, were established as follows:

If the person receiving the document did not see or know that there was any writing on it, he is not bound by the conditions.

  1. If he knew that there was writing on the document, and realised that the writing contained conditions, then he is bound by those conditions.
  2. If he knew that there was writing on the document, but did not know or believe that the writing contained conditions, nevertheless he would be bound if the party delivering the document to him had done all that was reasonably sufficient to give him notice that the writing contained conditions.

From this, it is apparent that the law aims to protect a party to a contract who receives unsatisfactory services from his transaction and is entitled to some compensation arising from that. It would be difficult for the person responsible for the loss to absolve himself of liability on the basis of an exclusion clause or limiting term that the injured party is unaware of. The issuance of documents like receipts or delivery notes, with such terms written on them, may not be sufficient to bind the parties to those terms. There is an additional responsibility, on the part of the person issuing the document, to make reasonable efforts towards notifying the receiving party of these terms.

 

In this case, Adebayo concluded the transaction and was issued a receipt, which eventually turned out to contain an exclusion clause, absolving Freddy Pharmaceuticals of any liability arising from the conveyance of goods purchased. The receipt was not read by Adebayo, neither was the exclusion clause brought to his notice. On this basis, he is making a claim for a full refund of expenses incurred, including the losses resulting from the cancelation of his contract with Benue State University.

However, there is one major detail that cannot be overlooked: the fact that the document issued to Adebayo was signed by him. The position of the law with regard to documents signed by the injured party, incorporating exclusion clauses or limiting terms, is very different. In the absence of fraud, duress or misrepresentation, the person who signs a document is bound by the excluding term, whether or not he reads it.

In the case of L’Estrange v. Graucob, a customer signed a form printed by the sellers of an automatic slot machine which she ordered from them. The document contained a clause, in a very small print, stating “any express or implied condition, statement or warranty, statutory or otherwise not stated herein is hereby excluded”. When the machine was eventually delivered, it did not work well. The buyer sued the sellers for breach of contract. The sellers relied on the exemption clause in their defence. The buyer maintained that she knew nothing about the contents of the order form, as she had not read it before signing. In addition, the exemption clause could not easily be read because of the smallness of the print.

Nevertheless, it was held by the court that when a document containing contractual terms is signed, then in the absence of fraud and misrepresentation, the party signing it is bound, and it is “wholly immaterial whether he has read the document or not”.

In view of this, Adebayo is bound by the terms of his transaction, not because he has read or been notified of the terms, but because by signing it, he has signified his assent.

Principles and cases are drawn from Sagay: Nigerian Law of Contract

 

Primary health care in Nigeria is in wrong hands – Dr Oji

By
Temitope Obayendo
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Doctor Richard Oji
Doctor Richard Oji

In this exclusive chat with Temitope Obayendo, Doctor Richard Oji, a family physician with the Oak Hospital in Ikorodu, Lagos, highlighted the significance of family physicians, while bemoaning the widespread ignorance about their crucial roles in the health care landscape. He equally urged all private hospital owners to enrol for the Diploma in Family Medicine programme for enhanced health care delivery. Excerpts:

Briefly tell us about yourself

I am Dr Richard Oji. I attended military primary and secondary schools before studying Medicine and Surgery at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. I am currently a student of the National Postgraduate College of Medicine of Nigeria, Faculty of Family Medicine, where I am doing the Diploma in Family Medicine (DFM) programme.

Generally, I first practised clinical medicine in 2004. Practice has taken me from Enugu to Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa, Rivers, Delta and now Lagos State. I have been a senior medical officer and a deputy unit head in Accident and Emergency, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynaecology , ENT and was acting medical director in hospitals in Kaduna, chief medical officer in a mission hospital in Delta State, as well as an in-house surgeon in a reputable hospital here in Lagos. Presently, I am third on call in Oak Hospitals.

It is a common practice for people to refer to family physicians as general practitioners. Is this correct? If not, can you explain the difference between the two areas?

This is a very good question. General practice (GP) is a domain in family medicine, though I prefer the term “primary care.” It is just a fraction of what a family physician (FP) does. People confuse a family physician with a GP because of the nomenclature of the American College. Initially, FPs were referred to as GPs worldwide but as the specialty became clearer, many countries have corrected this error, Nigeria inclusive.

The MBBS makes you a “primordial germ cell”- which means that the sky is your limit. You can decide to be a physician, a gynaecologist, a paediatrician, a neurosurgeon, a cardiologist, a pathologist, a family physician, an urologist – you just name it! You are full of potentials, but you are not a finished product yet. To be referred to as a GP in the real sense of it, you need special postgraduate training. What most Nigerians refer to as GPs are actually pluripotent germ cell, but since that is what you are used to in this country, we stick to your terms for the sake of this interview.

A family physician is a multi-trained specialist that gives continuing and compassionate care to patients, undifferentiated by age, gender or presentation. We see illnesses and diseases in their very early forms and it requires sound clinical skills or expertise to diagnose these conditions. Several tools are used in our practice and we are advocates of George Engel’s Biopsychosocial/Einsteinean/Patient-Centred Model of medical practice. We are the patient’s guide through the ever confusing maze of health care. We recognise the role of the family in health and disease and try to treat the patient rather than the disease. A FP is a 5 or 6-star doctor: he is a care provider, decision maker, communicator, community leader, manager, and researcher.

 Since general practitioners attend to all except infants, how practicable is it for general practitioners to avoid encroaching into the roles of family physicians?

By definition a GP attends to all patients and makes appropriate referrals. There is no rivalry between a GP and FP. In actual sense, the history of family medicine in Nigeria and worldwide is tied to general practice movement. We in Nigeria have the AGMPN to thank, which is an association of primarily GPs.

 With the dearth of practising medical doctors in Nigeria, do you have an idea of how many family physicians there are in the country?

We are very few in number actually. Numerically, we are about 400 Fellows, a professor (Prof. Inem, the doyen of family medicine in Nigeria) and less than 2000 residents and DFM scholars. You see, we are a relatively new specialty.

 From your experience so far, what would you identify as the most common health condition in the average Nigerian family?

Avoidable ailments like malaria, diarrhoea diseases, hypertension, diabetes, pneumonia, pregnancy-related ailments, somatoform disorders, and others.

 What would you say about the popularity of herbs as alternative to conventional medicines?

This has increased the incidence of end stage renal diseases and liver failure. Also the rate of gastritis and perforated visci is higher.

 What are the major challenges of family physicians both in private and government owned hospitals?

The gross ignorance, even within the medical field, about the role and position of the family physician. Primary care is in the hands of the wrong people. Even the WHO in 2008 advocated that FPs should to be given their pride of place. Some doctors still don’t see the FPs as consultants, and don’t appreciate the enormous workload they bear. Nigerians have lawyers, bankers, travel agents but don’t deem it fit to register with family physicians. Also, amongst doctors, the question of who owns a patient is still there.

 In what ways could these challenges be resolved?

Our health policy should be modernised as obtained in advanced societies. There should be no question on the issue that the FP owns the patients and only sends collateral and interval referrals to these consultants who unfortunately hold on to these patients without courtesy of a feedback to the FPs who referred such in the first place.

 Looking into the future of the health sector of the Nigerian economy in the next 10 years, do you think it would be competing with other advanced countries?

Actually, I think it’s the government’s responsibility to build a strong and reliable health care delivery system, that will be easily accessible to the public, with quality health care services, which could compete favourably with internationally standard.

 Considering the modus operandi of most private hospitals across the country, in what ways can they make their services more customer-friendly?

They need to employ/consult FPs, inculcate the new paradigm-shift of patient-centred medicine and watch their practice grow.

What is your advice to both patients and owners of private hospitals in Nigeria?

Every patient should register with a family physician who will serve as their gatekeeper and guide in the quest for good health. Self-referrals should henceforth be discouraged. All private hospital owners are advised to enrol for the DFM Programme of NPCMN in order to improve their practice.

 

Dr (Pharm) Patrick Osarenmwinda Igbinaduwa

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Dr Patrick Osarenmwinda Igbinaduwa is the current Head, Pharmaceutical Chemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Benin (UNIBEN), Edo State. Born on 21 April, 1971 in the ancient city of Benin, Igbinaduwa is a native of Igun in Oredo Local government Area of Edo State.

The pharmacist had his early education at Amegor Primary School, Uwelu, Benin City. He then proceeded to Adolo College, Ugbowo, Benin City, where he sat his West African School Certificate (WASC) exams in 1987. Igbinaduwa gained admission into UNIBEN in 1989 and bagged a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree in 1995. Eight years after, he returned to the same institution for a master’s degree programme in Pharmaceutical Chemistry (2003–2007). A year after he rounded off his master’s degree, he enrolled again at UNIBEN where he completed his Ph.D in 2013.

Over the years, the amiable pharmacist has garnered a remarkable wealth of experience in quality control, research development and the academia. After his internship with the Central Hospital, Benin City (from September 1995 to October 1996), Igbinaduwa did his compulsory National Youth Service programme as a hospital pharmacist with the General Hospital, Kazaure, Jigawa State (1996–1997).

In 1999, he joined SKG Pharma Limited as medical representative, before leaving for Edo Pharmaceuticals Limited where he worked as quality control pharmacist in 2003. However, in a bid to fulfil his childhood dream, Igbinaduwa decided to move into the academia.

In 2005, his alma mater (University of Benin) appointed him as assistant lecturer in the faculty of Pharmacy. An erudite pharmacist with a natural flair for imparting knowledge, it didn’t take him long to make his impact felt in the faculty. In 2007, he was promoted to the position of Lecturer and, two years later, Lecturer I. He became a senior lecturer in the department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy in 2013 before being made current head of department.

A one-time public relations officer, Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Edo State branch (2002 – 2003), Igbinaduwa was also the manager, Anti-Drug Misuse and Abuse Programme of the Pharmaceutical Association of Nigeria Students (ADMEP-PANS UNIBEN) in 1994.

Between 2003 and 2005, he was assistant secretary, Edo State branch of the PSN. He is presently the chairman, Mandatory Continuous Professional Development Programme (MCPD) for the re-certification of pharmacists, UNIBEN Centre.

The pharmacist, whose hobbies include playing football, travelling and counselling, is married with children.

 

 

NAIP advocates life jail for drug fakers

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National chairman of the Association of Industrial Pharmacists (NAIP), Pharm. (Prince) Gbenga Falabi, has said that anybody found guilty of involvement in drug counterfeiting should be jailed for life.

The According to the NAIP boss, the present sanction of a fine of 200,000 naira or a six-month jail term for convicted drug fakers is grossly inadequate and cannot serve as deterrents to those involved in the nefarious business.

NAIP 1

Pharm. Falabi was speaking with Pharmanews in an interview during the 18th Annual National Conference of NAIP, held at Sheraton Hotel and Towers, Ikeja, Lagos, recently.

The memorable conference chaired by Dr ABC Orjiakor, Chairman, Neimeth International Pharmaceuticals Plc, who was represented by Pharm. Emmanuel Ekunno, MD/CEO of the company was also graced by Dr Paul Orhii, DG, NAFDAC; Pharm. Azubike Okwor, former PSN president; Pharm. (Chief) Bunmi Olaopa, president, WAPMA; Mr Eidickle Muyon from the FIP and Pharm. (Sir) Ifeanyi Atueyi, MD, Pharmanews.

Pharm. Falabi said NAIP wants the National Assembly to change the penalty for drug fakers to life imprisonment because those involved in dealing in fake drugs resulting in deaths of Nigerians should not have any opportunity to walk away.

He reiterated the determination of NAIP to push for an industry and civil society led anti-counterfeiting war on fake drugs, adding that NAIP is initiating the establishment of an intervention fund that will be used to assist the agencies saddled with the responsibilities of fighting drug counterfeiting in Nigeria.

Pharm. Falabi explained that it is very important to raise awareness on fake drugs because ensuring patients get genuine drugs for treatment is very crucial in the treatment chain. He said that while the hospital may be good, the diagnosis right and the doctor’s prescription correct, with the challenge of fake drugs, all the other efforts made to help the patient will be a waste.

The NAIP boss also said that the pharmaceutical industry has great expectations from current government in Nigeria because the Buhari government has shown that it takes what affects Nigerians as a priority, adding that the pharma industry, being an essential sub-sector of the health sector, will get the support and encouragement it required to back up its investments.

Speaking on the theme of the conference “Transforming the Nigerian Pharmaceutical Industry: The Big Picture”, Mr Bismarck Rewane, MD/CEO, Financial Derivatives Company Limited, said that the local pharmaceutical manufacturers are faced with challenges of high cost of production, counterfeit drugs/parallel importation, low purchasing power within the population, poor health care infrastructure, irregular government purchase of drugs and delayed payments, as well as weak enforcement of policies.

On growth options for the industry, Mr Rewane who was the keynote speaker at the NAIP conference urged the stakeholders in the pharmaceutical industry to explore the possibility of development and local manufacture of pharmaceutical grade raw materials, as well as pooling of resources to increase their market share through partnership, mergers and acquisitions.

Rewane noted that the growth of the pharmaceutical industry would have a trickle-down effect on the Nigerian economy by helping to create more employment opportunities, reduce expenses on health care abroad, and help improve the life expectancy of Nigerians.

The highlight of the occasion was the presentation of awards to some distinguished pharmacists for their contributions to the pharmaceutical sector.

Expert cautions against misdiagnosing dyspepsia as peptic ulcer

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A gastroenterology expert has called on Nigerian physicians to make proper diagnosis of dyspepsia patients rather than hastily assuming that they have peptic ulcer.

Biofem engages health experts

Speaking at a Continuous Medical Education (CME) programme targeted at broadening the understanding of Nigerian doctors on adequate treatment and overall best management of numerous degrees of diabetes mellitus and gastrointestinal disease, Dr Funmi Duro-Emmanuel, a consultant gastroenterologist with the Ifako-Ijaiye General Hospital, Lagos said that it was quite disturbing to note that Nigeria had 48 per cent of the reported cases of dyspepsia from a recent global survey.

“This is why I also canvass that in the course of diagnosing such common clinical problem, our doctors should learn to run proton pump inhibitors (PPI) and stop concluding what the problem might likely be,” she said.

The programme, powered by Biofem Pharmaceuticals Limited, was aimed at further sensitising and re-awakening the physicians on ways to ensure proper management of diabetes, stomach ulcers and major complications.

The event which held on 26 August at Ibis Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, was attended by over 120 physicians from various health care facilities in Lagos State.

Duro-Emmanuel shared her experiences with the audience concerning dyspepsia and the need to be patient in its diagnosis in order not to miss out the very important causes that may underline it. These underlying causes, according to her, may include serious conditions like stomach cancers.

Corroborating her view, Dr Charles Onyekwere, a fellow consultant gastroenterologist further expounded on the role of helicobacter pylori in causing dyspepsia, stomach ulcer and even stomach cancer.

The renowned researcher confirmed that the infection, which has been found to be rampant in Nigeria, is the leading cause of ulcers, adding that the difficulty facing the health care profession in tackling it lies in the high resistance of the infection to certain antibiotics like metronidazole and tinidazole.

The immediate past head of the department of Internal Medicine of LASUCOM however announced that a triple therapy containing Rabeprazole, amoxicillin, and clarithromycin administered for 10 days has been established through studies done in Nigeria as one of the most effective remedies to treat stomach ulcers as well as to prevent stomach cancers.

“When compared to gastric cancer, the rate of helicobacter pylori is high in Nigeria. It is a public health challenge with no vaccine yet. The youngest gastric cancer case we have witnessed in Nigeria was 32, even though the patient later died,” he said.

In another session, Dr Anthonia Ogbera, an associate professor and consultant endocrinologist with Lagos State University College of Medicine (LASUCOM) educated the doctors on clinical practice guidelines of diabetes mellitus foot syndrome.

According to her, diabetes mellitus as a chronic disease is assuming a pandemic proportion among Nigerians.

“Complications of the disease, particularly diabetes mellitus-related foot ulcer (DFU), are on the increase. It is important to note that DFU is not only a pivotal event in person with diabetes, but a maker of serious disease and co-morbidities. Therefore, lack of early diagnosis and right medical attention is a factor for possible deterioration, which might end up in amputation of the affected part, huge losses in revenue, and possibly cause the death of the patient,” she stressed.

Also, speaking on clinical presentation for the Management of Neuropathy, Prof. Abayomi Ogun, former Provost of College of Medicine, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye, Ogun State disclosed that neuropathy in diabetes can be diagnosed through clinical and anatoclinical means.

The university don also identified pain as universal and charged physicians, to manage neuropathic pain, based on its severity.

Also at the event, two product managers with Biofem Pharmaceuticals, Pharm Chris Abhulimhen and Pharm Bello Achilike both spoke briefly on the role the company has been playing to improve the standards of health care in Nigeria.

They observed that some of the company’s spirited efforts in the past had resulted in laudable initiatives, such as the introduction of mobile authentication service (MAS), as well as the provision of unique therapeutic combinations for managing diabetes and gastrointestinal diseases. The therapeutic combinations include Biobetic, Biopentin, Pylorest and Rabefast.

Baale urges inclusion of leadership training in pharmacy curriculum

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Pharm Lere Baale, regional director of Howes Consulting Group and director of Business School Netherlands has called for a comprehensive review of pharmacy curriculum in universities to include topics on leadership skills, clinical pharmacy, public health and business administration.

Baale made the call while delivering a keynote address on the theme, “Pharmacy Education and Research: Key to Good Pharmacy Practice” at the Nigerian Association of Pharmacists in Academia (NAPA) UNILAG branch’s annual one-day symposium held at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, Lagos.

A board member of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital (LASUTH), Baale also wants every lecturer to evolve into a certified Action Learning Coach (CALC).

“I know it is not easy to teach what you don’t practise. Our lecturers however can do better by spending at least 1,000 hours each year to practise in hospital, community, manufacturing, sales and marketing,” he remarked.

Pharmacy schools, according to him, have taken an analytical and discipline-based approach for centuries.

“For several years we emphasised analytics, models, and statistics. But we need to convince ourselves that the world markets (and business needs) have changed. As I usually say, words inspire but action transform!” he stressed.

Baale noted that the pharmacy profession has proudly produced great icons everywhere – including Cyprian Ekwensi, the literary luminary; Adeyinka Oyekan, Late Oba of Lagos State; Chief Olu Akinkugbe, a revered pharmacist; Prince Julius Adewale Adelusi-Adeluyi, former minister of health and social services; Dr Dere Awosika, a respected icon of the profession; Hajia Amina Zakari, chairman of INEC; Tolu Ogunlesi, social activitist and several others.

In a related development, Pharm. (Mrs) Molade Adeniyi, pharmacy services manager, HealthPlus Pharmacy declared that the role of the pharmacist in the health care delivery system and the society at large has undergone considerable changes over the years.

While explaining the traditional role of pharmacists, the pharmacist emphasised that it is important that pharmacy education from undergraduate and postgraduate to Mandatory Continuous Professional Development (MCPD) prepares pharmacists for this ever-evolving role.

Adeniyi said that there are six main levels of pharmacy education in Nigeria, namely, undergraduate education, Students Industrial Work Experience Scheme (SIWES), internship programme, foreign pharmacists graduate orientation programme, postgraduate education and MCPD.

The HealthPlus executive also noted that much as the majority of newly graduated pharmacists are knowledgeable, they often demonstrate lack of some basic skills such as leadership, communication, practice experience, confidence and analytical skils.

“The role of pharmacists worldwide has been redefined in line with global trends and advancements. We need to catch up fast! We must benchmark our industry with that of developed countries and be determined to raise the bar in order to achieve excellence in healthcare delivery,” she charged.

Towards the end of the programme, four personalities were given award of excellence in recognition of their contributions to the growth of Pharmacy in academia. They were Pharm. Lere Baale; Prof. Olukemi Odukoya, former dean of the faculty who was represented by Pharm (Dr) Glory Ajayi, associate professor, department of Pharmacognosy; Pharm. (Mrs) Molade Adeniyi, HealthPlus services manager and Pharm (Dr) Moshood Akinleye, former sub-dean of the school.

Also in attendance were Pharm. Oluwatosin Adeymi, chairman, University of Lagos (UNILAG) branch of NAPA; Prof Boladale Silva, new dean; Pharm Ifeanyi Atueyi, managing director of Pharmanews Limited; Dr Sunday Olayemi, acting head, department of pharmacology; Pharm. Aminat Oyawaluja, lecturer, department of Pharmacognosy; Dr Rebecca Soremekun, a senior lecturer in the department of Clinical Pharmacy; and Prof. Cecilia Igwilo, a Fellow of the PSN.

Others were Prof Udoma Mendie, professor of microbiology; Pharm. Bamisaye Oyawaluja, vice chairman; Pharm. (Mrs) Fatima Ikolaba, treasurer; Pharm (Mrs) Ogochukwu Amaeze, financial secretary; and Pharm. Joseph Oiseoghaede, secretary; Pharm. Arinola Joda, a senior lecturer with Faculty of Pharmacy and Dr Lawal Bakare, chief executive officer of HEIT Solutions;

The Nigerian Association of Pharmacists in Academia (NAPA) is a technical arm of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN) made up of pharmacists practising in the field of academics and research. The association is currently the foremost research arm of the PSN and its reproductive arm as it is saddled with the production of individuals fit for registration as pharmacists.

NAPA’s first symposium held last year was theme “Collaboration creating value” and the keynote explored ways that significant collaborations can be pursued leading to important advances beyond the summation of individual parts of the health care team.

The event itself was a collaborative effort between distinguished pharmacists and medical professionals from the College of Medicine.

 

Linde Healthcare – Image Film

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Solomon Ojigbo
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This is an image film about Linde Healthcare, your partner for pharmaceutical and medical gas products, services and patient-care programmes.

source

Pharmanews Centre for Health Care Management Development November Workshops

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“Health care in Nigeria is changing. Our present challenges call for new ways of thinking.

There is great need for visionary leaders to transform our health care

organisations and to deliver outstanding products and services within our unique environment.

At Pharmanews Centre for Health Care Management Development,

our goal is simple – to help you prepare for the future.”

Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi – MD, Pharmanews Limited

Participants during a briefing of the Medcare Hopital, a subsidiary of Aster DM Healthcare
Participants during a briefing of the Medcare Hopital, a subsidiary of Aster DM Healthcare

Optimizing effectiveness cannot be over emphasized. Continuous development is a tool for driving and achieving sustainable health care service delivery. The Pharmacy Technician as a subordinate is therefore, eligible for developmental growth to aid in rendering continually improved service for the overall performance of the team and the health care delivery at large.

We do request that you nominate participants for the upcoming workshop on the course below:

COURSE:      THE PHARMACY TECHNICIAN AND BEST PRACTICES

 

Date:                  Tuesday 17 – Wednesday 18 November, 2015

Time:                  9:00am – 4:00pm

Venue:               Pharmanews Training Centre

                           8, Akinwunmi Street, Mende, Maryland, Lagos.

 

Target Participants:                        Pharmacy Technicians

 

Course Contents:

  • Essentials of Ethical Dispensing.
  • Review of Contemporary Pharmaceutical Calculations.
  • Compounding Extemporaneous Pharmaceutical Preparations.
  • Essential of Supply Chain Management.
  • ICT in Pharmacy Care Provision.

 Course Objectives:

At the end of the workshop, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the importance of patient care and ethics of drug dispensing.
  • Effectively perform routine and special pharmaceutical calculations and prepare extemporaneous products.
  • Understand the principles guiding sustainable supply chain management procedures.
  • Understand the principles guiding sustainable supply chain management protocols.
  • Integrate ICT in supply chain management for optimum performance.

 

Registration:

  • ₦48,000 per participant on or before 19October, 2015.
  • ₦53,000 per participant after 19 October, 2015.

 

Registration fee covers tea break, lunch, workshop materials and certificates ONLY.

 

Group discounts:  3 – 5 participants: 10%,    6 and above participants: 15%

 

Cancellation: For cancellation of registration fee, 90% of the fee will be refunded, if cancelled at least seven (7) days to the workshop and this information communicated to us by sms or email, using: info@pharmanewsonline.com. There will be no refund if cancelled thereafter.

 

Method of Payment:

Participants should pay into Pharmanews Ltd account in Zenith Bank Plc (A/c No. 1010701673) or Access Bank Plc (A/c No. 0035976695) and send their full names and bank deposit slip numbers by sms or email to Pharmanews Ltd.

 

For further information, please contact:

Cyril Mbata                             –   +234 706 812 9728

Elizabeth Amuneke                  –   +234 805 723 5128

Ifeanyi Atueyi                 –   +234 803 301 5991

 

Yours faithfully,

 

Sir Ifeanyi Atueyi

Managing Director

Revealed Secrets of Maintaining Good Eye Health

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Admin
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Secrets of Maintaining Good Eye Health
Secrets of Maintaining Good Eye Health
  1. Eat for Good Vision

Protecting your eyes starts with the food on your plate. Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, and vitamins C and E might help ward off age-related v

ision problems such as macular degeneration and cataracts, studies show. Regular consumption of these foods could lead to good eye health:

  • Green, leafy vegetables such as spinach, kale, and collards
  • Salmon, tuna, and other oily fish
  • Eggs, nuts, beans, and other non-meat protein sources
  • Oranges and other citrus fruits or juices
  1. Quit Smoking

Smoking makes you more likely to get cataracts, optic nerve damage, and macular degeneration. If you’ve tried to quit smoking before and started smoking again, keep trying. The more times you try to quit smoking, the more likely you are to succeed.

  1. Wear Sunglasses

The right kind of sunglasses will help protect your eyes from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Too much UV exposure makes you more likely to get cataracts and macular degeneration.

  1. Use Safety Eyewear

If you work with hazardous or airborne materials on the job or at home, wear safety glasses or protective goggles every time.

Certain sports such as ice hockey, racquetball, and lacrosse can also lead to eye injury. Wear eye protection (such as helmets with protective face masks or sports goggles with polycarbonate lenses) to shield your eyes.

  1. Look Away From the Computer Screen

Staring at a computer screen for too long can cause:

  • Eyestrain
  • Blurry vision
  • Trouble focusing at a distance
  • Dry eyes
  • Headaches
  • Neck, back, and shoulder pain
  1. Visit Your Eye Doctor Regularly

Everyone, even young children, should get their eyes examined regularly. It helps you protect your sight and see your best.

Amazing health benefits of Watermelon

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health benefits of Watermelon
health benefits of Watermelon

Watermelon is by far, one of the most powerful, body-healing fruits out there! The amazing health benefits of watermelon cover everything from your brain all the way to the cells in your feet.

The best time to indulge in this fresh, succulent, juicy melon is summertime, when they are in season and deliver an array of nutrients, vitamin and minerals.

Watermelon is incredibly hydrating (up to 92% water!) and is naturally low-fat. Make this melon a part of your daily diet and you will reap amazing benefits that range from improving cardiovascular health to nourishing your eyes and revving up your immune system.

8 Benefits

  1. Cardiovascular & Bone Health: The lycopene in watermelon is especially important for our cardiovascular health and is now being recognized as an important factor in promoting bone health. Consuming large amounts of watermelon has also been correlated with improved cardiovascular function because it improves blood flow via vasodilation (relaxation of blood pressure). Dietary lycopene (from foods like watermelon or tomatoes) reduces oxidative stress which normally reduces the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts (the two major bone cells involved in the pathogenesis of osteoporosis) – this means stronger bones for those consuming lycopene-rich foods. Watermelon is also rich in potassium which helps to retain calcium in your body, resulting in stronger bones and joints.
  2. Reduces Body Fat: The citrulline in watermelon has been shown to reduce the accumulation of fat in our fat cells. Citrulline is an amino acid which converts into arginine with help from the kidneys. When our bodies absorb citrulline it can take the step of converting into arginine if so required. Citrulline, when consumed, has the ability to (through a series of steps) block the activity of TNAP (tissue-nonspecific alkaline phosphatase) which makes our fat cells create less fat, and thus helps prevent over-accumulation of body fat.
  3. Anti-inflammatory & Antioxidant Support: Watermelon is rich in phenolic compounds like flavonoids, carotenoids, and triterpenoids. The carotenoid lycopene in watermelon is particularly beneficial in reducing inflammation and neutralizing free radicals. The tripterpenoid cucurbitacin E is also present in watermelon, which provides anti-inflammatory support by blocking activity of cyclo-oxygenase enzymes which normally lead to increased inflammatory support. Make sure you pick ripe watermelons, because they contain higher amounts of these beneficial phenolic compounds.
  4. Diuretic & Kidney Support: Watermelon is a natural diuretic which helps increase the flow of urine, but does not strain the kidneys (unlike alcohol and caffeine). Watermelons help the liver process ammonia (waste from protein digestion) which eases strain on the kidneys while getting rid of excess fluids.
  5. Muscle & Nerve Support: Rich in potassium, watermelon is a great natural electrolyte and thus helps regulate the action of nerves and muscles in our body. Potassium determines the degree and frequency with which our muscles contract, and controls the excitation of nerves in our body.
  1. Alkaline-forming: Watermelons have an alkaline-forming effect in the body when fully ripe. Eating lots of alkaline-forming foods (fresh, ripe, fruit and vegetables) can help reduce your risk of developing disease and illness caused by a high-acid diet (namely, meat, eggs and dairy).
  2. Improves Eye Health: Watermelon is a wonderful source of beta-carotene (that rich red hue of watermelon = beta carotene) which is converted in the body to vitamin A. It helps produce the pigments in the retina of the eye and protects against age-related macular degeneration as well as prevents night blindness. Vitamin A also maintains healthy skin, teeth, skeletal and soft tissue, and mucus membranes.
  3. Immune Support, Wound Healing & Prevents Cell Damage:  The vitamin C content in watermelon is astoundingly high. Vitamin C is great at improving our immune system by maintaining the redox integrity of cells and thereby protecting them from reactive oxygen species (which damages our cells and DNA). The role of vitamin C in healing wounds has also been observed in numerous studies because it is essential to the formation of new connective tissue. The enzymes involved in forming collagen (the main component of wound healing) cannot function without vitamin C. If you are suffering from any slow-healing wounds, up your intake of vitamin C heavy fruit.

How much do you know of Alzheimer’s disease?

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Alzheimer's disease
Alzheimer’s disease

Today is World Alzheimer’s Disease Day; however, the condition may sound strange to many, as it is not a common health condition in this clime. This article will endeavour to give you needed information on the disease.

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurological disorder in which the death of brain cells causes memory loss and cognitive decline. A neurodegenerative type of dementia, the disease starts mild and gets progressively

Causes of Alzheimer’s disease

Like all types of dementia, Alzheimer’s is caused by brain cell death. It is a neurodegenerative disease, which means there is progressive brain cell death that happens over a course of time. The total brain size shrinks with Alzheimer’s – the tissue has progressively fewer nerve cells and connections. While they cannot be seen or tested in the living brain affected by Alzheimer’s disease, postmortem/autopsy will always show tiny inclusions in the nerve tissue, called plaques and tangles:

  • Plaques are found between the dying cells in the brain – from the build-up of a protein called beta-amyloid (you may hear the term “amyloid plaques”).
  • The tangles are within the brain neurons – from a disintegration of another protein, called tau.

Symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease

  1. Inability to take in and remember information, e.g:

* Repetitive questions or conversations

* Forgetting events or appointments

* Getting lost on a familiar route.”

  1. Impairments to reasoning and complex tasking:

* Poor understanding of safety risks

* Inability to manage finances

* Poor decision-making ability

  1. Impaired visual, speaking abilities:

* Inability to recognize faces or common objects or to find objects in direct view

* Inability to operate simple implements, or orient clothing to the body.

* Difficulty thinking of common words while speaking, hesitations

* Speech, spelling, and writing errors.

  1. Changes in personality and behavior, for example:

* Out-of-character mood changes, including agitation; less interest, motivation or initiative; apathy; social withdrawal

* Loss of empathy

* Compulsive, obsessive or socially unacceptable behavior.

 

Stages of Alzheimer’s disease

The progression of Alzheimer’s can be broken down into three basic stages:

  1. Preclinical (no signs or symptoms yet)
  2. Mild cognitive impairment
  3. Dementia

The Alzheimer’s Association has broken this down further, describing seven stages along a continuum of cognitive decline based on symptom severity – from a state of no impairment, through mild and moderate decline, and eventually reaching “very severe decline.”

Risk factors of Alzheimer’s disease

Some things are more commonly associated with Alzheimer’s disease – not seen so often in people without the disorder. These factors may therefore have some direct connection. Some are preventable or modifiable factors (for example, reducing the risk of diabetes or heart disease may in turn cut the risk of dementia). Risk factors associated with Alzheimer’s disease include:

  1. Unavoidable risk factors
  • Age – the disorder is more likely in older people, and a greater proportion of over-85-year-olds have it than of over-65s.
  • Family history (inheritance of genes) – having Alzheimer’s in the family is associated with higher risk. This is the second biggest risk factor after age.
  • Having a certain gene (the apolipoprotein E or APOE gene) puts a person, depending on their specific genetics; at three to eight times more risk than a person without the gene. Numerous other genes have been found to be associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Being female (more women than men are affected).
  1. Potentially avoidable or modifiable factors
  • Factors that increase blood vessel (vascular) risk – including diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure. (These also increase the risk of stroke, which itself can lead to another type of dementia.)
  • Low educational and occupational attainment.
  • Prior head injury. (While a traumatic brain injury does not necessarily lead to Alzheimer’s, some research links have been drawn, with increasing risk tied to the severity of trauma history.)8
  • Sleep disorders (the breathing problem sleep apnea, for example).
  • Estrogen hormone replacement therapy.

Treatment and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease

There is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease – the death of brain cells in the dementia cannot be halted or reversed. There is, however, much backing for therapeutic interventions to help people live with Alzheimer’s disease more ably. The Alzheimer’s Association includes the following as important elements of dementia care:

  • Effective management of any conditions occurring alongside the Alzheimer’s.
  • Activities and/or programs of adult day care.
  • Support groups and services.

The Importance of Honey to Pregnant women

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Admin
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Pregnancy is a state every woman must experience, one time or the other. And a pregnant woman needs extra care with regards to health since there is another life depending on her.

However, treating respiratory ailments in pregnancy could be quite challenging, because not all medicines are suitable for pregnant women. If you are looking for a natural alternative to treat minor illnesses, honey might be a good natural alternative.

3 Roles of Honey in Pregnancy

 1.Relieves Cough: A cough during pregnancy is a critical situation. Treating this minor ailment requires delicate and tender touch. Pregnant women cannot just take any cough syrup or medicines. Honey is good for relieving cough. It is all natural which means it will not cause side effects (unless you are allergic to honey).

 2.Treats Heartburn: Heartburn is very common to pregnant women due to hormonal changes. It takes place when the acidic stomach contents go back into the esophagus. This ailment has the tendency to make the pregnant woman lose appetite. That is why it is essential to deal with it instantaneously. There are different medications available in the pharmacy for this sort of condition. In case you want to try an all natural remedy, take advantage of the organic properties of honey.

The remedy for heartburn is quite simple. Just mix one tablespoon of honey into a glass of milk then drink it when there is a sign of heartburn. Pregnant women usually drink milk to reinforce the food and vitamins taken so it is not really a burden to incorporate honey. Since honey is sweet, it will just act as a sweetener to the milk. Honey and milk mixture offers chemical free heartburn remedy.

3.Cures Sore Throat: In an effort to avoid using medicines that may cause harm to the unborn baby, many pregnant women look for natural remedies for minor health conditions. When you have sore throat, making use of honey as treatment is considered as the safest option. Sore throat is painful. So, the pain should not be prolonged.

There are two options to treat sore throat using honey. First option, mix lemon and honey with a glass of warm water. The mixture should be gargled to help alleviate the pain associated to the ailment. Second option: A pregnant woman with sore throat can directly swallow a spoonful of honey. All natural honey can offer relief without putting the baby’s life in danger.

 

 

 

The wonders of Aloe Vera

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wonders of Aloe Vera
wonders of Aloe Vera

In ancient times, Aloe vera and its extracts were used for medicinal purposes. Today, researchers are discovering more advantages of this versatile plant.

15 health benefits of Aloe Vera

  • Detoxify the body.
  • Hydrates the skin.
  • Boosts the immune system.
  • Stabilizes blood sugar.
  • Soothes arthritis pain.
  • Protects the body from stress.
  • Prevents Kidney stones.
  • Cooling and repairing sunburn skin.
  • Reduces high blood pressure.
  • Strengthens gums and promotes strong and healthy teeth.
  • Heals the Intestines and lubricates the digestive tract.
  • Prevents and treats Candida Infections.
  • Boosts cardiovascular performance and physical endurance.
  • Helpful in curing blisters, insect bites and any allergic reactions, eczema, burns, inflammations, wounds and psoriasis.

How to remedy constipation with Herbs.

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How to remedy constipation with Herbs.
How to remedy constipation with Herbs.

Constipation is uncomfortable and can make life miserable. When you’re feeling weighed down and bloated, you want fast relief. Fortunately, you may be able to use natural remedies to relieve your constipation.

What Is Constipation?

Constipation is defined as having less than three bowel movements per week. It may be chronic, or happen occasionally. Some symptoms include:

  •  hard stools
  •  straining to have a bowel movement
  • feeling as though you are “blocked” or can’t empty your bowels
  • needing help emptying your rectum
  • abdominal pain
  • nausea and bloating

6   Natural remedies for Constipation

It’s pretty easy to find herbal preparations for constipation. In fact, many over-the-counter laxatives contain herbal ingredients. Here are six herbal therapies you may want to consider for your constipation.

  1. Fish Oil: Omega-3 fatty acids are thought to play a role in a large number of bodily functions, including digestion. Some studies have shown that omega-3s can be helpful in managing symptoms of Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, which include constipation. Fish oil, derived either from diet or in supplement form, is a rich source of these fatty acids.
  2. Castor Oil: Castor oil is a yellowish liquid that can be used as a home remedy for constipation because of its laxative property. One study in Nigeria found that oral castor oil helped children with chronic constipation to move their bowels. An upside to castor oil for constipation is that it works quickly. However, it was warned that it shouldn’t be taken at bedtime, due to its quick effects.
  3. Fibre: One of the best known home remedies for constipation is fibre. The recommended dosage — 20 to 35 grams per day — can be found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fibre is also a convenient constipation remedy since most people already have these items in their homes. Fibre supplements such as psyllium (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel) can be used as well.
  4. Lemon juice: The citric acid in lemon juice acts as a stimulant for your digestive system, and can also help flush out toxins and undigested material that may have built up along the walls of the colon. Mixing the juice with water not only lessens the intensity of the lemon flavor, but helps get you the fluids you need to get everything moving normally again.
  5. Herbs: Commonly used bulk-forming herbal laxatives include flaxseed, fenugreek, and barley. If you opt for flaxseed as a constipation remedy, you should remember that flaxseed oil is different from the actual flaxseeds, which are available as whole or crushed seeds; flaxseed oil is not a constipation remedy. Stimulant herbs for constipation include senna, Cascara segrada, and aloe.
  6. Probiotics: Probiotics are the bacteria inside our intestines that promote digestion. Examples of probiotics are Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Sacchromyces boulardi, and they are available in supplement form and some foods, such as yogurt. Some studies have shown that probiotics are an effective non-drug cure for constipation. Like fiber, probiotics are relatively easy home cure for constipation because they are available in foods that many families already have in the refrigerator.

Top tips for a healthy pregnancy

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Top tips for a healthy pregnancy
Top tips for a healthy pregnancy

Pregnant mum? Have you realized you can feel wonderful during your pregnancy if you take good care of yourself? Increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy by following these fantastic steps to keep yourself in top condition:

  1. Eat five or six well-balanced meals each day.
  2. Take a prenatal vitamin each day as directed by your obstetrician or midwife.
  3. Drink plenty of fluids — at least eight to 10 glasses a day — avoiding caffeine and artificial coloring.
  4. Don’t drink alcohol.
  5. Don’t smoke or allow yourself to be exposed to secondhand smoke.
  6. Exercise — it’s important for your general health and also can help reduce stress. Take a pregnancy exercise class or walk at least fifteen to twenty minutes every day at a moderate pace. Walk in cool, shaded areas or indoors in order to prevent overheating.
  7. Get adequate sleep — at least eight hours a night. If you’re suffering from sleep disturbances, take naps during the day and see your physician for advice.
  8. Wear comfortable, non-restricting shoes and put your feet up several times a day to prevent fatigue and swelling of the feet, legs, and ankles.
  9. Continue to wear a safety belt while riding in motor vehicles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the shoulder portion of the restraint should be positioned over the collar bone. The lap portion should be placed under the abdomen as low as possible on the hips and across the upper thighs, never above the abdomen. Also, pregnant women should sit as far from the air bag as possible.
  10. Don’t take over-the-counter medications or herbal remedies without first consulting your obstetrician or midwife.

Why your body needs cucumber

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Why your body needs cucumber
Why your body needs cucumber

As the campaign to increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables continues, experts on nutrition have advised on the daily intake of a considerable amount of cucumber, owing to its anticancer, anti-inflammatory and anti-stress content.

Cucumber belongs to the same plant family as squash, pumpkin, and watermelon (the Cucurbitaceae family). Like watermelon, cucumbers are made up of mostly (95 percent) water, which means eating them on a hot summer day can help you stay hydrated.

However, there’s always a reason to eat cucumber all year long. Packed full with vitamin K, B vitamins, copper, potassium, vitamin C, and manganese, cucumbers can help you avoid nutrient deficiencies that are widespread among those eating a typical African diet.

Cucumbers contain unique polyphenols and other compounds that may help reduce your risk of chronic diseases and much, much more.

9 REASONS TO EAT CUCUMBERS

  1. Protect Your Brain: Cucumbers contain an anti-inflammatory flavonol called fisetin that appears to play an important role in brain health. In addition to improving your memory and protecting your nerve cells from age-related decline,fisetin has been found to prevent progressive memory and learning impairments in mice with Alzheimer’s disease.
  2. Reduce Your Risk of Cancer: Cucumbers contain polyphenols called lignans (pinoresinol, lariciresinol, and secoisolariciresinol), which may help to lower your risk of breast, uterine, ovarian, and prostate cancers. They also contain phytonutrients called cucurbitacins, which also have anti-cancer properties. According to the George Mateljan Foundation.

“Scientists have already determined that several different signaling pathways (for example, the JAK-STAT and MAPK pathways) required for cancer cell development and survival can be blocked by activity of cucurbitacins.”

  1. Fight Inflammation: Cucumbers may help to “cool” the inflammatory response in your body, and animal studies suggest that cucumber extract helps reduce unwanted inflammation, in part by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory enzymes (including cyclo-oxygenase 2, or COX-2)
  2. Antioxidant Properties: Cucumbers contain numerous antioxidants, including the well-known vitamin C and beta-carotene. They also contain antioxidant flavonoids, such as quercetin, apigenin, luteolin, and kaempferol, which provide additional benefits.

For instance, quercetin is an antioxidant that many believe prevents histamine release—making quercetin-rich foods “natural antihistamines.” Kaempferol, meanwhile, may help fight cancer and lower your risk of chronic diseases including heart disease.

  1. Freshen Your Breath: Placing a cucumber slice on the roof of your mouth may help to rid your mouth of odor-causing bacteria. According to the principles of Ayurveda, eating cucumbers may also help to release excess heat in your stomach, which is said to be a primary cause of bad breath.
  2. Manage Stress: Cucumbers contain multiple B vitamins, including vitamin B1, vitamin B5, and vitamin B7 (biotin). B vitamins are known to help ease feelings of anxiety and buffer some of the damaging effects of stress.
  3. Support Your Digestive Health: Cucumbers are rich in two of the most basic elements needed for healthy digestion: water and fiber. If you struggle with acid reflux, you should know that drinking water can help suppress acute symptoms of acid reflux by temporarily raising stomach pH; it’s possible that water-rich cucumbers may have a similar effect.

Cucumber skins contain insoluble fiber, which helps add bulk to your stool. This helps food to move through your digestive tract more quickly for healthy elimination.

  1. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Cucumbers are very low in calories, yet they make a filling snack (one cup of sliced cucumber contains just 16 calories).The soluble fiber in cucumbers dissolves into a gel-like texture in your gut, helping to slow down your digestion. This helps you to feel full longer and is one reason why fiber-rich foods may help with weight control.
  2. Support Heart Health: Cucumbers contain potassium, which is associated with lower blood pressure levels. A proper balance of potassium both inside and outside your cells is crucial for your body to function properly.

As an electrolyte, potassium is a positive charged ion that must maintain a certain concentration (about 30 times higher inside than outside your cells) in order to carry out its functions, which includes interacting with sodium to help control nerve impulse transmission, muscle contraction, and heart function.

Ophthalmologist, pharmacist disagree on pharmacists’ performance

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The simmering tension which has long existed between pharmacists and medical practitioners in the country almost led to a heated debate between two renowned health professionals during the 2015 edition of Dortemag Ventures’ annual Infectious Disease Forum.

The interactive session which was jointly put together for healthcare practitioners by the company and its Malaysia-based partner, Kotra Pharmaceuticals, was held at Lagos Airport Hotel on 5 August, 2015.

Addressing the audience, Pharm. Cheah Min Loong, chief operating officer of Kotra Pharma gave a visual presentation, during which he made reference to the potency of generic products and the claim by some global companies that such products are inferior to innovator brands.

Some even allude that generics are produced in sub-standard facilities or that they usually take longer hours to produce result. There is quite a lot of misconception going on.

The chief operating officer of the Malaysia Pharmaceutical Company of the Year (2012) which equally has presence in 30 countries across Australia, Asia, Oceania, Africa, Middle East, Europe and South America further stressed that producing generics were not as cheap as had thought.

A recent bioequivalent study has proven that a generic antibiotic has similar rate and extent of bioavailability to the innovator product, and by extension, generic antibiotic will have similar efficacy and safety as innovator,” he disclosed.

Loong further reiterated that the GMP manufacturing process and quality control were valid, which should encourage Nigerian doctors to prescribe quality generic antibiotics without hassles.

However, while applauding the presentation of Mr Loong, Prof. Adebukunola Adefule-Ositele, a consultant with the department of ophthalmology, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), declared that it was unfortunate that Nigerian pharmacists were not doing enough.

“Pharmacists in Nigeria are still sleeping and need to wake up from their slumber,” he admonished.”From the analysis we have just seen, we can tell that many researches and clinical trials had gone into this. Kotra Pharma has done well and remains a beacon for Malaysia…Nigerian pharmacists need to wake up. We need to do better than what we are presently doing.”

Apparently miffed by such insinuation of underperformance, pharmacists in the gathering were quick to express their disapproval.

Pharm. Mobolanle Adekoya, LUTH’s deputy director of pharmacy, was particularly vocal in her defence of pharmacists in the country.

“We are not sleeping! I would not sit here and listen to anybody disparage my profession,” she declared, adding that: “In LUTH Pharmacy where I work, we mix our syrup, mist mag, paracetamol, sodium chloride and our materials are sourced locally. We are not sleeping, I make bold to say hospital pharmacists are working. Even UCH in Ibadan works round the clock.”

Recalling how her 31-year exploits in pharmacy practice has seen her formulate products such as Vitamin A cream, KCL injection and sodium chloride in LUTH production unit, Adekoya emphasised that it would be unfair for anybody let alone a professional from the health sector to make pharmacists look like a lazy bunch.

Earlier in the forum, Dr Abieyuwa Emopkae, a consultant paediatrician and medical director of Massey Street Children Hospital, Lagos Island, had disclosed that diagnosis of infectious diseases was fast becoming a challenge in Nigeria.

One reason he adduced for this was what he described as poor management of microbiology laboratories.

 

L-R: Nicholas Yeoh, business development manager of Kotra Pharmaceuticals; Pharm. Cheah Min Loong, Kotra’s chief operating officer; Mrs Dorcas Agboola, director of Dortemag Ventures; Pharm. Mobolanle Adekoya, deputy director of pharmacy in LUTH and Pharm. Seye Agboola, chairman of Dortemag Ventures at the event
L-R: Nicholas Yeoh, business development manager of Kotra Pharmaceuticals; Pharm. Cheah Min Loong, Kotra’s chief operating officer; Mrs Dorcas Agboola, director of Dortemag Ventures; Pharm. Mobolanle Adekoya, deputy director of pharmacy in LUTH and Pharm. Seye Agboola, chairman of Dortemag Ventures at the event

PCN cautions against harassment of officials

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L-R: Pharm. Ade Popoola, chairman, Board of Fellows; Pharm. Olumide Akintayo, PSN president and Pharm. (Hajia) Wosilat Giwa, vice chairman, BOF at the BOF mid-year meeting
L-R: Pharm. Ade Popoola, chairman, Board of Fellows; Pharm. Olumide Akintayo, PSN president and Pharm. (Hajia) Wosilat Giwa, vice chairman, BOF at the BOF mid-year meeting

Following persistent threats of attack on its officials in different states of the federation, the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) has warned the perpetrators to desist from such practice.

Speaking at the 2015 PSN Board of Fellows (BOF) mid-year meeting and dinner, held on 29 July, 2015 at Diplomat Hotel, Maryland, Lagos, Pharm. N.A.E Mohammed, PCN registrar, said patent medicine dealers, in particular, were in the habit of intimidating PCN officials when their requests were not granted.

Mohammed cited two states, Ekiti and Edo, as being more notorious for such act.

“I will say Ekiti, especially, is where you will find the highest level of patent medicine-related activities. It is terrible! But so far, we have got the cooperation of police commissioners and inspector general to boost our inspection team,” he said.

The registrar, who was full of praises for the PCN representatives in its Edo and Ekiti offices, noted that because of their integrity and commitment, the PCN had vowed to protect them.

“Our PCN representative in Ekiti has remained uncompromising. Despite series of threats of spiritual and physical attacks, she continually refuses to yield to the temptation of bribe and intimidation.

“Same thing applies to the representative in Benin who receives death threat daily. I have reassured him too that as an indigene of the state myself, no harm will befall him,” he stressed.

Meanwhile, the PSN Board of Fellows took some time to honour some of its members whose commitment and presence had continued to strengthen the Board.83-year-old Pharm. Lawrence Anyafulu led the list of awardees. Others were Chief David Hunponu-Wusu (78), Pharm. Otunba S.O.Babalola Dada (77) and Pharm. Moses Azuike (78).

In the category of early arrival, Pharm. (Otunba) Claudius Aina took the lead, followed closely by Pharm. Elizabeth Odili and Pharm (Mrs) Victoria Ukwu.

Pharm. Yaro Budah was also awarded as the first past PSN president to arrive early at the event.

Earlier at the event, Pharm. Olumide Akintayo, PSN president, had urged caution in tackling the perennial issue of open drug market.

According to him, even though pharmacists had spent the last 30 years clamouring for demolition of open drug markets, due process must be followed to achieve the goal.

In his words: “I am not sure if anyone fought this cause more than me during my tenure as secretary and chairman of Lagos PSN. But we know that closing down of open drug market can’t just happen like that, especially in a democracy. A friend used to tell me that when you continually drive a car on gear one, it will eventually crash the engine. We need change!”

The PSN Board of Fellows is a body of distinguished pharmacists who have excelled in their various fields of human endeavour with particular reference to the pharmacy profession. Members are elected by the PSN tri-annually, in accordance with the constitution of the Society.

Also in attendance at this year’s mid-year meeting were Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, former managing director of Neimeth Pharmaceuticals; Pharm. Ade Popoola, group managing director of Reals Pharmaceuticals; Pharm. Regina Ezenwa, coordinator of Roses Ministry; Pharm. (Barr.) Chiedu Mordi, unofficial BOF member; Pharm. (Mrs) Bosede Oluwatayo-Omotoyinbo, assistant secretary; and Pharm. Asiwaju Joe Oyewole Olarogun, managing director of Kosemani Pharmacy.

BOSON tasks FG on herbal integration, decries desertification

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Temitope Obayendo
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imagesGoing by the World Health Organisation (WHO)’s declaration that more than 80 per cent of the world’s population depend on traditional medicine for their primary health care needs, it is incumbent on the Federal Government of Nigeria to expedite action on the integration of natural medicine into the country’s health care delivery system.

This was the stance of botanists across the nation and beyond, who recently assembled at the Department of Botany, University of Lagos, Akoka, for their 23rd International Conference and Exhibition, organised by the Botanical Society of Nigeria (BOSON).

Presenting over 250 abstracts of their latest findings, the plant experts discussed the numerous benefits of medicinal plants over synthetic drugs, the remedial and economical roles of plants in food security and safety, the physiology and ecophysiology of plants, among other issues.

L-R: President of BOSON, prof. Augustine O.Isichei, Department of Botany, OAU; Prof. Dele Olowokudejo, Botany Department, UNILAG; and Prof. Adeyemi Egunyomi, Department of Botany, University of Ibadan, at the conference.
L-R: President of BOSON, prof. Augustine O.Isichei, Department of Botany, OAU; Prof. Dele Olowokudejo, Botany Department, UNILAG; and Prof. Adeyemi Egunyomi, Department of Botany, University of Ibadan, at the conference.

 

.     The herbal practitioners particularly lamented the unnecessary delay in the passage of the Traditional Medicine (TM) Bill which they said had created a window for all sorts of sharp practices in the profession, leading to the discrediting of genuine practitioners and disappearance of plants in the environment.

President of BOSON, Professor Augustine O. Isichei, traced apathy to herbal medicines to as far back as the colonial era, noting that modern health care givers should have had a change in orientation, as herbal remedies had been proven to be efficacious.

“Our colonial system, more or less stigmatised herbal medicine, as they condemned many of our natural products. In the same vein, many orthodox practitioners followed this same argument, thereby condemning our local medicines. What should have been done is to embrace it,” Isichei said.

He further underscored his argument by citing the example of one of the oldest medicines, Aspirin, which he said was derived from a plant called “Aspiria omeria”. He also cited “Erythroxylon coca” as the plant from which cocaine is derived, which has continued to serve as a powerful analgesic against excruciating pains.

The erudite professor of Botany therefore maintained that orthodox practitioners must seek to accommodate herbal practitioners, stressing that without developing and integrating the nation’s rich biodiversified resources into its health care system, the health sector would perpetually remain a consuming sector.

“Our medical schools and medicine experts should always remind our doctors that 25 per cent of our prescribed drugs are derived from plants and they have assumed prominence in medicine. And in many climes like India and China, the proportion is increasing. These plants are our heritage, as we have very many biodiversity, we also have many intangible benefits of plants, for instance, purification of streams, generation of oxygen, carbon sequestration, which protect us from climate change. So apart from plants as source of medicines, foods, we also have these eco system benefits”, he explained.

Addressing participants at the first plenary session titled, “The value of medicinal plants scaled by race and time”, Professor Adeyemi Egunyomi, said the crux of the lecture was to bring back the nation’s values on medicinal plants which were precious to the forefathers and proved more effective with less adverse effects, unlike synthetic drugs.

“However, the challenge this day is that these plants are disappearing around us, and the knowledge of indigenous plants is still with the local people,” Egunyomi said. “So it’s incumbent on government in Africa, especially in Nigeria, to find means of accessing the knowledge of indigenous people on medicinal plants, so that Nigeria which currently uses only 25 per cent of herbal medicines can enjoy more of these resources.”

The plant expert who admitted that BOSON could take baby steps in collaborating with other organisations towards bridging the gap in accessing indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants, however insisted that there must be a bigger driving force, to propel such vision, whether at the state level or federal level, due to the huge capital required.

Reacting to the widespread campaign which linked consumption of herbal medicines to increase in renal failure and other liver diseases, the professor said it was mere misinformation by advocates of pro-western medicines.

“I don’t take synthetic drugs unless it is completely unavoidable. We know the effects of such on the kidney. When medicinal plants are boiled, they are in diluted solution, and their effects may not be as devastating as being canvassed, they are relatively less in toxin than synthetic drugs. That is why people are going back to nature”, he argued.

 

Akanocure Prescribed drugs

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Solomon Ojigbo
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Expertise commercialized by a Purdue-based startup might enhance most cancers therapies by synthesizing and creating anti-cancer chemotherapeutic medication derived from pure origins.

A information launch is accessible at http://otc-prf.org/information/purdue-based-pharmaceutical-startup-participate-american-chemical-society-program

supply

Red Alert on Suicide

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Red Alert on Suicide
Red Alert on Suicide

Depression carries a high risk of suicidal intention. Anybody who expresses suicidal thoughts or intentions should be taken very seriously. The best way to minimize the risk of suicide is to know the risk factors and to recognize the warning signs of suicide. Take these signs seriously. Know how to respond to them. It could save someone’s life.

Prevalence of Suicide

Suicide is a potentially preventable public health problem; millions of people attempted suicides, according to the Centers for Disease Control.Men take their lives nearly four times the rate of women, accounting for 79% of suicides.

Suicidal Risk Factors

Risk factors for suicide vary by age, gender, and ethnic group. And risk factors often occur in combinations. Over 90% of people who die by suicide have clinical depression or another diagnosable mental disorder. Many times, people who die by suicide have an alcohol or substance abuse problem. Often they have that problem in combination with other mental disorders.

  • Clinical depression
  • One or more prior suicide attempts
  • Family history of mental disorder or substance abuse
  • Family history of suicide
  • Family violence
  • Physical or sexual abuse
  • Keeping firearms in the home
  • Chronic physical illness, including chronic pain
  • Incarceration
  • Exposure to the suicidal behavior of others

Warning Signs of Suicide

  • Always talking or thinking about death
  • Clinical depression — deep sadness, loss of interest, trouble sleeping and eating — that gets worse
  • Having a “death wish,” tempting fate by taking risks that could lead to death, such as driving fast or running red lights
  • Losing interest in things one used to care about
  • Making comments about being hopeless, helpless, or worthless
  • Putting affairs in order, tying up loose ends, changing a will
  • Saying things like “it would be better if I wasn’t here” or “I want out”
  • Sudden, unexpected switch from being very sad to being very calm or appearing to be happy
  • Talking about suicide or killing one’s self
  • Visiting or calling people to say goodbye

Foetal Alcohol Syndrome and Its Defects

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Foetal Alcohol Syndrome and Its Defects
Foetal Alcohol Syndrome and Its Defects

Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) : is the overall damage done to the child before birth as a result of the mother’s drinking alcohol during pregnancy. Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) always involves brain damage, impaired growth, and head and face abnormalities.

People with FAS may develop problems with their vision, hearing, memory, attention span, and abilities to learn and communicate. While the defects vary from one person to another, the damage is often permanent.These disorders range from mild to severe. They can be behavioral, physical, related to learning, or all of the above.

Causes of Foetal Alcohol Syndrome

Foetal Alcohol Syndrome and Its causes

When a pregnant woman drinks alcohol, some of that alcohol easily passes across the placenta to the fetus. The body of a developing fetus does not process alcohol the same way as an adult’s. The alcohol is more concentrated in the fetus, and can prevent enough nutrition and oxygen from getting to the fetus’ vital organs.

Damage can be done in the first few weeks of pregnancy when a woman might not yet know that she is pregnant. The risk increases if the mother is a heavy drinker.

According to studies, alcohol use appears to be most harmful during the first three months of pregnancy. However, consumption of alcohol during any time during pregnancy can be harmful.

Symptoms of Foetal Alcohol Syndrome

Since foetal alcohol syndrome covers a wide range of problems, there are many possible symptoms. The severity of these symptoms ranges from mild to severe, and can include:

  • a small head
  • a smooth ridge between the upper lip and nose, small eyes, a very thin upper lip, or other abnormal facial features
  • below-average height and weight
  • hyperactivity
  • lack of focus
  • poor coordination
  • delayed development and problems in thinking, speech, movement and social skills
  • poor judgment
  • problems seeing or hearing
  • learning disabilities
  • mental retardation
  • heart problems
  • kidney defects and abnormalities
  • deformed limbs or fingers
  • mood swings

Diagnosing Foetal Alcohol Syndrome

Early diagnosis can increase a positive outcome in the child. Talk to your doctor if you think your child might have FAS. Let your doctor know if you drank while you were pregnant.

A physical exam of the baby may show a heart murmur or other heart problems. As the baby matures, there may be other signs that help confirm the diagnosis, these include:

  • slow rate of growth
  • abnormal facial features or bone growth
  • hearing and vision problems
  • slow language acquisition
  • small head size
  • poor coordination

To diagnose an individual with FAS, the doctor must determine that he or she has abnormal facial features, slower than normal growth, and central nervous system problems. These nervous system problems could be physical or behavioral. They might present as hyperactivity, lack of coordination or focus or learning disabilities.

Treating Foetal Alcohol Syndrome

While FAS is incurable, some symptoms can be treated. The earlier the diagnosis, the more progress is likely to be made.

Special education and social services can help very young children. For example, speech therapists can work with toddlers to help them learn to talk.

Children with FAS will benefit from a stable and loving home. FAS children can be even more sensitive to disruptions in routine than an average child. FAS children are especially likely to develop problems with violence and substance abuse later in life if they are exposed to violence or abuse at home. These children do well with a regular routine, simple rules to follow, and rewards for positive behavior.

Depending on what type of symptoms the FAS child exhibits, he or she may need many doctor or specialist visits. There are no medications that specifically treat FAS. However, several medications may address symptoms. These medications include:

  • antidepressants to treat problems with sadness and negativity
  • stimulants to treat lack of focus, hyperactivity, and other behavioral problems
  • neuroleptics to treat anxiety and aggression
  • anti-anxiety drugs to treat anxiety

Behavioral training may also help FAS children. For instance, friendship training teaches kids social skills for interacting with their peers. Executive function training may improve skills such as self-control, reasoning, and understanding cause and effect. Children with FAS might also need academic help. For example, a math tutor could help a child who struggles in school.

Parents and siblings might also need help in dealing with the challenges this condition can cause. This help can come through talk therapy or support groups. Parents can also receive parental training tailored to the needs of those with FAS children. Parental training teaches you how to best interact with and care for your FAS child.

Some parents and their FAS children seek alternative treatments outside the medical establishment. These include healing practices, such as massage and acupuncture (the placement of thin needles into key body areas). Alternative treatments also include movement techniques, such as exercise or yoga.

Preventing Foetal Alcohol Syndrome

Foetal alcohol syndrome does not occur if the mother refrains from drinking during pregnancy. If you are a woman with a drinking problem who wants to get pregnant, seek help from a health care professional. If you are a light or social drinker, do not drink if you think you might become pregnant anytime soon. Remember, the effects of alcohol can make a mark during the first few weeks of a pregnancy.

 

 

 

 

#10 Ways to Cope with Menopausal Depression and Mood Swings

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Admin
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It is different strokes for different folks when it comes to menopausal mood swings and attendant challenges as different women of the age have expressed their experiences. From hot flushes to aching joints and sleepless nights, the physical symptoms of the menopause can be crippling, the women told Daily Mail online.

According to Sally Brown, a psychotherapist “ perimenopause can start up to 10 years before periods stop, many women don’t immediately associate the changes in their mood with their hormones”.

She therefore offered ten natural remedies to cope with menopause

  1. 1. Get active – and do it regularly…menopause

Exercise is like a magic bullet for lifting mood and energy levels and improving sleep.

  1. Talk about it

Try to be open up to your partner about what you’re going through and why you may seem more irritable or tearful.

  1. Use mindfulness

Rather than turning your mind into a ‘blank screen’ (an impossible task), mindfulness is about noticing your thoughts and the impact they have on your feelings.

  1. Eat your way to a better mood

Rob Hobson, Head of Nutrition at Healthspan said: ‘Our diet can boost our mood and it also works the other way as our moods can also influence our food choices.

‘Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as oily fish have been shown to help with mood especially in the case of depression and deficiencies in folate.

‘Vitamin B12 and magnesium, have also been linked to low mood so try boosting your intake with wholegrains, pulses, eggs, dried apricots, green veggies, nuts and seeds.’

  1. Avoid overthinking – and count your blessings

When you’re depressed or anxious, you can get stuck in the ‘whys’, spending time ruminating and trying to work out why you feel so bad. Simple gratitude exercises like this have been shown to reset your ‘mood thermostat.’

  1. Set small goals

Make a list of things you’ve been putting off, rating them from easiest to hardest, then try to tackle one a week, starting with the easiest tasks.

7.Cut back on the booze

Stick to the healthy drinking limits and try to have regular alcohol-free days every week.

  1. Plan little pleasures – and be kind to yourself

There’s a new buzz phrase in the world of psychology right now: ‘prioritising positivity’.

It’s about having little hits of pleasure throughout the day – a growing number of experts think it could be a solution to society’s rising anxiety levels.

  1. Get some herbal help

Studies have also found a link between low levels of folic acid, a B vitamin that helps regulate the nervous system, and incidences of depression.

Recent research has also focussed on an amino acid called tryptophan (found in turkey, fish, nuts, seeds and pulses), which helps make the happy chemical serotonin.

  1. Remember that less is more

So many of us have got hooked into ‘busy lifestyle syndrome’, thinking that a busy life is a successful one, but then we feeling guilty for not being able to keep up.

Be realistic about you can achieve in one day.

 

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