Health

By Aisar Fagge

The AMG Foundation has urged the Kano State House of Assembly to establish a legislative committee dedicated to addressing humanitarian issues in the state.

In a letter addressed to the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Jibril Isma’il Falgore, on Friday, 4th October 2024, the foundation’s Chair, Dr. Magashi, emphasized the urgent need for such a committee, citing the increasing challenges faced by the state’s vulnerable population.

This call comes months after the current administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf launched the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation in April 2024, aimed at tackling poverty and humanitarian crises.

Dr. Magashi highlighted the pressing issues in Kano, including recurrent flooding, rising youth unrest, climate change impacts, food insecurity, and the alarming number of street children, homeless individuals, and women in distress.

“Kano is the Nigeria’s most populous state and is grappling with numerous humanitarian challenges that require immediate and coordinated legislative action,” Dr. Magashi stated in the letter.

The foundation believes that establishing a dedicated House Committee on the subject matter would enhance the state’s response to these crises and help create sustainable solutions.

By Maimuna Katuka Aliyu

When planning to conceive, couples should often focus on what they eat. Although choosing foods based on mood or preference is common, certain dietary considerations become essential when aiming to have a baby.

Doctors frequently recommend specific foods and advise against others to ensure both the mother’s and baby’s health, reducing the risk of complications or miscarriage.

Fertility refers to the ability of couples to conceive. For those trying to have a child, adjusting the diet is crucial in preparing the body for pregnancy. Research suggests that diets rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and fish can significantly improve fertility, particularly in women.

Moreover, these foods can contribute to a healthy start in pregnancy, which is why doctors generally recommend maintaining a nutritious diet during this period.

Conceiving a baby can take time. While 30% of couples get pregnant in the first month of trying, some may still be trying after a year. Although no diet can resolve underlying medical issues affecting fertility, certain foods can support the reproductive system better than others.

These foods are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that enhance ovulation or improve sperm quality and quantity. Since infertility issues can equally involve male partners, it’s advisable for both partners to adopt a fertility-friendly diet.

Protein-Rich Foods: Lean meats like chicken, turkey, pork, and beef (trimmed of excess fat) are excellent sources of protein, zinc, and iron—vital nutrients for a healthy pregnancy. Additionally, cold-water fish such as salmon, canned light tuna, and sardines are rich in DHA and omega-3 fatty acids, which support the development of the baby’s nervous system and reduce the risk of premature birth.

Fish can be included in a fertility diet a few times a week without worrying about mercury levels. However, it is best to avoid fish known for higher mercury content, such as shark, swordfish, tilefish, and king mackerel.

Fertility-Boosting Foods: While no specific food guarantees pregnancy, ensuring a healthy diet can support fertility. Below are some foods that are beneficial:

– Fruits and Vegetables: Packed with essential vitamins and antioxidants, these are a staple for a fertility-friendly diet.

– Healthy Fats: Incorporating fats from sources like avocados, nuts, and olive oil can improve fertility.

– Complex Carbs: Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread help maintain steady blood sugar levels, which is crucial for reproductive health.

– Eggs: A potent source of protein and choline, eggs are essential for brain development in babies and should be included in a fertility diet.

– Plant Proteins: Beans, nuts, seeds, and tofu are excellent sources of protein and healthy fats. Studies have shown that plant-based proteins can reduce the risk of ovulatory disorders, especially when they make up 5% of your total calorie intake.

– Dairy: Full-fat dairy products like whole milk and yogurt are linked to higher fertility rates, while low-fat dairy options have been associated with an increased risk of ovulatory infertility.

– Walnuts: These nuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium, which support brain development and reduce the risk of neurologic problems in the baby.

Lifestyle Factors for Fertility 

– Physical Activity: Regular exercise is beneficial for both male and female fertility, especially for those dealing with obesity. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most suitable types of exercise.

– Stress Management: Trying to conceive can be stressful, and stress can affect menstrual cycles and fertility. It may be helpful to talk with a mental health professional if stress or anxiety about conceiving is overwhelming.

Foods to Avoid: A healthy fertility diet isn’t just about what you eat; it’s also about what you avoid. Here are some foods that might negatively impact fertility:

– Added Sugar: Found in sugary beverages, baked goods, and ultra-processed carbs, added sugars can disrupt hormonal balance.

– Red and Processed Meats: These meats, especially those high in saturated fats, can adversely affect fertility.

– Caffeine: Excessive caffeine intake has been linked to fertility issues.

– Alcohol: Drinking alcohol can reduce fertility and should be limited or avoided when trying to conceive.

Incorporating fertility-boosting foods into your diet is a delicious and effective way to support reproductive health and increase your chances of conception. By focusing on nutrient-dense foods like leafy greens, berries, fatty fish, and whole grains, couples can create a strong foundation for a healthy pregnancy.

Additionally, staying hydrated, limiting processed foods, and managing stress can contribute to a fertility-friendly lifestyle. While no single food or diet can guarantee pregnancy, making informed dietary choices is a powerful tool in your reproductive journey. Nourish your body, nourish your fertility, and take the first step towards a healthier, happier you!

By Mujahid Nasir Hussain

Gashua, a local government area in Yobe state, Nigeria, is facing a distressing public health crisis. An alarming increase in the number of individuals succumbing to kidney diseases is being reported, yet the underlying cause remains unidentified. 

The kidneys are essential organs located in the retroperitoneal part of the body. These bean-shaped organs perform several crucial functions, including blood filtration, blood pressure regulation, electrolyte balance, acid-base balance, blood calcium regulation, and many more. However, when they become impaired, those vital functions are compromised, leading to severe and devastating deterioration and complications.

The rising number of deaths linked to kidney diseases in Gashua is a cause for serious concern. It is impossible to implement effective interventions without identifying the underlying cause, whether environmental, genetic, or related to lifestyle factors. 

The Yobe state government must prioritise an investigation into the root causes of these kidney diseases to find an end to the problem. Public health agencies, researchers, and medical experts should be mobilised to conduct thorough epidemiological studies and screenings to identify potential risk factors. 

In addition, there is also a need to take proactive measures through:

• Raising Awareness:  Educating the community about kidney health, risk factors, and early symptoms of kidney disease to encourage timely medical consultation.
• Enhancing Healthcare Facilities: Improving access to quality healthcare services, including dialysis centres and nephrology specialists, to manage and treat kidney diseases effectively.
• Providing Clean Water: Ensuring the availability of clean drinking water is essential, as contaminated water is a known risk factor for kidney damage. 
• Encouraging Lifestyle Changes: Promoting healthy dietary practices and regular medical check-ups to prevent kidney-related diseases.

Mujahid Nasir Hussain studies at Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria and writes via mujahidhnasir@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam 

At least ten people, primarily women, children, and the elderly, have died due to a diarrhoea outbreak in Yola North and Yola South Local Government Areas of Adamawa State. 

The death toll is feared to rise as several hospitalised victims remain in critical condition.

The Adamawa State Commissioner for Health, Mr Felix Tangwami, confirmed the incident to reporters in Yola and provided updates on the situation that began earlier in the week. 

He noted that around 300 individuals have been admitted to Yola Specialist Hospital, with some patients still in critical condition.

“Those with severe cases have been isolated at the hospital’s Infectious Disease Center to receive specialised care,” Tangwami said, adding that efforts are underway to manage the outbreak.

Tangwami emphasised that the government is doing everything possible to control the spread and is following due process in addressing the crisis. 

He mentioned that sample results from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are expected within 24 hours to confirm whether the outbreak is linked to cholera, as some suspect.

The Commissioner urged the public to refrain from speculation and assured that necessary measures are being taken to protect public health.

 By Kasim Isa Muhammad

As I walked into the Potiskum Specialist Hospital in the Potiskum local government area of Yobe State on September 14th, 2024, I was filled with a sense of hope and urgency.

My niece, suffering from sickle cell disease, was in dire need of medical attention. Her condition was worsening by the day, and I knew that timely intervention was crucial. 

But what I witnessed that day was a distressing scene. The waiting area was packed with people, all waiting to see a doctor.

The air was thick with anxiety and frustration, and I could sense the desperation in the eyes of those around me.

The wait was agonisingly long. We spent three consecutive hours waiting for a doctor to arrive, watching as the minutes ticked by at a glacial pace. 

My niece was profusely crying due to the excruciating pain she was enduring, and I felt helpless as I tried to comfort her.

When the doctor finally arrived, the sense of relief was palpable. But as I looked around, I realised that the workload was simply too much for him to handle alone.

The hospital was understaffed, and it showed. Potiskum, as the most populous local government area of Yobe State, deserves better. Its hospital should be equipped to handle the needs of its people, but the lack of enough hospital personnel is a major hindrance. 

As I left the hospital that day, I couldn’t shake off the feeling of frustration and helplessness. But I knew I had to speak out, for the sake of my niece and the countless others who deserve better.

The lack of sufficient health personnel at the hospital has far-reaching consequences. It not only affects the patients but also the doctors and nurses who are overworked and undervalued. 

Governor Mai Mala Buni, we urge you to take immediate action and employ the numerous jobless health workers in our state to cater to the growing population of Potiskum.

It is unacceptable that our hospitals continue to struggle with inadequate staffing despite the abundance of qualified and eager healthcare professionals seeking employment. 

The current staffing crisis is not only detrimental to the well-being of patients but also puts an unbearable burden on the existing healthcare workers.

They are overworked, undervalued, and at risk of burnout, which ultimately affects the quality of care they can provide. By hiring more health workers, Governor Buni, you will not only be addressing the critical staffing shortage but also injecting life into the local economy. 

These new employees will contribute to the state’s economic growth, support their families, and stimulate community development.

Furthermore, employing local health workers will ensure cultural sensitivity and a deeper understanding of the community’s specific needs. They will be better equipped to address the unique health challenges facing Potiskum’s population. 

We implore you, Governor Buni, to seize this opportunity to transform the healthcare landscape of Potiskum. Provide the necessary resources, and watch as our healthcare system flourishes, benefiting generations to come. 

Kasim Isa Muhammad wrote from Potiskum, Yobe State and can be reached via Kasimimuhd1999@gmail.com.

By Maimunna Katuka Aliyu

Understanding blood types and genotypes is crucial for emergencies, such as blood transfusions during accidents. However, knowing one’s genotype, particularly before marriage, is equally important to avoid having children with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD).

Blood genotypes determine an individual’s blood type, inherited from our parents and remain constant throughout our lives. The four main blood types are A, B, AB, and O, classified based on the presence of antigens in red blood cells. The Rh factor can also be present (Rh-positive) or absent (Rh-negative), further defining blood types.

Blood genotypes play significant roles in the following:
– Blood Transfusions: Ensuring compatibility between donor and recipient blood.
– Pregnancy: Preventing complications like haemolytic disease of the newborn.
– Organ Transplants: Matching donor and recipient blood types for successful transplants.
– Disease Susceptibility: Influencing susceptibility to diseases like sickle cell anaemia.

Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder affecting haemoglobin production, leading to abnormal red blood cells. These cells become crescent-shaped and rigid, causing a range of health problems. The genotype responsible for SCD is known as HbSS or HbSβthal, resulting from a mutation in the HBB gene.

Individuals with sickle cell disease have two copies of the mutated gene (HbSS), while those with one normal gene and one mutated gene (HbAS) have the sickle cell trait but generally remain healthy. Understanding an individual’s genotype is crucial in determining their risk of developing SCD or passing it to their offspring.

The symptoms of sickle cell disease can vary in severity and include:
– Anemia
– Fatigue
– Shortness of breath
– Pale skin
– Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice)
– Painful episodes (crises)
– Swelling of hands and feet
– Increased risk of infections

While there is no cure for sickle cell disease, several management options help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications:
– Pain Management: Medications like acetaminophen and ibuprofen.
– Blood Transfusions: Increasing healthy red blood cell levels.
– Hydroxyurea: Reducing the frequency of painful episodes and improving anaemia.

Aisha Mahmud, a sickle cell patient diagnosed at age three, shared her experiences. As she grew older, the frequency of her crises reduced, occurring only once every three months. She regularly visits Primus Hospital in Karu, Abuja, and FMC Azare for checkups. Aisha emphasises that emotional stress often triggers crises, highlighting the importance of therapy over medication. Remarkably, her genotype changed from SS to AC, bringing immense joy to her family.

The challenges faced by sickle cell patients are immense, impacting them physically, psychologically, emotionally, and financially. Crises can occur unpredictably, causing significant distress to patients and their families.

Researchers are continuously exploring new treatment options for sickle cell disease. Some of the latest developments include:

– Hydroxyurea: Reduces pain crises and acute chest syndrome, decreasing the need for blood transfusions.

– Voxelotor: Approved for people age four and older to reduce pain crises and improve anaemia.

– Crizanlizumab: Approved for people age 16 and older to reduce pain crises.

– L-glutamine: Approved for people age five and older to reduce pain crises.

– Bone Marrow Transplant: Can cure some individuals with SCD but requires careful consideration and a suitable donor.

– Gene Therapy: Genes are used to correct the mutations that cause sickle cell disease.

– CRISPR Technology: A gene-editing tool that corrects the mutation causing SCD.

In conclusion, sickle cell disease is a complex and debilitating genetic disorder affecting millions worldwide. While there is no cure, management options help alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Ongoing research and new treatment options offer hope for improved treatment and potentially a cure in the future.

Maimunna Katuka Aliyu wrote via munat815@gmail.com.

By Aisha Musa Auyo 

September is globally declared Sickle Cell Awareness Month.  The month is dedicated to raising awareness about sickle cell disease (SCD) and the challenges faced by those living with this inherited blood disorder. It serves as an opportunity to educate the public, promote early diagnosis, and advocate for better treatment options and research. 

The month also highlights the importance of genetic screening, support for patients and families, and increased funding to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by SCD. Through community events, health campaigns, and social media, advocates aim to bring attention to the urgent need for action and support for those impacted by sickle cell disease.

Today, I want to discuss sickle cell disease from a social and psychological perspective rather than a medical one. While I’m not a medical doctor, I’ll focus on the impact this condition has on families and individuals beyond the clinical aspects.

Anyone who knows me as a relationship coach knows that I deeply love and believe in love. I advocate for it passionately. However, when it comes to marriage, love is just one of many essential foundations. I’ll be very realistic here—there’s much more needed to make a marriage thrive. We’re all witnesses to the struggles and the painful moments of crisis of sickle cell sufferers. We know how their parents strain to cope with the financial demands at times of crisis.

For AS-AS couples who choose to look beyond their genotype and marry for love, the romantic vision they once had is often overshadowed by constant worry, fear, and apprehension. The looming possibility of having a child with sickle cell disease adds significant stress. After having children, the anxiety only deepens, with parents constantly fearing an impending crisis or managing one. This often results in the other children not receiving the care and attention they need, as the focus shifts primarily to the sick child.

Sometimes, the mother has to forfeit most of her dreams and aspirations because she’s always in and out of the hospital. I don’t want to mention the fear, horror, and pain they endure whenever their kids are in the hospital. The hospital becomes the second home of sickle cell kids with their parents. 

These parents hardly have any social life outside their homes and hospitals. The mothers, who are naturally more emotional, tend to be most affected by this.

Now, let’s discuss the pain and agony of sickle cell children. As much as I hate to write about it, we have to do it.  The pain experienced by a sickle cell patient is not only severe but often unpredictable. It can occur when least expected. 

The crisis stems from the sickle-shaped red blood cells that block blood flow, reducing oxygen delivery to tissues and causing intense pain. The pain can affect various parts of the body, particularly the bones, joints, chest, and abdomen. It can be acute (lasting hours to days) or chronic (persistent over time). The episodes are triggered by stress, dehydration, cold, or infections. The ensuing pain can be debilitating, leading to hospitalisations and significantly affecting the patient’s quality of life.

As these children grow older, many develop feelings of resentment toward their parents. They feel that their parents prioritised their desires over the potential suffering of their children. Every painful episode and crisis can remind you of choices made without fully considering the long-term consequences. This resentment stems from a sense of betrayal as they bear the physical and emotional toll of a decision that was not theirs. Parents often face this blame, which adds another layer of pain to an already difficult journey.

Parents in this situation are bound to carry the heavy burden of guilt and regret. Some marriages don’t survive the strain, leading to divorce, while others remain intact but with the painful decision to stop having children. 

I’ve seen firsthand the difficult choices couples make, including terminating multiple pregnancies because the babies were predicted to have sickle cell disease. It begs the question—why start down this path in the first place, knowing the potential heartache? No one should have to make these choices, and it’s a reminder of the importance of understanding genetic risks before taking that step.

Dear aspiring couples, Love, while beautiful, is not enough to withstand the many challenges that marriage brings. If both of you carry the AS genotype, I urge you to reconsider your relationship. There are many potential partners out there, and though it may be difficult, stepping away now could save you unimaginable heartache later. Trust me, it’s not worth the pain.

To couples already married with the AS genotype, please think carefully before bringing more children into the world. Consider the immense suffering that comes with sickle cell disease—for both you and your child. Spare them the pain and constant crises. Your love can be expressed in ways that protect their future.

Dear parents of children with sickle cell, my heart goes out to you. As a fellow parent, I can only imagine the trauma, pain, regrets, and difficult choices you face. The physical, financial, and emotional toll can feel overwhelming at times. 

Please remember that this is beyond your control, and you are doing your best for your child. Stay strong and lean on each other for support. Don’t hesitate to seek help from family, and make time for yourselves to recharge. Remember, there’s a life outside the hospital and home—try to socialise and find moments of joy. 

Connect with other parents who understand your journey, learn the best ways to care for your child, and never stop seeking knowledge. Above all, pray for Allah’s guidance and strength. You are not alone, and you will get through this.

Dear sickle cell warrior, please know your parents are deeply feeling your pain. They live with a mix of empathy and guilt, wishing they could take away your suffering. While they can’t change the course of destiny, they are sacrificing so much to ensure you have the care and support you need. Their love for you runs incredibly deep, often even more so because of the battles you face. If they could go back and change things, they would do so in a heartbeat. Always remember that your health and happiness mean the world to them.

The spread of the sickle cell genotype can end in a few generations when we intentionally avoid reproducing that genotype. It is a must for all of us to know our genotype before engaging in any serious relationship with the opposite gender. A stitch in time saves nine.

In my next post on this topic, I will discuss prevailing medical solutions in the management and treatment of sickle celldisease.

Aisha Musa Auyo is a Doctorate researcher in Educational Psychology. A wife, a mother, a homemaker, caterer, parenting, and relationship coach. She can be reached via aishamuauyo@live.co.uk.

By Aisar Fagge

“I will facilitate connections between the State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and the Federal Ministries, as well as international donors like the United Nations,” said Aminu Magashi Garba during a courtesy visit to the ministry on Tuesday, as part of his commitment to support vulnerable populations, including the less privileged and disabled in the state.

Magashi, founder and CEO of the Aminu Magashi Foundation (AMG), also announced technical support for the ministry, a gesture commended by Hajiya Amina Abdullahi Sani, who is the commissioner of the ministry.

Hajiya Amina assured the foundation of her commitment to collaboration, aiming to enhance the ministry’s impact on the people of Kano State, especially the vulnerable and disabled.

During the visit, Magashi pledged to support the ministry in several key initiatives, including convening a one-day stakeholders’ forum on the proposed Kano State Humanitarian Agenda, organizing a two-day working visit to Abuja to explore partnerships with the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, and the United Nations Office of the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator.

He also committed to assisting with the development of the 2025 Annual Operational Plan and a five-year strategic plan for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

Other support initiatives from the foundation include assistance with establishing the Kano State Humanitarian Investment Trust Fund and the Kano State Inter-Ministerial Coordination Committee on Humanitarian Response.

In her remarks, the commissioner highlighted the present administration’s commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, which led to the establishment of the ministry, reiterating her dedication to working with the foundation to further this mission.

Dr. Magashi praised her leadership and urged the commissioner to engage stakeholders for further interventions. He also encouraged the ministry’s directors to develop annual operational and strategic plans for the future.

By Mutalib Jibril

Have you ever felt a sudden twinge in your back, experienced a sharp pain in your chest, or noticed unusual fatigue? Did you rush to your favorite search engine to discover what might be wrong? You could be a patient of Dr. Google. Even with the best intentions, your search can quickly become a tangled mess of confusion.

Technology has made nearly everything easier and more convenient, giving us access to a wealth of information at our fingertips. This convenience extends to the health sector as well. 

A research review suggested that 90% of people in the United States have searched the internet for health information. It also revealed that 1 in 3 adults have gone online to try to diagnose a medical condition.

Googling your symptoms makes you believe you have a serious or even deadly health condition. When this happens, it’s known as cyberchondria. This term is used for an individual who develops extreme, unwarranted anxiety by using the internet to search for medical information.

For instance, you are experiencing a persistent cough. Almost instinctively, you grab your phone and search “persistent cough is a symptom of ….” In an instant, you are bombarded with a range of potential causes, such as allergies, asthma, tuberculosis, pneumonia, whooping cough, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Now, you are not only coughing but also feeling overwhelmed and anxious. 

Turning to Google to diagnose what is wrong with you can lead to fear and anxiety because Google will not provide specific information about your health.

Online resources can be beneficial but are often confusing, alarming, and filled with inaccurate information. Google has no knowledge of your medical history, current medications, or other personal details crucial for an accurate diagnosis. One of the biggest risks of self-online diagnosis is that it may deter you from seeking the professional help you need.

When your car breaks down, you don’t just Google the problem to find out why it happened. Searching online may provide numerous reasons, but it won’t pinpoint the exact issue. Instead, you consult a mechanic with the expertise to identify and fix the issue. 

Similarly, seeing a medical doctor is more effective when you are experiencing health problems rather than relying on search engines.

When your smartphone starts acting up, you wouldn’t just rely on online searches to troubleshoot the issue. Instead, youwill visit a tech specialist who can fix the problem. Why, then, are you Googling your health problems? These two examples illustrate why seeking expertise is always the best approach.

Medical doctors undergo years of training that fully equip them with the precision to diagnose and treat a wide range of medical conditions that Google simply cannot match.

Mutalib Jibril wrote via mutalibdantanisabi300@gmail.com.

By Uzair Adam

At least 10 people have died and 40 others are currently hospitalized following a diphtheria outbreak in Kano State.

The state’s Commissioner of Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran, disclosed this to journalists as reported by The Daily Reality on Sunday.

Dr. Labaran confirmed to journalists that the deaths occurred over the past week, adding that the state government has established diphtheria treatment centers in various local government areas to handle the outbreak.

“We have recorded 10 deaths from the diphtheria outbreak in the last week, and as of this morning, 40 patients are receiving treatment,” Dr. Labaran stated. He urged residents who encounter individuals showing symptoms of diphtheria to visit the newly established treatment centers instead of coming to facilities in the metropolitan area, to help prevent the spread of the disease.

He emphasized that treatment at these centers is free of charge.

Dr. Labaran also refuted figures circulating on social media, stating, “The only official number we have is 10 deaths.” The health authorities in Kano continue to monitor the situation closely as efforts to contain the outbreak are underway.