Health

By Uzair Adam Imam

Former Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Solomon Dalung, recounts his harrowing near-death experience at a hospital in Jos, the Plateau State capital.

Dalung reveals that he fell ill on Wednesday and was rushed to the hospital, where he lost consciousness shortly after undergoing doctor’s interviews.

In a post shared via X on Friday, Dalung recounted being admitted to the emergency ward but left unattended for over four hours due to non-payment of admission deposits.

He shared how he regained partial consciousness and managed to make the necessary deposit before receiving medical attention.

“I took ill on Wednesday, arrived at the hospital, and shortly became unconscious after doctor’s interviews.

“I was ferried into the emergency ward but abandoned for over four hrs due to non-payment of admission deposits.

“Regained partial consciousness and later did the transfer of deposit,” he revealed.

“After that,” he continued, “I fell into unconsciousness again for about seven hours.

“To God be the glory, I have been discharged after three days and recovering. Were it not for partial consciousness to pay the deposits, I would have been Mr. late.

“Many Nigerians have gone this way. Where is our humanity?” Dalung added, highlighting the urgency for better healthcare accessibility and compassion towards patients in need,” he said.

By Mutalib Jibril

 The Consumers’ Dilemma 

A visit to some popular markets in Sokoto State shows that many consumers still prefer rotten tomatoes.

Zainab, a retired school teacher and grandmother, carefully selects the least spoiled tomatoes she can find. “What choice do we have?” she asks, a note of defiance in her voice. “These are half the price of the fresh ones. With my pension cut, I have to make do.”

Like Zainab, another buyer, a mother of three, picks carefully through a pile of tomatoes, trying to find the least spoiled among them. “Look, we all know it’s not the best,” she admits, her voice tinged with resignation. “But when you have to feed a family and every penny counts, sometimes you compromise where you shouldn’t.”

Many consumers are aware of the health risks, including potential liver damage, associated with consuming deteriorated tomatoes but have no option due to the economic hardship ravaging the country.

The Sellers’ Side

He shares his perspective at the shop of a middle-aged vendor in Sokoto State with a genial smile that belies his struggle. “It’s not like I don’t know the risks,” he says, gesturing to the less-than-perfect tomatoes. “But these come cheaper from the farmers, and if I don’t sell them, I don’t earn anything. People still buy them because they’re cheaper, and every sale helps me keep my own family afloat.”

Questions about accountability and choice arise. Why sell a product known to be harmful? He sighs, “It’s a vicious cycle. Honestly, we need better support from our leaders and better economic policies that can help both the sellers and the buyers choose health over cost.”

Also, Yakub, a wholesaler, provides insight into the logistics issues plaguing the supply chain. “Transportation delays and poor infrastructure mean that a lot of the produce spoils before it even reaches the market,” he explains. The economic downturn has exacerbated these issues, with fuel prices soaring and maintenance costs skyrocketing, making it difficult to deliver fresh produce efficiently.

Yakub admits to facing a moral dilemma. “I hate selling these, but it’s this or let my business die. We need government support to upgrade our transport and storage facilities.”

Voices from the farm

The tomatoes start fine,” Alhaji Buba explains. “But with the cost of proper storage and transport being so high, some spoil before reaching the market.”

Alhaji Buba’s plight highlights a crucial gap in infrastructure that affects both the quality of produce and consumers’ health. He emphasizes government intervention: “We need access to better facilities and services to keep our produce fresh until it reaches the consumer. This would benefit everyone.”

For Yusuf, each day begins with the promise of a new harvest and the weight of responsibility. “We take pride in growing quality tomatoes,” he explains, his hands weathered from years of tending the land. “But without proper infrastructure and market access, our efforts often go unrewarded.”

His story mirrors the struggles of farmers across Nigeria, whose tireless labour sustains the nation even amidst adversity.

Farmers like Yusuf face many challenges, from unpredictable weather patterns to fluctuating market prices. “We need support to improve irrigation systems and market access,” he asserts firmly. “With the right investments, Nigerian agriculture can thrive.”

Experts Opinions

A Clinical Nutritionist at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, Yaba, Lagos, Susan Holbrooke, said rotten tomatoes are unsafe for consumption and may damage the liver, impair child development, and also cause miscarriage.

She said rotten tomatoes contain aflatoxin and would have been contaminated by fungi diseases.

Experts say tomatoes are the major dietary source of antioxidants that protect against cell damage. They add that they are also high in Lycopene, a plant compound linked to good heart health, cancer prevention, and protection against sunburns.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with PUNCH Healthwise, the nutritionist said rotten tomatoes contain mycotoxin, which can damage the liver of those who consume them.

According to her, what we consume is expected to serve as nutrients and medicine for the body, not as a disease.

She explained, “Rotten tomatoes are unsafe for consumption. They can cause liver damage. For a pregnant woman with too much mycotoxin in her system, it can cause the child to be stunted. That’s why aflatoxins are poisonous to the liver. Our liver is like a powerhouse that promotes both the good and the bad things.

In a 2016 study published by PMC journal, the researchers said dietary exposure to aflatoxins is considered a major public health concern, especially for subsistence farming communities in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia. Due to hot and humid climates and poor storage, dietary staple food crops such as groundnuts and maize are often highly contaminated with aflatoxin.

“Aflatoxin exposure can occur at any stage of life and is a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma, especially when hepatitis B infection is present.

Over the years, there have been warnings that rotten tomatoes can be dangerous to health when consumed.

In 2018, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) warned Nigerians against consuming rotten tomatoes to prevent cancer.

Christiana Essenwa, a Deputy Director at the Agency who issued the warning, said rotten tomatoes contain microorganisms that induce cancer.

In her words: “Some people think that rotten tomatoes, which are cheap, can be consumed after washing and heating, stressing that the toxins could not be washed or killed by heating since they are heat resistant.”

By Uzair Adam Imam 

The New Incentive All Babies Are Equal has recognised five local governments in Kano State with a cash award of N150,000 each for their steadfast dedication to child vaccination efforts in their respective areas. 

Mubarak Bawa, the Operations Coordinator of the programme, revealed that the selection criteria for the award included metrics such as enrollment figures, retention rates for the Penta vaccine, vaccine supply management, documentation accuracy, and the extent of vaccination-related activities, all based on data from 2023. 

Bawa disclosed this information during the ‘Kano State and LGA Award’ ceremony held at The Afficent Event Center in Nassarawa GRA, Kano.

He stated the program’s overarching goal of efficiently saving lives. 

He further stated that a significant achievement in Kano, where over 520,000 infants were enrolled, and a total disbursement exceeding N1.4 billion, facilitated more than 5 million vaccinations across the state. 

The event, conducted in collaboration with the Kano state government, aimed to recognise the dedicated efforts of individuals and organisations in boosting childhood immunisation rates and saving lives in the state. 

Out of the 44 local governments in Kano, five were awarded N150,000 each based on criteria such as enrollments, penta retention rate, vaccine supply, documentation, and activities using 2023 data.

The awarded local governments were Nassarawa, Tsanyawa, Dawakin Tofa, Takai, and Minjibir, respectively. 

He added that, “Since 2017, we have been actively coordinating with state governments and LGAs to provide cash incentives to increase childhood vaccinations in Northern Nigeria.” 

He also noted the importance of incentivizing efforts, stating, “Data shows that rewarding people for their efforts helps increase engagement and accountability—leading to a more productive and efficient system as we work toward our common goals.” 

In recognition of his outstanding dedication to enrollments, immunisation rates, activities, and stakeholder engagement, Kamilu Ahmad Musa was awarded N30,000 as the best NI-ABAE manager in Kano State. 

Dr. Nasir Mahmoud Muhammad, the Kano Director General of the Primary Healthcare Management Board, commended the New Incentive All Babies are Equal for their support towards the state’s Primary Healthcare program.  

He noted, “The New Incentive Kano State Management Board recognized local government areas that are excelling in the provision of immunization.  

“Based on the criteria and ranking, we selected the best local governments out of the 44, who gathered here and were recognized,” he added.

By Usman Muhammad Salihu

Jos, the capital city of Plateau State, has for long been grappling with the persistent issue of water scarcity, leaving residents to endure the consequences of insufficient water supply from the body responsible. The lack of functional boreholes and wells further compounds the challenge, painting a grim picture of daily life for the city’s inhabitants.

The city, despite being blessed with natural water sources, finds itself in the grip of a water crisis. Government efforts to address this issue have fallen short, with inadequate infrastructure and supply systems unable to meet the teeming demand.

To effectively bring an end to the menace, the government must prioritize infrastructure development, including the construction of water treatment plants and distribution networks, to ensure equitable access to clean water across the city.

Implementing and enforcing water management policies and regulations can help curb wastage and ensure responsible usage of available resources.

Engaging with local communities to understand their needs and involve them in decision-making processes can foster a sense of ownership and accountability in water management initiatives.

On the other hand, well-to-do individuals and private companies operating in Jos should integrate water provision mechanism and sustainability practices into their corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Collaborating with government agencies and NGOs can amplify the impact of private sector efforts, leveraging resources and expertise to address water scarcity more effectively.

Empowering residents with knowledge about water conservation and hygiene practices can promote responsible usage and reduce strain on limited water resources.

Supporting grassroots initiatives aimed at water conservation, such as community-led well drilling projects or water purification programs, can foster resilience and self-sufficiency within our neighborhoods.

By implementing comprehensive solutions that span governmental, private, and community sectors, the city can break free from the cycle of scarcity and ensure a sustainable water future for generations to come.

Usman Muhammad Salihu writes from Jos, Nigeria.
muhammadu5363@gmail.com

By Uzair Adam Imam

A recent study conducted by scientists at the University of California has uncovered intriguing insights into the mechanics of sleep, particularly focusing on the brain’s activity during this crucial rest period.

Published in Nature, the study sheds light on how sleep acts as a “reset” for the brain, primarily during the initial half of the night.

According to the research, during sleep, the brain undergoes a process of weakening newly formed connections between neurons, known as synaptic pruning. This phenomenon predominantly occurs during the first half of sleep, suggesting that this period is crucial for streamlining neural connections.

However, the purpose of the second half of sleep remains enigmatic. While researchers speculate that it may involve processes such as waste removal or cellular repair, further investigation is needed to elucidate its exact function.

Lead author Professor Jason Rihel from UCL Cell & Developmental Biology explains, “When we are awake, the connections between brain cells get stronger and more complex.

“If this activity were to continue unabated, it would be energetically unsustainable. Too many active connections between brain cells could prevent new connections from being made the following day.”

The study supports the Synaptic Homeostasis Hypothesis, suggesting that sleep serves as a necessary reset for the brain, facilitating optimal cognitive function.

Using optically translucent zebrafish, researchers monitored synaptic activity over multiple sleep-wake cycles.

They observed that brain cells gain connections during wakefulness and lose them during sleep, with the extent of synaptic rearrangement influenced by sleep pressure.

Furthermore, the study revealed that synaptic remodeling predominantly occurs in the first half of the nightly sleep cycle, correlating with patterns of slow-wave activity.

While the findings provide valuable insights into the role of sleep in synaptic regulation, questions persist regarding the functions of the second half of sleep.

The study hints at potential avenues for future research into the broader functions of sleep beyond synaptic pruning.

By Aisha Musa Auyo

Do you know about dental floss? Please do not tell me that you don’t. I was shocked when I conducted an oral poll about dental floss and found out that only about 10 percent of people know about it, and only about 4 percent practice it. This could be part of the reason why dentists are making outrageous money. This could be part of the reason why people get irritated while listening to you. This could be part of the reason why your spouse doesn’t like kissing you.

According to the Cambridge Dictionary, flossing is the practice of cleaning between your teeth using dental floss. It also states that regular flossing is essential for healthy gums.

Flossing is an important oral hygiene habit. It is a habit that helps clean and dislodge food stuck between your teeth, which reduces the amount of bacteria and plaque in your mouth. Plaque is a sticky film (that looks like cream) that builds up on the teeth and causes gum disease, bad breath, and tooth decay if not managed properly.

Even though many people brush their teeth daily, some even do it twice daily, not everyone flosses their teeth. Flossing should be as regular as brushing. Brushing can never fulfill the function of flossing. Regardless of how expensive your toothpaste and toothbrush are, flossing is vital.

So now that you know, I need to tell you that it’s not about simply flossing. It is important to do it correctly, or else you will damage your teeth and gums. Brushing twice daily for at least two minutes each time is the first step in keeping your teeth and gums healthy. But even the best toothbrush can’t thoroughly cleanse the spaces between your teeth. That’s why the American Dental Association recommends that you floss once a day to remove food particles and plaque—the sticky film on your teeth that can lead to cavities and gum disease.

Plaque contains cavity-causing bacteria that feed on leftover food in your mouth. These bacteria thrive on sugary substances—and as they feast on them, they produce acids that can damage the shiny, protective surface of your teeth, setting the stage for tooth decay.

Plaque that isn’t removed by brushing or flossing can harden into a rough substance called tartar or calculus. Tartar builds up along the gum line, which can lead to gum disease.

Once tartar forms, only your dentist can remove it. However, flossing every day can help prevent plaque buildup. Some mouthwash can perform the function of flossing when gargled for over two minutes. However, excessive use of commercial mouthwash is not healthy or environmentally friendly.

Cloves soaked in water can also do it, but that should not stop you from mechanically flossing your teeth one by one.

How often should you floss?

The ADA recommends brushing your teeth for 2 minutes twice a day and flossing at least once a day. I floss after every meal or snack. I’m obsessed with it. I always carry my floss around with me, just like I do my phone.😀

I feel cleaner and more confident in my breath and teeth. I would advise you to do what works for you. It’s up to you whether you floss before brushing or afterward. It depends on your comfort and timing.

In conclusion, dental floss is readily available and affordable. It saves you the expense of visiting a dentist, spares you the embarrassment of bad breath and plaque-stained teeth, and improves both your confidence and oral health.

Let us take our oral hygiene very seriously. It reveals a great deal about our overall hygiene and self-care practices and strengthens our relationships with our spouses and others in general.

By Aisha Musa Auyo

I often dismiss the hearsay that everyone must be attacked by this virus once in their lifetime. It’s a superstition, I would reply to them. My sisters were all attacked by the virus, one after the other at a roll, all four of them. I was the one applying calamine lotion on them. We were all waiting for my turn, but I wasn’t infected. Very unusual, even the doctors would say. I must be immune to the chickenpox, I would boast.

After about 15 years, the virus knocked and crushed me to the point of losing hope of living again. From high fever, sore throat, muscle pain, dizziness, and general discomfort. My son was the one who contracted the virus, and obviously, I’ll be the one to take care of him. I did it with full confidence and carelessness that I was immune to the virus. However, I separated him from his siblings and classmates. His illness didn’t last for more than five days, and in a week, he was okay and mixing with everyone.

We travelled for Easter, and I was sick throughout the Easter break. It is Kano weather, I would say. All I do is lie down. Cooking and Tarawih during the last days of Ramadan became impossible for me, yet I didn’t go to the hospital. I deceived myself into thinking I’d get better when my body adjusted to the weather. Until one Tuesday, I felt so sick I couldn’t walk, couldn’t talk, and hated the sound of everything.

Then, one of my kids complained of heat rashes. I undressed him so I could bathe, and viola! Chickenpox rashes all over his body. I checked my other son and found the same issue, then I took a closer look at myself, the rashes were all over my body. I was so sick that I wasn’t paying attention to my skin. It then dawned on me that all three of us were infected by Haidar two weeks after his illness.

I made some calls and was told to stay at home, that we can infect the entire community by going to the hospital. The virus is very contagious. We stayed indoors, and medication was sent to us. We were told not to entertain visitors and not to go out till we were fully recovered and free from the virus.

“Lockdown II,” I thought to myself. We became prisoners in our house, and although the lockdown did give me a chance to rest and bond with the kids, it’s not anything I would hope for anyone.

My fever kept getting high, and I was told the virus punishes adults 50 times the way it treats kids. 

My kids were active and eating after three days, but I wasn’t. The rashes were all over me, including my feet, palms, ears, scalp, lips, throat and tongue. Eating and drinking become difficult. These rashes are not only irritating to the eyes, they hurt like ant bite. I have to be recording my temperature every 3 hours just to see if everything is going well. I finished all the painkillers in the house. Sitting becomes difficult, and leaving my room becomes difficult, too.

I kept thinking something else must definitely be wrong with me; chickenpox could not be this hard. A malaria drug was prescribed for me. Since I wasn’t eating, the ulcer came back in full force. Then I learned that the rashes and scars do not go away. My world was crumbling, and I was crying like a baby. I can’t imagine living with these scars forever.

After nine days, the pain became bearable. I felt better and had the hope of living again. I was told I could still spread the virus even at that time, so I spent my Eid al Fitr at home, browsing and researching chickenpox and how to get rid of the scars.

I learned that the only immunity to the virus is being infected by it. Once you are infected, you will hardly get infected again. It happens once in a lifetime. Although some countries were able to eradicate it, most countries are still battling the virus.

Now and then, especially during the hot season, this virus will spread. It’s there to make sure everyone is immunized, meaning everyone is infected with it once in his lifetime. If it’s a choice, one would prefer to be infected at a younger age, as the virus is merciful to kids and merciless to adults, lol. I’ve come up with a few things to do when the virus strikes.

• As a parent, once you notice that such a contagious virus infects a family member of yours, kindly seclude your ward from the public. It starts with one person, and in less than a week, the whole committee can be infected. Kindly reject visitors by letting them know your condition. Do not travel till you are fully recovered. These teachings from our beloved Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. He emphasized the importance of quarantine, separating sick individuals from healthy ones, and avoiding contact with contagious diseases to prevent their spread, all of which are integral to Islamic rulings on managing infectious diseases.

• Chickenpox medications are over-the-counter meds. You don’t have to go see a doctor. Once you notice fever, headache, muscle ache, and rashes, know that it’s either chickenpox or measles. They’re contagious. By going to the hospital, one may infect the nurses, receptionist, and even the doctors. Send an immune person to get the drugs for you.

• Drink a lot of water and fluids. Those monster rashes drain one to the point of dehydration.

• You, as a healthy individual, should not feel bad when a person tells you not to visit due to the nature of their illness. Kindly understand that they have your best interest at heart. A colleague of mine is still angry with his Uncle because the uncle told him not to visit them as the whole family is infected with chickenpox.

• Chickenpox doesn’t sit well with heat, so make sure you stay in a well-ventilated space and do not wear clothes since you are indoors.

• Bathe at least thrice a day with room temperature water, and avoid hot or warm water.

• If possible, wash your hands with a hand wash every hour when you are not sleeping.

• Try your best not to forcefully scratch or remove the rashes when they’re drying. Allow your skin to shed them. This is easier said than done. Feeling a blister or bump on your skin and letting go isn’t easy. Let me not deceive you.

• Calamine lotion helps to soothe and dry the rashes.

• If the fever is high, try using a damp cloth over the patient and take painkillers according to the doctor’s instructions.

• After you are healthy and free of infection, sanitize the house and the clothes you use with hot water and disinfectants. This includes towels, bedspread and sofas.

• I was told the rashes and scars never disappear; some said it takes years before they disappear. One of my sisters was born with a fair complexion, but after a chickenpox infection, her complexion darkened. She never recovered her colour. As discouraging and sad as this may sound, one should not relax and allow the virus to ruin one’s looks and confidence. Aloe vera gel does wonders with consistency and patience.

• Honey, neem oil, or water infused with neem leaves also help a lot. Retinol creams are also very effective. But please don’t bleach your skin or use harsh chemicals on your body.

Aisha Musa Auyo is a Doctoral researcher in Educational Psychology, a wife, and a mother of three. She is a homemaker, caterer, and parenting/relationship coach.

By Uzair Adam Imam

Dr. Gaza Gwamna, the Nasarawa State Commissioner for Health, revealed that 7,345 residents were diagnosed with tuberculosis in 2023 during a media briefing in Lafia, the state capital, marking the 2024 World Tuberculosis Day themed “Yes, we can end TB.”

Gwamna stated that this figure represented a notable increase compared to the previous year, with 21 percent of cases co-infected with HIV, a rise from the previous year’s 18 percent.

These cases spanned across all 13 Local Government Areas of the state.

Expressing concern, Gwamna, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Damina John, stressed the urgency of taking measures to prevent further spread, warning of the potential threat to the state’s residents.

Providing a breakdown, Gwamna highlighted significant numbers in various LGAs, including Awe LGA with 179 cases, Obi LGA with 350 cases, Wamba LGA with 178 cases, Nasarawa Eggon LGA with 682 cases, Nassarawa LGA with 1,846 cases, and Toto LGA with 143 cases.

Although the treatment success rate currently stands at 89 percent, Gwamna acknowledged that the state has yet to achieve the 95 percent target set by the National TB Control Programme, indicating the necessity for further efforts in combating the disease.

By Uzair Adam Imam

NAFDAC on Thursday uncovered a network of counterfeit goods being sold in Abuja, culminating in raids at Sahad Stores and H-Medix outlets.

The simultaneous raids across the capital city led to the confiscation of fake cosmetics and drugs.At Sahad Stores, renowned for its supermarket chain, authorities seized counterfeit products.

Meanwhile, at H-Medix outlets in Wuse 2 and Gwarinpa, as well as the Utako market, counterfeit cosmetics and medications were confiscated.

Embugushiki-Musa Godiya, the NAFDAC Head of Investigation and Enforcement/Federal Taskforce, FCT, Abuja, highlighted the extensive nature of the operation.

In addition to the raids in Abuja, similar crackdowns were carried out in Kugbo market in Nyanya and the Mararaba area in Nasarawa State earlier in the week.

Godiya expressed shock at the discovery of substandard products masquerading as reputable brands, such as purported NIVEA creams.

These counterfeit items, despite their inferior quality, were being sold at higher prices than genuine NAFDAC-approved products, illustrating the extent of criminal activity in the market.

The seized goods, including fake NIVEA products, cosmetics, and household items like Jik bleach, Harpic toilet cleaner, and Airwick room fresheners, amounted to a staggering total value of N50 million.

NAFDAC’s rigorous enforcement efforts underscore the agency’s commitment to safeguarding public health and combating the proliferation of counterfeit goods.

By Harajana Umar Ragada

It all began with a small lump on her left breast. Over time, it grew larger with each passing day. Concerned, her husband took her to the hospital, where they were informed that a minor surgery was necessary. The doctor assured them of its safety and that she would go home immediately after the procedure.

However, an elderly woman approached her with a warning. She advised against allowing anyone to touch her breast at such a young age, claiming it was too risky. Unfortunately, she heeded the woman’s advice, ignoring her husband’s attempts to convince her otherwise. Instead, she returned home and relied on local herbs, hoping for a cure.

To her dismay, the condition worsened and developed into cancer. She underwent numerous treatments, including chemotherapy. I watched as she silently suffered, fervently praying for her quick recovery. However, she eventually succumbed to the illness after a lengthy stay at the hospital. She left behind three children, with the youngest just weaned off due to the mother’s illness.

Her death deeply affected me and shed light on the lack of awareness among many women about breast cancer, its preventive measures, predisposing factors, and signs to look out for.

According to findings from the World Health Organisation (WHO), in Nigeria alone, over 10,000 women die annually from cancer-related issues, with approximately 250,000 new cases recorded every year. These numbers are alarming, prompting me to contemplate how I could help.

That’s when I discovered Raise Foundation, an organisation dedicated to providing free cancer screening, raising awareness about breast cancer, and supporting patients through their journey, founded by the wife of the former Niger State Governor, Haj. Amina Abubakar Bello.

In an interaction with the CEO of Raise Foundation, Mrs Toyin Dauda, she disclosed that their mission is to create awareness and opportunities for women and girls, allowing them to realise their full potential in a safe environment for pregnancy and childbirth. They aim to empower women to make informed decisions and seize available opportunities.

“We established the Raise Foundation in 2015, and we are proud to have the first breast and cervical cancer screening centre in Niger State. Additionally, we conduct outreach programs in hard-to-reach areas, where we screen women and educate them about breast cancer. We promote early detection and offer assistance to those diagnosed with cervical or breast cancer,” She affirmed.

Mrs.Toyin further explained that the screening is completely free of charge. Their healthcare professionals use gloves for examination, and if they identify any abnormalities or lumps, the woman will need to undergo a scan, which costs ₦4000. For women over 35, a mammography is recommended, priced at ₦10,000.

However, during October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, they provide all these services for free. Operating from Monday to Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Mrs Toyin urged women not to wait for the designated month but to seek screenings earlier. The foundation also guides self-breast exams.

Moreover, the Raise Foundation offers financial support for breast cancer patients. Rather than giving patients money directly, they cover the costs and provide receipts. They have partnerships that help fund their initiatives, allowing them to support women across Nigeria. Mrs Toyin appealed to governments, organisations, and individuals to contribute funds as the number of patients rose.

Furthermore, the program coordinator for Raise Foundation, Dr Fatima Tafida, emphasised the importance of understanding the risk factors associated with breast cancer and taking action to address them. She highlighted the risk factors, the consequences, the signs and symptoms, preventive measures, and how to perform self-breast exams.

According to Dr Fatima, the risk factors include being female, as breast tissue is present, an increasing trend of breast cancer among younger women (even as young as 25 years), early onset of menstruation, late menopause, not having been pregnant or breastfed, family history of breast cancer, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and poor diet or obesity.

She added that cancer is a significant threat as it impacts individuals socially, physically, emotionally, and financially. 

“Signs and symptoms of cancer can vary depending on the type. The most common sign is the presence of a small lump in the breast, which may or may not be painful. Other indicators include the growth of the lump, cracks on the nipples, or the presence of bloody or Clear discharge. Unfortunately, many individuals are unaware that they have cancer until it has progressed.

“To prevent cancer, there are several measures that can be taken. Firstly, creating awareness about the disease and its risk factors is crucial. Secondly, modifying one’s lifestyle by quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption is essential. Additionally, individuals who are obese should aim to lose weight and incorporate regular exercise into their routine. Maintaining a balanced diet is also important in preventing cancer. Conducting regular self-breast exams is recommended for those with a family history of the disease. Lastly, performing self-breast exams at the end of the menstrual cycle can help in the early detection of any abnormalities.” She stressed.

Dr Fatima Tafida also underlined the importance of regular self-breast exams. She provided step-by-step instructions on how to perform a self-exam for early detection. 

She advised standing in front of a mirror with the left hand raised above the head. Using the fingers of the right hand, one should palpate the whole breast, pressing the nipple and checking for any cracks or nipple discharge, be it bloody or clear. The person should then move their hand under the armpits and check for enlarged lymph nodes. 

Dr. Fatima also highlighted signs to look out for, such as an orange peel appearance of the skin, one breast being bigger than the other, nipple retraction, or sores around the breast or nipples. These indicators could suggest a problem, and medical attention should be sought immediately. 

She stressed the importance of early detection and shared the example of Angelina Jolie, who underwent a double mastectomy after testing positive for a breast cancer gene due to her family history.

For women over the age of 40, Dr. Fatima underscored the importance of getting a yearly mammogram. She advised against relying solely on herbal medicines and encouraged sticking to scientifically proven methods of treatment and prevention. She said teenagers should be aware and proactive in screening themselves. While adding that wearing bras made from secondhand clothes, often of European origin, does not increase any chance of having breast cancer.

In conclusion, Dr. Fatima appealed to society to show kindness and support to breast cancer patients. She highlighted the high costs associated with treating breast cancer and urged governments, NGOs, and individuals to provide assistance and support to these patients.

The Raise Foundation has received heartfelt gratitude from beneficiaries who have received free treatment and support. One patient expressed her appreciation, acknowledging that she would not have been able to afford the treatment without the foundation’s help. Another beneficiary thanked the foundation and called on the state government, NGOs, and individuals to support breast cancer patients.

As breast cancer continues to devastate lives, we must come together and fight it collectively. Let us join hands in raising awareness, providing support, and working towards a future where breast cancer no longer exists.

Harajana Umar Ragada wrote via kharajnah@gmail.com.