oleh admin | Apr 15, 2025 | children, health, health advice, infectious diseases, medicine and healthcare
Child
health experts have warned parents against using harmful practices to treat ear infections in children, cautioning that these actions could worsen the condition, leading to permanent hearing loss or other severe complications.
Otitis media, frequently observed in youngsters, may lead to discomfort, drainage, and diminished auditory function.
If not properly treated or controlled, these infections may result in severe complications including meningitis, sepsis, and irreversible hearing damage.
Speaking exclusively with
PUNCH Healthwise
Pediatricians emphasized that methods like applying traditional remedies, cotton swabs, or even fingertips to address ear infections can worsen the condition and lead to considerable harm.
These unverified treatments frequently comprising herbs, spices, and various ingredients can be ineffectual and might drive the infection further into the ear, potentially leading to a ruptured eardrum and exacerbating the spread of the infection.
Even with these dangers, numerous parents still depend on such methods, potentially leading to severe consequences like irreversible hearing damage, meningitis, or worse, fatalities.
The specialists emphasized the crucial need for prompt medical care to avoid complications and foster recovery.
A professor of paediatrics from the University of Ilorin, Professor Omotoyo Adesiyun, stated that ear infections happen when bacteria or viruses get into the ear via the ear canal or the Eustachian tube, which links the middle ear to the throat.
She pointed out that children are more prone to ear infections because their Eustachian tubes are shorter and positioned more horizontally, making it simpler for germs like bacteria and viruses to reach the ears.
Moreover, kids who go to daycare centers or schools have a higher chance of getting ear infections due to greater contact with pathogens.
Adesiyun highlighted that ear infections can lead to significant discomfort, especially when the eardrum ruptures.
She recommended that parents avoid trying to treat ear infections at home because this approach might contribute to antibiotic resistance and cause additional health issues.
Prompt medical care is essential for ear infections to avoid complications,” warned Adesiyun. “Parents should refrain from attempting to treat them using antibiotics or other drugs at home.
She likewise cautioned against putting items such as cotton swabs or fingers inside the ear, since doing so might drive the infection deeper into the ear, leading to greater harm.
Adesiyun suggested that parents should consult a doctor for their children if they exhibit signs like earache, high temperature, or fluid leakage.
Prompt intervention can aid in avoiding complications and promote recovery, she highlighted.
“Healthcare professionals should handle ear discharges. This is particularly crucial when dealing with children because their ear structures are more fragile. If a child has an ear discharge, they should be brought to a hospital for antibiotic treatment. For more serious cases, an otolaryngologist might be required,” Adesiyun noted.
The Paediatric Surgeon and President of the Medical and Dental Consultants Association of Nigeria, Professor Aminu Mohammad, emphasized the significance of timely medical consultation.
He mentioned that ear infections may stem from bacterial, viral, or fungal sources, along with injuries to the ear.
As he stated, if not treated, these infections could result in issues like meningitis, sepsis, and irreversible hearing damage.
“The consequences of ignoring ear discharge are serious. Ongoing infections may lead to irreversible hearing damage, excruciating pain, and issues with equilibrium if they impact the inner ear. In the most severe scenarios, should the infection spread to the brain, it could result in sepsis and potentially be fatal,” cautioned Mohammad.
He emphasized again that parents should avoid trying to treat ear infections themselves at home and must go for prompt professional care instead.
Mohammad likewise highlighted the significance of adhering to proper hygiene routines, like frequent hand washing, to aid in preventing infections.
He suggested that parents should consult a healthcare provider for their kids if they exhibit signs of ear infections.
“Prompt treatment is essential to avoid additional complications and promote healing,” emphasized the pediatric surgeon.
Concerning treatment methods, Mohammad clarified that antibiotics are generally prescribed for bacterial infections, whereas antifungal drugs might be required for cases involving fungi.
He mentioned that for issues such as swimmer’s ear, which is medically referred to as otitis externa, using ear drops can alleviate symptoms and eliminate the infection. In more serious instances, however, surgical intervention might be necessary to mend the eardrum or address problems including cholesteatoma and mastoiditis.
Mohammad additionally pointed out that specialized attention from an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor might be required for more complicated situations.
In the meantime, Dr. Leo Odudu, who serves as both a Consultant Paediatrician and the Medical Director at Emel Hospital, cautioned that failing to treat ear infections might result in severe complications.
He mentioned that the most frequent reason for ear discharge is an infection, typically occurring after a respiratory tract infection.
Odudu pointed out that poor nutrition and compromised immune systems, like those found in children with sickle cell disease or HIV, can elevate the chances of developing ear infections.
“Poor hygiene and viral infections like measles can also make children more vulnerable to ear problems,” Odudu said. He cautioned against using unverified home remedies, such as native concoctions or inserting cotton into the ear, which can lead to serious complications.
“When foreign items such as cotton are introduced into the ear, they may obstruct the ear canal and drive the infection further inward, resulting in more serious outcomes,” he clarified.
Odudu stressed the importance of seeking professional medical care for ear infections, adding, “Ear infections should always be treated by trained healthcare professionals. Whether bacterial, viral, or fungal, a healthcare provider can accurately diagnose the issue and prescribe the right treatment.”
He finished his talk by encouraging parents to promptly consult a doctor when their children show symptoms such as earache or fluid drainage. He stressed that early treatment helps avoid serious issues including potential hearing impairment or persistent infections that could necessitate surgical procedures.
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oleh admin | Apr 14, 2025 | controversies, diplomacy and diplomats, news, politics, politics and government
The Iranian President, Masoud Pezeshkian, has removed his vice president for parliamentary affairs, Shahram Dabiri, after facing significant public criticism stemming from an extravagant Antarctic journey taken during the Nowruz festivities.
The presidential office characterized Dabiri’s trip accompanied by his spouse as “indefensible and inappropriate considering the prevailing economic difficulties” within the nation.
An image of the pair standing in front of the MV Plancius, a Dutch ship bound for Antarctica, went viral on social media, inciting anger among Iranians.
On Saturday, Pezeshkian affirmed in an announcement that Dabiri was dismissed from his position due to “unjustifiable” conduct, regardless of whether the journey had been personally financed.
“In a administration aiming to adhere to the principles set forth by the first Shia Imam (Imam Ali) and faced with considerable financial strain on our citizens, the extravagant trips made by governmental officials, even if they fund themselves, cannot be justified,” stated Pezeshkian.
Widespread protests erupt throughout the U.S. opposing Trump’s policies. In the UK, MP Dan Norris gets arrested for suspected involvement in child sex offenses and rape. Large demonstrations against both Trump and Elon Musk take place in key European urban centers.
The president, who took office last year with pledges to fix Iran’s struggling economy and enhance everyday living conditions, stressed that such behavior “severely contradicts the principle of simplicity that is crucial for individuals in leadership roles.”
Iran’s economy continues to face significant pressure primarily because of Western sanctions tied to its backing of organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah, which have been labeled as terrorist entities by the U.S., UK, and EU.
As reported by the International Monetary Fund, Iran had an unemployment rate of 8.4% in October 2024, accompanied by an annual inflation rate of 29.5%.
Reports suggest that the initial expense for an Antarctic journey aboard the MV Plancius stands at approximately $6,685 (£5,187). This price point has faced additional scrutiny considering Iran’s current financial situation. Although expeditions to Antarctica were once exclusive to researchers and experienced adventurers, cruise tours to this remote continent have become increasingly popular among tourists over the past few years.
The ship seen in the widely shared image was formerly utilized by the Royal Netherlands Navy for research activities between 1976 and 2004. The specifics of Dabiri’s travel arrangements remain uncertain, including both his chosen tour plan and mode of transportation from Iran to Antarctica. Certain cruise paths necessitate passengers departing from Ushuaia in southwestern Argentina, over 3,000 kilometers away from Buenos Aires.
As per the BBC, Iranian news outlets highlighted growing pressure on Pezeshkian from his backers to remove Dabiri, amid escalating public discontent over the festive trip.
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oleh admin | Apr 14, 2025 | air travel, insurance, personal finance insurance, shopping, Travel
Forty percent buy insurance between zero to four days before they depart.
Indonesians
Often, people buy travel insurance at the last minute, with 40% getting coverage between zero to four days before their departure and one in ten waiting until the day before they leave, as per an Igloo report.
Although not as common as for international trips, many domestic travelers opt to buy travel insurance just before their journey, with 22% purchasing it between zero to four days prior to departure and another 8% buying it within the final 24 hours.
Furthermore, Indonesians exhibit a preference for traveling abroad, with 80% of male customers buying insurance for international trips and 90% of female customers doing the same.
Traveling alone has gained significant popularity as well, particularly among women, who make up 57% of all individual travel insurance buys, whereas men constitute only 53%.
Japan, Singapore, Thailand, and South Korea continue to be the top choices for travelers.
oleh admin | Apr 14, 2025 | body weight, health & fitness, news, obesity, weight loss
City desk journalist Oscar Liu recounts his journey of challenges and successes as he managed to reduce his weight from 98kg last September to 78kg this January.
I recall the day in July from last year when the anticipation for my upcoming three-week adventure across Europe rose within me as I purchased a new pair of running shoes and slipped them on.
However, when I looked down, I couldn’t spot my new shoes. My stomach was obstructing my view.
A few weeks later in Spain, as I ascended a gradual slope in Toledo, it started feeling akin to climbing a mountain. My lungs were afire, my heartbeat thundered, and I had to pause for breath.
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I had to acknowledge that after making inconsistent efforts to stay fit for eight years, I ended up being overweight, consuming excessive food and neglecting my health.
I had reached 98 kg (216 lbs), which was my highest weight ever and 23 kg over the desirable weight of 75 kg for someone of my stature.
It provided little comfort knowing that I belonged to the majority in Hong Kong, where 54.6 percent of adults were classified as overweight or obese, based on the Department of Health’s 2020-2022 Population Health Survey.
Men seldom confess their insecurities about their physical appearance, yet this battle had defined my existence.
Sei fei jai
, which literally translates to “deadly fat boy” in Cantonese, was a label that dogged me practically from the day I was born a robust 4kg and through a childhood of hurtful comments and being teased and bullied about my size.
While in college and seeking a rapid solution, I discovered a physician who provided me with weight-loss medication that I used for about nine months.
They were effective, yet they consistently made me feel restless and anxious. To steer clear of these side effects, I discontinued their use, and subsequently, all the weight I had shed came back.
Driven by desperation, I fell into a harmful pattern of binging and purging, which became a hidden source of deep embarrassment and erosion of my self-esteem over many years. It took me over ten years to confide in even my nearest companions about this struggle.
Until 2016, my parents didn’t appear worried about their youngest child’s weight. But once they were both diagnosed with diabetes that year, they started pressing me to make changes.
That year, I started a new fitness adventure by joining a CrossFit gym and diving into weightlifting, gymnastics, and intense metabolic conditioning workouts with great enthusiasm.
My trainers functioned more as life coaches, giving me a solid base in fitness for the very first time in my life.
I tried out more nutritious food options and various dietary approaches. As a result, the weight came off, my clothing became less snug, and I started feeling a sense of pride in these transformations. It was quite rewarding.
However, this situation also unraveled. The firm I was with shut down, which left me jobless for a year. Under stress, I reverted to my exercise routines, and previously abandoned habits resurfaced.
The weight came back. I was still stuck on that disheartening carousel, which served as an ongoing reminder of my failures.
I surrendered in the fight against weight gain and tried to wear a smile, yet deep down, I wasn’t truly content.
Next was the vacation last summer in Spain, struggling to see my feet as I huffed and puffed up that hill in Toledo.
It was time to attempt once more.
After coming back from Europe, I discovered a new fitness coach, began hitting the gym thrice weekly, focused on nutrition, and meticulously tracked and recorded everything I consumed.
The guiding principle of my trainer was that health is a way of life, which implied that beyond working out and monitoring my diet, I needed to focus on getting quality sleep and handling stress effectively.
Having empathetic coworkers who brought takeout lunches and stayed with me for these nutritious meals in the newsroom was quite beneficial.
It wasn’t simple, yet I successfully reduced my weight from 98kg last September to 78kg in January, and since then, I’ve kept myself under my targeted weight of 83kg.
Friends, family members, and coworkers have been giving me praise for the transformation they’ve observed. They mention that I seem more vibrant as well.
When I take time away from work, I prefer engaging in physical pursuits like jogging and trekking rather than lounging at home munching on potato chips and cheese while binging shows on Netflix.
On some days, I catch myself pondering whether this could be the authentic version of me, permanently in place.
Nevertheless, I remain acutely conscious that the allure of delicious cuisine and fine wines persists constantly. Additionally, nowadays, there’s considerable excitement surrounding novel diabetes medications like Ozempic, which can lead to significant weight reduction.
They are promoted as an easy solution for those dealing with excess weight. However, I still remember the episodes of anxiety I experienced from taking diet pills during my college days.
Should I admit that my life has been transformed? In the past, I looked for instant solutions, valuing an altered look more than making lasting changes to my way of living.
My current priority is achieving enduring wellness and a feeling of mastery over my life.
However, acquiring genuine confidence remains an ongoing endeavor. Acknowledging these uncertainties makes me feel exposed, particularly since societal norms demand that men should be resilient, even though this challenge isn’t exclusive to one gender.
Body image and eating problems impact numerous individuals, both women and men, yet perhaps discussing these matters candidly is an essential stride toward self-acceptance and collective assistance.
The difference this time around is that I am dedicated to constructing a healthier, more self-compassionate version of myself.
Fingers crossed as I attempt to avoid getting on the roller coaster.
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The number of non-resident expectant mothers denied entry into Hong Kong has increased fivefold.
A woman was hit by a train in Hong Kong’s Tuen Mun area.
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The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which is the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.
Copyright © 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
oleh admin | Apr 14, 2025 | gastrointestinal disease, health, healthcare and medicine, illness, medical conditions and diseases
-
READ MORE: As a physician specializing in colorectal cancer, here’s why diagnoses are increasing among young people
A colorectal
cancer
An expert has cautioned that thousands might be enduring an obscure symptom associated with the lethal illness, which remains largely unrecognized by most people.
Frequent urges to defecate—a condition known as tenesmus—impact approximately 2,000 individuals diagnosed with bowel cancer annually, says Dr. Alasdair Scott, a colorectal surgeon and specialist in gastrointestinal health.
“It’s a sophisticated term for wanting to use the bathroom even though you’ve recently been,” he explained.
‘ persistent sensation that something might be amiss — which warrants consulting with your physician.’
Doctor Scott has advised individuals experiencing this issue to consult their general practitioner, particularly those below the age of 50.
The incidence of colorectal cancer is increasing among individuals younger than 50 years old, and I highly advise against waiting for an invitation to participate in the bowel cancer screening program when you reach your mid-50s,” stated Dr. Scott, who serves as Science Director at the medical diagnostics company Selph.
‘Take cues from nations such as the United States.’
Japan
Where they initiate bowel cancer screening in their 40s and experience significantly higher survival rates for bowel cancer compared to what we see in the UK.
Doctor Scott’s caution arises as the world faces a widespread outbreak of the illness among younger populations worldwide.
From the early 1990s through 2018, the United Kingdom saw a 22 percent increase in the diagnosis of colorectal cancer among adults between the ages of 25 and 49. This growth rate ranks as one of the quickest increases observed across various high-income nations.
Experts have not yet definitively determined the cause of this rise, but several theories propose it might result from alterations in dietary habits coupled with increased exposure to environmental elements such as pollutants.
Doctor Scott cautioned that over fifty percent of individuals diagnosed with bowel cancer receive their diagnosis at advanced stages, when the illness has begun to metastasize, making successful treatment significantly more challenging.
He stated this occurs due to an overwhelming number of patients who only look for assistance when it has become considerably late.
A recent poll indicates that one-third of individuals in the UK are unaware of the symptoms of the illness.
The YouGov survey revealed that 80 percent were not aware of the importance of being vigilant about changes in bowel movements such as tenesmus, and nearly 90 percent did not recognize rectal bleeding as a key symptom.
“As with many forms of cancer, detecting bowel cancer at an early stage significantly improves your odds of overcoming it,” stated Dr. Scott.
‘K
Recognizing the primary symptoms of bowel cancer to look out for is essential so you can undergo testing promptly and inform your General Practitioner without delay.
He also noted alterations in the regularity of bowel movements and the texture of the stools as warning signs.
‘If
If you’re someone who typically has one consistent bowel movement every day, and now you find yourself going two or three times daily with softer stools, this indicates a change in your usual pattern,” he explained.
‘If you experience a shift in your bowel habits lasting 2 or 3 weeks, it would be wise to consult your physician about it.’
‘Commonly, bowel cancer leads to softer and more frequent bowel movements; however, it may also cause difficulties that result in constipation.’
Noticing mucus in your stool is also considered a change, he mentioned.
Seeing blood in the stool or on the toilet paper after wiping is a symptom of bowel cancer that receives the most attention.
‘But
“Bleeding from the lower area is quite common and usually isn’t indicative of bowel cancer,” he stated.
‘Bleeding from a bowel cancer is often a dark red, painless and mixed in with the stool.
Approximately 60% of individuals exhibiting signs of colorectal cancer report experiencing rectal bleeding.
He additionally pointed out ‘persistent stomach pain that lasts for more than seven days.’
Most of the time, stomach pain is not due to bowel cancer.
It could potentially be irritable bowel syndrome, or it may involve issues such as gallstones or gastritis. However, these conditions are certainly worthy of further investigation.
‘Stomach pain is experienced by half of the patients exhibiting symptoms of bowel cancer.’
Ultimately, schedule a check-up if you begin ‘shedding pounds unintentionally.’ As he noted, ‘It’s possible you may not realize this at all if you do not regularly monitor your weight.’
Therefore, if your friends or relatives begin mentioning that you’ve shed some pounds or if you observe that your garments fit loosely or require tightening with your belt another loop, pay attention and consult a physician.
‘This symptom of bowel cancer is the most subtle and remains undetected for the longest time among all possible indicators.’
Multiple
heartbreaking stories
Recently, instances of young individuals in the peak of their life getting diagnosed with colorectal cancer have come to light.
One of the most notable victims of this trend is Deborah James, also referred to as ‘bowel babe,’ who was diagnosed at only 35 years old and managed to raise substantial funds for charity in her last days of 2022.
Read more
oleh admin | Apr 14, 2025 | business, commerce, money, news, Travel
A legislation prohibiting false reviews and concealed charges, which deceive online buyers out of £2.2 billion annually, will take effect today.
Websites imposing additional ‘administrative fees’ or ‘ticket booking fees’ must now include these charges within the total cost of the purchase upfront instead of adding them secretly when customers are about to complete their payment.
The prohibition, part of the Digital Markets, Competition and Consumer Bill enacted during the previous administration, falls under this legislation.
UK government
This will impact travel agencies, ticketing websites, and food delivery applications.
Nevertheless, this will not affect any required additional expenses like particular airline seat selections and luggage upgrades for your flights.
This alteration requires online retailers to block and eliminate counterfeit customer reviews on their platforms as part of an effort to halt companies from building misleading reputations.
As reported by the Department for Business and Trade, consumers spend £2.2 billion annually on concealed charges. This new initiative aims to provide individuals with greater ‘authority over their finances.’
Justin Madders, the Minister for Competition and Markets, stated: “As of today, consumers can confidently make their purchases assured that they have protection against counterfeit reviews and hidden price increases.”
These modifications will empower consumers to have greater authority and management over their earnings, along with assisting in creating fair competition by discouraging unethical players who undermine law-abiding companies.
Studies have shown that concealed fees can soar up to 25 percent of the initial cost, with nearly half of internet merchants incorporating obligatory additional charges into their prices in one way or another.
Out of the 45 percent who incorporate fees referred to as ‘dripped pricing,’ 21 percent originate from the travel and hospitality industries, whereas retail contributes approximately 3 percent.
The effort to crack down on hidden charges follows last year when numerous Oasis fans became enraged due to Ticketmaster’s ‘dynamic pricing,’ which thwarted their ticket-buying efforts.
purchase tickets for the rock group’s spectacular comeback this summer
.
Approximately 14 million enthusiasts devoted one Saturday in August of last year to this endeavor.
attempting to obtain tickets to watch
siblings Noel and Liam Gallagher come together again for an extensive tour across the UK and Ireland.
However, enthusiastic supporters were furious when the cost of standing tickets increased from a face value of £150 to £355 shortly after, owing to high demand.
Audiences labeled Ticketmaster’s dynamic pricing strategy as ‘a complete outrage.’
expressed strong criticism towards the company’s leadership, which includes CEO Michael Rapino, UK Managing Director Andrew Parsons, President Mark Yovich, and COO Michael Wichser
.
The ‘dynamic pricing’ mechanism, launched by Ticketmaster in 2022, functions through
adjusting ticket prices according to demand – akin to how Uber calculates fares or airlines set seat prices
.
Once tickets at their original prices sell out, ticket vendors make additional ones available at increased costs, which were pre-negotiated with the artist’s management team and promoters, though these aren’t offered to the broader audience.
Importantly, Oasis – frequently celebrated as icons of the working class – had the option to reject dynamic pricing and maintain a more affordable price point for their fans.
In 2022, singer Tom Grennan stated that he had eliminated all VIP and platinum ticket choices because of the cost-of-living crisis.
Ticketmaster claims this undesirable practice stems from market dynamics and asserts that the additional funds generated from the increased ticket prices for Oasis shows will benefit the band directly.
The idea behind dynamic pricing is that by raising prices on official sites, scalpers will be deterred, allowing artists to retain additional profits.
The ‘In-Demand’ tickets are frequently referred to as ‘platinum tickets,’ however, they do not provide any additional perks for customers like VIP access.
Mr. Rapino, who leads Live Nation Entertainment—the company behind Ticketmaster—faced criticism when the Oasis tickets went on sale.
A user posted: “You represent all that is flawed within the live events sector.”
Someone else commented: ‘Michael Ticketmaster are a joke, and you’re a greedy scam artist.’
Demand-based pricing is Ticketmaster essentially becoming the scalpers itself.
Thousands of UK fans contacting their MPs. We’ll see you in court.”
Mr Rapino, who
resides in Los Angeles with his spouse and their three kids
is renowned for his ‘rock-star compensation packages’ and received $139 million in 2022, placing him among the top-earning executives in American corporations.
Other individuals requested Mr. Parsons to clarify himself during an interview, remarking, “Dynamic ticket pricing?? A complete scam perpetuated by his firm!”
Read more
oleh admin | Apr 14, 2025 | africa, business, crime, Travel, workers
Nairobi:
Furious Kenyans have flooded into the Trustpin Travel Agency to seek repayment of the millions they invested with hopes that the agency would arrange employment opportunities for them in Mauritius.
The Trustpin Agency is linked to Mary Kamunge, known as Rish Kamunge; it can be found on Moi Avenue in Nairobi. The resolute and angry victims refused to hear any clarifications.
A female candidate with experience as both a driver and a caretaker was present among those looking for employment at the event. She mentioned that they had been informed the positions were readily available, and they would commence work right away.
“As the director informed us, the positions were prepared, and upon our arrival, we would commence work as per his arrangements,” stated Faith Nasimiyu.
People who came forward stated that the victims found out about the travel agency via social media platforms, where Kamunge promoted job openings overseas for jobless individuals from Kenya. Equipped with necessary paperwork, these aspiring candidates went to the office and paid an amount ranging from KSh. 200,000 to Ksh400,000.
The funds were intended to cover flights, brokerage charges, and additional expenses. Many resorted to taking out loans, while some even sold their assets—only to discover they had become victims of a catastrophic fraud.
“I paid Ksh.193,000 for a non-existent job,” lamented Beatrice Njoki.
For some victims, it is even worse because they were actually taken to Mauritius only to find themselves stranded at the airport without food or any other support.
As such, they had no choice but to go back to Kenya as a disheartened group.
“We were instructed to await the same plane that had transported us there to bring us back to Nairobi,” Nasimiyu stated.
“I was able to gather Ksh.430,000 for my brother so he could obtain employment in Mauritius. However, he didn’t find a job upon his arrival,” stated Erick Ochieng.
The group stated that they had informed the Central Police Station about the issue, yet minimal actions were carried out as a result.
Through her attorney, Kamunge stated that arrangements were underway to reimburse the victims. However, she mentioned that she intended to subtract the funds her firm had expended throughout the whole process.
“The arrangement is that we will deduct a certain sum which was utilized for facilitating their travel. We have already begun processing refunds for some cases; however, this particular instance stands alone,” stated the attorney.
oleh admin | Apr 14, 2025 | addictions, drug legalization, drugs, public health and safety, youth
By Albert Allotey
Accra, April 12, GNA – As stated by Mrs Olivia Agyekumwaa Boateng, who leads the Tobacco and Substance Abuse Division at the Food and Drugs Authority, they urge youth-focused organizations to collaborate with their agency to combat substance misuse within the nation.
She stated that forming partnerships would significantly help tackle the problem of drug abuse, specifically mentioning Tramadol and Tapentadol, along with newer substances like “RED,” which have been gaining attention among young people.
Mrs. Boateng initiated the call during the unveiling of the “Ghana Against Drugs – ‘Red Means Stop'” initiative by the Ministry of Youth Development and Empowerment.
This campaign serves as a nationwide effort aimed at young people to tackle the increasing problem of drug misuse within their demographic.
Mrs Boateng stated that the usage of Tapentadol, similar to other opioids, poses concerning health hazards.
Mixing Tapentadol with depressants such as alcohol and other opioids can cause severe respiratory depression, which may lead to comas or even death.
As she pointed out, “The abuse of opioids leads to both physical and psychological dependency, worsening the tough socioeconomic circumstances confronting numerous young Ghanaians.”
Mrs. Boateng stated, “Given our role as the regulatory authority tasked with protecting public health and guaranteeing the safety and effectiveness of medications in Ghana, the FDA is dedicated to tackling this problem via rigorous regulatory actions and working together with various parties involved, which has already commenced.”
She mentioned that the Authority, working alongside state organizations like the Ghana Revenue Authority, Narcotics Control Board, Ghana Police Service, and Pharmacy Council, among others, has been carrying out stringent monitoring, confiscating illegal substances, and penalizing those involved.
Mrs. Boateng observed that the worldwide opioid epidemic has spread to West Africa, with growing instances of misuse involving drugs such as fentanyl, pethidine, Tapentadol, and tramadol.
“In recent times, research has underscored a ‘tramadol crisis’ within the region, marked by an unsettling prevalence of the medication’s usage amongst young individuals, frequently associated with physical distress, mental health issues, and financial struggles,” she stated.
She mentioned that in Ghana, the FDA has noticed an increase in the unlawful importation, selling, and dissemination of unregistered opioids such as Tapentadol. She pointed out that these drugs frequently enter the nation via smuggling routes and are traded through unofficial outlets, thereby presenting considerable threats to public health.
“It needs to be clearly emphasized that the majority of these drugs are merely transiting through the country,” she stated.
Mrs Boateng mentioned that the FDA engages in numerous initiatives focused on encouraging the proper usage of controlled substances and preventing opioid misuse. She emphasized their unwavering dedication to safeguarding public health and guaranteeing the security of all regulated items within Ghana.
GNA
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oleh admin | Apr 14, 2025 | dental care, dentistry, diet and nutrition, health, teeth
By Elizabeth Larkwor Baah
On April 11, GNA reported from Tema that Dr. Kakra Bonsu Appiah, who leads the Dental and Oral Surgery Department at Tema General Hospital, stated that tooth decay is now the prevalent oral issue among Tema’s inhabitants.
Dr. Appiah mentioned that they’ve seen an increase in patients experiencing cavities, toothaches, and various issues related to inadequate dental care.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, he stated that tooth decay occurs when the tooth’s structure breaks down because of acids generated by mouth bacteria. These microorganisms flourish on sugar-rich foods and inadequate brushing routines, highlighting the importance of maintaining proper dental care to avoid this condition.
“The primary reason for tooth decay is inadequate oral care. Upon examining the development of dental caries, one can see that bad oral habits are the main factor behind them; this involves allowing food particles to remain between the teeth,” he explained.
Dr. Appiah pointed out that numerous cases seen at the hospital might have been prevented with consistent brushing, a healthy diet, and routine dental exams. She highlighted that keeping up your oral hygiene isn’t solely about achieving sparkling teeth; it’s fundamentally important for your general health as well.
He recommended that residents should scrub their teeth at minimum two times each day using fluoride-based toothpaste, use dental floss frequently to clear out bits of food stuck between teeth, cut down on sweet treats and beverages, along with scheduling visits to the dentist biannually.
The dentist likewise voiced worry that individuals only went to the hospital once the discomfort had become intolerable, encouraging Ghanaians to make regular dental visits to avoid crises.
Dr. Appiah additionally urged parents to teach their children proper dental care habits at a young age and to cut down on consuming sweets.
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oleh admin | Apr 14, 2025 | diet and nutrition, health, health advice, health tips, healthy living
Individuals with diabetes ought to restrict their consumption of brown rice to about 100 grams per meal, pairing it with items rich in fiber and protein.
For individuals with diabetes, brown rice is preferable over white rice because of its lower Glycemic Index (GI). This characteristic aids in avoiding sharp increases in blood glucose. Nonetheless, it’s crucial to eat it in limited quantities, accompanied by dishes high in fiber and protein, and participate in some gentle exercise post-meals to keep your blood sugar stable.
Dr. Tran Thi Tra Phuong from the Department of Dietary Management at Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi explains that brown rice has a lower glycemic index (under 55 versus 76 for white rice). This means it gets digested more slowly, aiding in stable blood glucose levels. Additionally, brown rice includes bran and germ, rich sources of fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and proteins essential for decreasing inflammation, enhancing insulin response, and promoting general well-being.
Adding brown rice to your meals can enhance feelings of fullness, aid in managing body weight, improve cholesterol profiles, and lower the chances of developing heart disease and certain cancers. Furthermore, the B vitamins found in brown rice assist in generating red blood cells and boosting metabolic processes for energy.
|
|
|
A serving of brown rice accompanied by various side dishes. Stock image courtesy of Unsplash.
|
Advice from Dr. Phuong regarding brown rice intake for individuals with diabetes:
1. Opt for unpolished brown rice over white varieties.
2. Monitor portion sizes carefully as even healthy grains can affect blood sugar levels.
3. Incorporate into meals balanced with vegetables and lean proteins.
4. Cook properly to enhance digestibility without compromising nutritional value.
5. Consume mindfully considering individual responses and glycemic index sensitivity.
1. Select low glycemic index rice
There are several varieties of brown rice, including those with
lower GI
Choose brown rice with its bran layer intact for increased fiber and vitamin content, since refined varieties offer fewer nutrients.
2. Control the amount
Although brown rice is beneficial for individuals with diabetes due to its nutritional profile, it remains a type of carbohydrate that can elevate blood glucose levels when consumed excessively. Diabetic patients ought to restrict their daily carbohydrate consumption to approximately 55% of their total caloric intake.
The acceptable quantity of brown rice can differ depending on one’s activity levels, bodyweight, and personal tolerance for carbs; therefore, it’s crucial to seek advice from a healthcare provider or dietitian.
3. Blend with other healthy food options
Steer clear of serving brown rice with sugary or refined starch dishes. Opt instead for combining it with veggies.
fresh fruits
Include legumes and lean proteins to aid in balancing nutrition and slowing down sugar absorption.
The American Diabetes Association suggests using a proportional approach for meals: fill 25% of your plate with foods like brown rice or other carbohydrates, allocate 50% for non-starchy vegetables, and dedicate another 25% to lean proteins.
4. Proper preparation
The glycemic index of brown rice is influenced by different cooking techniques. High-heat exposure causes the starch within brown rice to break down into a gelled state, which may elevate its glycemic index. To maintain a lower glycemic index, steaming is recommended as the optimal method; however, boiling or using either a pressure cooker or a rice cooker still aids in keeping the GI relatively low.
Stay away from frying or stir-frying brown rice since doing so adds extra oils and sugars, making it less healthy.
5. Avoid frequent consumption
Brown rice includes phytic acid or phytates, potentially hindering the absorption of minerals such as calcium, iron, and zinc. Individuals managing diabetes ought to vary their intake of brown rice with alternatives like potatoes, oats, quinoa, or legumes to ensure a well-rounded diet.
6. Regularly check your blood glucose levels
Every person responds uniquely to brown rice, hence it’s crucial to keep an eye on
blood sugar levels
Following meals, if your blood glucose increases considerably, modify the serving sizes or alter how you prepare the food.
Dr. Phuong additionally points out that the substantial fiber content in brown rice could lead to gastrointestinal problems for individuals with preexisting digestive conditions, indigestion, or those recovering from recent digestive surgeries. Continual assessment and modification of dietary habits are essential for sustaining good health.
