Author: Pavel Chamabe

WHO Reports over 800 Deaths from Suspected Smallpox Cases in Africa The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported approximately 30,000 suspected cases of smallpox and over 800 deaths in Africa since the beginning of 2024. This escalating number indicates a concerning trend, highlighting the extent of the outbreak on the continent. The majority of these cases have been identified in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, leading to a shortage of medical supplies, including testing kits, which has further complicated the situation. During this period, over 800 individuals have died from the smallpox infections across Africa, according to the latest…

An inguinal hernia is a hole in the abdominal muscle wall at the groin level. It is one of the most common types of hernias, especially among men. According to Dr. Stéphane Servajean, a specialist in obesity surgery, this condition requires surgical intervention for proper treatment. Understanding Inguinal Hernia The hole in the abdominal muscle wall allows the peritoneum, which surrounds the intestines, to protrude through the opening. Sometimes, a portion of the intestines can also pass through and become “strangled” within the hole, leading to severe complications if left untreated. Surgical Treatment According to Dr. Stéphane, the treatment for…

Regular health checks play a crucial role in maintaining overall well-being and detecting potential health issues early. Here’s why they are important: Firstly, health checks serve as preventive measures, identifying risk factors before they develop into serious conditions. Routine screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood glucose help in early detection of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes, allowing for timely intervention and lifestyle modifications to prevent complications. Secondly, health checks enable early detection of diseases when they are most treatable. Screening tests such as mammograms for breast cancer, Pap smears for cervical cancer, and colonoscopies for colorectal cancer can detect…

Obesity is a medical condition characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat, posing a serious health risk. It is defined by a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more. Today, obesity is recognized as one of the most urgent public health challenges globally, affecting millions of people of all ages and backgrounds. Causes of Obesity The causes of obesity are multiple and complex. They include genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors. Genetic predisposition plays an important role, influencing metabolism and how the body stores fat. The modern environment, with easy access to calorie-dense, nutrient-poor foods, and a sedentary lifestyle,…

It is commonly asserted that swallowed chewing gum sticks to the stomach lining, but this popular belief does not stand up to scientific scrutiny, as explained by Dr. Jean-Christophe Saurin, a gastroenterologist in Lyon. According to Dr. Saurin, “Chewing gum does not stick to the stomach lining. It gets mixed with the food bolus and will be naturally evacuated.” This statement dispels any potential concerns regarding the effects of swallowed chewing gum. However, it is recommended not to make a habit of swallowing them. “Still, avoid swallowing your chewing gum; it’s not meant for that!” he cautions. Chewing gums are…

Preparing for a medical appointment can ensure that you make the most of your time with your healthcare provider. Here are some steps to help you get ready: 1. Know the Purpose of Your Visit: Understand why you are seeing the doctor. Whether it’s a routine check-up, a follow-up, or a consultation for a specific issue, having a clear purpose helps you focus on the main concerns. 2. Gather Medical Information: Compile a list of your current medications, including dosages. Note any supplements or over-the-counter drugs you take. Have a summary of your medical history, including past surgeries, chronic conditions,…

The French National Agency for Food Safety (ANSES) has issued a warning about the serious health risks associated with food supplements used by athletes to build muscle or burn fat. Between 2016 and February 2024, 154 new cases of adverse reactions were reported, bringing the total to over 200. Among these, two deaths occurred, and four individuals faced life-threatening conditions. Unlike medicines, food supplements do not require marketing authorization, leading to a proliferation of online sales sites. Major retailers are also entering this lucrative market. Traditionally popular among bodybuilders, the use of these supplements is spreading to sports where high…

According to a thorough investigation into the possible health impacts of radio waves, brain cancer is unrelated to cell phone use. The scientific journal Environment International released an investigation that was commissioned by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in that regard.Due to their frequent usage near the head and their emission of non-ionizing radio waves, mobile phones have raised worries about the possibility that they might induce brain cancer. This has been a long-standing issue, particularly in light of the widespread use of wireless technology and cell phones in daily life. Therefore, it is imperative that research keeps evaluating how…

Valérie da Silveira has been an expert in hair treatment for twenty years. She spends her days braiding, straightening, combing, and styling hair at her salon, hidden at the end of a dusty lane in Togo’s capital, Lomé. But in the last 12 months, this 42-year-old woman has learned a new talent: supporting lost and confused people. Surrounded by bottles of nail paint, shampoo, and hair extensions, she encourages her clients to speak out when she notices them showing signs of suffering. Valérie attempts to console them, listens intently, and provides guidance. “At first, when some of them talked about…

The spread of the virus continues to expand. After Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, these countries have also reported several cases of mpox, also known as “monkeypox.” In 2024, more than 15,000 cases and 461 deaths have been recorded across twelve African countries, according to the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC Africa). This epidemic surge may be linked to the emergence of a more lethal strain of the virus in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), located in the heart of Africa. In response to this concerning situation, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the…