Author: yosua kodjovi Domedjui

Researchers have identified a molecule that could pave the way for new treatments for Angelman syndrome, a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in the UBE3A gene. This discovery offers hope for managing a condition that currently has no known cure. Angelman syndrome arises from a unique genetic anomaly where the UBE3A gene inherited from the father is dormant in the neurons of affected children, while the maternal copy is absent. This rare condition affects about 1 in 15,000 individuals in France and manifests early in life, often within the first few months. The disorder presents a range of symptoms,…

The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS), South Africa’s key government diagnostic pathology organization, is grappling with a severe disruption following a ransomware attack that has destroyed backups and continues to impact operations. This cyberattack, which exploited vulnerabilities in NHLS infrastructure, has caused significant delays in laboratory testing at public health facilities. Despite all laboratories currently operating at full capacity and handling clinical samples, doctors are unable to access test results online. While reassuring the public that no patient data had been exposed, the NHLS stated that it would take a few weeks to retrieve the damaged data. The delays in…

A recent report highlights a worrying trend in global health, with 1.8 billion adults worldwide, or nearly a third of all adults, not engaging in the recommended amounts of physical activity in 2022. This represents an alarming increase of about 5 percentage points since 2010, indicating that adults are becoming less physically active over time. The global aim of eliminating physical inactivity by 2030 is currently far from being met. If the current trend persists, the degree of inactivity is expected to rise even further to 35% by that time. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that individuals engage in…

Santé Publique France has issued a warning regarding the resurgence of the Hyalomma marginatum tick, also known as the “giant tick,” in Corsica and southern France. This development has raised concerns among health officials and the public due to the tick’s association with the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) virus. In 2023, the CCHF virus was first discovered in France, examined on cattle ticks from the French Pyrénées-Orientales region. Although no human cases have been reported in France thus far, the potential for transmission remains a significant concern. Thirteen people have died from the virus in Spain, underscoring the potential severity…

American psychologist Mark Travers explains the gut-brain connection and lists three dietary categories that should be followed as much as possible to improve mental health in a piece that was published in Psychology Today. What we put on our daily plates has a direct impact on our mental health. To grasp this, we need to imagine a dialogue between our intestine, or more precisely our digestive tract, and our brain, or more precisely our central nervous system. According to American researcher Mark Travers, this exchange affects “mood, cognitive functions and even mental health disorders.” Travers’ article was published on June…

Regular physical exercise is not just beneficial for maintaining fitness and strength; it also plays an important role in improving various health conditions. From cardiovascular diseases to mental health disorders, incorporating exercise into daily routines can have profound positive effects on overall well-being. Firstly, exercise is essential for maintaining a healthy heart and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Aerobic activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, and swimming help strengthen the heart muscle, improve circulation, and lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, regular exercise can help prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries, reducing the risk of heart…

Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a prevalent and potentially life-threatening disease. However, there are several proactive steps individuals can take to reduce their risk of developing this type of cancer. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits and participating in recommended screening programs, individuals can significantly lower their chances of developing bowel cancer. Firstly, maintaining a healthy diet plays a crucial role in preventing bowel cancer. Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can provide essential nutrients and antioxidants that help protect against cancerous growths in the bowel. Conversely, diets high in processed meats,…

Maintaining brain health is very important for sustaining cognitive function, mental clarity, and overall well-being throughout life. By integrating a variety of strategies into daily life, individuals can promote a sharp and active mind well into old age. 1. Nutritious Diet: A balanced and nutritious diet plays a pivotal role in brain health. Consuming a diverse range of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats provides essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. Research indicates that diets rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids are linked to a reduced risk of age-related cognitive decline…

In a bid to fortify healthcare partnerships between China and West Africa, the eagerly anticipated 2024 HCOWA China West Africa Medical Industry Investment and Development Summit and West African Medical Industry Expo are poised to kick off in Accra, Ghana, from August 26th to August 28th, 2024. With the Accra International Conference Centre serving as the venue, the summit aims to convene a diverse array of stakeholders, including government officials, medical industry leaders, and representatives from both China and West Africa. The event seeks to foster collaboration and explore opportunities for mutual growth and development in the medical sector. Themed…

Plant-based diets have gained significant attention in recent years due to their numerous health benefits. These diets primarily consist of foods derived from plants, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes, while minimizing or excluding animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs. Research indicates that adopting a plant-based diet can have profound positive effects on overall health. One of the key benefits of a plant-based diet is its potential to reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Numerous studies have shown that individuals who follow plant-based diets have lower rates of conditions such as heart disease, hypertension, type 2…