HEALTHY LIVING

First New HIV Vaccine Trial Begins In Africa

Published

7 years ago

December 3, 2016

• ‘78m infected with virus, 35 died from AIDS-related illnesses’
• WHO to launch new guidelines on self-testing
• Nigeria accounts for 25% of new infections among kids

Ahead of the World AIDS Day 2016 on Thursday, scientists have launched the first Human Immuno-deficiency Virus (HIV) vaccine efficacy study anywhere, for over seven years, in South Africa.

According to the United States National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), the study, called HVTN 702, is to test whether an experimental vaccine regimen safely prevents infection among South African adults. It involves a new version of the only HIV vaccine candidate ever shown to provide some protection against the virus.

Also, the Executive Director of Joint United Nations Programme on AIDS (UNAIDS), Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations, Michel Sidibé, in his message yesterday said: “Today, we commemorate World AIDS Day—we stand in solidarity with the 78 million people who have become infected with HIV and remember the 35 million who have died from AIDS-related illnesses since the first cases of HIV were reported.

“The world has committed to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals. We are seeing that countries are getting on the Fast-Track—more than 18 million people are on life-saving HIV treatment and country after country is on track to virtually eliminate HIV transmission from mother to child.”

HVTN 702 aims to enroll 5,400 men and women, making it the largest and most advanced HIV vaccine clinical trial to take place in South Africa, where more than 1,000 people become infected with HIV every day.

According to NIAID, the experimental vaccine regimen being tested in HVTN 702 is based on the one investigated in the RV144 clinical trial in Thailand led by the United States (U.S.) Military HIV Research Programme and the Thai Ministry of Health.

The Thai trial delivered landmark results in 2009 when it found for the first time that a vaccine could prevent HIV infection, albeit modestly. The new regimen aims to provide greater and more sustained protection than the RV144 regimen and has been adapted to the HIV subtype that predominates in southern Africa, a region that includes the country of South Africa.

The experimental vaccine regimen tested in the Thai trial was found to be 31.2 percent effective at preventing HIV infection over the 3.5-year follow-up after vaccination. In the HVTN 702 study, the design, schedule and components of the RV144 vaccine regimen have been modified in an attempt to increase the magnitude and duration of vaccine-elicited protective immune responses.

Also, to mark World AIDS Day 2016, on Thursday, December 1, the World Health Organisation (WHO) will launch new guidelines on HIV self-testing to encourage countries to promote self-testing and empower more people to test for HIV.

WHO is also launching a new progress report “Prevent HIV: test and treat all – WHO action for country impact”. The report shows that more than 18 million people living with HIV have access to HIV treatment, but many more lack HIV diagnosis and consequently are missing out on treatment.

Meanwhile, Nigeria accounts for more than a quarter of all new HIV infections among children globally and only half of pregnant women living with virus are tested for the disease.

Source

HEALTHY LIVING

What Happens When You Don’t Deworm Your Intestines Often?

Published

5 days ago

April 14, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

See What Happens When You Don’t Deworm Often | Fab.ng

When you neglect to deworm regularly, you leave yourself vulnerable to a variety of health problems caused by intestinal worms. These parasitic creatures take up residence in your gut, feeding off the nutrients you consume. This can lead to a cascade of negative effects on your body, especially if left untreated.

1. Malnutrition

Intestinal worms are essentially thieves. They steal vital nutrients from the food you eat, making it difficult for your body to absorb essential vitamins and minerals. This can lead to malnutrition, particularly in children. Malnourished children are more susceptible to illness, have lower energy levels, and may experience stunted growth and development.

2. Anaemia

Certain types of worms, like hookworms, are notorious for feeding on your blood. This can lead to iron deficiency anaemia, a condition where your red blood cells don’t have enough iron to carry oxygen effectively throughout your body. Symptoms of anaemia include fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, dizziness, and pale skin.

3. Digestive Issues

The presence of worms in your intestines can irritate the lining, causing a range of uncomfortable digestive problems. You might experience abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhoea, and even nausea and vomiting. In severe cases, heavy worm infestations can even lead to blockages in the intestines, requiring medical intervention.

4. Weakened Immune System

Chronic worm infections can take a toll on your body’s natural defences. When your immune system is busy fighting off worms, it has less capacity to fight off other illnesses and infections. This can make you more susceptible to other diseases and slow down your recovery time from illnesses you do contract.

5. Long-Term Health Risks

Left untreated, worm infections can lead to more serious health complications down the line. In children, chronic worm infections can hinder their physical and cognitive development. In adults, long-term worm burdens can increase the risk of malnutrition, organ damage, and even death in extreme cases.

If you suspect you or someone you know might have a worm infection, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment with medication prescribed by a healthcare professional can help prevent serious complications and ensure a full recovery. Remember, deworming is a preventative measure that can save you a lot of trouble down the line.

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HEALTHY LIVING

See 4 Reasons Men Prefer To Suffer In Silence

Published

6 days ago

April 13, 2024

Adaeze Okechi

See Reasons Men Prefer To Suffer In Silence | Fab.ng

Society often sends mixed messages about masculinity. On the one hand, emotions are a fundamental part of the human experience, something everyone shares. Yet, there’s a strange rule book for men when it comes to expressing their feelings. Phrases like “man up” and “don’t cry” become ingrained from a young age, creating a pressure cooker situation. This makes men suffer in silence.

Men are expected to be these emotionless superheroes, bottling things up to avoid being seen as weak. But this bottled-up approach can have serious consequences for men’s mental and emotional well-being.

Here’s a deeper dive into why men might feel pressure to suppress their emotions and suffer in silence:

1. The Myth of Mr. Invincible

Society has constructed a myth of masculinity that revolves around stoicism and emotional detachment. Showing vulnerability or admitting to struggles is seen as a sign of weakness.

This narrative creates a double bind for men. They’re expected to be these invincible protectors and providers, yet they’re expected to do it all without a single crack in the armour.

This emotional repression can lead to a sense of isolation and loneliness, as men may feel unable to connect with others on a deeper level.

2. The Lone Wolf blues

Traditionally, men have been expected to be self-sufficient problem-solvers. The “lone wolf” image is often glorified, portraying men who handle everything on their own as the epitome of strength.

Asking for help is seen as a weakness, pushing men further into isolation when they might really need support. This can prevent men from seeking help for mental health issues, which are just as common in men as they are in women.

3. Macho Misconceptions

Our narrow view of masculinity only allows for a limited range of emotions. It’s okay to be aggressive and competitive, but showing compassion or vulnerability? Not so much. This skewed perception not only limits men’s emotional vocabulary but can also lead to feelings of shame or confusion.

Men might experience a range of emotions but feel pressured to suppress anything that doesn’t fit the narrow definition of “manly.” This can be incredibly damaging to their emotional well-being.

4. The Cycle of Silence

The less men talk about their struggles, the more alone they feel. It’s a vicious cycle where men enforce these impossible standards on each other while also suffering under them.

Seeing other men bottle up their emotions reinforces the idea that this is the only acceptable way to behave. This silence makes it difficult for men to seek help or connect with others on a deeper level.

Breaking free from this silence requires a big cultural shift. We need to redefine strength to include the courage to be vulnerable and seek help when you need it. It’s about changing the conversation, one at a time, and creating a space where men feel comfortable opening up without fear.

True strength lies not in silence but in the courage to be honest about your feelings and connect with others. It won’t happen overnight, but acknowledging the problem is the first step. By understanding and challenging these ideas, we can build a healthier society where men are encouraged to express their full range of emotions.

This not only benefits men but strengthens the social fabric as a whole, fostering stronger connections and a more supportive environment for everyone.

Check here for more.

HEALTHY LIVING

Toothpaste Vs Dental Powder: Which Is Better?

Published

1 month ago

March 18, 2024

Ihuoma Okechukwu

Toothpaste Vs Dental Powder: Which Is Better? | Fab.ng

Brushing your teeth is super important, but have you ever wondered which cleaning product is best? When it comes to oral hygiene, there are various products available on the market that aim to keep our teeth clean and healthy. However, picking the right cleaning product can be confusing. Two common choices are toothpaste and dental powder. Both products serve the same purpose: to clean teeth and prevent cavities and gum disease. But which is better? Let’s explore the good and not-so-good sides of each to help you pick your perfect match!

Toothpaste Verses Dental Powder

Brushing with toothpaste is a worldwide habit for a reason! This handy paste is packed with cleaning power to fight plaque and food stuck in your teeth. It also contains a superhero ingredient called fluoride, which strengthens your teeth and shields them from cavities. Some kinds of toothpaste contain ingredients that help prevent tartar buildup. Tartar is that hard, crusty stuff that can form on your teeth and irritate your gums.

Toothpaste is available in a wide variety of flavors and formulations, catering to different needs and preferences. It is super convenient! It’s easy to use, found in almost every store, and comes in handy tubes that fit perfectly in your bathroom or travel bag.

Dental powder is a less common but equally effective alternative to toothpaste. This lesser-known choice packs a punch just like toothpaste, cleaning your teeth with similar scrubbing power and cavity-fighting fluoride. But here’s the good news: dental powder is often free of artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, making it a more natural option for those concerned about the chemicals found in many toothpaste formulations.

Not only is it potentially better for you, but it’s also kinder to the planet! Dental powder often comes in recyclable packaging, ditching the plastic tubes of toothpaste. Plus, it avoids those tiny plastic microbeads that can harm the environment. And listen up, coffee and wine lovers! Some people swear dental powder works wonders on stains and plaque, leaving your teeth whiter and cleaner than ever.

Benefits and disadvantages of toothpaste and dental powder.

Toothpaste

The 11 best toothpastes in 2024, according to dentists

Brushing your teeth is a breeze with toothpaste! It’s super easy to use, making those pearly whites sparkle in no time. Plus, it comes in all sorts of fun flavors, from yummy mint to fruity delights.

It is an essential component of a daily oral hygiene routine that helps remove plaque and prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Toothpaste contains fluoride, which helps to prevent cavities and keep your teeth strong and healthy. Fluoride is a natural mineral that strengthens tooth enamel and makes it more resistant to decay. It also helps to remineralize weakened tooth enamel and reverse early signs of tooth decay. Plus, it’s small and portable, fitting easily in your bathroom cabinet or travel bag.

However, some toothpaste formulations may contain artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, which can be harmful to your health. These ingredients may cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, or other adverse effects in some people. Toothpaste can be expensive, especially if you use it regularly. Some people may also experience sensitivity or irritation when using certain toothpaste formulations, which can be uncomfortable and unpleasant. This is usually due to the presence of certain ingredients, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, which can cause dryness and irritation of the mouth and gums.

Dental Powder

What Is The History Of Oral Care? – Cirocco Dental Center

Dental powder is made from natural ingredients and is eco-friendly, making it a great choice for those who are conscious of the environmental impact of their dental care routine. One of the main benefits of dental powder is that it does not contain any artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives, which makes it a healthier option for your teeth and gums. Many dental powders also have natural abrasive properties that can help remove surface stains and plaque without damaging the enamel, which is especially beneficial for those who struggle with dental hygiene.

Another advantage of dental powder is that it is more cost-effective in the long run. While toothpaste tubes need to be replaced every few weeks, a small jar of dental powder can last for months. However, there are some disadvantages to using dental powder.

One of the biggest drawbacks is that it is less convenient to use compared to toothpaste. It may not contain fluoride, which is important for preventing cavities. Fluoride is a mineral that helps to strengthen and protect your teeth, and it is found in most toothpaste brands. However, not all dental powders contain fluoride. Lastly, dental powder can be harder to find as conveniently as toothpaste, as it is still relatively gaining widespread traction on the market.

Which is better?

So, which is better in the long run—toothpaste or dental powder? The choice between toothpaste and dental powder is a common dilemma that many people face. But it all depends on what you want. If convenience and accessibility are your top priorities, then toothpaste is likely the better option for you. It is widely available, easy to use, and comes in a variety of flavors and formulations to suit different needs. Toothpaste also contains fluoride, which is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and preventing cavities.

However, if you are concerned about the chemicals in many toothpaste formulations and want a more natural and eco-friendly alternative, dental powder may be a better choice. Dental powders are made with natural ingredients like baking soda, clay, and essential oils and are free of harsh chemicals like sodium lauryl sulfate and triclosan. They are also more environmentally friendly than regular toothpaste.

Dental powder may be the preferred option if you are looking for a more cost-effective solution that can remove stains and plaque. They are often less expensive than toothpaste and can last longer. You only need a small amount to get the job done.

So, which one wins? There’s no loser here. Toothpaste offers convenience and cavity protection, while dental powder goes natural and is easy on your wallet. The best choice depends on what matters most to you. Just remember, a healthy smile is a happy smile, no matter which product helps you achieve it.

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