Skin Bleaching What is skin bleaching? Skin bleaching is the practice of using products to lighten dark areas of the skin or achieve a lighter overall complexion. These products include creams, soaps, pills, and medical treatments like chemical peels and laser therapy. The process works by reducing the production of melanin, the pigment that gives…
Sickle Cell Anaemia What is sickle cell anaemia? Sickle cell anaemia is a blood condition that mostly affects people of African descent. It is inherited from parents and changes the shape of red blood cells from round and flexible to a stiff, crescent or banana shape. These abnormally shaped cells can block blood flow, causing…
Seizure What is a seizure? A seizure is a sudden change in movement or awareness caused by unusual electrical activity in the brain. This can lead to jerky body movements, loss of control, strange sensations, or even a momentary blank stare. In simple terms, the brain sends and receives electrical signals to control everything we…
Rheumatism What is rheumatism? In many African homes, you may hear older people complaining about “rheumatism,” describing pain in their joints and muscles. But what exactly is rheumatism? Rheumatism is a general term used to describe conditions that cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints and muscles. One of the most serious forms of…
Rabies What is rabies? Rabies is a deadly disease that affects the brain and nerves. It is caused by a virus that is mainly found in dogs but can spread to humans through bites, scratches, or even licks on broken skin. Once a person starts showing symptoms, rabies is almost always fatal. In Africa, rabies…
Onchocerciasis What is onchocerciasis (river blindness)? Onchocerciasis, commonly known as river blindness, is a serious disease that affects the skin and eyes. It is caused by a parasitic worm called Onchocerca volvulus, which is spread to humans through the bites of infected blackflies. These blackflies breed in fastflowing rivers and streams, which is why the…
Nosebleed Introduction: Understanding nosebleeds in Africa? Have you ever experienced a sudden flow of blood from your nose, maybe while walking in the hot sun or during the dry season? Nosebleeds are a common issue, especially in Africa, where the weather can be extremely dry, particularly during the harmattan season. Many people panic when they…
Mumps What is mumps? Mumps is an infectious disease that spreads from person to person through saliva, nasal fluids, and close contact. It mainly affects the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands, which are responsible for producing saliva. These glands are located behind and below your ears. In many African communities, mumps is commonly referred…
Meningitis What is meningitis? Meningitis is a serious infection that causes swelling in the protective layers (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is commonly caused by bacteria and viruses, though fungi and other conditions can also be responsible. Some types of meningitis can spread through coughing, sneezing, and close contact with infected individuals….
Lice What are lice? Lice are tiny parasites that attach themselves to human hair and feed on blood from the scalp. They can be a nuisance but are not dangerous if treated properly. There are three main types of lice: Lice are about the size of a sesame seed, making them hard to see. They…