Allergies What are allergies? Allergies are when your body reacts to things that are usually harmless, like certain foods, dust, or pollen. Your body’s defense system (immune system) mistakes these substances (called allergens) as dangerous and fights back, causing sneezing, itching, or swelling. Some allergies can be life-threatening if not treated. How common are allergies…
Albinism What is albinism? Albinism is a genetic condition that affects a person’s skin, hair, and eye color due to little or no melanin (skin pigment). It also affects vision. In Ghana, it is estimated that between 1,800 and 5,400 people have albinism. Across Africa, albinism is more common than in other parts of the…
Acne What is acne? Have you ever had stubborn pimples that just won’t go away? Acne, commonly called pimples or spots, is a skin condition that happens when tiny holes in the skin (pores) get blocked by oil, dead skin, or bacteria. It often appears on the face, chest, back, and shoulders—places that produce more…
Abdominal Pain Abdominal Pain: A simple guide for everyday Africans Introduction: Why this matters to you Almost everyone has experienced stomach pain at some point, but did you know that abdominal pain is one of the most common reasons people visit hospitals across Africa? Studies show that about 30% of people visiting hospitals in African…
Lung Cancer What is lung cancer? Lung cancer is one of the deadliest types of cancer worldwide, including in Africa. It starts in the lungs and can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. The good news is that early diagnosis and treatment can save lives. In Africa, the number of…
Leg Pain What is leg pain? Leg pain is common and can range from a mild discomfort to severe pain that makes it hard to walk or move. Sometimes, it is just tiredness or a minor injury, but in other cases, it can be a sign of a serious health condition that needs medical attention….
Kidney Stones What Are kidney stones? Imagine tiny rocks forming inside your body, this is what happens when you have kidney stones. These stones are solid masses made of minerals and salts that develop in the kidneys and can travel through the urinary tract. Kidney stones are not just a western problem; they are becoming…
Kidney Problems Kidney Problems How common are kidney problems in Africa? Kidney disease is becoming a major health crisis in Africa. According to health experts, over 15% of Africans suffer from some form of kidney disease, and many do not even know they have it. In Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa, kidney failure cases are…
Indigestion What is indigestion? Indigestion is a common problem many people experience after eating. It is the discomfort or pain in the upper belly, often felt after meals. In medical terms, indigestion is called dyspepsia. It can make you feel full too quickly, cause bloating, or even lead to nausea. In Africa, where food is…
Hepatitis Introduction: Why should you care about hepatitis? Hepatitis is a silent but serious disease that affects the liver. Many people in Africa suffer from it without even knowing. According to the world health organization (WHO), about 91 million people in Africa are living with hepatitis B or C, and many don’t get treatment until…