Dec 29, 2024 | Healthy Tips
Dear ROHSI Community,
As we embark on a new year, let’s prioritise our health. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol are often called “silent killers” because they can develop without noticeable symptoms.
In 2025, we want us all to see the reason why adopting healthy living matters:
Going for early medical screening/detection saves lives: You going for your regular medical checkups is crucial for early detection and management of NCDs, especially hypertension, diabetes, and others.
It helps in adopting preventative measures! Adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce your risk of developing or worsening these conditions.
Improved Quality of Life! Healthy habits lead to increased energy levels, better sleep, and an overall improved quality of life.
What are the steps to a healthier 2025?
Healthy eating! Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive salt intake.
Regular Exercise! Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week. You can start with 30 minutes and, with time, increase it to more minutes.
Maintain a Healthy Weight! If you are overweight or obese, consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice on weight management.
Manage your stress! Practicing stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature, or taking your mind off those activities that can lead to stress, will go a long way in making you healthy.
Regular Checkups! Seat with your medical team, schedule, and attend regular medical checkups, including blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol screenings, among other recommended tests. All towards your wellness
Remember this! Making small, sustainable changes to your lifestyle can have a significant impact on your overall health, and consulting with a healthcare professional for personalised advice and support will go a long way in some of the avoidable health crises that can threaten our health and wellness as we age.
Lastly, always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions regarding your health.
Let’s make 2025 a year of prioritising our health and well-being.
Sincerely,
The ROHSI Management Team
Oct 6, 2024 | Healthy Tips
Every October, World Cerebral Palsy Day unites communities around the globe to raise awareness and promote inclusivity for individuals living with cerebral palsy (CP). This annual event provides an opportunity to shine a light on the challenges faced by those with CP while celebrating their achievements and potential. At cerebralpalsyguidance.com, we are committed to offering resources and support to individuals with cerebral palsy and their families. This article explores the significance of World Cerebral Palsy Day, available support, and how we can all contribute to a more inclusive society.
Understanding Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and posture. It is the most common motor disability in childhood, resulting from abnormal brain development or damage. The effects vary widely among individuals, with some managing to walk independently while others rely on wheelchairs or other assistive devices.
The Significance of World Cerebral Palsy Day
Observed on October 6th, World Cerebral Palsy Day serves as a platform to amplify the voices of individuals with CP and advocate for their rights. The day encourages participation in activities that promote awareness and inclusion, ranging from sharing personal stories to organizing community events. Learn more about global initiatives at the World CP Day official site.
Raising Awareness and Education
Awareness is crucial for fostering understanding and support for individuals with CP. Educating the public can dispel myths and reduce stigma, creating a more inclusive environment. Schools, workplaces, and communities can implement awareness programs to ensure everyone is informed about the challenges and capabilities of individuals with CP. Discover educational resources at Cerebral Palsy Alliance.
Cerebral Palsy and Diabetes
A critical aspect of cerebral palsy is its association with other health conditions, such as diabetes. Studies indicate an increased risk of diabetes in individuals with CP, partly due to reduced mobility and obesity. Furthermore, maternal diabetes has been linked to a higher risk of CP in infants, highlighting the importance of managing diabetes during pregnancy. For more on this connection, visit the Mayo Clinic’s guidance on diabetes and pregnancy.
Support and Resources
Support extends beyond awareness, encompassing access to therapy, educational support, and financial assistance. Therapies like physical, occupational, and speech therapy are vital for skill development and mobility maintenance. Educational support through individualized education programs (IEPs) ensures that children with CP receive tailored learning experiences. Financial assistance is available to help cover medical care, therapy, and adaptive equipment costs. Explore financial assistance options.
Technological Advancements
Innovations in technology have opened new avenues for supporting individuals with CP. Assistive technologies, such as communication devices and adaptive equipment, enhance independence and quality of life. For the latest in assistive technology, visit AbleData’s assistive technology resources.
Community and Advocacy
Building a supportive community is essential for empowering individuals with CP. Advocacy groups and online communities offer platforms for sharing experiences and influencing policy changes. Joining advocacy groups can promote better inclusion and accessibility in society. Check out Cerebral Palsy Foundation’s advocacy efforts.
Celebrating Achievements
World Cerebral Palsy Day is also a time to celebrate the achievements of people with CP. Stories of success and determination inspire others and challenge societal perceptions. Highlighting these achievements honors their hard work and motivates others to pursue their dreams. For inspiring stories, visit Cerebral Palsy News Today’s success stories.
How You Can Get Involved
There are numerous ways to participate in World Cerebral Palsy Day. Whether through volunteering, fundraising, or spreading awareness, your involvement can make a difference. Volunteering at local events or supporting organizations dedicated to CP can amplify their efforts. To find volunteering opportunities, visit VolunteerMatch.
Conclusion
World Cerebral Palsy Day is more than a day of recognition; it’s a call to action for all of us to contribute to a more inclusive and understanding world. By raising awareness, supporting advocacy, and providing resources, we can help those with cerebral palsy lead fulfilling lives. Let us all celebrate this day by embracing diversity and empowering those with cerebral palsy to reach their full potential.
https://www.cerebralpalsyguidance.com/
Apr 13, 2024 | Healthy Tips
Blood sugar, also known as blood glucose, is the main sugar our body uses for energy. It comes from the food we eat, especially carbohydrates. After digestion, our body breaks down these carbs into glucose, which enters our bloodstream. Here, a hormone called insulin acts like a key, unlocking the doors of our cells, and allowing glucose in for energy.
However, problems can arise if our blood sugar isn’t well managed. Chronically high blood sugar, often associated with diabetes, can lead to serious health issues. This is where meal planning comes in as a powerful tool.
For ROHSI members living with blood sugar concerns, meal planning can be a powerful tool. It goes beyond just choosing healthy foods; it’s about strategically creating a roadmap for your diet and empowering you to manage your blood sugar effectively.
Meal planning involves strategically choosing and preparing your meals and snacks in advance. Here’s why meal planning is a game-changer:
Stability! Regular, balanced meals keep our blood sugar from spiking or dipping dramatically. Planning ensures we have healthy options readily available, preventing unhealthy choices made in a rush.
Portion Control! Planning meals allows us to measure ingredients (appropriate serving) beforehand, avoiding overeating, a significant factor in blood sugar control.
Nutritional Balance! Planning helps incorporate a variety of nutrient-rich foods. Think lean protein for sustained energy, fibre-rich vegetables for slow digestion, and healthy fats for satiety.
Carb Awareness: You can plan meals with a focus on complex carbohydrates, found in whole grains and vegetables. These release glucose slowly, leading to a more gradual rise in blood sugar compared to refined carbohydrates like white bread or sugary drinks.
Predictability! Following a meal plan establishes a consistent eating pattern. This predictability helps your body anticipate and regulate insulin release, leading to better blood sugar control.
Reduced Stress! Knowing what you’ll eat eliminates decision fatigue and grocery store overwhelm. This translates to less stress, which can also impact blood sugar levels.
We must add the following to our meal planning so as to achieve working blood sugar!
Inventory! We must check our pantry, refrigerator, and freezer. Plan meals around what we already have to minimize waste.
Set Goals! We must consider our preferences and dietary needs. Focus on incorporating more non-starchy vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins.
Plan our meals! We must create a weekly schedule with breakfast, lunch, dinner, and healthy snacks.
Batch Cook! We must try and dedicate time to cooking larger portions of protein or grains that can be used in various meals throughout the week.
Get Creative! Try and explore healthy recipe options online or in cookbooks. Find low-carb alternatives for your favourite dishes.
Remember, meal planning is a journey, not a destination. Be flexible, adjust as needed, and most importantly, celebrate your progress! With consistent meal planning, you’ll gain control of your blood sugar and feel empowered on your path to a healthier you.
Courtesy: Rays of Hope Support Initiative (ROHSI) Dietary Unit
Jan 22, 2024 | Healthy Tips
Friends and ROHSI Community Members, we forget lukewarm resolutions and tired cliches; this year, we’re saying “No Gree for Anybody” when it comes to our health! It’s time to channel that Nigerian warrior spirit into building a fortress of well-being that leaves anything unhealthy shaking in our boots.
First, we must reclaim our power by prioritising preventative care. We must ditch the negativity. Stop letting whispers of “what ifs” and “can’t-dos” drown out the roar of our potential. Swap the “should haves” for the “will dos.” We must ditch the doctor-only-when-desperate mentality. We must adopt regular checkups, screenings, and even simple self-examinations. They must become our weapons against stealthy threats.
Whether it’s monitoring blood pressure or keeping tabs on that nagging mole, early detection is our battle cry in 2024 and beyond.
Next, we must unleash our inner nutrition, Ninja. We must fuel our bodies with rebellion. No gree for sugary treats, processed junk, or emotional eating. Fill our plate with colourful warriors: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and whole grains. Let them be our health-boosting arsenal. Let them fight for our well-being.
Sugar and processed junk? Those are the invaders lurking at the gates, ready to weaken our defenses. Remember, we are what we eat, so choosing wisely is the key this year!
Stress? We should not let it be our landlord. We must find our stressbusters, our peaceful warriors. Meditation, yoga, laughter with loved ones—let us build a fortress of calm around us. We must prioritise sleep, the ultimate health reset button. We must hit the pillow knowing we’ve claimed our day; we must not succumb to its pressures.
Movement is our shield; we must be ready to sweat our battle cry. Embrace activities that set our soul on fire, not just our feet. Dance, swim, cycle, climb—we must find joy in physical expression. Regular exercise tones our body and bolsters our mind, making you and me an unstoppable force against sluggishness and stress.
We must not also forget that the real enemy sometimes lies within. We must tackle our mental well-being with the same tenacity. Prioritise our sleep, embrace mindfulness, and learn to say “no” when our cup is full. This year, self-care is not a luxury; it’s a superpower. We must recharge our batteries for this and be battle-ready.
This year, the ROHSI Team is saying that health isn’t just a goal; it’s a revolution. It’s saying no to limitations and yes to possibilities. It’s about reclaiming our energy, our strength, and our healthy lives. No more tolerating aches, ignoring checkups, or succumbing to unhealthy habits.” So, let us all spread the word and shout it from the rooftops: “No gree for anybody with our health in 2024!”
Health is our birthright, not a privilege. We are claiming it, owning it, and making this year our healthiest yet. ‘No gree for anything less’!
Courtesy: Rays of Hope Support Initiative (ROHSI) Board and Management Team.
Oct 24, 2023 | Healthy Tips
MONITORING BLOOD PRESSURE AT HOME MAKE SURE YOU FOLLOW THESE STEPS.
By Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
Learning how to take accurate at-home measurements can help your doctor diagnose or treat high blood pressure, a common condition that can harm the heart, kidneys, and brain.
When was the last time you had your blood pressure checked? All adults should have this simple test at least once a year.
If a blood pressure reading at your doctor’s office is elevated—that is, higher than a healthy range—current guidelines from the US Preventive Services Task Force recommend repeating the measurement outside of a clinic setting before starting treatment. But that’s not the only reason why your doctor may suggest regularly tracking your blood pressure at home.
Why monitor blood pressure at home?
“Some people have blood pressure elevations only at the doctor’s office, which is known as white-coat hypertension,” says Dr. Stephen Juraschek, associate professor of medicine at Harvard-affiliated Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. One of the best ways to know if your blood pressure is truly higher than normal is to measure it multiple times at home.
Home monitoring is also a good idea.
- if your doctor asks you to track readings to help decide if you need to start taking medication to lower blood pressure.
- If you’ve been diagnosed with high blood pressure and need to adjust your medications to make sure you’re reaching your blood pressure target
- if you’re pregnant or have had a baby in recent months and your health team is concerned about preeclampsia. This condition is a severe form of high blood pressure that can harm vital organs like the kidneys. When not promptly treated, it sometimes leads to seizures, strokes, or even death.
Which home blood pressure monitor should I buy?
- Look for a monitor that’s been validated, which means the device has been independently reviewed for accuracy.
- Avoid monitors that feature cuffs used on the wrist or fingertip. These aren’t as accurate as upper-arm cuffs.
- Choose and use the right size cuff. Measure the circumference of your upper arm midway between your elbow and shoulder. Most home monitor cuffs can accommodate arm circumferences of 9 to 17 inches, but smaller and larger cuffs are available. A too-small cuff can lead to an artificially high reading, while a loose cuff can give a falsely low reading. For example, a 2023 randomised study of automated blood pressure monitors tested a regular-size cuff on adults who needed a different-size cuff. The researchers found systolic blood pressure readings increased by 19.5 mm Hg for participants who should have used an extra-large cuff and by 4.8 mm Hg for participants who should have used a large cuff.
Very basic models cost as little as $25. But more expensive models, which range from about $50 to $100, may be more convenient to use. They can store multiple readings and send the data to your computer or smartphone—or even directly to the patient portal at your doctor’s office.
Three key points about blood pressure readings
Home blood pressure monitoring is a bit more involved than some people assume. “It’s not something you just do sporadically or whenever you have time,” says Dr. Juraschek.
- Blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day, which means one isolated reading doesn’t provide accurate information.
- If you check your blood pressure when you’re upset or stressed, it’s likely to be high. If you take it again right away, you may get another high reading, which feeds a cycle of anxiety and elevated readings, he says.
- Consistent, repeated measurements provide a far more useful assessment than occasional measurements.
How often should you take your blood pressure at home?
Ask your doctor how often and what time of day to take your blood pressure.
“The gold standard for home monitoring is to take 28 separate measurements, which you can then average to get a representative reading,” says Dr. Juraschek.
That means taking your blood pressure four times a day—twice in the morning and twice in the evening—for seven days in a row. However, even 12 measurements over three days is reasonable, especially if you include one weekend day, Dr. Juraschek says. Your doctor can advise you about what makes the most sense for your situation.
How can you get an accurate blood pressure reading?
Common mistakes can raise your blood pressure reading by a few points, or as much as 10 or even up to 25 points in some cases. Here’s what to do or avoid—and why—for an accurate blood pressure reading.
Wait at least 30 minutes after smoking, consuming caffeine or alcohol, or exercising before taking blood pressure.
Why? Caffeine and nicotine constrict blood vessels and boost your heart rate, which can raise blood pressure. Alcohol dilates blood vessels, possibly lowering blood pressure. And exercise increases heart rate and blood pressure.
Empty your bladder.
Why? A full bladder can put pressure on and reduce blood flow to your kidneys. Your body’s natural response is to raise your blood pressure to make sure your kidneys are getting enough blood.
Sit comfortably, supporting your arm near heart height.
Sit back in your chair with your feet flat on the floor, legs and ankles uncrossed, and your arm extended, palm up, on a table so that your elbow is positioned roughly at heart height.
Why? Crossing your legs, especially at the knee, temporarily raises blood pressure. If your feet or your arm are not supported, your muscles will contract. Even this small amount of isometric exercise can raise your blood pressure. Also, supporting your arm below or above the level of your heart may affect the accuracy of the reading.
Wait a few quiet minutes before taking a reading.
First, wrap the proper-size cuff around your bare arm, about an inch above the crook of your elbow. Sit quietly for a few minutes without distractions like TV, reading, phone scrolling, or talking. Then start the machine to take your blood pressure.
Why? Putting the cuff over clothes—or pushing up your sleeve so that it’s tight around your upper arm—may interfere with an accurate reading, though evidence on this is mixed. Ideally, you want to record blood pressure while feeling relaxed, not distracted, because even minor stress or tension can raise your blood pressure.
This video from the American Heart Association demonstrates the correct technique.
Why is diagnosing high blood pressure so important?
Nearly half of all adults have high blood pressure, but about a third of these people aren’t even aware they have the problem. An accurate diagnosis and treatment are vital, says Dr. Juraschek. Few things in medicine have shown such consistent results as the harms of high blood pressure, which is a major cause of heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, and cognitive decline.
“It’s called the silent killer for a reason. We don’t feel or experience any of high blood pressure’s effects until it’s too late,” he says.
Oct 22, 2023 | Healthy Tips
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects how the body turns food into energy. It is a major public health problem in Nigeria, with an estimated prevalence of 10.2% in adults. There are two main types of diabetes: type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that causes your body to attack the cells that produce insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps your body’s cells use glucose for energy. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. It occurs when your body becomes resistant to insulin or doesn’t produce enough insulin.
Pregnant women are particularly at risk of developing diabetes, a condition known as gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy. It usually goes away after the baby is born, but it can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Gestational diabetes can cause complications for both the mother and the baby, including premature birth, high birth weight, and an increased risk of type 2 diabetes in later life, as stated earlier. That is why our present and potential pregnant women must attend antenatal care throughout their pregnant period.
Health advocacy and awareness campaigns can play a vital role in curbing the surge of diabetes among pregnant women in Ibadan and other parts of Nigeria. By educating our women about the risk factors for gestational diabetes and the importance of early detection and treatment, these campaigns can help reduce the prevalence of this condition and its associated complications.
The Role Of Government Through The Health Agencies:
Government health agencies have a key role to play in promoting health advocacy and awareness around gestational diabetes. These agencies can develop and implement educational programs for pregnant women and healthcare providers on the risk factors, symptoms, and prevention of gestational diabetes. They can also provide support for women who are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, including access to screening, monitoring, and treatment services.
The Impact Of International Organizations
International organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) also play an important role in promoting health advocacy and awareness around gestational diabetes. These organizations develop and disseminate global guidelines for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gestational diabetes. They also provide support for national and local health agencies in implementing these guidelines.
How the government and international organizations can work with local nonprofit organizations to reduce the prevalence of gestational diabetes
The government and international organizations can work with local nonprofit organizations such as the Rays of Hope Support Initiative (ROHSI) to reduce the prevalence of gestational diabetes in Ibadan and other parts of Nigeria. These organizations can work together to develop and implement educational programs for pregnant women and healthcare providers, provide support for women who are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, and advocate for policies that promote the prevention and treatment of gestational diabetes.
Here Are Some Specific Examples Of How The Government, International Organizations, And Local Nonprofit Organizations Can Work Together To Reduce The Prevalence Of Gestational Diabetes In Ibadan:
- Develop and implement educational programs for pregnant women and healthcare providers. These programs should cover the risk factors, symptoms, and prevention of gestational diabetes. They should also provide information on the importance of early detection and treatment. That is, we must educate our women about the risks of gestational diabetes and how to prevent it. This can be done through health education programs, public awareness campaigns, and one-on-one counselling with healthcare providers, as earlier explained here.
- Provide support for women who are diagnosed with gestational diabetes. This support may include access to screening, monitoring, and treatment services. It may also include emotional and practical support, such as help with meal planning and exercise.
- Training healthcare providers in Ibadan to identify and manage gestational diabetes. This will ensure that pregnant women who develop gestational diabetes receive the care they need to protect their health and the health of their babies.
- Advocate for policies that promote the prevention and treatment of gestational diabetes. This may include advocating for increased funding for gestational diabetes prevention and treatment programs, as well as for policies that promote healthy eating and physical activity among pregnant women.
In Conclusion:
Health advocacy and awareness campaigns can play a vital role in curbing the surge of diabetes among pregnant women in Ibadan and other parts of Nigeria. By working together, the government, international organizations, and local nonprofit organizations can make a significant difference in reducing the prevalence of this condition and its associated complications.
In addition to the above, here are some additional tips for safeguarding present and potential pregnant women in Ibadan and its environment:
- Encourage pregnant women to eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet for pregnant women includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It is also important to limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and unhealthy fats.
- Promote physical activity among pregnant women. Pregnant women should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Provide access to prenatal care for all pregnant women. Prenatal care is essential for detecting and managing risk factors for gestational diabetes and other complications of pregnancy.
- Raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of gestational diabetes. Some of the signs and symptoms of gestational diabetes include increased thirst, frequent urination, and fatigue. Pregnant women who experience any of these symptoms should see a doctor right away.
By following these tips, we can all help to protect the health of present and potential pregnant women in Ibadan and Nigeria as a whole.
