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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Being HIV Positive Not Death Sentence — Discussants

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Discussants at a panel discussion on HIV and its impact on the youth have urged young people to get tested to know their status to enable them to fight the virus as early as possible.

According to them, most young people refuse to get tested for the virus and by extension other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STIs) out of fear of possibly being diagnosed as positive They, therefore, encouraged the youth to get tested and added that being positive did not mean the end of the world for them because there is advancement in western medicine…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

They also noted that there were ways to mitigate the virus to prevent it from evolving into Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

The discussants included the Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Verifie Health, Alexander Quaisie; a Sexual Health Educator, Barbara Ntumy; an [HIV Clinician and Consultant for National AIDS Control Programme, Dr Nyonuku Akosua Baddoo; a Social Worker, Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights and Human Right Advocate, Gideon Adjaka, and the Programmes Manager at DKT, Nafisatu Sulemana.

The Panel Discussion

The panel discussion was organised last Thursday by Verifie Health, a medical centre that specialises in the testing of STI’s, in commemoration of World AIDS Day, which is celebrated annually on December 1.

It is a day set aside by the United Nations (UN) dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection and mourning those who have died of the disease.

The event, which was on the theme; “U=U, Equalise”, was in partnership with The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Ghana AIDS Commission, the French Embassy to Ghana, the European Union and DKT International.

Living with HIV

Mr Quaisie, touching on the theme, explained that if a person was living with HIV and took one’s medications regularly one would develop an undetectable HIV viral load and could not transmit it sexually to his or her partner, even without the use of a condom.

“This is a far cry from what we always knew and understood given that HIV is such a deadly virus and only condoms can prevent an HIV-positive partner from infecting an HIV-negative partner,” he explained.

He, therefore, encouraged people living with HIV and their partners to continue taking their medications, which would contribute to the end of AIDS in 2030.

Impediments to testing

Mr Adjaka noted that self-stigmatisation had become one of the leading impediments to testing among young people. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

He explained that this was attributed to some wrongful myths and misconceptions about the virus and added that it was as a result of inadequate information about it.

“Although we have done a lot of work around changing the narratives like using the model approach where individuals living with the virus publicly disclose their status, people still have that mentality,” Mr Adjaka said.

Moral judgement

For her part, Ms Ntumy said having HIV or any other STI was seen as a moral judgement because of their most common method of transmission, which was sex.

She explained that young people were judged due to religious doctrines for doing something natural that made them happy.

“In the Ghanaian culture, a lot of people adhere to a higher authority and that authority guides a lot of ridicule.

“So if this thing is seen as a moral judgement, it creates a lot of contradictions and complications and that’s part of the problem,” she emphasised.

Advice

Dr Baddoo, in her submissions, encouraged young people to engage in preventive measures such as abstinence and the consistent use of condoms when necessary.

She similarly urged them to get tested, adding that early detection was the first step to fighting the virus if diagnosed positive.

Dr Baddoo also said persons living with HIV could have a normal and fulfilling life considering they adhered strictly to their medications and listened to their doctors’ advice.

“I know it’s not easy to get diagnosed as HIV positive because of our mentality that it’s a death sentence,” she added

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

3 Reasons Why People Die In Their Sleep: Please Do Not Ignore

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Getting adequate shut-eye is crucial to your health, and that much should go without saying. However, it could be unhealthy to sleep too little. When you lay your head down for the night, a lot of bad things can happen to you.

Have you ever wondered what causes individuals to pass away peacefully during their sleep? It is a phenomenon that has intrigued scientists, doctors, and the general public alike. In this blog post, we delve into the five most common reasons why people may unfortunately die in their sleep…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

While this topic may seem morbid, understanding these causes can help shed light on certain health risks, encourage awareness, and encourage proactive measures to prevent such circumstances. So, let’s explore the various factors that can lead to these unexpected occurrences.

5 Reasons Why People Die in Their Sleep

1. Cardiac Arrest: A Silent Culprit

Cardiac arrest is one of the most prevalent causes of sudden death during sleep. It occurs when the heart’s electrical system malfunctions, resulting in a sudden loss of blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. Factors like age, family history, lifestyle choices, such as smoking and unhealthy diets, and underlying medical conditions can all contribute to an increased risk of cardiac arrest during sleep.
Factors Leading to Cardiac Arrest

a. Age and Genetics: The Silent Influencers

As individuals age, the risk of cardiac arrest, especially during sleep, increases. Family history also plays a role, as genetic predispositions can make some individuals more susceptible to experiencing cardiac issues. It is crucial to be aware of these factors, as prevention and early detection can significantly reduce the risk.

b. Lifestyle Choices: Pushing the Boundaries

Poor lifestyle choices, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, and an unhealthy diet, can heighten the risk of cardiac arrest during sleep. Adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly minimize the occurrence of such incidents. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

2. Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Breathing Troubles

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder characterized by breathing difficulty during sleep. People with OSA experience temporary blockages in their airways, leading to frequent interruptions in their breathing patterns. Severe cases of OSA can result in a decrease in oxygen levels, causing stress on the heart and an increased likelihood of heart-related health issues.
Contributing Factors to Obstructive Sleep Apnea

a. Obesity: A Weighty Matter

Obesity is a major contributing factor to OSA. Excess weight, particularly around the neck and throat area, narrows the airways and can lead to frequent breathing disruptions during sleep. Maintaining a healthy weight through proper diet and exercise is essential in reducing the risk of OSA-related fatalities during sleep.

b. Untreated Snoring: A Warning Sign

Persistent snoring can be an indicator of an underlying health issue, including OSA. Failing to address chronic snoring can lead to severe complications and fatal outcomes during sleep. Seeking medical advice and undergoing necessary diagnostic tests can facilitate early detection and appropriate treatment.

Conclusion

While passing away peacefully during sleep is relatively rare, understanding the potential causes can help safeguard against potential health risks. By acknowledging the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle, being aware of our family history, and heeding warning signs like chronic snoring, we can take proactive measures to minimize the possibility of experiencing these unfortunate circumstances. Remember, prevention and early detection are key in maintaining overall well-being and longevity. Stay informed, take care of your health, and give yourself the best chance of a restful night’s sleep!

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

When You Drink Hot Water Every Day, This Is What Happens To Your Body

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Have you ever given any thought to what would happen to your body if you continually subjected it to the effects of drinking hot water? When everything is taken into account, we are aware that water is important for the body to keep adequately hydrated and that it accounts for sixty percent of the human adult body (via USGS). Water makes up sixty percent of the human adult body. Who would have thought, though, that the temperature at which you consume it plays a role in the kinds of health benefits you gain from it…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

As a result of the fact that Tom Cruise’s relationship with Suri has been lately brought to light in a variety of different ways.

However, drinking water that has been brought to a boil on a frequent basis offers a variety of additional health benefits, which your body may be prevented from taking advantage of if you drink cold water instead of water that has been brought to a boil. People have a propensity, when they think about drinking water, to picture themselves in a position in which they are sipping some water that is really cold while basking in the warmth of the late spring sun or relishing in the virus-like sensation of it after a particularly tough twisting class. This is because people have a tendency to picture themselves in scenarios in which they are partaking in activities that involve extreme temperatures. Drinking warm water first thing in the morning is recommended by medical professionals, as stated by Stella Metsovas, a professional nutritionist, who explains why this is the case. Medical Daily has been provided with this information. In point of fact, and to some degree one is taken aback by this revelation, access to this kind of information has been available for a significant amount of time now. According to Reader’s Digest, both Chinese and Indian physicians encourage drinking this steaming hot beverage first thing in the morning to get the most out of the day due to the many excellent benefits it has on one’s health. This is because traditional Chinese medicine and Indian medicine both believe that drinking this beverage in the morning helps one get the most out of the day.

Therefore, would you be so kind as to elaborate on what you mean by that? If you drink hot water on a regular basis, your body will experience these effects, which are something that may be expected.

There is some evidence that lowering your blood pressure can be accomplished by drinking hot water on a regular basis. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

In this difficult environment, there is a clear approach for being able to stretch less, and it all starts with establishing a daily appreciation for water. This is the first step in the process. Dietitian Amanda Carlson, who is also a qualified dietitian, is of the opinion that individuals can benefit from keeping an adequate level of hydration in order to experience reduced levels of anxiety. If you don’t give your body the liquids it needs, you’re adding extra weight to it, and your body will react to this by acting erratically.

According to Healthline, consuming hot water reduces the activity of your focus sensory system, which is responsible for determining how your brain reacts when it is subjected to pressure. According to the American Psychological Association, not getting enough water can cause confusion in the central nervous system, which can trigger a vicious loop that never comes to an end. It is actually easier to become dehydrated when you are under pressure, as your pulse will be higher than normal, and you will be breathing more actively than usual, says Renee Melton, MS, RD, LD, who is the head of nutrition at Sensei. This is because your pulse will be higher when you are under strain. WebMD received this information from another source. Therefore, if you truly want to get rid of the problem the next time it comes up, you might want to consider the alternative of continuously drinking hot water.

Regularly consuming water that has been heated to a boil has the ability to reduce the amount of physical pain and suffering that individual is experiencing

 

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Place this leaf in every corner of your house and you will not see cockroaches again

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Cockroaches are notorious and unsightly pests that are commonly associated with waste and dirt. However, they can also be found in homes, making their way into the closets and bedrooms.

Their ability to adapt and survive is remarkable, allowing them to thrive in various environments around the world. Cockroaches are incredibly resilient creatures, capable of withstanding high levels of radiation and surviving for over a month without food. As omnivores, they can consume both plant-based foods and other animals, which explains their ubiquitous presence as they scavenge for sustenance…Click Here To Continue Reading>> …Click Here To Continue Reading>>

 

In addition to feeding on garbage, cockroaches leave chemical trails through their feces. This serves as a form of communication, enabling them to locate sources of water and food. It is this behavior that leads to their establishment in specific areas. Despite their ability to squeeze through tiny openings and endure long periods without sustenance, they often enter homes through bags, boxes, and even gaps under doors.

If you’re looking to eliminate cockroaches that have invaded your home, I recommend a highly effective method that is safe, especially if you have young children or pets. Bay leaves serve as an excellent natural repellent for cockroaches. While they may not kill the pests, the strong odor emitted by the leaves is unbearable for them, driving them away quickly. Placing bay leaf branches in every corner of the house is recommended.

Specifically, putting ten bay leaves in the kitchen will prevent cockroaches from roaming around. Bay leaves are particularly suitable for areas where food is stored, such as the kitchen or pantry, as they are safe and non-toxic. Additionally, I suggest placing bay leaves in your garden, especially if you have pets. This way, you can eliminate cockroaches without worrying about the safety of your children or pets. READ FULL STORY HERE>>>CLICK HERE TO CONTINUE READING>>>

Whether you use fresh or dried bay leaves, the most effective way to utilize them is to crush the dry leaves into a powder. This intensifies the fragrance they release. To use bay leaves as a cockroach deterrent, place whole leaves behind appliances, near entry points, in closets, and in various corners of your home. Open containers and bowls can also be filled with bay leaves and strategically placed. Furthermore, burning a bay leaf in your home not only adds a pleasant natural aroma but also provides additional cockroach protection.

In conclusion, by ensuring you have ten bay leaves in the kitchen, you can effectively prevent cockroaches from roaming around. Bay leaves are a safe and non-toxic option for areas where food is stored, such as the kitchen or pantry. By following this method, you can eliminate cockroaches without worrying about the safety of your children.

 

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