Pregnancy tests. If you’re reading this, I hope it’s in the spirit of joyous anticipation and not a nerve-wracking curiosity. Remarkably, the practice of using urine to detect pregnancy isn’t just a modern-day phenomenon. It dates back to 1350 BC if you can believe it! (See the “Historical Glimpse” section for more on this...
We’ve all watched it on television – a middle-aged character suddenly clutching their chest, their face contorted in pain, collapsing to the ground. These dramatic portrayals pose questions. What transpires within the confines of the ribcage during a heart attack? Why does it cause such agonizing pain? And is this portrayal even accurate? The...
False: “Mouth-to-mouth” ventilations between chest compressions are an essential part of CPR. In reality, the American Heart Association’s 2010 guidelines changed the landscape of CPR. The outdated “15 chest compressions then 2 breaths” or “30 compressions then 2 breaths” techniques are no longer recommended. The International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) analyzed extensive research,...
In many regions faced with hunger, we often witness the harrowing image of an emaciated child, with a distinctly large belly. This swollen belly is a telltale sign of kwashiorkor, a severe form of malnutrition. Understanding Kwashiorkor Kwashiorkor is marked more than just by an enlarged abdomen. Those afflicted show symptoms ranging from swelling...
Ever had that insatiable craving for a hefty plate of jollof rice after enjoying some quality cannabis? Or maybe you’ve found yourself wolfing down an unlikely pairing of fried plantain with peanut butter? If these scenarios ring true, you’re not alone. Cannabis is infamous for spurring a ravenous appetite, but have you ever paused...
Have you ever noticed how certain paintings seem to have an uncanny ability to track your every move in a room? It’s almost as if the eyes in the portrait are silently watching your every step, following you wherever you go. But what’s the secret behind this eerie phenomenon, and how do artists use...
Ben Franklin, ever the observer, once noted that eating asparagus could lend our urine an off-putting aroma. But have you ever paused to question why? Or wondered about the effects of beets and carrots on our bodies? Asparagus and the Odorous Puzzle Asparagus contains a unique chemical called asparagusic acid. When digested, it’s believed...
Thyroid nodules, a prevalent health concern in Africa and beyond, often bring up a mix of emotions. For most, the journey begins with a surprise. Here’s a breakdown tailored for the readers of Africa Nova. What are Thyroid Nodules, and Why are They a Buzz? The thyroid, the metabolism-controlling gland sitting gracefully in our...
The implications of a healthcare provider lacking empathy are severe. Tragic incidents at various healthcare facilities have underscored the critical role of empathy in patient care. For instance, the Francis investigation linked a dearth of empathy to numerous avoidable deaths at the Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust between 2005 and 2009. Similarly, the Ockenden...