Hepatitis: A Silent Killer
With the sixth highest population in the world, Pakistan is a developing country that is severely impacted by Hepatitis. According to WHO, 150,000 individuals in Pakistan succumb to the disease every year, making public education about it urgently necessary. Therefore, following are key facts to remember on World Hepatitis day: What is Hepatitis? It is an inflammatory disorder of the liver, one of the most vital organs of the body. Its healthy function is critically necessary for survival, and is severely compromised in this condition. Hepatitis can harm the liver to the point where it develops scarring even cancer, and ultimately leads to death. What are its root causes? The most common causes of the condition are infections of Hepatitis viruses A, B, C, D and E which lead to viral hepatitis. In addition, alcohol/drug toxicity and certain autoimmune disorders contribute significantly to its prevalence. How is the virus transmitted? Viral hepatitis is of 5 distinct types according to the agent causing it and consequently, each type gets transmitted in different ways. Hepatitis A: It is primarily transmitted by the fecal-oral route, but inadequately treated water and close physical contact with an infected person are also to be blamed for its spread. It is a self limiting disease with only supportive therapy given through the disease period. Hepatitis B: It is a potentially life-threatening type that can be transmitted from an infected mother to a child (at the time of delivery/perinatal transmission) or by exposure to infected body fluids (such as saliva, vaginal and seminal fluids) including blood (by any type of needle stick injury). Hepatitis C: It spreads through transfusion of unscreened blood/blood products, using of poorly sterilized medical equipment, and re-using needles. Infection with this type of Virus is usually chronic and damages the liver over months and years destroying the structure and function of the organ. Hepatitis D: A very significant component in its occurrence is the presence of hepatitis B virus in the body; hence needle stick injuries are typically the cause of hepatitis B and D co-infection. Hepatitis E: Its spread is essentially linked to poor hygiene. It also spreads via the faeco- oral route like Hepatitis A. Usually through contaminated drinking water. Infection with this type of virus is also usually self limiting with only supportive therapy given through the disease. What are its symptoms? Even though Hepatitis is of multiple different types, yet symptoms are quite similar overall. An infected person usually presents to the hospital with complaints of: Fever Abdominal discomfort Dark colored urine Jaundice Fatigue Nausea Loss of appetite which eventually leads to anorexia. How is it diagnosed? Clinically, similarities in signs and symptoms make it challenging to differentiate one form of viral hepatitis from another. However, several laboratory techniques, such as RT-PCR, RNA assays and testing blood for antibodies against a particular virus, are beneficial in this regard. Additionally, tests might reveal a person’s hepatitis immunity or the length of their infection. Is hepatitis treatable? Yes, the treatment depends upon the severity and type of infection. A mild infection only requires antiviral and symptomatic therapy, whilst a fulminant infection may potentially necessitate a liver transplant. Furthermore, dosage and duration of the therapy vary depending upon presence of any other health conditions, and it is advised to avoid certain medications (acetaminophen) and alcohol during the treatment. Hepatitis A and E: Symptomatic therapy is sufficient for these infections because they resolve on their own. Hepatitis B: It is advised to administer oral antiviral medications (including interferon alpha-2b and lamivudine). Hepatitis C: The medications used to treat chronic hepatitis C (pegylated interferon alpha-2a and 2b) are different from those used to treat acute forms of the infection (interferon alpha-2b). Hepatitis D: Pegylated interferon-alpha is used to treat its infection and it is crucial to maintain the therapy for 48 weeks regardless of patient’s response. How can we prevent hepatitis? In recent years, cases of hepatitis have been surging, especially in developing nations; therefore, it is crucial to take the right prophylactic steps on a personal and organizational basis. Several preventative measures include: The availability of clean drinking water Proper sewage disposal Blood screening Good personal hygiene Proper cleaning of wounds Avoid re-using needles. Availability of vaccines Vaccines are available only against hepatitis A and B viruses, which can be administered as a combination as well. Separately, Hepatitis B vaccine can be given within the first 24 hours of life while first dose of hepatitis A vaccine is typically given between the ages of 12 to 23 months. Considering the high rates of illness and morbidity, especially in pregnant women and infants, it has become essential to take rapid action for the control of hepatitis. Hepatitis – Basil Saleem, SMDC Literary Society
JULY- SARCOMA AWARENESS MONTH
Each year in the month of July, Awareness about this “Forgotten Cancer “is spread in the world. Sarcoma Awareness Month aims to highlight the extraordinary challenges that sarcoma patients face, and provides information about the need for more Sarcoma research and better Sarcoma therapies. Sarcoma makes up about 15% of childhood cancers. Early diagnosis can increase the risk of survival by 20% What should you know about Sarcoma? Sarcoma is a rare type of cancer originating from soft tissue. Sarcoma comprises many subtypes of cancer (bones, nerves, joints, muscles, fat, blood vessels). Our whole body is made up of tissue so it can arise anywhere in the body. Common Sub-types: – Bone sarcoma aka Osteosarcoma It is the primary bone cancer which commonly occurs in thigh, upper arm or shin. Its further subtypes includes Ewing’s Sarcoma, Chondroma and Chondrosarcoma – Soft tissue sarcomas This subtype can occur anywhere-inside and outside .It includes: GIST is a common type of sarcoma; it develops in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, anywhere from mouth to anus. Gynaecological sarcomas occur in female reproductive tract Fibrosarcomas in fibrous connective tissue Causes and Etiology: Exact causal factors and mechanism are not known yet, some factors tend to increase the risk of developing sarcoma which includes age, any other cancer, genetic conditions such as retinoblastoma, exposure to toxins etc. Presentation and Symptoms: Sarcoma very unapologetically represent itself as painless lump on the affected site. The other signs and symptoms range very widely. They can include: Weight loss Loss of appetite Fever Anemia Pain Local inflammation So if someone feels a set of symptoms, unexplained pain or even just a lump then it should be considered suspicious enough to get it checked immediately. Diagnosis: In order to confirm a diagnosis, a number of tests are needed to confirm soft tissue sarcoma. These include: Physical exam by your doctor Biopsy Imaging tests such as MRI, CT scan, X-rays. Treatment: Treatment selection is a very critical step and it involves multiple factors to be taken into consideration. Most commonly its SURGERY in which the cancerous part is excised and removed from body Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy are also used prior surgery to reduce the size of cancerous tissue so that the affected tissue can be easily removed. Our motive: Our mission is to amplify sarcoma awareness so that no sarcoma case causes undiagnosed till it reaches lethal stage. To tranform lives affected by sarcoma To inspire involvement and fund ground breaking research about sarcoma By Kashaf Naveed Team Content Writing SHALAMAR LITERARY SOCIETY SMDC, Lahore
The hike in the prices of female hygiene products
The problem at hand? Access to hygiene products is not a luxury but a basic necessity. Female hygiene products range from shampoos and shaving equipment to sanitary napkins and tampons. Unlike shampoo and shaving equipment, women cannot cut back on menstrual products. These essential products are not exempt from state taxes and are expensive for consumers with limited budgets. What is Period Poverty? Period poverty refers to the lack of access to menstrual products, education, and hygiene facilities. It is a widespread yet highly neglected issue worldwide, especially in Pakistan. In Pakistan, period poverty is not just a result of financial restrictions. A considerable part of the problem also takes root in the taboos surrounding menstruation; menstruating women are considered impure and dirty. Such social stigmas hinder women from accessing menstrual products and discussing their health and hygiene. What is the scope of menstrual education in Pakistan? According to U-Report, a flagship program of UNICEF, 49% of young girls in Pakistan barely have any knowledge of periods before their first cycle. Only 20% of them learn about menstruation in schools. To tackle the issue at hand, it is essential to understand that period poverty is not only a result of women’s financial restrictions but also socio-cultural norms that have made menstruation a taboo, a topic unfit for public discussion. It is socially unacceptable for young girls to access information about their menstrual and reproductive health. This lack of knowledge gives rise to and perpetuates many baseless myths. What are the consequences of period poverty? A US-based study revealed that an average woman spends around thirteen dollars per month on menstrual products. Women often lean towards unhealthy and non-sanitary practices like sharing rags and clothes, which results in urinary infections and other health conditions. The social stigma surrounding menstruation also causes young girls to develop low esteem, feelings of shame, and distress, limiting their day-to-day activities. Menstruating women are also subjected to social sanctions in certain cultures, such as being prohibited from touching certain foods. Since educational facilities lack menstrual supplies and have poor sanitation and hygienic facilities, girls on their period also avoid going to school, hindering their academic performance. What can be done? Communities must acknowledge that having access to menstrual products and information is not a privilege but a necessity. In a survey conducted on 2000 women, approximately half of the women faced period poverty, and 80 percent of them believed it was a genuine issue. Around 1200 claimed they had to budget to afford sanitary products. 70 percent of them demanded that government should supply free menstrual products. In November 2020, Scotland became the first country in the world to make sanitary products free of cost. Following their footsteps, period products should be available free of charge, especially in schools, colleges, and universities. Several initiatives have also sprung up to facilitate women in combating period poverty. One of these was Girlythings, an application that delivers menstrual products to women with disabilities at their doorsteps. They also supply an “Urgent Kit” that includes instant stain remover, sanitary napkins, and undergarments. Women’s fundamental right is to learn about something that dominates a significant part of their lives. Raising awareness about the use and importance of hygiene products, along with busting the myths and stigmas surrounding this very natural process, is necessary to end the taboo surrounding this issue. The Lokhandwala sisters started a women-led NGO, “Her Pakistan,” which conducts seminars and workshops in different institutes, especially in remote and underdeveloped areas. They aim to eradicate the misinformation and myths that surround menstruation. Initiatives such as these are highly effective, but steps on a much larger scale must be taken to make period poverty obsolete. Women must be empowered regarding their health to create an equitable community and lead lives to their fullest potential. Written by: Laiba Bilal – Marketing Intern Edited by: Eman Toosy (Team Content Review Shalamar Literary Society, SMDC)
The need for COVID-19 booster shots
The need for COVID-19 booster shots Problem at hand While Pakistan was one of the countries which were internationally appreciated for tackling the outbreak of the virus very well, the recent surge in COVID-19 cases has raised concerns among doctors. It is feared that hospitals will soon have to operate above their capacities to accommodate the increasing number of cases. It was advised by the Minister of National Health Services (NHS) at the NCOC meeting in Islamabad to administer booster doses in all the provinces and regions on a top priority basis to decline the rate of COVID-19 transmission. What is the booster shot? It is the dose of the vaccine received after the primary vaccination dose to maintain unassailable protection from coronavirus. Various types of vaccines now have boosters that are given to adults as well as children and pregnant women, which can help them protect their infants. The booster dose for COVID-19 should be received six months after the primary vaccine is received. Why should I get booster shots? COVID-19 booster shot significantly enhances your immunity that could have been reduced after your primary vaccination dose. A concrete safety from COVID-19 can only be ensured when you get all the recommended boosters. You can get the booster dose suitable according to your level of immunity from moderately to severely immunocompromised. Am I eligible for the booster dose? All individuals aged 12 years and older are advised to get one booster shot. Adults who are 50 years of age and above are recommended to get two booster shots. Additional booster shot is also offered for juveniles with weak immunity. Are there any side effects? There are no side effects; however, you may experience some symptoms, which merely means that your immune system reacts to the dose and develops protection against the virus. The symptoms may include temporary flu, chills, swollen lymph nodes, fever, minor body aches, headaches, or tiredness lasting for one to two days. It is essential to understand that these symptoms do not mean you are sick but it is your body developing immunity. What is the difference between a COVID-19 booster shot and an “Additional Dose”? A COVID-19 booster is given once the individual’s body receives the primary vaccine series, and the protection built against the virus has weakened with time. It, however, depends upon the original series one had, so the type of booster required varies. An additional dose is given to people with weak immune systems who are: Being treated for a cancer Have had an organ transplant or cell transplant within the last two years o On medicinal drugs that deteriorate the immunity Diagnosed with HIV o Have a high viral load o On drugs with high-dose steroids These extra doses enhance their immunity to the same level as that of a healthy individual. Children aged 6 months to 4 years usually require an extra dose, which primarily depends upon which vaccine was received. You may refer to your health care provider to refer you to the type of additional dose that your body may require. Where can I get my COVID-19 booster shot? To get your COVID-19 booster shot in Lahore, you may visit the following centers: Railway Dispensary (Walton Road) LDA Complex (Minar e Pakistan, Main Road) Pakistan Kidney Institute (DHA Phase 7) Lahore Medical and Dental College (Lahore Medical Housing Scheme) Central Park Medical Dental College (Central Park Housing Scheme) United Christian Hospital (Main boulevard Gulberg) Indus Hospital (Main GT Road) Fauji Foundation (Bedian Road) Ghaziabad Hospital (Kamharpura, Ghaziabad) PU Quaid e Azam New Complex (Canal Road) University of Engineering and Technology (GT Road, Bhagbanpura) University of Lahore Teaching Hospital (Bhubtian Chowk) Cairns Railway Hospital (Ghari Shahu) Government Hospital (Sodiwal Road) Railway Hospital (Shah Jehan Road) National Hospital (DHA Phase 1) Government Mian Mir Hospital (Mian Mir Data Darbar Road) Data Darbar Government Samnabad Hospital (Shadman Main Boulevard) Pilot School (Wahdat Road of block Iqbal Town) Wapda Hospital (Ferozpur Road) Istefaq Hospital (H block Model Town) Government Sawami Nigrai Hospital (Sowami Nigr Road, Tehzab Ihatah Sowami Nigr) Written by: Laiba Bilal – Marketing Intern Edited by: Aamina Sajid – General Secretary Shalamar Literary Society, SMDC
5 Illnesses Caused by Heat That You Should Know About
5 Illnesses Caused by Heat That You Should Know About As the month of May ends, cities across Pakistan continue to suffer from an intense heatwave, with temperatures in Lahore reaching above 40 degrees Celsius almost every day. Hospitals have reported an uptick in heat stroke victims, and recently the Pakistan army has set up heat stroke relief centers across the country. Heat stroke may be the most commonly known illness when it comes to hot weather, but there are many other kinds of heat related illnesses to look out for first, ranging from dehydration to heat rashes to heat exhaustion. To prevent these heat related illnesses, it is important to know what they are and what symptoms to look out for. Below is a list of 5 common heat-related illnesses we should know about, and how to make sure we can treat them. Heat rash Heat rash is one of the mild but common illnesses associated with hot weather. Often caused by excessive sweating, it is characterized as a skin irritation that often forms in areas where sweat gets trapped via clothing, such as the chest, armpits, elbows and groin. It can be uncomfortable and unsightly. To prevent heat rash, one should: Stay away from humid and hot conditions Try to prevent excessive sweating through applying deodorant and prickly-heat/talcum powder Avoid excessive use of creams and lotions Dehydration Often the first symptom of being overheated, dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it is replacing, leading to the body being unable to function at the proper capacity. Mild symptoms of dehydration include a dry mouth, less frequent urination of a darker yellow colour, dizziness and fatigue. More severe dehydration can lead to mental confusion, fever, and possible need for hospitalization. To prevent dehydration, one should: Drink plenty of fluids and have fruits such as watermelon, melon, cucumber, etc., with high fluid content Avoid staying in extremely hot areas that lead to excessive sweating If dehydration occurs, drink Oral Rehydration fluids which provide electrolytes Heat Cramps One of the mildest forms of heat-related illness, heat cramps are muscle-related spasms or jerks that usually occur when working/exercising in a hot area where you have to exert energy. These cramps are painful but usually short and go away on their own. To prevent heat cramps, one should: Be aware of when you need to work in a hot place, and hydrate yourself beforehand as well as while you are there Make sure there is a nearby cool area and access to oral rehydration liquids like ORS or Gatorade in case you begin to feel symptoms of cramping Heat Exhaustion Heat exhaustion occurs after the body is dehydrated and lacks electrolytes, and is unable to cool itself properly. It occurs after being in extreme heat and excessive sweating. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, dizziness, excessive sweating, and an elevated body temperature. If left untreated, heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke. To prevent heat exhaustion, one should: When in hot environments, make sure to wear loose fitting, lightweight clothing which allows your body to regulate its temperature easily Stay hydrated by drinking fluids Avoid exertion and prolonged exposure to hot environments Heat Stroke Heat stroke is the most common term used when it comes to heat-related illnesses — however, not everyone knows exactly what this illness is. The most severe of heat related illnesses, heat stroke occurs when the body is unable to control its temperature at all. Symptoms include a very high body temperature, failure to sweat to regulate temperature, confusion and disorientation, seizures and unconsciousness. To prevent heat stroke, one should: Stay hydrated Protect yourself from direct sunlight by wearing an umbrella or a cap. Wear loose, lightweight clothing and dampen the skin to allow the body to cool itself properly If you start to suffer heat cramps or heat exhaustion, get to a cooler, shaded spot right away and, if the situation doesn’t improve, call emergency services before you get heat stroke. If any of the above illnesses’ symptoms worsen, get to the nearest hospital as soon as possible. By knowing how our bodies respond to heat, we can keep track of our wellbeing as well as others. Stay hydrated and stay safe! Written by: Mashal Nadeem – Project Analyst at SIHS