All posts by : Godwin Shan Kofi Gilman

Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome refers to a condition that occurs when a newborn baby is exposed to opioids or other substances such as benzodiazepines or barbiturates during pregnancy, which leads to withdrawal symptoms after childbirth ranging from mild to severe, including tremors, irritability, fever, and seizures.

How Does This Happen?

1. Pregnant women who use opioids, whether prescribed or illicit, are likely to pass the substances to their baby.

2. Pregnant women who undergo treatment for opioid use disorder through receiving medication-assisted treatment can still pass opioids to their babies.

3. Also, babies can be exposed to opioids or other substances through living in an environment or household where these substances are being used.

Symptoms.

Babies typically experience common symptoms of NAS within the first week after they are born but can occur up to 2 weeks afterwards. These common symptoms often include tremors, fever, seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive sweating, frequent yawning, and congestion.

Diagnosis.

For diagnosis, a thorough review of the mother’s medical history, especially substance usage, a physical examination of the newborn to assess for symptoms, and urine or blood tests are conducted to detect the presence of opioids or other substances.

Treatment.

If it is confirmed that a baby has NAS, medications such as morphine or methadone are used to help manage the withdrawal symptoms. The baby undergoes supportive care like hydration, nutrition, and comfort measures, whereas there are non-pharmacological interventions such as swaddling or rocking the baby to help soothe it.

Prevention.

Prevention involves regular prenatal care for the mother’s health to be monitored in order to detect any potential issues, and then treatment for substance usage can begin. Additionally, potential mothers need to be counseled and educated on the risks and preventive methods.

A recent study published in Frontiers in Pediatrics (March 2025) found that infants with NAS have a higher risk of infant mortality and hospitalizations during their first year after being born. However, the study also noted that the association between NAS and infant mortality diminished after adjusting for other factors such as maternal health and socioeconomic status.

Despite that, researchers have been working to better understand and develop effective treatments for NAS. Another important finding from the study shows that infants with NAS are more likely to experience post-discharge hospitalizations and stay longer at the hospital; hence, the need for ongoing support and care for these infants even after they have been discharged from the hospital.

Overall, the advances in NAS research are essential in addressing this critical health issue. Through the continuation to study and understand NAS, researchers can provide more effective ways for healthcare professionals to treat and improve the lives of affected infants and their families.

Babies should be our priority since they are our future leaders.

Source : Lee, J., et al. (2025). Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Frontiers in Pediatrics, 13.

Acute migraine is known as a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of severe headaches usually accompanied by sensitivity to light, sound, and nausea. Migraines can negatively impact an individual’s quality of life, such as emotional distress, social isolation, and even missed workdays.

There are medications such as triptan, ergotamine, and other over-the-counter pain medicines to help with the pain; however, these treatments may not be effective for everyone, as everyone experiences different effects. Hence, the new guidelines from the American College of Physicians (ACP) for the treatment of acute migraine aim to improve the management and treatment, reducing the burden of this condition.

There are updated recommendations such as

1. Thorough assessment and diagnosis of an individual, including a detailed medical history as well as a physical examination of the affected person. Healthcare practitioners are encouraged to use triptan, ergotamine, and anti-nausea medications as the first line of treatment and then develop personalized treatment plans.

2. Healthcare professionals are encouraged to advise their patients on their lifestyle modifications, like maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, which is getting 7-8 hours of sleep, avoiding triggers that can cause migraines, such as certain foods or stress, and practicing stress-reducing methods like meditating or deep breathing.

3. Patients should be educated on their treatment options and how to manage their symptoms based on their specific needs and medical history, and then follow-up care should be provided in order for healthcare professionals to monitor the individual’s response to treatment and make the necessary adjustments needed.

4. There are also recommendations on an individual’s lifestyle to help avoid acute migraines, such as identifying and avoiding foods that can trigger migraines, usually gluten, dairy, citrus fruits, or foods containing tyramine or MSG; ensuring to eat your meals regularly to prevent low blood sugar; and consuming foods that are rich in magnesium and vitamin B2, such as dark leafy greens and whole grains, or considering supplements after consulting with a healthcare provider.

The old guidelines for treating acute migraine recommended various medications, including acetaminophen, NSAIDs, triptans, and antiemetics, along with personalized treatment plans and lifestyle modifications.

However, the new guidelines provide a more comprehensive approach to dealing with acute migraines with their updated recommendations for treatment. Some benefits are improved treatment outcomes, patient satisfaction, and reduced healthcare costs through minimizing the need for frequent hospital visits.

Source: American College of Physicians.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has emphasized the need for an integrated approach to combat tuberculosis (TB) and lung health, focusing on people-centered care and the social factors of healthcare.

This approach recognized that TB is often linked to other health conditions like HIV, diabetes, and malnutrition; hence, the approach seeks to address these underlying conditions as well. The WHO noted that TB remains the world’s deadliest infectious disease, responsible for over 1 million deaths annually. Despite progress made in combating TB, global efforts are being threatened by drastic cuts in terms of funding, rising drug resistance, and ongoing conflicts.

Tuberculosis is known as a bacterial infection caused by a mycobacterium tuberculosis that affects the lungs as well as other parts of the body. Symptoms may include coughing, chest pain, coughing up blood, fatigue, weight loss, reoccurring fever, sweating at night, and chills.

Some determinants are malnutrition, smoking, people with a weak immune system like those with HIV/AIDS, adults and young children, and having close contact with an infected person.

For diagnosis, a chest X-ray, sputum test, blood test, or tuberculin skin test can be done to detect the presence of the bacteria that cause TB in the body. The new guidelines released by WHO are organized into five modules:

Module 1: Prevention. This focuses on adhering to the preventive measures such as practicing good hygiene, regular screenings, and vaccinations, as well as avoiding close contact with an infected person.

Module 2: Screening. This includes 17 new updated recommendations for screening and prioritizing populations like affected patients, people living with HIV, and those in prisons.

Module 3: Diagnosis. For rapid TB detection, three new classes of nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) have been endorsed.

Module 4: Treatment. This provides updates on drug-resistant TB treatment, a 6-month BPaLM regimen, and a 9-month all-oral regimen.

Module 5: Comorbidities, Vulnerable Populations, and People-Centered Care addresses the management of TB in children, adolescents, and susceptible individuals.

According to WHO, the cure rate for the new cases of TB is around 85%; however, this can vary depending on factors such as the severity of the disease, the presence of drug-resistant TB, and a patient’s adherence to treatment prescribed by medical experts.

To conclude, TB can be cured with proper treatment and a patient’s adherence to treatment to prevent relapse. As an individual, always complete your full treatment course, which is usually taken about six to nine months, ensure to attend follow-up appointments, and practice good hygiene.

Source: World Health Organization.

In a bid to provide top-notch medical services to the Ghanaian community, MAB International Hospital, located at Nyamekye—Accra, has emerged as a beacon of hope. With over 10 years of experience in private healthcare as a clinic, hospital, and training center, MAB International Hospital is redefining healthcare in Ghana by focusing on accessibility, affordability, and compassionate patient care.

The Health Pulse Magazine covered an exclusive with the Executive Director of the hospital, Mr. Opare Akuamoah-Boateng, who tells the story of the facility with a strong emphasis on maternal and child health.

MAB International Hospital boasts an impressive array of cutting-edge facilities, including a soon-to-be-launched dialysis center, slated for completion by the end of May. The hospital’s X-ray department is equipped with the latest technology, and plans are underway to acquire ultra-modern MRI and CT scan machines. The laboratory is fitted with the latest machines, ensuring accurate and efficient diagnostic services.

During the interview, he highlighted their commitment to patient satisfaction, emphasizing the hospital’s unique approach, which ensures that patients receive prompt attention, with a protocol in place to guarantee a doctor’s consultation within 10 minutes of check-in. A team of dedicated nurses is always available to provide assistance, making the healthcare experience as seamless as possible.

“Our wards are designed to be home-friendly, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that helps boost patients’ moods during recovery. The hospital’s priority is clear: to make patients feel at home, even when they’re away from their loved ones.” Said Mr. Opare Akuamoah-Boateng.

Additionally, the hospital offers affordable services, accepting payments from the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). They are also committed to giving back to the community, having visited a local orphanage to provide free screening services and medications. This course of action is conducted at least once every month, demonstrating its dedication to social responsibility.

Despite facing challenges with reimbursement from partners and funding, the hospital’s future plans include becoming an ultra-modern facility equipped to treat cancer, a significant step forward for healthcare in Ghana.

As the country continues to navigate the healthcare landscape, MAB Hospital stands as a shining example of innovation and compassion. With its patient-centric approach, advanced medical equipment, and a commitment to community outreach, this hospital is revolutionizing healthcare in Ghana, one patient at a time.

In a rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, technological advancements are reshaping the way medical professionals diagnose and treat patients. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is proving to be a transformative force, offering groundbreaking solutions to long-standing healthcare challenges. Recognizing this potential, the Health Community of West Africa Association (HCOWAA) hosted its fifth conference under the theme: “AI in Medical Imaging and Intelligent Diagnosis: Enhancing Accuracy, Speed, and Patient Outcomes.” The event, held on March 21, 2025, at the HCOWAA headquarters in Labadi Trade Fair, Accra, Ghana, brought together a distinguished array of experts, French-speaking medical practitioners, and healthcare partners, both physically and virtually via Zoom, to explore the vital role AI plays in improving medical outcomes.

Key Discussions and Insights Among the key speakers was Dr. Gifty Boateng Agyenim, a dedicated pharmacist who earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Algiers in Algeria. Dr. Agyenim presented on the topic: “Intelligent Diagnostic Techniques Using Artificial Intelligence to Address Regional Healthcare Challenges.”

In her address, Dr. Agyenim underscored the significant impact of AI-driven diagnostic solutions in enhancing healthcare delivery in resource-limited environments. She highlighted how AI is transforming diagnostic precision in underserved healthcare facilities, where access to essential resources is often constrained.

“Many healthcare facilities in West Africa are under-resourced, often lacking essential equipment and sufficient medical personnel. This situation is not limited to rural areas; even urban hospitals struggle with limited resources, which compromises the accuracy and timeliness of patient diagnoses,” Dr. Agyenim explained.

She referenced a 2019 study conducted by a team of community medicine and epidemiology professors in Nigeria, which identified the severe shortage of healthcare professionals as one of Africa’s most pressing healthcare challenges. The study revealed that the region suffers from a significant gap in the number of available medical specialists, forcing healthcare personnel to bear heavy workloads and limiting the quality of care provided. Poorly maintained roads further hinder patient access to medical facilities, compounding these issues.

Exploring Innovations in Medical Imaging Adding further insights to the conference was Dr. Habib Kourouma, the Secretary-General of the HCOWAA Guinea branch and an epidemiologist with the World Health Organization (WHO). Bilingual in French and English, Dr. Kourouma explored the growing role of AI in medical imaging and the challenges that accompany its integration.

“In radiology, AI is rapidly becoming an essential tool. With the surge in medical data, radiologists face an increased workload that reduces their interaction time with patients and raises the risk of diagnostic errors,” Dr. Kourouma explained.

He described how cutting-edge AI software now assists radiologists by identifying potential pathological elements in medical images, prioritizing urgent cases, and improving the clarity and precision of radiological visuals. These advancements are revolutionizing healthcare delivery, particularly in regions where healthcare resources are stretched thin.

Advancements in Medical Imaging Technology Mr. Liu Xiombo highlighted the significance of the DICOM standard, developed by the American College of Radiology (ACR) and the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) in 1985. Widely used in radiology, cardiovascular imaging, and diagnostic equipment like X-rays, CT, MRI, and ultrasound, DICOM has replaced traditional X-ray films with digital workflows. This innovation enables efficient data exchange between medical institutions, supporting the growth of Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) and improving diagnostic accuracy.

Gold Panda, a medical imaging tool, was also discussed for its remarkable efficiency. This tool allows users to open CT cases with 2000 images in just 3 seconds and supports image downloads via HTTP protocol, WADO-URI, and DICOM QR, enabling users to start viewing images before the download completes.

Insights from the Nursing Community Mr. Amenoudji Koffi Augustin, Secretary-General of the Association Nationale des Infirmiers et Infirmières du Togo, presented online via Zoom to nearly 100 participants. His insights highlighted the increasing role of AI in supporting nursing practices and improving patient care outcomes.

Fostering Collaboration and Future Integration The symposium concluded with interactive discussions and engaging PowerPoint presentations from participants connected via Zoom. Attendees expressed a strong interest in exploring further collaborations to integrate AI technologies into healthcare systems across West Africa.

The successful organization of this symposium underscores HCOWAA’s commitment to promoting innovation and improving healthcare outcomes throughout the region. By embracing AI in diagnostic processes, West African healthcare facilities are advancing toward enhanced precision, faster results, and ultimately better patient care.

With initiatives like this, the Health Community of West Africa Association continues to play a pivotal role in driving transformative solutions to address healthcare challenges, ensuring that no community is left behind in the pursuit of improved medical outcomes.