It is important to note that it’s not restricted to one area of the head; it can take place along the hairline, temples and even the top of the head. “It can also be in patches in the hair, suggesting something like alopecia and there are many, many other conditions as well,” says Dr Ejikeme, in an exclusive chat with SCHICK. “The first step you should take is talking to your GP, to see if there’s a medical reason you’re having hair loss. […] I like to look at different practices that can drive hair loss – things like tight hair accessories, tight hairstyles, wigs and weaves, and oils and butters being used on the scalp.”

Learn more about the causes, effects and treatment for hair loss in women below:

Follow Dr Ejikeme on Instagram and learn more about her work.

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Colon Cancer develops when tumorous growths develop in the large intestine, where the body draws out water and salt from solid wastes. According to Dr Ezenwanne, “There is no single cause of Colon Cancer. Quite a number of factors – genetic, environmental and bowel inflammation factors – come [into] play.” However, an individual could be predisposed to this common cancer, based on a number of risk factors, including being over 50 years old, your diet and most importantly, a family history of this disease.

In a SCHICK exclusive, she reveals, “There are symptoms you need to watch out for […]: Blood in your stool or rectal bleeding, unexplained or unintentional weight loss, change in bowel habits, weakness and fatigue and abdominal discomfort.”

Watch the full video below:

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Using dance as a form of exercise is approved by countless health experts and fitness specialists. According to a survey on human health and physical fitness, a good number of specialists unanimously agree that dance truly has evolved from just ???fun??? into a workout. While it???s a great way of expressing yourself and moving your body, dancing can play a role in your overall fitness.

Here are some of the most popular dance exercises you can try from the comfort of your living room, any day, any time:

Zumba

This is probably one of the most well-known dance exercises; chances are you???ve tried it! Zumba is a mix of salsa and merengue and focuses on every part of the body, stretching the muscles on the legs and compressing the stomach muscles for a better-toned tum. Best of all? This is a type of workout that doesn???t feel like work, but can help maintain healthy body weight.

Freestyle

Freestyle dancing began in the 1970s on street corners, where different dancers came together and show off their individual dances. Over the years, freestyle dancing has increasingly become popular and this form of dance is usually referred to as ???owning your voice.??? Have some fun and lose some weight!

Belly Dancing

Belly Dancing is originally a traditional Middle Eastern dance but as time went by, its popularity spread across the globe. It???s a great form of exercise because it straightens the back muscles, makes it more flexible and helps to maintain good body posture by toning muscles. The shimmying, wiggling and undulating provides a solid core workout that helps butn fat, especially when combined with healthy eating.

Champeta

Champeta is a style of dance originating in the Caribbean coastal region of Colombia. It requires total body movement and a person can burn a lot of fat in a short amount of time. Champeta works on the body from all planes, including lateral and rotational, which turns on and conditions all muscles ??? no muscle is left behind!

This form of dance is set at high pace and rhythm, so your body demands more oxygen while performing it. To meet the demand for oxygen, your lungs and heart have to work harder, which will increase your lungs??? capacity, while making your diaphragm stronger.

Samba

Samba was created by African communities in Brazil, inspired heavily by indigenous music and dance. A Samba workout is famously known to free the body from the daily constraints imposed upon it, helping to compress the abdominal muscles and strengthen the gluteal muscles. It also provides the body with core flexibility and coordination.

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Wearing your mask correctly

Before you put on your mask, remember to wash your hands, after which you should secure it safely over your nose and mouth. Try to fit it snugly against the sides of your face, all the while ensuring you can breathe properly and easily

Removing your mask safely

Handling only the ear loops or ties, untie the strings behind your head or stretch the ear loops to remove the mask. Fold the outside corners together and place it in a secure laundry bag/area. It???s also important to remember not to touch your eyes, nose and mouth when removing it, and wash hands immediately after.

Keeping your mask clean

Your reusable mask can easily be washed with other laundry items in a washing machine. Use regular laundry detergent and an appropriate warm water setting for the cloth used to make the mask.

If you choose to wash your mask by hand, soak it for 5 minutes in a bleach solution made up of 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) of 5.25%???8.25% bleach per gallon of room temperature water or 4 teaspoons of 5.25%???8.25% bleach per quart of room temperature water.

Discard the solution and rinse the mask thoroughly, after which you can leave it to air dry or pop it in a clothes dryer along with the rest of your laundry.

Some important information to remember:

The United States Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people wear masks in public and when around people who don???t live in your household.

Masks should NOT be worn by children under age 2 or anyone who has trouble breathing, is unconscious, incapacitated or otherwise unable to remove the mask without assistance.

Do NOT use a mask meant for a healthcare worker. Currently, surgical masks and N95 respirators are critical supplies that should be reserved for healthcare workers and other first responders.

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According to Medical News Today, this term refers to “an anxiety disorder that manifests as a fear of situations where escape could be difficult, or in which help would not be available if something bad were to happen.” That means a person might be afraid of attending public events, using public transportation or even simply leaving home, for fear that they couldn’t access help if anything were to go wrong.

Image: UNSPLASH

Common symptoms of Agoraphobia are similar to that of a panic attack: Rapid heartbeat, rapid breathing (hyperventilation), chest pains, feeling hot and sweaty and feeling ill. According to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), people with this condition will “avoid situations that cause anxiety and may only leave the house with a friend or partner. They’ll order groceries online rather than going to the supermarket. This change in behaviour is known as avoidance.”

But where does it come from? Scientists believe Agoraphobia usually develops as a complication of??panic disorder, an anxiety disorder involving panic attacks and moments of intense fear. It can even arise by associating panic attacks with the places or situations where they first occurred. “A minority of people with Agoraphobia have no history of panic attacks. In these cases, their fear may be related to issues like a fear of crime, terrorism, illness, or being in an accident,” according to the NHS.

The good news though is Agoraphobia can typically be treated with a combination of medication and psychotherapy. “Treatment is effective for most people with Agoraphobia, but it can be harder to treat if people do not get early help,” says Medical News Today. Medication, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and self-help techniques are just some of the ways this condition can be managed.

Remember: You should speak to your doctor first about any concerns before taking action.

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“7 April 2020 is the day to celebrate the work of nurses and midwives and remind world leaders of the critical role they play in keeping the world healthy,” says the WHO. “Nurses and other health workers are at the forefront of COVID-19 response – providing high quality, respectful treatment and care, leading community dialogue to address fears and questions and, in some instances, collecting data for clinical studies.”

It???s #WorldHealthDay!

Today, we celebrate the work of nurses & midwives by showing our appreciation for their bravery, courage & resolve in the global #COVID19 response.

Tell us who your favourite nurse or midwife is .
#SupportNursesAndMidwives https://t.co/ZFkbyJFmG0 pic.twitter.com/02Skex6uW8

— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) April 6, 2020

This year (International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife), WHO, alongside its partners, aim to highlight the current status of nursing and around the world, ultimately making recommendations on how to strengthen of the nursing and midwifery workforce. “This will be vital if we are to achieve national and global targets related to universal health coverage, maternal and child health, infectious and non-communicable diseases including mental health, emergency preparedness and response, patient safety and the delivery of integrated, people-centered care, amongst others.”

Around the world, 70% of the health and social workforce are women and nurses and midwives represent a large portion of that number. Official statistics also show that midwifery, where care includes proven interventions for maternal and newborn health as well as for family planning, could avert over 80% of all maternal deaths, stillbirths and neonatal deaths.

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It???s #WorldHealthDay – join us in celebrating nurses, midwives and all #healthworkers fighting #COVID19 around the . Take a minute to say #ThanksHealthHeroes

A post shared by World Health Organization (@who) on Apr 6, 2020 at 11:15pm PDT

The tagline for World Health Day 2020 is: Support nurses and midwives. Show your support on social media today for these amazing health workers, using the hashtag #ThanksHealthHeroes!

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With food considerations, however, it appears there’s little need to panic. According to the World Health Organisation, “to date, there have not been any reports of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 virus (COVID-19) through food.” Nevertheless, WHO warns, “concerns were expressed about the potential for these viruses to persist on raw foods of animal origin.”

It’s important to note that the Coronaviruse is very stable in a frozen state, according to studies, and can survive for up to two years at -20??C. Research also shows that at refrigeration temperature (4??C), the virus can remain viable for up to 72 hours. “Current evidence on other coronavirus strains shows that while coronaviruses appear to be stable at low and freezing temperatures for a certain period, food hygiene and good food safety practices can prevent their transmission through food,” says WHO.

So, while cooking your food will most likely eliminate chances of contamination, the consumption of raw or undercooked animal products should be avoided at this time. Also beware of cross-contamination with uncooked foods, such as raw meat, raw milk or raw animal organs.

Additional recommendations and materials on food safety are available on the WHO website.

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Leading pregnancy and parenting brand, What to Expect answers some of these burning questions, offering daily practical advice on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle, what to do in an emergency and how the coronavirus pandemic may affect your birth plans. Want to know more? Read on!

I’m due to give birth soon and worried about being in hospital

According to WTE, “Every hospital and birthing center is different, but some are taking new measures to protect patients and staff.” But note that the virus outbreak will most likely affect a few things. For instance, if you???ve been exposed to the coronavirus or you???ve tested positive for COVID-19, your doctor and nursing staff will be wearing protective gear, and if you have no complications and you and baby are healthy, your provider may give you the option of leaving sooner than you would have in the past.

Should I still go for my prenatal appointments?

The government and public health officials are recommending that everyone – including you – try to stay home as much as possible, but how do you ensure everything is okay with your baby? WTE advises that as anxiety-inducing as it might be, it’s safer (for now) for both you and your growing baby to practice social distancing – at least six feet away from others – and still observe good hygiene, doing your best not to touch your face.

If you still have concerns, talk to your health provider who should be able to advise you on the best steps to take.

Can I still have a baby shower?

WTE generally advises against hosting or attending a baby shower, unfortunately. “Many mums-to-be are now planning virtual baby showers in lieu of in-person gatherings. Yes, that basically means everyone meets up over their computers or smartphones. While it may be logistically different, the intent is the same: to celebrate you and babe.” Find out more about how to plan one.

I just had a baby. Can my friends and family come and visit?

Although social gatherings of more than 10 people should be avoided, you might not be comfortable with banishing your loved ones from your home, especially at a time when you need support more than ever. Instead, “first make sure to ask them if they are or have been sick recently. If they have any signs and symptoms of any illness, ask them to postpone their visit.” It’s also recommended that before and during their visit, you gently ask them to wash their hands with soap and use alcohol-based hand sanitiser, most certainly if they’ll be coming into contact with baby.

UNSPLASH

How do I protect my newborn whenever we’re out in public?

Staying home as much as possible is advisable but we all need a break from time to time, so avoiding close contact with people who are sick, cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched objects, toys, etc.??and staying informed about the local COVID-19 situation are some of the best ways to stay safe.

If I get Coronavirus, how will it affect my unborn child?

There is currently no evidence to suggest that a pregnant woman with COVID-19 can pass the virus that causes COVID-19 to her foetus or baby during pregnancy or delivery. But can you still breastfeed? “Whether and how to start or continue breastfeeding should be determined by the mother in coordination with her family and healthcare providers,” says WTE. “A mother with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 should take all possible precautions to avoid spreading the virus to her infant, including washing her hands before touching the infant and wearing a face mask, if possible, while feeding at the breast.”

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According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), this selection of apps could be just what is needed to help you pass the storm:

1. Headspace

Targeted to anyone who wants to learn meditation to reduce anxiety and stress and improve their attention and awareness; good for a beginner to establish a regular meditative routine. The skills taught include mindfulness and cognitive diffusion, breathing exercises, meditation practice, tips for increased relaxation, concentration; may be applied to anxiety and depressive disorders, PTSD, and OCD, especially in conjunction with a health provider.

2. Happify

Happify is a self-guided app that aims to increase positive emotions through exercises and games supported by positive psychology and mindfulness research. An initial questionnaire is used to suggest “tracks” for an individual’s use, and subsequent activity content is geared towards various aims such as reducing worry, building relationships, increasing fitness, or coping with chronic pain. Activities are backed up with a blurb about research or scientific rationale that the user is encouraged to read. It is free with paid upgrades.

3. Anxiety Coach

Anxiety Coach is a self-help app that addresses fears and worries using CBT strategies. The app walks you through making a list of feared activities and helps you master them, leading to less fear and worry. The app includes tools for a severity self-test, making a plan, anxiety tracking, and viewing your progress.

4. Breathe2Relax

A simple, intuitive, and attractive mobile app designed by the National Center for Telehealth & Technology to teach breathing techniques to manage stress. The skills taught may be applied to those with anxiety disorders, stress, and PTSD.

This app can be personalised to a pace that the user finds relaxing; includes a video demo, reading materials, and charts to map personal progress.

5. Sanvello

Targeted to help those with anxiety and mood disorders and stress, this app teaches deep breathing, behavioral exercises, excises and identifying cognitive distortions (negative thinking patterns), and learning how to replace them with positive thinking patterns. It???s also good for those experiencing bouts of anxiety between treatment sessions.??

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As the world continues (and rightly so) to celebrate women from all walks of life this March and beyond, Mindfully African, an online community created for African women to be educated about their mental health and wellbeing, is focusing on celebrating African women and empowering the next generation. African women across the world are indefatigable leaders, hard-workers and advocates for social justice. However, most often than note, due to lack of time, or the few policies focusing on mental and physical health intervention, they neglect its importance. Many have even used non-specialist health providers in local communities, which reduce the cost of care.

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To celebrate #iwd2020 we teamed up with #africanwomen around the world and #alliedoil Ghana to launch a self care learning campaign #iammindfullyafrican. We believe that no one knows african women like african women so we are dedicating this year to sharing our self care tips, our wellbeing journeys and mental health stories.??? ??? Watch our full campaign video on IGTV and Stay tuned as we share self care videos from african women throughout the month! ??? ??? When we stand and share our stories in an empowering way, our stories heal us and will heal somebody else – Iyanla Vanzat??? ??? Join the movement and share your self care tips #iammindfullyafrican #watchmework #cnn #bbcafrica #beyondthereturn #mentalhealth #africangirlskillingit #CNNAfrica #iammindfullyafrican ??? ??? ??? @dodeye @nelaonengola @stylebywillie @veenaofficial @queen_agyeiwaa @hi_jewel @mummy__yo @foreign_curves @sandybrownx @ama.nettey @goldmuslimah @kingrai___ @bbcafrica @bbcafrique @bbcstories @badassboz @oprahmagazine @cnnafrica ???

A post shared by @ mindfullyafrican on Mar 10, 2020 at 12:18pm PDT

Raimah Amevor, founder and CEO of Mindfully African, is changing this, working with practitioners, local authorities, African government, diaspora associations and mental health practitioners. Mindfully African has built Africa???s first mental health directory, where you can find contact details of qualified counsellors, psychologists and nutritionists that serve the entire continent. In addition, they have brought together qualified professionals from across Africa to provide women, young and mature, with content catered for them and by them that they can trust to help take care of their mental and physical well-being and reach full potential.

As stated by world institutions, including the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the United Nations, mental health intervention impacts the economic circumstances of individuals and households affected by mental illness. Studies that evaluated the economic impact of these interventions, showing how clinical and economic improvements go hand-in-hand. It’s overly evident that there’s a need for more African governments to make mental health a national development priority and position women at its centre, to lead and advance a nation’s productivity.

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How many things are you doing that are slowly chipping away at your soul? How many people are you tolerating that should???ve been left in your past and not your future? ?????? ?????? As the year ends, reflect on the things , people or places that no longer reflect the person who you want to be ?????? ??? ?????? Make a choice, choose you ?????? ????????? ??????

A post shared by @ mindfullyafrican on Nov 20, 2019 at 6:31am PST

Mindfully African is working across Africa, with the aim to strengthen information systems, improve governance and calculate the costs of scaling up integrated care packages for women. Improving women’s mental health will help unlock development potential, a neglected link in the development chain in Africa.

Thus, Raimah believes that it is important to celebrate the amazing work of African women, whilst investing in mental health to promote resilience on the continent. After all, good mental health is just as much a means to social and economic development as it is a worthy goal in itself.

Read more about Mindfully African!

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