Nigeria requires an estimated $19 million to effectively combat Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), according to Fatai Oyediran, the National Coordinator for NTDs at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.

Speaking at a high-level advocacy meeting in Abuja on Thursday, Oyediran highlighted the urgent need for funding to support the country’s NTD control efforts.

“We developed our NTD master plan in 2023, which runs through 2027, and $19 million is what we need to implement it effectively,” Oyediran stated, emphasizing that adequate investment is crucial to addressing these diseases, which continue to affect millions in Nigeria.

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The World Health Organisation defines NTDs as a diverse group of diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites, fungi, and toxins, often leading to devastating health, social, and economic consequences.

These diseases primarily affect impoverished communities in tropical areas and are estimated to impact over one billion people globally.

In Nigeria, NTDs are responsible for a significant portion of the continent’s health burden, with the country contributing to 50% of Africa’s NTD cases and 25% of the global total.

Oyediran underscored the need for a united approach to secure funding and mobilize resources for Nigeria’s NTD control programs.

“One major challenge in addressing NTDs has been inadequate funding. There are about 21 diseases grouped under NTDs; each of them has its own peculiarities. Adequate funding is essential to effectively implementing all the strategies of controlling NTDs,” he explained.

The National Coordinator also called on both federal and state governments to allocate specific budgetary provisions for NTDs.

“Most states currently lack budgetary provisions for these diseases, and this is why we are engaging with health commissioners today. They are expected to communicate with their governors and ministries of budget and planning to establish a dedicated budget line for NTDs,” he said.

Stuart Halford, Director of Advocacy and Resource Mobilisation at United to Combat NTDs, echoed Oyediran’s call for funding, emphasizing that eliminating NTDs should be prioritized due to their severe economic impact.

“There are many health priorities, but eliminating NTDs is equally important because they contribute to economic and productivity losses,” Halford said.

Progress is being made in some states, such as Abia, where NTDs like onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis have been largely controlled.

Abia State Health Commissioner, Prof. Enoch Uche, revealed that the state was certified in 2022 for breaking the transmission of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis.

“We began mass administration of drugs as a form of preventive measure, which lasted for 10 years. In 2022, Abia state was certified to have broken the transmission of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis,” he said.

Kwara State has also made strides in the fight against NTDs.

The state’s Health Commissioner, Amina El-Imam, noted that Kwara has successfully eradicated lymphatic filariasis and onchocerciasis, despite the many other health challenges the state faces.

“NTDs are so-called because they have not received appropriate attention and funding over the past years. Unless we refocus on them, we will not be able to achieve eradication as intended,” she warned.

A cholera outbreak in Sokoto State has claimed the lives of at least 25 people, with 1,160 confirmed cases recorded in three local government areas.

The state Commissioner for Health, Dr. Asabe Balarabe, disclosed this during a press briefing on Monday.

She revealed that 15 patients are currently receiving treatment for the disease, which was confirmed through laboratory tests.

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“Out of 1,160 people affected by the outbreak, 25 have succumbed to the disease,” Dr. Balarabe said.

In response, the state government has ramped up efforts to curtail the spread of the infection, which is caused by consuming contaminated water or food.

“The state rescue teams are collaborating with the government to manage and forestall further spread of the dreaded disease,” the commissioner stated.

To address the crisis, the government has ordered the immediate purchase and distribution of essential drugs free of charge to all 18 local government areas of the state.

Dr. Balarabe urged residents to maintain proper hygiene and seek medical attention immediately if they exhibit symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.

The outbreak has highlighted the need for improved sanitation and clean water access in affected communities, as health authorities work to contain the spread and prevent further fatalities.

Your body has subtle ways of communicating essential information about your health—and sometimes, one of the simplest clues is the color of your urine.

Urine, which is about 95% water, forms when your kidneys filter out waste and excess water from your blood. Normally ranging from light yellow to amber, it provides insights into your hydration and more.

Changes in urine color, smell, or frequency can serve as early indicators of potential health conditions.

While most color shifts are harmless and temporary, persistent changes could suggest a more significant issue.

“Tracking these signs can be a simple way to monitor hydration and potentially catch health issues early,” says Dr. Jenna Lewis, a nephrologist at Healthline Clinic.

Here’s a guide to what different urine colors might mean for your health:

Clear or Very Light Yellow

This typically shows you’re well-hydrated. While generally a positive sign, consistently clear urine could indicate overhydration, which may lower salt levels in your body.

Light to Medium Yellow

Often considered the “healthy” zone, this shade reflects good hydration without excess water intake.

Dark Yellow to Amber

A darker shade often indicates a need for more water. This is common in the morning or after exercise and can usually be resolved by drinking more fluids.

Orange

Dehydration may lead to orange urine, but other factors can also contribute. High levels of beta-carotene (found in foods like carrots) or certain medications can turn urine orange.

Persistent orange urine might signal liver or bile duct issues, so consult a doctor if it persists.

Pink or Red

While foods like beets or berries can cause pinkish urine, this color can also indicate the presence of blood, possibly signaling kidney problems, infections, or kidney stones. If diet isn’t the cause, seek medical advice.

Brown or Cola-Colored

This shade may suggest dehydration or, in some cases, a more severe issue. Brown urine can indicate liver or kidney problems, or a condition called rhabdomyolysis, where muscle tissue breaks down. Persistent brown urine warrants a visit to the doctor.

Blue or Green

Rarely, certain medications, dyes, or health conditions can produce blue or green urine. While often harmless, persistent blue or green urine should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Cloudy or Milky

Cloudy urine may indicate an infection or excess minerals. It could be a sign of a urinary tract infection, kidney stones, or mild dehydration. Sometimes, excess proteins or fats may also cause this cloudiness.

Most changes in urine color are temporary, especially when related to hydration, diet, or harmless compounds. However, experts agree that if unusual colors or symptoms persist, a consultation with a healthcare provider is wise.

“Listening to your body’s signals, even through something as simple as urine color, can offer valuable insights into your overall health,” adds Dr. Lewis.

By keeping an eye on these colors, you can stay on top of hydration and potentially catch health issues early.