Tag: education and awareness

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Suicide Awareness and Prevention

Suicide Awareness and Prevention

Looking out for our friends and loved ones is an important part of preventing suicides. Easy access to mental health treatment can be key to saving the life of someone who struggles with suicidal thoughts. Seeing them go through the pain and struggle to cope with their thoughts and feelings can be hard, and approaching and encouraging them to seek therapy can be a tricky situation. If done incorrectly, you could alienate the person or turn them against the idea entirely. However, there is an effective way to have this conversation. Learn How to Encourage Someone to See a Therapist.

World Suicide Prevention Day is commemorated around the world on the 10th of September to promote commitment and action to prevent suicide. On average, almost 3 000 people commit suicide every day, and for each person who completes a suicide, 20 or more may attempt to end their lives.

About one million people commit suicide each year. Every 40 seconds, the loss of a person who killed themselves shatters the lives of family and friends. Those who stay behind are affected severely and the it can take many, many years to deal with the emotional trauma, and to heal from such an ordeal.

“A suicide is like a pebble in a pond. The waves ripple outward.”

Suicide Hotlines and Crises lines in South Africa

In South Africa, 23 suicides a day are recorded and 230 serious attempts. You can call SADAG  to talk on behalf of a loved one, colleague, or friend. Trained counsellors are there to help and refer you to local counsellors, facilities and Support Groups.

Risk Factors

All people can be at risk of suicide. The risk factors for someone feeling suicidal or making an attempt at suicide may include:

  • Depression, other mental disorders, or substance abuse disorder
  • Certain medical conditions
  • Chronic pain
  • A prior suicide attempt
  • Family history of a mental disorder or substance abuse
  • Family history of suicide
  • Family violence, including physical or sexual abuse
  • Having guns or other firearms in the home
  • Having recently been released from prison or jail
  • Being exposed to others’ suicidal behavior, such as that of family members, peers, or celebrities

Warning Signs

The warning signs of suicide can allow you to direct individuals who may be considering suicide to get help. Behaviors that may be warning signs include:

  1. Talking about wanting to die or wanting to kill themselves
  2. Suicidal ideation: thinking, talking, or writing about suicide, planning for suicide
  3. Substance abuse
  4. Feelings of purposelessness
  5. Anxiety, agitation, being unable to sleep, or sleeping all the time
  6. Feelings of being trapped
  7. Feelings of hopelessness
  8. Social withdrawal
  9. Displaying extreme mood swings, suddenly changing from sad to very calm or happy
  10. Recklessness or impulsiveness, taking risks that could lead to death, such as driving extremely fast
  11. Mood changes including depression
  12. Feelings of uselessness
  13. Settling outstanding affairs, giving away prized or valuable possessions, or making amends when they are otherwise not expected to die (as an example, this behavior would be typical in a terminal cancer patient but not a healthy young adult)
  14. Strong feelings of pain, either emotional or physical
  15. Considering oneself burdensome
  16. Increased use of drugs or alcohol

How You Can Help

How To Be Helpful to Someone Who Is Threatening Suicide:

• Be direct. Talk openly and matter-of-factly about suicide.
• Be willing to listen. Allow expressions of feelings. Accept the feelings.
• Be non-judgmental. Don’t debate whether suicide is right or wrong, or whether feelings are good or bad. Don’t lecture on the value of life.
• Get involved. Become available. Show interest and support.
• Don’t dare him or her to do it.
• Don’t act shocked. This will put distance between you.
• Don’t be sworn to secrecy. Seek support.
• Offer hope that alternatives are available but do not offer glib reassurance.
• Ask if you may contact a family member
• Take action. Remove means, such as guns or stockpiled pills.
• Don’t leave them alone, get help from persons specializing in crisis intervention and suicide prevention.
• If necessary get in touch with the police

Be Aware of Feelings: Many people at some time in their lives think about suicide. Most decide to live because they eventually come to realize that the crisis is temporary and death is permanent. On the other hand, people having a crisis sometimes perceive their dilemma as inescapable and feel an utter loss of control. These are some of the feelings and thoughts they experience:

  • Feeling Hopeless
  • I can`t stop the pain
  • I`m not worthy
  • Can not sleep
  • Can not work
  • Can not eat
  • I can`t make the sadness go away
  • I can not see a way out
  • Can`t make decisions
  • Can`t take control
  • Feeling helpless
  • Can`t see a future without pain
  • Can`t get someone`s attention
  • Can`t think clearly
  • Can`t get out of depression

Sources: www.gov.za, www.sadag.org, www.nami.org, en.wikipedia.org

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Williams Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, Common Features and Treatment

Williams Syndrome (WS), also known as Williams-Beuren syndrome, is a rare genetic disorder that is present at birth. The condition can affect anybody, and is known to occur equally in both females and males, and in every culture. WS causes numerous medical issues including cardiovascular disease, musculoskeletal problems, delays in development, and learning disabilities. These often occur side by side with highly social personalities, striking verbal skills, and a fondness for music.

Williams Syndrome: Extraordinary Gifts, Unique Challenges

May is Williams Syndrome Awareness Month

What Causes Williams Syndrome?

Williams syndrome is caused by the spontaneous deletion of 26-28 genes on chromosome #7. The deletion occurs in either the egg or the sperm used to form the child with Williams syndrome. Accordingly, the deletion is present at the time of conception. It is likely that the elastin gene deletion accounts for many of the physical features of Williams syndrome. Some medical and developmental problems are probably caused by deletions of additional genetic material near the elastin gene on chromosome #7. The extent of these deletions may vary among individuals. – Williams Syndrome Association

Signs and Symptoms of WS

Signs and symptoms of Williams Syndrome can vary, but generally include:

  • a distinctive facial appearance;
  • mild to moderate intellectual disability;
  • a unique personality that combines over-friendliness and high levels of empathy with anxiety.

People with WS typically have difficulty with tasks such as drawing and assembling puzzles. They tend to do well on tasks that involve spoken language, music, and learning by repetition. They also often have very outgoing, engaging personalities and tend to take an extreme interest in other people. Attention deficit disorder (ADD), problems with anxiety, and phobias are common. Learn more

Common Features of WS include:

  • Characteristic facial appearance
  • Heart and blood vessel problems 
  • Hypercalcemia (elevated blood calcium levels) 
  • Low birth-weight / slow weight gain 
  • Feeding difficulty (generally limited to the early years) 
  • Irritability (colic during infancy) 
  • Dental abnormalities 
  • Kidney abnormalities 
  • Hernias 
  • Hyperacusis (sensitive hearing) 
  • Musculoskeletal problems 
  • Overly friendly (excessively social) personality 
  • Developmental delay, learning challenges and attention deficit disorder

Treatment Options for Williams syndrome

There is currently no cure for Williams syndrome, and no known way to prevent it.

Treatment is usually based on the individual’s symptoms, and involves easing the symptoms connected to the condition. There is no standard protocol. Management may include:

  • Feeding therapy for infants with feeding problems
  • Early intervention programs and special education programs for children with varying degrees of developmental disabilities
  • Behavioral counseling and/or medications for attention deficit disorder and/or anxiety
  • Surgery for certain heart abnormalities
  • Medications or diet modifications for hypercalcemia
  • Orthodontic appliances or other treatments for malocclusion of teeth
  • Gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist for early puberty
  • Learn more

Regular cardiovascular checkups are necessary to monitor and track any potential problems.

Narrowed blood vessels can be treated if they cause symptoms, physical therapy and speech therapy can also be beneficial.

Medical conditions can affect the lifespan of those with Williams syndrome.

Visit the sources below for more in-depth information.

Sources: healthline.com, williams-syndrome.org, rarediseases.info.nih.gov

Fundraising for Logan Clarke – Pierre Robin Syndrome, Williams Syndrome

*All information/posts on this blog is published for general information and educational purposes only. Arms of Mercy NPC and the armsofmercy.org.za website will not be held liable for any adverse health effects, losses and/or damages whatsoever. Any action you take as a result of the information is at your own risk, and does not replace the advice of a qualified medical practitioner. Always consult with your medical healthcare practitioner.

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Tips for a Healthy Lifestyle

Health is defined as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being – and not merely the absence of disease. Before the industrial revolution, fitness was defined as the ability to carry out activities during the day without undue fatigue. However, with changes in lifestyles, physical fitness is now considered to be a measure of the body’s ability to function efficiently and effectively – in work and leisure activities – to be healthy, to resist hypokinetic diseases, and to meet emergency situations.

When you adopt a healthy lifestyle, not only are you taking active control to improve your quality of life, but you are also setting a positive example for other members of the family, specifically the children!

Tips for a Healthy Lifestyle

  1. Eat a variety of foods
  2. Base your diet on plenty of foods rich in carbohydrates
  3. Replace saturated with unsaturated fat
  4. Enjoy plenty of fruits and vegetables
  5. Reduce salt and sugar intake
  6. Eat regularly, control the portion size
  7. Drink plenty of fluids
  8. Maintain a healthy body weight
  9. Get on the move, make it a habit!
  10. Start now! And keep changing gradually.

Good nutrition

Good nutrition is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle. Your food choices affect your health — not just in how you feel today, but also tomorrow and in the future. Combined with physical activity, your diet can help you to reach and maintain a healthy weight, reduce your risk of chronic diseases, and promote overall health.

Exercise improves your health

Exercise strengthens your heart and improves circulation. Increased blood flow raises the oxygen levels in your body, which helps to lower your risk of heart diseases like high cholesterol, coronary artery disease, and heart attack. Regular exercise can also lower your blood pressure and triglyceride levels.

There are many types of physical activities one can do including walking, swimming, cycling, running, dancing, yoga, pilates, and jumping, to name a few. Find what is most enjoyable and what works for you, and commit to a daily routine.

Benefits of Regular Exercise

  • Increase feeling of happiness,
  • Improve your mental health and mood,
  • Help with weight loss,
  • Improve muscle and bone strength,
  • Increase energy levels,
  • Reduce risk of chronic disease,
  • Help your body manage blood sugar and insulin levels,
  • Improve skin health,
  • Improve brain health and memory,
  • Reduce anxiety sensitivity,
  • Help with relaxation and sleep quality,
  • Reduce pain,
  • Improve positive self-image and boost self-esteem,
  • Improve sexual desire, function and performance in both men and women,
  • Help with quitting smoking by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms,
  • Inspire others to make time for exercise!

How to Make Exercise Part of Your Regular Routine

  • Make everyday activities more active. Even small changes can help. You can take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk down the hall to a coworker’s office instead of sending an email. Wash the car yourself. Park further away from your destination.
  • Be active with friends and family. Having a workout partner may make you more likely to enjoy exercise. You can also plan social activities that involve exercise. You might also consider joining an exercise group or class, such as a dance class, hiking club, or volleyball team.
  • Keep track of your progress. Keeping a log of your activity or using a fitness tracker may help you set goals and stay motivated.
  • Make exercise more fun. Try listening to music or watching TV while you exercise. Also, mix things up a little bit – if you stick with just one type of exercise, you might get bored. Try doing a combination of activities.
  • Find activities that you can do even when the weather is bad. You can walk in a mall, climb stairs, or work out in a gym even if the weather stops you from exercising outside.

sources: eufic.org, healthline.com, medlineplus.gov, wikipedia.org, greatist.com

*All information/posts on this blog is published for general information and educational purposes only. Arms of Mercy NPC and the armsofmercy.org.za website will not be held liable for any adverse health effects, losses and/or damages whatsoever. Any action you take as a result of the information is at your own risk, and does not replace the advice of a qualified medical practitioner. Always consult with your medical healthcare practitioner.

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Guide to Maintaining Accessibility in Buildings for All Persons with Disabilities

Maintaining accessibility in buildings

Disability is the consequence of an impairment that may be physical, cognitive, mental, sensory, emotional, developmental, or some combination of these. A disability may be present from birth, or occur during a person’s lifetime.

Disability can be broken down into a number of broad sub-categories, which include the following 8 main types of disability:

  • Mobility and Physical Impairments.
  • Spinal Cord Disability.
  • Head Injuries (TBI) – Brain Disability.
  • Vision Disability.
  • Hearing Disability.
  • Cognitive or Learning Disabilities.
  • Psychological Disorders.

Making buildings more accessible to all persons with disabilities should be on top of your to-do list if your building is not complaint yet. Below is a guide to help you in the right direction. It is important to re-access your building`s accessibility program regularly, or at least every 3 years to ensure it`s up to standard.

A good accessibility expert will often be able to suggest affordable solutions. Develop an implementation plan for addressing each issue that the report identifies, according to the issues’ priorities as soon as possible after the audit – and develop and Access Handbook that staff who work in the relevant areas can refer to — and update — while working.

Maintaining accessibility in buildings

Outside the building

Make sure that parking spaces for people with disabilities are accessible. Check:

  • That parking spaces and drop-off points are kept clear for people who need them
  • The surface and lighting around the building and on the paths that customers/visitors use to get to the building.
  • That the main entrance door is correctly designed, and that at least one entrance is accessible if the main entrance is not accessible.

Ramps and steps

If any public service areas have slopes that are steeper than 1:20, make sure that both steps and ramps are available, and that they are correctly designed.

Wheelchair Ramp

Steps and lifts

Steps

Avoid putting steps within a floor in a building, where possible. Where steps are necessary, provide a ramp or platform lift as appropriate.

Lifts

Provide accessible lifts in all new buildings that have more than one floor.
Make sure that the lifts are designed to best practice guidelines.
Check the lifts’ operation regularly.
Keep the lifts clear.

Corridors and doors

Check that:

  • Corridors and routes are not obstructed by deliveries, machinery, or anything else
  • Doors are kept open where possible
  • Doors that are closed are easy for customers/visitors to open
  • Doors are wide enough for all customers/visitors.

Signs

Public buildings should have signs to let your customers/visitors understand where they need to go. The signs should:

  • Be designed according to best practice guidelines
  • Have Braille or raised lettering wherever possible
  • Have writing that is large enough for your customers/visitors to read
  • Use appropriate symbols
  • Not be ”home made“
  • Be placed where your customers will:
    • Be able to see them easily
    • Not walk into them.

Reception areas and waiting rooms

Public service reception areas and waiting rooms should be designed, and maintained, to best practice guidance.

  • Provide correctly designed seats. A mixture of types and sizes of seats is best. Some customers may need to use arm-rests, and some may find arm-rests awkward.
  • Provide an induction loop system in at least one accessible meeting room.

Intercoms, queuing systems, ticket offices, information desks

Consider how you will inform customers/visitors that they are next in line. Remember that some of them might not be able to:

  • Read visual information
  • Hear audio information or intercoms
  • Reach tickets or intercoms that are very high, very low, or awkward to reach
  • Understand complicated language or jargon.

Plan the location, output, and language of your intercoms, queuing systems, ticket offices, or information desks carefully. If these are inaccessible to some of your customers/visitors, make sure that your staff can help them by speaking — or giving written information.

Toilets

If you provide toilets for the public, provide toilets that customers/visitors with disabilities can use. Follow best practice guidance carefully.

  • Provide an alarm system in your accessible toilets, and test it regularly to make sure that a member of staff will help somebody in an emergency.
  • Make sure that accessible toilets are not used for storing cleaning equipment, deliveries, or anything else.
  • Provide sanitary bins in accessible toilets, and put them where they will not obstruct wheelchair users.

Interior design

Light

The light in your public buildings should be distributed evenly. There should be no large variations in lighting levels and the light should not be too bright or too dark. Avoid glossy, shiny and polished surface finishes and keep reflections, shadows, and glare to a minimum.

Visual contrast

Use differences in colour and colour intensity to create visual contrast. That will help customers/visitors with vision impairments to:

  • Distinguish between walls and floors
  • Distinguish between door backgrounds and fittings
  • Avoid hazards
  • Find their way around the building.

Source: National Disability Authority

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The Right to Inclusive and Quality Education for Children with Disabilities

Inclusive and Quality Education for Children with Disabilities

South Africa commemorates National Disability Rights Awareness Month annually between 3 November and 3 December. This post aims to raise awareness about children and young people with disabilities, and their right to empower themselves through access to quality education and lifelong learning.

Disability Rights Awareness Month 2019

Children with disabilities are one of the most socially judged and excluded groups in society. They face various forms of discrimination, which leads to isolation and alienation from community, society and school.

The general attitude toward children with disabilities, and the lack of resources to accommodate these children, compound the challenges they face. The lack of easy access to school – and the inability of the education system to make sure that they receive quality education is of equal concern.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the Education For All framework aim to meet the learning needs of all children and youth. The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) recalls those obligations and further specifies that “States Parties shall take all necessary measures to ensure the full enjoyment by children with disabilities of all human rights and fundamental freedoms on an equal basis with other children”, and “ensure an inclusive education system at all levels and lifelong learning” (articles 7 and 24).  

– unicef.org

To ensure quality education for children with disabilities the following must be addressed:

  • Promote accessible and inclusive learning spaces – Ensure physical accessibility for children with disabilities, including commuting and moving around in the school environment as well as having safe access to water and sanitation facilities whilst at school. Likewise, learning materials need to be made available in accessible formats to suit the needs of children with different types of disabilities. 
  • Invest in teacher training for inclusive education – Where available, approaches to education for children with disabilities have changed over the years. While the initial emphasis was on ‘special schools’, there has been a shifting that indicates a preference towards inclusive education. Preparation and orientation of teachers for inclusion should happen through teacher training which, besides the child-centred pedagogy will also address attitudes towards children with disabilities, and how to prepare/support families for them to be encouraged to keep their children in school and informed about their children’s potential.
  • Take a multi-sectoral approach – Barriers that prevent children with disabilities to access education are located both within and outside the education system, for example transport, social services for assistive devices, health etc.
  • Involve the community – The education of children with disabilities must include a strong involvement from community as well as from parents, being two key factors which determine the success of IE.
  • Collect data for evidence building and progress monitoring – In order to have evidence to advocate for inclusion and create a baseline for monitoring progress in disability mainstreaming in the educational system, it is required to collect and disaggregate data on the patterns of enrolment, attendance, completion, attainment and drop out as a result of having a disability (in addition to gender, ethnicity, income level, geographical location etc.).  Also other qualitative and quantitative studies, like one on Out Of School Children, provide important baselines and as such must become a regular component of monitoring education standards.  Research findings are helping to define strategies to ensure specific target groups are reached.

Inclusive Education in South Africa

“In 2015, it was estimated by Human Rights Watch that over 600,000 children with disabilities are not in the school system in South Africa. Since the release of these statistics, it has come to light that this number may be even higher, as the government is yet to determine the exact number of children with disabilities not attending schools.” – dailymaverick.co.za

Inclusive Education recognises the right of ALL children to feel welcomed into a supportive educational environment in their own community. It refers to the capacity of ordinary local schools and ECD Centres to respond to the needs of ALL learners, including those requiring extra support because of learning or physical disability, social disadvantage, cultural diffrences or other barriers to learning.

We now have a strong legislative and policy framework that promotes an Inclusive Education system in South Africa. The South African Constitution, The South African Schools Act, White Paper 6, The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, UN Convention on the Rights of the Child all place obligations on the State to ensure ALL children are given access to meaningful participation in learning in the general education system. – included.org.za

Be Inspired

Earlier this year we were fortunate enough to join hands in raising SMA Awareness with Kerry Walsh, an inspiring young lady with a “never say no” attitude.

Kerry was diagnosed with SMA (Spinal Muscular Atrophy) around the age of one, and was given the life expectancy of 5 years old. Today, at age 21, she is a motivational speaker and extremely passionate about changing the level of accessibility in South Africa!! Kerry was an ambassador for the Nappy Run 2016-2017, and was nominated as a Margaret Hirsch Women in Business 2017-2018!! Learn more about Kerry`s story and her mission to raise SMA Awareness and changing the level of accessibility in SA.

Kerry Walsh
Kerry Walsh

Sources: https://www.unicef.org/disabilities/index_65316.html, https://www.right-to-education.org/page/united-nations-instruments, http://www.included.org.za/news/what-is-inclusive-education/

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Disability Rights Awareness Month

Disability Rights Awareness Month 2019

South Africa commemorates National Disability Rights Awareness Month annually between 3 November and 3 December.

3 December is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, and is also commemorated as National Disability Rights Awareness Day.

The month long campaign carries weekly sub-themes which are reflected in the Medium Term Strategic Framework (2019-2024) of government. The following sub-themes are intended to focus conversations on priority areas identified by the disability sector, which also link to the seven priorities of government:

Week 1: Children and young people with disabilities empowered to chart their own destiny through access to quality lifelong learning
Week 2: A built environment accessible to all persons with disabilities
Week 3: Persons with disabilities as equal players in building inclusive economies
Week 4: Children and women with disabilities – feeling and being safe as equal citizens in their communities

Disability is the consequence of an impairment that may be physical, cognitive, mental, sensory, emotional, developmental, or some combination of these. A disability may be present from birth, or occur during a person’s lifetime.

Society is encouraged to be part of the conversation online by using the hashtag #DisabilityInclusiveSA

As published at www.gov.za/DRAM2019

The Right to Inclusive and Quality Education for Children with Disabilities
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Epilepsy Awareness – Risk Factors & Causes

epilepsy awareness

Epilepsy, also known as seizure disorder, is a neurological disorder, associated with abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It is marked by sudden recurrent episodes of sensory disturbance, unusual behaviour, sometimes loss of consciousness, and convulsions.

Anyone can develop epilepsy at any stage during their lifetime. The disorder affects both males and females of all ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds. It is not contagious or infectious, nor is it a mental illness or psychiatric disorder.

Risk Factors

Factors that may increase your risk of epilepsy:

  • Age: The onset of epilepsy is most common in children and older adults, but the condition may occur at any age, at any time.
  • Family history: If you have a family history of epilepsy, you may be at an increased risk of developing a seizure disorder.
  • Head injuries: Head injuries are responsible for some cases of epilepsy. Reduce your risk by wearing a seat-belt while riding in a car and wear a helmet when cycling, skiing, riding a motorcycle or engaging in other activities with a high risk of head injury.
  • Stroke and other vascular diseases: Stroke and other blood vessel (vascular) diseases can lead to brain damage that may trigger epilepsy. To reduce your risk; limit your alcohol consumption and avoid cigarette smoking, maintain a healthy diet, and exercise regularly.
  • Dementia: In older adults, Dementia can increase the risk of epilepsy.
  • Brain infections: Infections such as meningitis causes inflammation in your brain or spinal cord and may increase the risk of epilepsy.
  • Childhood Seizures: High fevers during childhood can sometimes be associated with seizures. Children who have seizures due to high fever generally won’t develop epilepsy. The risk will increase if a child has a long seizure, another nervous system condition or a family history of epilepsy.

Causes

The underlying causes of the epilepsy is unknown (idiopathic epilepsy) in approximately 66% of cases. Possible underlying causes of symptomatic epilepsy include: A head injury occurring at any age, A birth injury, Alcohol and drug abuse.

National Disability Rights Awareness Month

According to research, 5% – 12% of all South Africans live with some form of disability – and 20% of these have epilepsy – which is double the amount in developed countries. About 1 in 20 people will have an epileptic seizure at some point in their lives, while 1 in 100 will have seizures on a regular basis.

People with epilepsy are still able to do physical and intellectual work, and should not be treated differently. South Africa commemorates National Disability Rights Awareness Month every year from 3 November – 3 December.

purple awareness bracelet epilepsy - arms of mercy npc

Purple Awareness Bracelet – Epilepsy Awareness

Sources: https://www.gov.za, https://epilepsy.org.za, https://www.mayoclinic.org

All information in this post is published for general information and educational purposes only. Arms of Mercy NPC and the armsofmercy.org.za website do not offer any diagnosis or treatment, and will not be held liable for any adverse health effects, losses and/or damages whatsoever. Any action you take as a result of the information is at your own risk, and does not replace the advice of a qualified medical practitioner. Always consult with your medical healthcare practitioner.

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Lung Cancer Awareness: Risk Factors, Signs and Symptoms

lung cancer awareness - risks factors signs symptoms

November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month.

The lungs are the primary organs of the respiratory system in humans. Their function is to extract oxygen from the atmosphere and transfer it into the bloodstream, and to release carbon dioxide from the bloodstream into the atmosphere, in a process of gas exchange.

Lung Cancer Awareness

Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of death in men and women around the world. It is no secret that smokers have the greatest risk of lung cancer, but lung cancer can also occur in people who have never smoked.

The survival rate for people diagnosed with lung cancer are low. Those who`ve been diagnosed at early stages have the best chance for recovery.

Risk Factors

  • Smoking
  • Exposure to secondhand smoke
  • Exposure to Radon Gas
  • Exposure to Asbestos and other carcinogens
  • Outdoor air pollution, especially chemicals released from the burning of fossil fuels
  • Family history of lung cancer

Lung Cancer Signs and Symptoms

  • A new cough that does not go away
  • Changes in chronic cough or “smoker`s cough”
  • A cough that gets worse, or does not go away
  • Coughing up blood
  • Shortness of breath and wheezing
  • Constant chest pain, especially when coughing
  • Frequent chest infections
  • Wheezing/Hoarseness
  • Swelling of the neck and the face
  • Fatigue
  • Loss of appetite/ Weight loss without trying
  • Bone pain
  • Headaches

Lung cancer often spreads to other parts of the body, like the brain and bones. This can cause pain, nausea, and headaches among other signs and symptoms – depending on the organ that is affected. Once lung cancer has spread beyond the lungs, it is generally not curable, though treatments are available to help you live longer.

Reduce Your Risk

  • Don`t smoke
  • Quit smoking immediately
  • Avoid secondhand smoke
  • Test your home for Radon
  • Avoid carcinogens at work and at home
  • Maintain a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables
  • Exercise often (most days of the week)

Lung Cancer Awareness Bracelet

The Lung Cancer Awareness Bracelet consist of silver and white wooden beads with crystal and diamante fillers. Charms include: Diamanté Awareness Ribbon, Made-with-love charm, and small Awareness-ribbon.

To place and order, contact the agent in your area or shop online. Alternatively, please consider a donation; any and all donations welcome.

Shop Online

“Breath is Spirit. The act of breathing is Living.”

The Lung Cancer Awareness Bracelet form part of our fundraising efforts for all the precious AOM children. We love them all dearly, and wish to help them on an ongoing basis with medical expenses. We can not see our vision and mission through without your support; it truly goes a long way.

Sources: https://www.cansa.org.za/files/2015/05/2015-CANSA-Lung-Cancer-Infographic-Eng.pdf, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/lung-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20374620, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lung_cancer, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lung

*All information in this post is published for general information and educational purposes only. Arms of Mercy NPC and the armsofmercy.org.za website do not offer any diagnosis or treatment, and will not be held liable for any adverse health effects, losses and/or damages whatsoever. Any action you take as a result of the information is at your own risk, and does not replace the advice of a qualified medical practitioner. Always consult with your medical healthcare practitioner.

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Cerebral Palsy Types & Common Symptoms

Cerebral Palsy Types and Common Symptoms

Brief overview:

Cerebral palsy is a movement disorder that can affect posture and many aspects of daily life. Cerebral palsy (CP) is caused by damage or abnormal development in parts of the brain that control movement. These events can happen before, during, or shortly after birth or in the first few years of life, when the brain is still developing. In many cases the exact cause is unknown.

According to the South African Society of Physiotherapy, cerebral palsy is the most common physical disability in childhood – as many as eight children per hundred are affected in South Africa.

CP is a permanent but non-progressive condition that does not get worse as a child grows into adulthood. Except in cases where a baby is born with serious health problems, it is not considered a life-threatening disability, and most infants who are diagnosed with CP live normal life spans.

Causes of CP that occur before birth include: damage to the brain`s white matter, abnormal brain development, bleeding in the brain and lack of oxygen in the brain.

Although there have been no general studies of life expectancy in people with cerebral palsy, most children affected live between 30-70 years, depending on the severity of their condition.

Cerebral Palsy Types & Common Symptoms

The four main types of cerebral palsy include: Spastic, Athetoid, Ataxic and Mixed. The type is classified based on mobility limitations and the body parts affected. Below are some of the most common signs and symptoms related to each type.

Spastic Cerebral Palsy:

  • Awkward reflexes
  • Stiffness in one part of the body
  • Contractures (permanently tightened muscles or joints)
  • Abnormal gait

Athetoid Cerebral Palsy:

  • Stiff or rigid body
  • Floppiness in the limbs
  • Problems with posture
  • Issues feeding

Ataxic Cerebral Palsy:

  • Difficulty speaking
  • Problems with depth perception
  • Shakiness and tremors
  • Spreading feet apart when walking

Mixed Cerebral Palsy:

  • Exaggerated, jerky movements
  • Abnormal reflexes
  • Poor posture
  • Tremors or shakiness
  • Issues with coordination

Treatment

Individuals with CP require long-term care with a team of therapists for ongoing physical therapy, occupational- and speech therapy, and developmental therapy among a list of others. Mobility aids and assistive devices can also be used to help increase independence for those living with cerebral palsy. There is currently no cure for CP, but the condition is manageable with proper treatment and continuous loving care.

Research on stem cell therapy is developing at a rapid pace. The hope is that in the future, some type of stem cell therapy may help children with CP by replacing injured nerve cells that can take over the function of the damaged areas of the brain. As more information becomes available from carefully conducted scientific studies, this therapy may prove useful for children with cerebral palsy.

Also see this comprehensive overview of symptoms, causes , diagnosis and treatment.

Sources: kidshealth.org.nz, mayoclinic.org, nichd.nih.gov, cerebralpalsyguide.com, birthinjuryguide.org, worldcpday.org.

Cerebral Palsy Awareness

National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month is celebrated every year in March as an awareness campaign to express support for the ones suffering from Cerebral Palsy. World Cerebral Palsy Day is on the 6th of October, and is represented by the green awareness ribbon. World Cerebral Palsy Day is a movement of people with cerebral palsy and their families, and the organisations that support them, in more over 65 countries. Their vision is to ensure that children and adults with cerebral palsy (CP) have the same rights, access and opportunities as anyone else in society. Learn more about Wold CP Day.

*All information/posts on this blog is published for general information and educational purposes only. Arms of Mercy NPC and the armsofmercy.org.za website will not be held liable for any adverse health effects, losses and/or damages whatsoever. Any action you take as a result of the information is at your own risk, and does not replace the advice of a qualified medical practitioner. Always consult with your medical healthcare practitioner.

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Global Tracheostomy Tube Awareness Week

Tracheostomy Tube Awareness Week - Arms of Mercy NPC

Official Tracheostomy Tube Awareness Week is the 3rd week of May every year, 19-25 May 2019.

Tracheostomy Tube Awareness Week

Not long ago, a mom wanted to show the world that her little girl was just like everyone else with a few added accessories. This led to the creation of Global Tracheostomy Tube Awareness Week. This annual event is now known as a viral campaign to spread awareness of trach patients, their families, and their caregivers across the world.

What is a Trach or Tracheostomy Tube?

A trach or tracheostomy tube is a small tube inserted into a hole into the trachea in the neck. This tube allows the person to breath without using or bypassing their mouth and nose. Some conditions that may require a trach include neuromuscular diseases, malformations of the airway or face, vocal cord paralysis, aspiration, disorders of respiratory control, obstructive sleep apnea, a variety of chronic lung diseases, tracheomalacia, tumors, and many other conditions.

Some children, youth, and adults may need a trach temporarily, while others may need one for a lifetime. Some also need additional support with the trach, such as oxygen or ventilator support, to assist in breathing.

Source: complexchild.org

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Melanoma Skin Cancer – Signs & Symptoms

melanoma skin cancer - arms of mercy npc

Skin cancer is the most common cancer worldwide and SA has one of the highest monitored ultra violet (UV) levels in the world, resulting in one of the highest skin cancer rates globally.

“South Africa has the 2nd highest incidence of skin cancer in the world after Australia, and in particular one of the highest incidences of melanoma worldwide, as far as Caucasians are concerned. At least 20 000 South Africans are diagnosed annually with non-melanoma skin cancers, and a approximately 1 500 are diagnosed with melanoma.” – cansa.org.za

Melanoma is a tumour of melanin-forming cells, especially a malignant tumour associated with skin cancer.

Early signs of Melanoma: Changes to the shape or color of existing moles or, in the case of nodular melanoma, the appearance of a new lump anywhere on the skin. At later stages, the mole may itch, ulcerate or bleed. Early signs of melanoma are summarized by the mnemonic “ABCDE”.

Skin Cancer Types

The two main categories of skin cancer are melanoma, and non-melanoma.

These cancerous growths develop when unrepaired DNA damage to skin cells (most often caused by ultraviolet radiation from the sun or tanning beds) triggers mutations (genetic defects) that lead the skin cells to multiply rapidly and form malignant tumours. These tumours originate in the pigment-producing melanocytes in the basal layer of the epidermis.

Melanomas often resemble moles. Some melanomas develop from moles. The majority of melanomas are black or brown, but they can also be skin-coloured, pink, red, purple, blue or white. Melanoma is caused mainly by intense, occasional UV exposure (frequently leading to sunburn), especially in those who are genetically predisposed to the disease.

Melanoma is a malignant skin cancer which arises from the uncontrolled growth of pigment cells. From the skin it can spread to the lymph glands or via the bloodstream to other organs such as the liver, lungs and bones (metastases). This is invariably fatal. It is therefore imperative to diagnose and treat melanoma as early as possible.

The ABCDE of Malignant Melanoma Moles, brown spots and growths on the skin are usually harmless — but not always. Anyone who has more than 100 moles is at greater risk for melanoma.

The first signs can appear in one or more atypical moles. That is why it is so important to get to know one’s skin very well and to recognize any changes in the moles on your body.

The ABCDE Rule

A = Asymmetry: Melanomas are often asymmetrical, whereas moles are generally symmetrical.

B = Border irregularities: Melanomas frequently have irregular, uneven borders with scalloped edging. Benign moles usually have smooth, even borders.

C = Colour variation: Common moles are usually a single shade or shades of brown and black. Melanomas are often multi-coloured, with multiple shades of brown, black, red, white, grey or blue.

D = Diameter: Benign moles are usually (but not always) less than 6mm in diameter, whereas melanomas tend to be larger.

E = Evolving: a lesion that is changing in size, shape, or color or a new lesion

Look for the ABCDE signs of melanoma, and if you see one or more, make an appointment with your general practitioner or dermatologist immediately.

Sources:
– cancercare.co.za
– cansa.org.za

CANSA-SunSmart-2018-19-Infographics-English-4 - Melanoma Skin Cancer
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Neuroblastoma Cancer in Children – Signs, Symptoms and Treatment

Neuroblastoma Cancer in Children - Arms of Mercy NPC

A brief introduction to Neuroblastoma Cancer in Children, what signs and symptoms to look out for and various treatment options. This post is purely for general information purposes and by no means replace the advice of a medical practitioner. For an in-depth explanation please see Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) Fact Sheet on Childhood Neuroblastoma.

WHAT IS NEUROBLASTOMA?

Neuroblasts are immature nerve cells found in unborn babies. Normal neuroblasts mature into nerve cells or adrenal medulla cells (cells found in the centre of the adrenal gland). A neuroblast that does not mature properly can continue to grow, which leads to Neuroblastoma. However, babies are sometimes born with small clusters of neuroblasts that eventually mature into nerve cells and do not become cancer.

Neuroblastoma develops most often in infants and children younger than 5, and is more common in males. It can form before the baby is born and can sometimes be found during a prenatal ultrasound. however, Neuroblastoma is most often found after the cancer has spread to other parts of the body such as the lymph nodes, liver, lungs, bones, and bone marrow.

It is often discovered when a parent or doctor feels an unusual mass or lump somewhere in the body of a young child’s body. These appear most often in the abdomen, though tumours can also appear in other places, like the pelvis, neck and chest area.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF NEUROBLASTOMA IN CHILDREN

The effects of Neuroblastoma can vary widely depending on where the disease first started and how much it has spread to other parts of the body.

The first symptoms are often vague and may include irritability, fatigue, loss of appetite, and fever. But because these early warning signs can develop gradually and mimic those of other common childhood illnesses, Neuroblastoma can be difficult to diagnose.

Most Common Signs of Neuroblastoma

  • a swollen stomach, abdominal pain, and decreased appetite (if the tumour is in the
    abdomen)
  • bone pain or soreness, black eyes, bruises, and pale skin (if the cancer has spread
    to the bones)
  • weakness, numbness, inability to move a body part, or difficulty walking (if the cancer
    presses on the spinal cord)
  • drooping eyelid, unequal pupils, sweating, and red skin, which are signs of nerve
    damage in the neck known as Horner’s syndrome

The most common signs of Neuroblastoma are caused by the tumour pressing on nearby tissues as it grows or by the cancer spreading to other areas. These signs vary depending on how much the cancer has grown and where it has spread.

STAGING

Staging is a way to describe a cancer; like location, if or where it has spread to, and whether it affects other parts of the body. There are two staging systems for Neuroblastoma:

The International Neuroblastoma Staging System Committee (INSS)

Stage 1: The tumour can be removed completely during surgery. Lymph nodes removed during surgery may or may not contain cancer, but other lymph nodes near the tumour do not.

Stage 2A: The tumour is located only in the area it started and cannot be completely removed during surgery. Nearby lymph nodes do not contain cancer.

Stage 2B: The tumour is located only in the area where it started and may or may not be completely removed during surgery. Nearby lymph nodes contain cancer.

Stage 3: The tumour cannot be removed with surgery. It has spread to regional lymph nodes (lymph nodes near the tumour) or other areas near the tumour, but not to other parts of the body.

Stage 4: The original tumour has spread to distant lymph nodes (lymph nodes in other parts of the body), bones, bone marrow, liver, skin, and/or other organs (except for those listed in stage 4S, below).

Stage 4S: The original tumour is located only where it started (as in stage 1, 2A, or 2B), and it has spread only to the skin, liver, and/or bone marrow (in infants younger than one). The spread to the bone marrow is minimal (usually less than 10% of cells examined show cancer).

The International Neuroblastoma Risk Group Staging System (INRGSS)

The INRGSS was recently designed specifically for the newly developed International Neuroblastoma Risk Group (INRG) pre-treatment classification system. The INRGSS only uses the results of imaging tests taken before surgery and does not include surgical results or spread to lymph nodes to determine the stage.

Stage L1: The tumour is located only in the area where it started; no risk factors found on imaging scans, such as CT or MRI.

Stage L2: The tumour has not spread beyond the area where it started and the nearby tissue; risk factors are found on imaging scans, such as CT or MRI.

Stage M: The tumour has spread to other parts of the body (except stage MS, see below).

Stage MS: The tumour only has spread to the skin, liver, and/or bone marrow.

Shown is a microscopic view of a typical neuroblastoma with rosette formation. Magnified x40. Source: Dr. Maria Tsokos, National Cancer Institute – Wikipedia.

TREATMENT

Treatment of Neuroblastoma depend on the child`s age, the tumour`s size and position, the tumour biology (including the MYCN status) and whether the Neuroblastoma has spread.

Surgery

For tumours that have not spread (localised tumours), the treatment is usually surgery. If the tumour is at an early stage and there’s no evidence that it has spread to the lymph nodes or any other parts of the body, an operation to remove the tumour, or as much of it as possible, will be done.

A cure is usually possible for children with localised tumours. However, if the tumour is classed as high-risk due to the tumour biology results, further treatment with chemotherapy and possibly radiotherapy will be needed. If the tumour is, at first, too large or in too difficult a position to remove safely, chemotherapy will be given to shrink it before surgery.

Chemotherapy

If the tumour has already spread by the time of diagnosis, or is indicated as being high-risk by the tumour biology result, intensive chemotherapy is needed. Chemotherapy is the use of anti-cancer (cytotoxic) drugs to destroy cancer cells. It’s usually given as a drip or injection into a vein. Your child’s specialist will discuss with you the type and amount of chemotherapy needed.

High-dose chemotherapy with stem cell support

If the Neuroblastoma has spread to several parts of the body, or is high-risk with MYCN amplification, high-dose chemotherapy with stem cell support is used after the initial courses of chemotherapy. High doses of chemotherapy wipe out any remaining Neuroblastoma cells, but they also wipe out the body’s bone marrow, where blood cells are made.

To prevent the problems this causes, stem cells (blood cells at their earliest stages of development) are collected from your child through a drip before the chemotherapy is given. These stem cells are then frozen and stored. After the chemotherapy, the stem cells are given back to your child through a drip. They make their way into the bone marrow, where they grow and develop into mature blood cells over a period of 14-21 days.,

Monoclonal antibody treatment

Monoclonal antibodies can destroy some types of cancer cells while causing little harm to normal cells. A new monoclonal antibody treatment called anti-GD2 is currently being tested in people with high-risk Neuroblastoma.

Children in the UK with high-risk Neuroblastoma are being given anti-GD2 as part of a clinical trial. There is good evidence from a clinical trial carried out in America in 2009 that this may be a promising therapy when given alongside other standard treatment for Neuroblastoma. It is not yet a standard treatment though, due to the very unpleasant side effects.

Radiotherapy

External radiotherapy may be given if the Neuroblastoma is high-risk, or has spread to several parts of the body. This uses high-energy rays to destroy the cancer cells, while doing as little harm as possible to normal cells. External radiotherapy is given from a machine outside the body. Internal radiotherapy may sometimes be given using radioactive MIBG. Radioactive MIBG is similar to the MIBG used in an investigation to diagnose a Neuroblastoma, but uses higher doses of radioactivity to kill the cancer cells.

Immunotherapy

The immune system is made up of white blood cells and the organs and tissues of the lymph system, like bone marrow. Its main job is to help the body fight off disease and stay healthy. Immunotherapy drugs help your immune system work harder or make it easier for it to find and get rid of cancer cells. Some cancers don’t respond well to radiation or chemotherapy, but start to go away after Immunotherapy.

Benefits of Immunotherapy: It can help other cancer treatments work better, causes fewer side effects than other treatments, and the cancer may be less likely to return. When you have Immunotherapy, the immune system learns to go after cancer cells if they ever come back, and could help you to stay cancer-free for a longer time.

It isn’t a quick fix. In some cases, Immunotherapy takes longer to work than other treatments, the cancer may not go away quickly, and it also doesn’t work for everyone. Over time, Immunotherapy may stop having an effect on the cancer cells – even if it works at first, the tumor could start growing again. – Pros and Cons of Immunotherapy.

Younger children

Children under 18 months old with Neuroblastoma often have low-risk tumours, and as long as there is no MYCN amplification, their outlook is good. Most children in this age group are cured. Children with stage 4S disease almost always get better with very little treatment or none at all. These tumours either regress spontaneously or after chemotherapy, which is only given if the tumour is causing symptoms. They disappear completely or develop into a noncancerous (benign) tumour, called a ganglioneuroma.

Many of these children, after their initial diagnostic tests and staging investigations, will just need careful monitoring for some years. Ganglioneuromas are usually harmless and will not cause any problems or need any treatment.

Sources: Wikipedia.org, CANSA Fact Sheet on Childhood Neuroblastoma, WebMD Medical Reference, Cancer.Net’s Guide to Neuroblastoma – Childhood.

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About Autism Spectrum Disorder

About Autism Spectrum Disorder - Arms of Mercy NPC

What is Autism Spectrum Disorder?

Autism is a lifelong, complex condition that occurs as a result of disordered brain growth, structure and development. It is believed to stem from a genetic predisposition triggered by environmental factors, and affects boys 4-5 times more than girls.

There are a vast number of ways that a person can manifest autism, and as a result, the condition is now more often referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder, or “ASD”.

ASD is a developmental disability, and include all Autism disorders that used to be diagnosed separately:

➜ Autistic disorder
➜ Pervasive development disorder (PDD-NOS)
➜ Asperger Syndrome

ASD is chararacterised, in varying degrees, by:

➜ Difficulties in social interaction
➜ Verbal and nonverbal communication
➜ Repetitive behaviours
➜ Differences in sensory perception

Also see Understanding the Spectrum – a comic strip explanation.

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What is the cause of ASD?

A lot of research is being done to try and find the cause of autism, but there is still no definite answer. There is consensus however that it`s NOT a psychological or emotional disorder, and it is not the parent’s fault that their child was born with autism.

It is also not the result of bad parenting – and children with ASD do NOT choose to misbehave. Misbehaviour are often reactions to the environment and are expressions of the difficulties people with ASD experience.

Fast Facts about ASD

  • Developmental disabilities such as ASD are brain-based, neurological conditions that have more to do with biology than with psychology
  • Not a single person with ASD is affected in the same way
  • ASD is usually diagnosed by the time a child is 3 years old
  • ASD is found in every country, every ethnic group, and every socio-economic class
  • Autism is diagnosed four times as often in boys than in girls
  • Children who are diagnosed with ASD need early intervention as soon as possible

Detecting Autism Early

The learning, thinking, and problem-solving abilities of people with ASD can range from gifted to severely impaired. While some may need a lot of help and intensive intervention, others may need less.

Parents should ask their child’s family doctor for a referral to a developmental Paediatrician for assessment if there are concerns with any of the following:

  • Little awareness of others.
  • Self-injurious behaviour, e.g. head banging, scratching or biting.
  • Imaginative play may be poor. E.g. cannot play with a wooden block as if it is a car.
  • Unusual habits such as rocking, hand flapping, spinning of objects etc.
  • The development of speech and language may be atypical, absent or delayed.
  • Indifference to, or dislike of being touched, held or cuddled.
  • Minimal reaction to verbal input and sometimes acts as though he/she is deaf.
  • Sense of touch, taste, sight, hearing and/or smell may be heightened or lowered.
  • Changes in routine or the environment may cause distress.
  • Sudden laughing or crying for no apparent reason
  • Pursues activities repetitively and cannot be influenced by suggestions of change.
  • Uneven gross/fine motor skills.
  • Inappropriate attachment to objects.
  • Abnormal sleeping patterns.
  • Displays extreme distress and/or tantrums for no apparent reason
  • Prefers to play alone.
  • Difficulty in interacting with others and little or no eye contact.
  • No real fear of dangers.

Possible Signs (taken from Autism Ontario – Durham Region)

  • No babbling by 11 months of age
  • No simple gestures by 12 months (e.g., waving bye-bye)
  • No single words by 16 months
  • No 2-word phrases by 24 months (noun + verb – e.g., “baby sleeping”)
  • No response when name is called, causing concern about hearing
  • Loss of any language or social skills at any age
  • Rarely makes eye contact when interacting with people
  • Does not play peek-a-boo
  • Doesn’t point to show things he/she is interested in
  • Rarely smiles socially
  • More interested in looking at objects than at people’s faces
  • Prefers to play alone
  • Doesn’t make attempts to get parent’s attention; doesn’t follow/look when someone is pointing at something
  • Seems to be “in his/her own world”
  • Odd or repetitive ways of moving fingers or hands
  • Oversensitive to certain textures, sounds or lights
  • Lack of interest in toys, or plays with them in an unusual way (e.g. lining up, spinning, opening/closing parts rather than using the toy as a whole)
  • Compulsions or rituals (has to perform activities in a special way or certain sequence; is prone to tantrums if rituals are interrupted)
  • Preoccupations with unusual interests, such as light switches, doors, fans, wheels

Sources: Autism South Africa, The Art of Autism.
For more information and resources, visit aut2know.co.za/autism-library.

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