Health
5 Times When Women are More at Risk of Blood Clots
Thrombosis, or blood clotting, can affect people of all ages, races, and genders. And while both men and women are at risk of getting a blood clot, there are several stages in a woman’s life when that risk may be higher.
Thrombosis is the formation of blood clots in the circulatory system, which can be dangerous if the clot blocks blood flow to vital organs, causing serious complications, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).
According to the World Thrombosis Day (WTD) campaign, blood clots can happen to anyone at any time. Surgery, hospitalisation, and cancer raise the risk for everyone, but certain ages and factors in a woman’s life increase the possibility of getting a thrombosis.
Pregnancy
In general, women may be at a slightly higher risk of developing thrombosis during pregnancy and shortly after delivery. A woman’s body undergoes significant hormonal changes when she is pregnant, says Dr Helen Okoye, a leading Nigerian thrombosis specialist who is part of the World Thrombosis Day (WTD) steering committee.
“A pregnant woman’s blood becomes more prone to clotting to prevent excessive bleeding during childbirth, which places her at an increased risk of a DVT and PE. The risk of thrombosis remains elevated for a few weeks after childbirth. During this time, the body slowly returns to its pre-pregnancy state, and the risk of clotting decreases gradually,” explains Dr Okoye.
Hormonal contraceptives
Some forms of hormonal contraceptives, particularly those containing estrogen, can also increase the risk of blood clot formation, although the risk is generally considered low. Women who use combined oral contraceptives (containing both estrogen and progestin) or hormone-releasing intrauterine devices (IUDs) may be at a slightly higher risk of thrombosis.
Hormone replacement therapy
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves taking hormones to alleviate menopausal symptoms and manage hormonal imbalances. Women undergoing HRT may have an increased risk of thrombosis, particularly if the therapy includes estrogen, says Dr Okoye. “Although the risk of thrombosis with HRT is generally low, it is higher than in women who are not taking hormone therapy. The risk may also be more for women who have additional risk factors, such as a personal or family history of blood clots, obesity, or a sedentary lifestyle. If you are using or considering HRT, discuss the potential risks with your healthcare provider,” advises Dr Okoye.
Medical conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as obesity and some inherited blood clotting disorders, can elevate the risk of thrombosis in women. Conditions that affect hormone levels, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), can also contribute to an increased risk of thrombosis, and some autoimmune disorders, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is much more common in women, can lead to an increased risk of blood clotting. Additionally, women with specific types of cancer may have a higher probability of getting a thrombosis.
Strokes
If a blood clot obstructs the flow of blood to a part of the brain, it can cause a stroke, the severity of which depends on the size and location of the blocked blood vessel.
Women have some differences in stroke risk compared to men, points out Dr Okoye. Stroke is more common in women than in men, with a 1 in 4 risk of stroke for women after age 25. Stroke is also the fifth leading cause of death for women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Women, like men, can experience strokes at any age, but there are certain life stages and factors that can increase the risk of stroke in women. “Women tend to live longer than men on average, and stroke risk increases with age. Since stroke is more common in older individuals, the longer life expectancy of women contributes to their higher overall stroke incidence,” explains Dr Okoye.
Pregnant women, especially those with certain conditions like preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or clotting disorders, may also have an increased risk of stroke.
The weeks following childbirth can also be a time of increased stroke risk for some women, particularly if they experienced complications during pregnancy or delivery.
Women who experience migraines with aura may also have a higher risk of stroke, especially if they have other risk factors such as smoking or using oral contraceptives. Atrial fibrillation is another red flag.
“This heart rhythm disorder is more common in women and significantly increases the risk of stroke due to the potential for blood clots forming in the heart and traveling to the brain. Hypertension is also a significant risk factor for stroke, and it can affect women at any age,” says Dr Okoye.
Lessen the risk
It is important to note that each woman’s risk of stroke or thrombosis is influenced by a combination of factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and medical history.
“Women need to be aware of their own personal risk factors and manage any existing health conditions they may have,” advises Dr Okoye. “If you’re concerned at all, consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice and risk assessment. Regular medical check-ups, adherence to prescribed medications, and a healthy lifestyle are all ways to reduce your risk of thrombosis,” she says.
“Strive to maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of blood clots, so follow a balanced diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats,” advises Dr Okoye. “If you smoke, stop as soon as possible. Smoking damages blood vessels and increases the risk of blood clots. And drink lots of water to keep your body well-hydrated, which can help prevent blood from thickening and forming clots.”
Staying active is crucial, too. According to the WTD campaign, regular physical activity helps improve blood circulation and reduces the risk of blood clots. WTD campaign’s 2023 theme is “Move Against Thrombosis”, and they advise people to incorporate exercise or regular movement into their everyday routine.
It’s important for women to be aware of all the above risk factors and what they can do about it, concludes Dr Okoye. “If you have questions about your risk of thrombosis, it’s essential to speak with your healthcare provider. They can assess your individual risk factors and provide appropriate guidance and preventive measures if needed.”
Finally, familiarise yourself with the signs and symptoms of blood clots, such as swelling, pain, tenderness, warmth, and redness in the affected area. If you suspect a blood clot, seek immediate medical attention.
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Health
Sault Tribe Enacts Smoking Ban in Kewaunee
Health and comfort have become increasingly essential issues lately, and this has not gone unnoticed in entertainment venues. The Sault Tribe, which operates the Kewadin Casino, has decided to ban smoking in five gambling establishments. This innovation is aimed at creating a healthier environment for all visitors and employees.
Health and comfort come first
Tribal representatives emphasized that people’s health is their top priority. The decision to ban smoking was a logical step toward positive change. “As a tribal government, we are focused on improving health, and the move to ban smoking in casinos is the right step forward,” notes one tribal speaker. This means caring about the health of visitors and the well-being of the employees who work in these facilities daily.
The Sault Tribe has been actively gathering opinions from its customers and employees, and the results have been unequivocal: many are in favor of banning smoking. “We have heard from many customers and employees that a smoking ban is the right step forward,” states a tribal spokesperson. Such feedback confirms that concern for health and well-being is becoming increasingly important to the gambling industry.
What will change at Kewadin casinos?
In the weeks following the passage of the amendments, Kewadin casinos located in Sault Ste. Marie, St. Ignace, Manistique, Christmas, and Hessel will begin implementing the new policy. The smoking ban will be in effect in all establishments, including gaming rooms, restaurants, and recreational facilities. This approach will not only make the casino experience more enjoyable for non-smoking visitors, but it will also create a safer environment for employees who spend much time in the gaming rooms.
Positive implications for business and society
The adopted initiative will not only bring health benefits but will also affect the success of businesses in the long run:
- The actions taken also emphasize the Sault Tribe’s social responsibility. They are not just in business but also show concern for the well-being of their customers and employees, making them an example for other gambling establishments.
- Banning smoking in Kewadin casinos will create a more pleasant environment for both non-smokers and those looking to quit smoking. Smoking in public places often makes other visitors uncomfortable, and this move will help eliminate the unpleasant odour and smoke, thus creating a more pleasant atmosphere throughout the gaming rooms, restaurants, and other recreational areas.
- The changes may attract a new audience interested in entertainment but previously avoided visiting casinos because of the smoking environment. This can lead not only to an increase in the number of guests but also, as a result, to increased profits for the establishment.
At the same time, avid smokers, which are still quite a lot, will be less likely to visit land-based casinos, where they are forbidden to relax in the usual way. Especially since today, they do not have to visit these establishments to satisfy their gambling needs.
Analyzing the search engine allows you to quickly find many popular operators, including 1win, with the largest number of gambling entertainment. And you can access these games without having to leave home. To register on 1win, it is enough to fill in a few fields in the appropriate window and develop a password. It takes less than a minute to do this and deposit money into your account. Moreover, most of the games can be played in a free demo.
Chippewa Tribe aims to create a “smoke-free” space that combines a healthy environment with the opportunity to relax and enjoy gambling. The new approach to business reflects and supports global trends aimed at caring for public health and reducing the negative impact of tobacco smoke on the health of others.
Recall that earlier, scientists told us about the new harm of smoking. According to new data, the negative impact of this bad habit on the immune system persists for several years after a person quits smoking.
Health
SpecSMART Eye Clinic Takes Affordable, Quality Care to Ikeja, Environs
By Modupe Gbadeyanka
The dream of residents of Ikeja and its environs enjoying affordable and quality care has now become a reality as a result of the opening of a new branch of SpecSMART Eye Clinic in the Opebi area of the capital of Lagos State.
SpecSMART Eye Clinic, a leading provider of optometry services in Lagos, commenced operations in Nigeria’s commercial capital in 2022.
Since then, it has been offering top-notch eye care to residents of the metropolis, especially those living on the Island. It has built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality primary eye care and optical products.
However, to extend its services to Lagosians living on the Mainland, it has now opened a new branch in Ikeja, reinforcing its commitment to providing accessible, affordable eye care to a wider community.
Business Post gathered that the clinic’s state-of-the-art services are supported by a team of skilled optometrists and opticians, utilizing cutting-edge digital equipment.
The new Ikeja location will offer a wide range of services, including Automated Eye Examinations using advanced digital equipment for precise diagnosis and personalized care.
In addition, clients will enjoy on-the-spot lens glazing for single vision, bifocals, and varifocals, with additional lens coatings, with services to be rendered seven days a week from 9 am to 9 pm on Mondays to Saturdays, and on Sundays and public holidays from 10 am 7 pm.
Also, the clinic has over 950 frames, ranging from affordable home brands to premium designer options, priced from N18,000, and has flexible appointment scheduling with 24-hour online booking via SpecSMART’s website.
The facility has partnerships with leading HMO providers in the country and offers glaucoma management and other essential eye health services.
According to the company, its introductory packages start from N30,000 and include consultation, frame, and single-vision lenses.
“With the opening of our Ikeja branch, we are ready to serve more individuals who need accessible, cost-effective, and reliable eye care.
“Our aim is to create a positive impact in Nigeria’s optometry sector by combining advanced technology with a patient-centred approach,” the Practice Head and Medical Director of SpecSMART, Dr Adaeze Nwoko, stated.
Health
FG Begins Vaccination Against Mpox in FCT, Six States
By Adedapo Adesanya
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare through the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has commenced the vaccination against Monkeypox, now known as Mpox.
Business Post reports that Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Enugu, Benue, and the Federal Capital Territory, were selected as pilot states for the vaccination.
An average of 631 persons are expected to be vaccinated across the seven states with two doses of the Mpox vaccine. A buffer for 50 persons will be kept at the national in case of an upsurge in other states.
NPHCDA in a statement posted on its verified X account confirmed the exercise, stressing that the vaccination will help to protect communities and safeguarding health of the people.
In a related development, according to the latest update by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), there are 1,442 suspected cases of Mpox from 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, while the number of confirmed cases of the infection was 118 from 28 states and the FCT.
“To prevent the spread of Mpox, we strongly advise the public to avoid contact with animals that may carry the virus, including sick or dead animals in affected areas, avoid handling materials that have been in contact with infected animals, limit unnecessary physical contact with individuals who are infected, practice frequent handwashing with soap and water, and ensure that animal food products are thoroughly cooked before eating.
“It’s also important to use protective clothing and gloves when handling sick animals or their tissues. Similarly, health workers are advised to follow standard safety protocols including droplet precautions when treating patients, use protective equipment including masks, gloves, and gowns, during patient care, and be vigilant for symptoms of Mpox, especially fever and rash, among other measures.”
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