Category: Health

The Sweet Danger: The Impact of Sugar on Health

umuringanews

Sugar consumption has skyrocketed globally, and Rwanda is no exception. As the country experiences economic growth and urbanization, the availability and consumption of sugary foods and beverages have increased significantly. While sugar adds sweetness to our lives, excessive intake poses serious health risks. This article delves into the detrimental effects of sugar on health in Rwanda and shares personal testimonies from individuals grappling with sugar-related health issues. Harmful Health Effects of Excessive Sugar Intake: Sugar, especially in its refined forms, is linked to a myriad of health problems. When consumed…

SOMA INKURU

Rwanda on Track to Eradicate Malaria by 2030

umuringanews

The Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) reports that the Rwandan government has set an ambitious goal to completely eradicate malaria before 2030. The progress over the past seven years has been impressive, with malaria cases dropping by nearly 90%. Since the beginning of the year, over 500,000 people have been affected by malaria in Rwanda, and 61 have died from it. Health authorities are continuing efforts to distribute insecticide-treated nets to help protect the population. The increase in malaria cases is mainly attributed to the seasonal rains, which contribute to the…

SOMA INKURU

Rwanda Receives Medical Refrigerators and Mobile Clinics

umuringanews

The Aga Khan University Hospital, an international teaching hospital for healthcare based in Nairobi, has donated two mobile clinic vehicles and 20 medical refrigerators to Rwanda. These resources will help store vaccines and deliver essential healthcare services to rural communities directly. On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, the Director General of Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC), Prof. Mambo Claude Muvunyi, and Shekar Iyer, Aga Khan Hospital’s Director of Operations, signed the donation agreement. The initiative, funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), is valued at 490 million…

SOMA INKURU

Urgent Alert: Marburg Virus Outbreak Claims 16 Lives in Rwanda, Linked to Fruit Bat Infected Mines Near Kigali

umuringanews

Rwanda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, recently confirmed that the Marburg virus, now responsible for 16 deaths in the country, was traced to fruit bats inhabiting caves in mineral mines near Kigali. The outbreak, which began in August and September, coincides with the breeding season of the bats, during which they emit more saliva, increasing transmission risk. Dr. Nsanzimana explained that a mine worker who had been infected returned home, sought medical attention, and recovered. Unfortunately, he unknowingly transmitted the Marburg virus to his wife, who later died while…

SOMA INKURU

Here Are Diseases That Are Taking Many Lives Despite Being Preventable

umuringanews

Statistics from health authorities continue to show a troubling rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) severely impacting many lives. For example, the number of people suffering from diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and other conditions is increasing at an alarming rate. However, these diseases can be prevented, often through simple and accessible means for everyone. Health is priceless! While there are well known and long established diseases, today, non communicable diseases are becoming more prevalent and claiming many lives. Unfortunately, many people are not taking proactive measures to prevent them. Today, Let’s Discuss…

SOMA INKURU

Marburg Virus Outbreak in Rwanda: A Public Health Update

umuringanews

As Rwanda continues to grapple with the Marburg virus outbreak, recent reports indicate a cautiously optimistic trend in the nation’s battle against this severe viral disease. The country has recorded a total of 65 confirmed cases and 15 deaths since the outbreak began in late September​. In a recent interview, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana emphasized the critical role of healthcare workers in managing the crisis. “Our healthcare professionals have shown remarkable dedication under challenging circumstances,” he stated. “They are on the front lines, and their safety and well-being remain a priority.”…

SOMA INKURU

The harmful effects of alcohol on health

umuringanews

Many of us drink alcohol to relax and socialize. But drinking too much alcohol can negatively affect your physical and mental health, your actions, and your decision-making. There are many short and long-term side effects of alcohol consumption. No level of alcohol consumption can be considered safe. To reduce the risk of harm from alcohol-related disease or injury for healthy adults: drink no more than 10 standard drinks per week drink no more than 4 standard drinks on any one day But some people need to take more care. You…

SOMA INKURU

Rwanda’s Changing Family Dynamics: Analyzing the Decline in Births per Mother

umuringanews

The number of children per mother in Rwanda has been steadily declining, reflecting significant changes in societal norms, access to education, and healthcare services. According to data from the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) dropped from 6.1 children per woman in 2005 to 3.8 children in 2022. This decline is a result of concerted efforts in family planning and women’s empowerment, reshaping family dynamics across the country. From Six to Four: The Journey of Fertility Decline In 2005, the average Rwandan woman had…

SOMA INKURU

Rwanda Denies Suppressing Information on Marburg Outbreak, Reports 58 Infections and 13 Deaths

umuringanews

The Rwandan government has firmly denied allegations that it withheld information about the arrival of the Marburg virus in the country, emphasizing that it disclosed details as soon as they were available. This clarification came from the Minister of Health, Dr. Sabin Nsanzimana, during a virtual press briefing held on Thursday. The initial cases in Rwanda were detected on September 27, 2024. On October 8, the Ministry of Health reported that there have been 13 fatalities and 14 recoveries among the 58 total confirmed cases. Dr. Nsanzimana highlighted Rwanda’s extensive…

SOMA INKURU

Mental Health in Rwanda: Addressing the Hidden Crisis

umuringanews

In recent years, Rwanda has made strides in expanding access to mental health services, yet significant challenges remain. According to the 2018 Rwanda Mental Health Survey, trauma from the 1994 after the Genocide against the Tutsi continues to affect new generations, with an estimated 27.4% of youth aged 14-25 experiencing psychological issues like depression, anxiety, and social isolation. The lingering effects of the Genocide against the Tutsi, combined with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, have heightened the need for mental health support in the country. Despite the government’s efforts,…

SOMA INKURU