The late Professor Olikoye Ransome-Kuti was a world-renowned paediatrician, health campaigner and a prominent figure in global health for many decades.

Professor Ransome-Kuti was born in Nigeria and studied medicine at Trinity College in Dublin from 1948 – 1954. He returned to Nigeria to practice medicine after his studies and then in 1960 he travelled back to the UK to begin his postgraduate training in paediatrics.  After his postgraduate training he once again returned to the country of his birth becoming professor and head of the Department of Paediatrics at the University of Lagos; in 1978, he became their first professor of primary care.

In 1968 he set up an experimental family health clinic which led to the establishment of the Institute of Child Health and Primary Care at the College of Medicine at the University of Lagos. In 1976 he became the director of the National Basic Health Services Scheme Implementation Agency for Nigeria and was involved in a first attempt to set up a national health system for Nigeria.

While lecturing at the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Professor Ransome-Kuti impressed Ibrahim Babangida and when Babangida came into power in 1985 he appointed Professor Ransome-Kuti as Nigeria’s health minister.  Professor Ransome-Kuti held this position from 1985 to 1992 and he has been described as the “best Minister of Health Nigeria ever had.”

During his tenure as the Minister of Health he made a significant difference to the healthcare landscape in Nigeria – national health policy was further developed and then implemented, relationships between sectors was strengthened and  healthcare coverage across Nigeria increased significantly. He also made a huge difference in tackling the stigma around HIV/AIDS and his efforts at fighting the emerging epidemic was described as “heroic.” He had a busy period as Health Minister with many other achievements including overseeing a successful anti-smoking campaign which led to manufacturers adding warnings to their products.

After leaving his cabinet position in 1992, he became the chairman of WHO’s Executive Board and in 1994 he was appointed chair of the World Bank’s Better Health for Africa Panel where he championed the idea of primary healthcare to other African countries producing a blueprint for all countries to follow.

Professor Ransome-Kuti received numerous awards including the WHO Leon Bernard Award in 1986, an award that recognises a person for outstanding service in the field of social medicine. In 1990 he won the UNICEF Maurice Pate Award in recognition of his work in improving the health and welfare of children. He published many medical papers and held numerous teaching positions including a visiting professorship  at Johns Hopkins University’s school of hygiene and public health in Baltimore.

He was an effective campaigner speaking out against corruption and defending democracy and the rights of poor Africans. Campaigning and fighting for those who didn’t have a voice was something he was passionate about and seemed to run in his family. His mother, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, was a women’s rights campaigner and was part of the team that negotiated Nigeria’s independence with the British. Whilst his brother was Fela Kuti the well-known musician, singer,  father of Afrobeat, human rights campaigner and political activist and his cousin Wole Soyinka is the Nobel Laureate, playwright, poet and political activist. 

Professor Ransome-Kuti was not only a brilliant man, but a nice person with his friends and colleagues describing him as a kind, caring, wise, gentle, humorous  and a direct individual. He was a family man and doting father being married to his wife Sonia Ransome-Kuti for 50 years and having three children – Dr Dotun Ransome-Kuti (Veterinary Doctor) , Dr Gboyega Ransome-Kuti (Medical Doctor) and  Bisoye Ransome-Kuti (Lawyer)

Professor Ransome-Kuti sadly died unexpectedly in 2003 from a pulmonary embolism whilst attending a WHO conference in London. He is greatly missed and his legacy lives on in Nigeria.

Scientists at the Nanjing University Medical School in China have published the results of their study exploring the effect of ginkgo biloba extract on stroke patients.

Their study was a fairly small one with 342 patients taking part. The average age of participants was 64. Participants were given ginkgo biloba extract daily for six months after their stroke along with aspirin.  The participants took a cognitive assessment test at the start of the trial and at regular intervals.

The researchers found that those patients taking the ginkgo biloba extract performed better on the cognitive assessment test showing better memory and reasoning.  Based on these findings the researchers concluded that:

“GBE in combination with aspirin treatment alleviated cognitive and neurological deficits after acute ischaemic stroke without increasing the incidence of vascular events.”

They recommended “ginkgo biloba extract for patients with acute stroke for its ability to improve cognition and quality of life.”

The scientists did caution that more work is needed as their study was a small one. They recognised that a large and longer piece of work is needed, but their results were promising.

Other studies have had conflicting results – some show improved brain function, whilst other don’t.

What is Ginkgo Biloba?

The scientists explained that ginkgo biloba is an ancient Chinese tree and the extract has been used in China for many years for memory, depression, tinnitus and confusion.  It is one of the oldest living tree species in the world and has numerous health benefits.

Ginkgo Biloba is not just used in China but it is available in the UK, Europe, Canada and the US as a food supplement. It does have side effects such as nausea, vomiting, headache and constipation. There can be serious side effects such as bleeding in the eye or brain, bleeding after surgery and severe allergic reactions, and  it shouldn’t be taken if you’re on certain medication.

Take Home Message

The study was promising but further work is needed to fully assess the effects of ginkgo biloba on stroke patients.

More Information

You can download the full research paper below.

This week scientists in the Netherlands published the results of their research exploring social isolation and type 2 diabetes. They assessed whether particular aspects of a person’s social network like the size of their social network, how often they are in contact with friends and family, the types of relationships they are in and whether they live alone are linked to pre-diabetes, a new diagnosis of diabetes or a previous diagnosis of diabetes.

Their research looked at people between the ages of 40 and 75 living in the south Netherlands. The study is still ongoing and the aim is to recruit 10,000 participants by the end of the study period.

This current piece of work includes 2861 people with an average age of 60, 57% were not diabetic and 43% of the participants either had pre-diabetes, a new diagnosis of diabetes or had previously been diagnosed with diabetes.

They found that the more socially isolated a person was (i.e. the smaller their social network was) the more likely they were to have a recent or previous diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.  They found  that for each fewer network member in a social group there was a 12% higher chance of being newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and a 8% higher chance of having a previous diagnosis in women; in men it was 10% and 5% respectively.

In women they found that higher percentages of social network members living within walking distance and higher percentages of household members were linked to newly and previously diagnosed diabetes.  Researchers concluded that for women “a more centralised social network was associated with type 2 diabetes.”

In men, living alone was associated with significantly higher odds (59% higher odds) of being newly diagnosed with diabetes or being previously diagnosed. In women there was no association between living alone and diabetes.

They also found that a lack of social participation was associated with a 60% higher chance of being pre-diabetic and a 112% higher chance of being previously diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in women. For men a lack of social participation was associated with a 42% higher chance of having a previous diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.

They also found that having more emotional support, practical support and support during sickness were all associated with lower odds of having type 2 diabetes.

What does all this mean??

Simply put, people who are lonely are more likely to develop diabetes. Therefore if we can focus on addressing loneliness we may be able to prevent type 2 diabetes in some people.

It isn’t clear why specifically there is a link between social isolation and diabetes but the researchers feel that their work suggests that:

 “High risk groups for type 2 diabetes should broaden their network and should be encouraged to make new friends, as well as become members of a club.”

Type 2 diabetes is more common in the black community and if we can identify whether  social isolation is also linked to diabetes in the black community then this could be an effective approach to  reducing the high risk in the black community.

The world’s first lupus prevention study, the SMILE clinical trial, was launched recently in the US.

SMILE will identify people who are at a high risk of developing lupus and treat them with an immune-modifying drug to determine whether this will prevent or delay lupus developing.

The drug being used for this study is hydroxychloroquine, a malaria drug. As well as exploring whether this drug delays or prevents lupus, the research team will determine if it improves disease activity and patient outcomes.

The trial will include people aged between 15 and 45 who are at high risk of developing lupus. They will be treated with either a placebo or hydroxychloroquine and then monitored for a period of time.

This study is taking place across five sites across the US – Penn State Hershey Medical Centre, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Centre, Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre and the Medical University of South Carolina. Researchers aim to recruit 240 patients and the trial is likely to be completed in 2022.

This is an important study for the black community as black women are three to four times more likely to develop lupus than their white counterparts. Additionally black women  develop lupus at a younger age, experience more severe symptoms and overall develop more complications. Having a treatment that prevents lupus will significantly reduce the suffering of many black women worldwide and we thus look forward to the trial’s conclusions in a few years’ time.

For more information about the trial you can download the SMILE brochure below or email Virginia-Roberts@omrf.org

In this article we hear from the JustBe Croydon team who tell us about their service and how they can help you become happier and healthier.

JustBe Croydon is a website for all Croydon residents.  It has been designed to help you take positive steps towards becoming a happier and healthier YOU.

Big steps or little steps, we believe everyone can make small changes with a little bit of help and support. We have selected the best tools to help you make a change, from losing weight, getting more active and stopping smoking to drinking less, sleeping better and feeling happier. There are apps, podcasts, expert advice, videos, diet plans and exercise routes to help you get started. This is information on local services and a range of resources that will support you in making changes to your lifestyle.

You can even assess your health right now using our Health MOT. We will help you to identify lifestyle changes and put you in touch with the right tools – or people who can help you make a change.

If you have any problems accessing the website or would just like a chat with one of the Advisors you can find them at one of our health hubs detailed here, where you can pop in without an appointment or you can download the details of the health hubs below.

The Health Services Authority in the Cayman Islands announced on 18^th December 2017 that fibroid embolization will now be available in the Caribbean territory at the Cayman Islands Hospital on Grand Cayman.

This is a great step forward for the islands as it means that patients will no longer need to travel overseas to receive this procedure.

Embolization, or Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE), is a procedure that blocks the blood vessels (uterine arteries) to the fibroids, starving them of oxygen and therefore causing them to shrink.  This procedure is carried out by an interventional radiologist who makes a small cut in the groin area and then inserts a tube (catheter) through the cut, using live x-ray images on a monitor to guide the tube into the uterine arteries. Tiny plastic beads (the size of fine sand particles) are then injected into the artery supplying the fibroid and these tiny particles block the artery.  Over the next few hours, the fibroids ‘die’ and then shrink over the next few months and years.

Complications from embolization are rare and tend to be fairly minor, for example: bruising, pain, fever and vaginal discharge.

The benefits of this procedure are it preserves fertility and it is minimally invasive so there are fewer complications than major surgery and a faster recovery time.

This announcement means that women in the Cayman Islands who are affected by fibroids have more treatment options.

Find out more about the Cayman Islands Health Authority here

As the year draws to an end we just wanted to say a big thank you to you all for all your support this year. We really appreciate it. It has been wonderful working with you, serving you and in some cases having great discussions on how we can work together to achieve our aim of improving the health and wellbeing of the black community.

It’s been an interesting year for us as we wound down our activities in the UK in preparation for our relocation to another country.

As we wound down we did feel a sense of sadness as we have gained so much momentum in the UK over the past couple of years particularly with the work we’ve been doing around fibroids, getting the black community active through cycling, working with Diabetes UK to reach the black community in Croydon and providing support to African Caribbean cancer patients, but change is inevitable.

We’re now based in the beautiful island of St Kitts and are exploring how our organisation can fit into the Public Health landscape over here in the Caribbean.  We look forward to serving not just the Caribbean community but continuing to support the black community in the UK from afar through the wonders of technology.

We’ll still be offering support to women in the UK affected by fibroids through our Fibroids Ask the Expert and will be growing the membership of our expert panel to better serve you. We’ll also be  updating our fibroids booklet and creating a fibroids fact sheet series based on the topics that you’ve told us are important to you and we’re excited to be exploring the possibility of hosting a fibroids wellness retreat in collaboration with Noire Wellness.

Over the next few months look out for more changes. With our move to the Caribbean comes a change of name. From early next year our organisation will be known as Lake Health and Wellbeing, whilst we’ll have a new name our mission remains the same: to improve the health and wellbeing of the black community.

It’s exciting times for us and we’re really looking forward to the year ahead.

Once again, thank you for your support thus far and we look forward to connecting with you throughout 2018.

We wish you a very Merry Christmas, a happy New Year and a wonderful, peaceful, successful and healthy 2018.

Back in June of this year the Lupus  Foundation of America and the American College of Rheumatology launched an awareness campaign  (Be Fierce. Take Control) aimed at African American and Latino women, who are both at an increased risk of developing lupus.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms of lupus to facilitate early diagnosis. An early diagnosis is important as it ensures that lupus sufferers can avoid some of the long-term effects of the condition. Lupus can take many years to diagnose as the symptoms are very vague and similar to a number of other conditions, this makes diagnosis very difficult.

The campaign has used social media and digital advertising to reach young black women. They have also created a website with useful resources such as:

• A ‘Could it Be Lupus?’ questionnaire which allows young women to determine whether their symptoms could be those of lupus.
• A lupus symptoms tracker to help women monitor their symptoms and to use at their next doctor’s appointment to explain their symptoms
• A guide to help those with symptoms prepare for their first doctor’s appointment

Although these resources were developed for African American women, they can be used by black women throughout the world who think they may have the symptoms of lupus.

What is Lupus?

Lupus is a chronic (it lasts a long time) disease where the body’s immune system doesn’t function properly and begins to attack healthy cells, tissues and organs.

There are four types of lupus:

•  Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) – affects a range of different organs in the body
•  Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) – affects the skin causing rashes and a change in the colour of the skin.
• Drug- induced lupus is caused by certain types of medication (for example hydralazine and procainamide which are used to treat heart conditions).
•  Neonatal lupus is a very rare type that affects new born babies

Black Women and Lupus

Black women are three to four times more likely to develop lupus than their white counterparts and results from the Lupus in Minorities study has shown that black women develop this condition at a younger age, experience more severe symptoms and overall develop more complications.

Researchers are trying to understand why it is more common in black women and why it is more severe. It is thought to be due to a combination of genetic and environmental differences.

More Information

For more information about the ‘Be Fierce. Take Control’ campaign, visit their website here and you can view the campaign video, Fierce Women Tackle Health, below

You can also get more information about lupus on website here, from Lupus UK or the Lupus Foundation of America

Yesterday,  we were delighted to host another fibroids Twitter chat. Our special guest was Candice Bryan,   the founder and CEO of Noire Wellness.

Noire Wellness seeks to improve the health and wellness of African and African Caribbean communities living in the UK.  In 2017, she launched the #FibroidSeries wellness hub providing women with informative and engaging physical activity workshops and live demonstrations as a holistic approach to managing the effects of fibroids.

In our Twitter chat we had an interesting discussion with Candice about their fibroids wellness hub delving into their rationale for organising this event,  the key issues and challenges that those who attended the hub raised about living with fibroids and how Noire Wellness aims to support women affected by fibroids.

If you missed the Twitter chat you can read our discussion below. Enjoy!

Hey Twitter family, it’s @AbiBegho here and it’s my pleasure to welcome you to another one of The Lake Foundation’s #fibroids #Twitter chats. #FibroidsChat (1/5)

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

Today we’ll be reflecting on @noirewellness‘s recent #fibroids wellness hub and what was learnt from this innovative event with our fantastic guest @KandiceBryan who is the founder and CEO of @NoireWellness. #FibroidsChat #FibroidSeries (2/5)

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

We’ll also be learning more about the work of @NoireWellness and finding out about their plans for the future, not just for fibroids but in other areas #FibroidsChat (3/5)

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

Now…drum roll please…..😀

It’s my pleasure to introduce our guest @KandiceBryan.
Please tell us a bit about who you are and what you do. #FibroidsChat (5/5)

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

Thank you @TheLakeFound for invitation to join #FibroidsChat. Greetings all! It’s @KandiceBryan here founder of @NoireWellness, mother, partner & sister to many. Having worked in sport development for over 20 years I have a passion for inclusive fitness & wellness diversity 1/2

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Our mission @NoireWellness is to improve the health & wellness of African & Caribbean communities through the provision of local community #wellness #hubs, consultancy services & a growing wellness business network of professionals #FibroidsChat 2/2

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

You’re very welcome @KandiceBryan. Thank you so much for joining us and thank you for your great introduction. You’ve got a great bio and lots of experience so we can’t wait to get started #FibroidsChat

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

We’ll get started with our first question

So @KandiceBryan, tell us why your organisation has started to focus on #fibroids? #fibroidschat #NoireWellness

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

Part of our #community #wellness #hub offer is to tackle health conditions that specifically impact on #African & #AfricanCaribbean people living in the UK such as #Diabetes #SickleCell #Lupus #MentalHealth & #Fibroids 1/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

We hosted our first 12 week pilot #community #wellness #hub in 2016.This incl. a range of sessions incl. a workshop on #Fibroids which we asked you @TheLakeFound to deliver : ) We realised 8 out of 11 guests had #Fibroids and didn’t declare this on their forms #FibroidsChat 2/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

After speaking to guests, reviewing evaluations & wider research incl. @theLakeFound very own study it was clear #Fibroids is a major silent issue that’s more aggressive & frequent amongst black women. #FibroidsChat 3/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

After speaking to guests, reviewing evaluations & wider research incl. @theLakeFound very own study it was clear #Fibroids is a major silent issue that’s more aggressive & frequent amongst black women. #FibroidsChat 3/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

The lack of research & no real common consensus on the causes of #Fibroids especially amongst black women (as it is said to be more common). Most surprising is the lack of support, guidance & information given to women expected to have life changing surgeries #FibroidsChat 1/2

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Repeated testimonies of catastrophic experiences have for me highlighted how detrimental the #mismanagement of #Fibroids can have on quality of life. From relationships to career progression, friendships to low self-esteem. #FibroidsChat 2/2

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

.@KandiceBryan, You recently organised a very innovative event, the #fibroids wellness hub to provide women with support. Can you tell us about this event? #fibroidschat

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

Thank you our #wellness #hub provided informative & engaging physical activities workshops & live demonstrations to help manage & reduce the effects of #fibroids. Supported by wellness specialists, thought-leaders & professionals we explored a holistic approach #FibroidsChat 1/4

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

We selected a variety of #wellness professionals who could relate to our audience whilst highlighting the rich traditions of #Africa & the #Caribbean. Typically our community has been conditioned to embrace other #cultural norms & values #FibroidsChat 2/4

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

So our sessions heavily focus on bringing our guests “back to their roots” through #wellness, #PhysicalActivities & educational workshops. This creates an environment that is homely, warm & welcoming #FibroidsChat 3/4

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Everything we do at @NoireWellness is inspired by #Africa & the #Caribbean. From #nutrition to #afrikanyoga, #mentalhealth to #yonisteaming we delved into the richness of ancient remedies and traditions on the day #FibroidsChat 4/4

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

.@KandiceBryan, It’s great that your event took a holistic look at managing fibroids. How important is it for women with fibroids to explore not just the medical side but their lifestyle when managing fibroids. What lifestyle factors should they focus on? #fibroidschat

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

It’s becoming increasingly important to explore #lifestyle factors when managing #Fibroids as we have gathered evidence which suggests that even the smallest changes can positive outcomes. 1/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

There’s alot of conflicting information & I would always say that you’re the expert of your body. So when we begin to explore and re-connect, this self-discovery may in fact assist the medical side #FibroidsChat 2/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Focussing on areas that have been neglected would be my advice. #Stress #Diet & #PhysicalActivity are the initial lifestyle factors that come to mind. #FibroidsChat 3/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Fibroids, Endometriosis, PCOS issues are so complex that eating properly to control or heal symptoms can be very intimidating. found that teaching proper eating habits works better in VERY VERY tiny and practical doses. It can get overwhelming real fast. #FibroidsChat

— Laterria Patton (@selfcareandfood) December 13, 2017

Self awareness goes a long way when it comes to health because many things can contribute to a health issue. Individualized care helps us to create a stronger relationship with our own reproductive organs. #FibroidsChat

— Laterria Patton (@selfcareandfood) December 13, 2017

Diet & nutrition are now being researched for #Fibroids #FibroidsChat @TheLakeFound @NoireWellness . Self management of long term conditions like #fibroids & endometriosis, can be effective, without side effects. Fresh fruit & vegetables reduces risk of fibroids

— Fibroid Network UK (@fibroidsupport) December 13, 2017

.@KandiceBryan What were some of the most common challenges that women who attended the event raised about fibroids? #fibroidschat

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

Since the event we’ve had continued dialogue with guests, professionals & #volunteers. We’ve found that the biggest challenge is a lack of #information & #support #FibroidsChat 1/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Absolutely agree! #FibroidsChat https://t.co/5enxz8wLof

— thefibroidforum (@fibroidforum) December 13, 2017

Some of the common challenges were about eating habits & #foods that worsen the effects &/or growth of #Fibroids & the innate need to regain control of our bodies #FibroidsChat 2/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

A large number of guests spoke about feeling pressured into considering #hysterectomies and lack of empathy & knowledge of #Fibroids from doctors #FibroidsChat 3/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

A large number of guests spoke about feeling pressured into considering #hysterectomies and lack of empathy & knowledge of #Fibroids from doctors #FibroidsChat 3/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Are there reasons why #fibroids can affect black women more or is it not researched enough? #FibroidsChat

— WombCancerSupportUK (@WombCancerUK) December 13, 2017

We found poor diets, lack of exercise, trauma and lack of vitamin D were some of the suggested reasons. But a lack of research is unhelpful #FibroidsChat

— Noire Wellness (@NoireWellness) December 13, 2017

Lack of proper research is not helpful. Same with #wombcancer unfortunately. They blame it all on #obesity & being lazy but slim, fit women get it too. #WomensHealthMatters #FibroidsChat

— WombCancerSupportUK (@WombCancerUK) December 13, 2017

Lack of proper research is not helpful. Same with #wombcancer unfortunately. They blame it all on #obesity & being lazy but slim, fit women get it too. #WomensHealthMatters #FibroidsChat

— WombCancerSupportUK (@WombCancerUK) December 13, 2017

Great question. I think we need to first take responsibility for the health of our communities & stop expecting a one size fits all approach. So organisations like @NoireWellness @TheLakeFound @BHILeeds @SportingEquals @GessieTUG must commit to a strategic plan 1/3 #FibroidsChat

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

of action that tackles #Fibroids on a national & global scale. @NHSEngland & @PHE_uk need to lend more support to orgs like @FibroidNetwork @fibroidsupport @fibroidforum to further research & development #FibroidsChat 2/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

We need to pool our resources & create more effective infrastructures to tackle #Fibroids & improve health and well-being of our communities to reduce the £ pressure on traditional services structures #FibroidsChat 3/3

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Wow! I didn’t realise the time! It sure has flown. We have about 15 minute left here with our #fibroidschat. Any questions, comments? We’re going to squeeze our last few questions in.

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

.@KandiceBryan, I’m going to hit you with two questions 🙂

What workshops or presentation did attendees find most enlightening and why?
Did you gain any interesting insights to fibroids or learn anything new that you weren’t aware of before your event? #fibroidschat

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

#Emotional Impacts & #Nutrition were reported to be most valuable. Some of our guests said that they hadn’t had a space to talk with others who truly understood battles & challenges they face #FibroidsChat 1/2

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

We were glad to be able to connect guests with all #wellness facilitators to continue their journey. Hosting an event is great. But it’s the follow up that will inevitably provide the support and information needed #FibroidsChat 2/2

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

.@KandiceBryan, I’m going to move on a bit due to time – sorry! What other events and support will you be offering in the future for women with fibroids? #fibroidschat

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

That’s ok! Its been a pleasure : ) We’re planning to host another #FibroidSeries #Wellness #Hub in summer 2018 at a bigger venue in a more central location, an online webinar series & a special intimate event for guests #FibroidChat 1/2

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

We’re also looking at the possibility of hosting a #Fibroids #Retreat with you @TheLakeFound in the #Caribbean which we are super excited about! #FibroidChat 2/2

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

We’ve created a #fibroids specific newsletter that women living with #Fibroids can sign up to here https://t.co/i97rplV9LH for direct enquiries they can email us info@noirewellness.com #FibroidsChat 1/2

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Our long awaited website is set to go live in early 2018 where we will have blog posts relating to #Fibroids, our continued work with @TheLakeFound & info on our network of #wellness professionals #FibroidsChat 2/2

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Our long awaited website is set to go live in early 2018 where we will have blog posts relating to #Fibroids, our continued work with @TheLakeFound & info on our network of #wellness professionals #FibroidsChat 2/2

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

.@KandiceBryan any final tips or advice you can share for women living with fibroids? #fibroidschat

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

Do not fight #Fibroids in s i l e n c e. Reach out to organisations and connect with other women who have #Fibroids. #FibroidsChat 1/1

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

@KandiceBryan, just two more questions 🙂

1. Noire Wellness doesn’t just focus on fibroids can you tell us about other work that you have conducted and your plans for the future. #fibroidschat (1/2)

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

I have a passion for #research & so will continue to build on that through @NoireWellness and publish some of this work on our website in the future. 1/4 #FibroidsChat

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

We @NoireWellness work to provide a range of evolving & enriching wellness experiences throughout the year. By engaging a carefully selected tribe of wellness professionals we have nurtured 2/4 #FibroidsChat

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

the provision of #community #wellness #hubs, #consultancy services & a growing wellness business #network. 3/4 #FibroidsChat

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

The creation of weekly #hubs for #over 60s & holiday provision for #children are part of our plans as well as seeking financial backing to accelerate other plans. Watch this space! #FibroidsChat 4/4

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

.@KandiceBryan question 2:

What has been the most rewarding part of your journey with @NoireWellness and what have some of the challenges been, how have you overcome them? #fibroidschat (2/2)

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

I simply love what I do : ) Since conducting research in 2004 it has been part of my purpose but never had the courage to follow it. Now it’s a vision that has turned into a plan #FibroidsChat 1 /2

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Its been great to speak at a number of events this year to connect with sisters even more. Something I never thought would form part of our offer #FibroidsChat 2/2😀

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Well folks….we are coming to the end of the chat. Would you like to add anything else or leave us with any wise words, @KandiceBryan

And does anyone have any questions for @KandiceBryan #fibroidschat

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

If you live with #Fibroids please seek help and support from existing organisations & professionals like @SarjosWholistic @naturalyoucoach @mamalunayoni @TweetKymOliver @LeneaHerew #FibroidsChat 2/4

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Worldwide there are many National Studies involving 1,000’s of women re diet & lifestyle. In UK there is no research in this field, only drugs & surgery. It’s a blinkered approach unlike with Diabetes or Breast Cancer where self management & prevention is encouraged #FibroidsChat

— Fibroid Network UK (@fibroidsupport) December 13, 2017

There is an increase hysterectomies for #fibroids @TheLakeFound @kandicebryan @fibroidforum @NoireWellness On fibroid forums, it sometimes relates to women giving up after failed treatments ie medical treatments ie concerns re side effects that Drs don’t mention #FibroidsChat

— Fibroid Network UK (@fibroidsupport) December 13, 2017

Thank you. We’re very keen to hear from women who have reduced and/or eliminated #Fibroids using a #holistic approach info@noirewellness.com #FibroidsChat 1/ 4

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

We partnered with #TanyaKayBeautyLifestyle who offered soothing #massage treatments on the day. ALL clients were overwhelmed with just how good they felt after 3/4 #FibroidsChat

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Reclaim time for #selfcare get in touch with Tanya by visiting https://t.co/70A6xquQqb Most importantly – Do not suffer in silence. #FibroidsChat 4/4

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

If you live with #Fibroids please seek help and support from existing organisations & professionals like @SarjosWholistic @naturalyoucoach @mamalunayoni @TweetKymOliver @LeneaHerew #FibroidsChat 2/4

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Thanks so much for your hard work! Continued success next year &many years to come! #fibroidschat

— thefibroidforum (@fibroidforum) December 13, 2017

A BIG BIG thank you to everyone who joined us tonight, it was wonderful to have you and we hope you found this chat useful.

This will be the last chat of the year and we’ll be back in 2018. If you would like to join us as a guest Tweeter, please get in touch. #fibroidschat.

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

If there are no more questions or comments, then we have to say goodnight, but before we go @KandiceBryan, if people want more information how can they contact you? #fibroidschat

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

Thank you for having me again. It’s such an important cause that can no longer be ignored. Keep up the great work @TheLakeFound @AbiBegho #Fibroids #FibroidsChat

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Sure, people can contact me direct candice@noirewellness.com or follow us @NoireWellness Thank you to everyone who participated! Onward we continue! Rest Well #FibroidsChat

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Bye bye everyone and thanks so much for joining us, be sure to follow @NoireWellness and @KandiceBryan here on Twitter to keep up with all their news and development. Have a great evening all and take care. See you next time #FibroidsChat

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

Thank you for your continued support! It is women who have sucessfully overcome #Fibroids that will help us all to grow and raise further awareness. see you next time on @TheLakeFound #FibroidsChat

— Candice Bryan (@KandiceBryan) December 13, 2017

Summary of #Fibroid Research findings re: Black women with #Fibroids , fertility, lifestyle, stress, statistics etc @fibroidsupport @fibroidforum @TheLakeFound @NoireWellness @KandiceBryanhttps://t.co/QyiivtCRKW #FibroidsChat

— Fibroid Network UK (@fibroidsupport) December 13, 2017

A BIG BIG thank you to everyone who joined us tonight, it was wonderful to have you and we hope you found this chat useful.

This will be the last chat of the year and we’ll be back in 2018. If you would like to join us as a guest Tweeter, please get in touch. #fibroidschat.

— Lake Health and Wellbeing (@lakehealthwell) December 13, 2017

The complex issue is finding the best treatment, in the UK , which for many , must include , preserving their fertility & getting back to wellness. Some NHS Treatments , don’t help them to reach all of their goals. Hope to #FibroidsChat more again @TheLakeFound

— Fibroid Network UK (@fibroidsupport) December 13, 2017

@TheLakeFound @KandiceBryanTonight was informative, passionate & inspiring. Thanks for hosting and sharing your expertise! #fibroidschat

— thefibroidforum (@fibroidforum) December 13, 2017

On 5^th December, South Africa’s parliament passed a bill to introduce a tax on drinks with a high sugar content.  This comes after 18 months of negotiations which included four consultations with the public.

The tax will come into effect on 1^st April 2018 and will impose a levy of 2.1 cents per gram of sugar on all sugar-sweetened drinks; the first 4g of sugar per 100ml will be exempt. What this means in practice is that the price of the average can of coke will increase by 11%.

The South African government expects to raise a significant amount of money from this new tax which will be invested into health promotion projects to tackle obesity and facilitate the prevention of non-communicable diseases like diabetes, cancer and heart disease.

With South African being one of the top 10 consumers of sugary drinks in the world, it is hoped that this tax will lead to a reduction in the consumption of these drinks which will play a part in improving the health of South Africans.

Tracey Malawana, the coordinator of the Healthy Living Alliance said:

“We applaud Members of Parliament for putting the health of millions of South Africans before the narrow interests of the beverage and sugar industries.

 

“Thanks to Treasury and MPs, South Africa is on the right path to reverse the alarming numbers of diabetes cases and other NCDs associated with obesity. We now look to the President to sign this important law without delay. “

South Africa joins a growing number of countries who have introduced a tax on sugary drinks. These countries include Mexico, Barbados, France, Denmark, Hungary, Portgual, Saudi Arabia,  India, Thailand and others.

Sugar taxes are just one part of the global strategy to improve the public’s health through government policy. Health policy experts recommend that governments explore policies around three main areas: unhealthy foods, alcohol and cigarettes, and within these three areas to explore policies that restrict access, ban advertising (particularly to children) and increase taxes.

South Africa will have to wait a few years to determine the effect of introducing the sugar tax but initial evaluations from Mexico, who has had a sugary drinks tax for a couple of years, are very promising. An analysis of the sugar tax in Mexico found that sugary drinks consumption dropped by 5.5% one year after the sugary drinks tax was introduced, and in the second year sugary drinks consumption fell by 9.7%. Based on this,  the introduction of this tax  in South Africa brings the nation one step closer to tackling one of the key risk factors for non-communicable diseases and obesity.