Stories about Health
Smog chokes Pakistan's Punjab province as AQI soars to 1,900 in Lahore and 2,000 in Multan
With smog intensity escalating in Lahore at the end of October, affecting its 13 million residents, the Punjab government imposed a “green lockdown” and set up a “smog war room.”
What changes will arise from the Brazilian Supreme Court's ruling on personal marijuana use
In June, the highest court in the country approved the decriminalization of marijuana possession for personal use, marking a significant step, while also raising questions.
In Jamaica, a ‘Beryl’ous period without piped water
"It was a juggling act — using my kerosine lantern in the bathroom, using as little water as possible, and managing my menstrual hygiene while the storm threatened my home."
Understanding lingering poverty and malnutrition in the aftermath of Sri Lanka's economic crisis
" ... [D]espite economic expansion, poverty and vulnerability levels are elevated, food insecurity is widespread, and health outcomes have deteriorated."
Kathmandu's floods expose a deepening garbage crisis
The recent Kathmandu floods swept the city's garbage — cloth, Styrofoam, plastic bottles — across ruined pavements and embankments, raising serious concerns about the growing garbage crisis in the capital.
A recovery center in Nigeria takes a musical approach to combating drug addiction
Some studies suggest that religion and spiritual faith can help in preventing and recovering from substance abuse, largely because of the social support and a strong community that can emerge.
Reporting from a psychiatric ward housing Russian soldiers who fought Ukrainians
Soldiers live for months in the psychiatric ward. None of the patients the journalist spoke to wanted to return to the war, saying they'd rather go to prison or die.
A Chinese mining company relocated a whole Peruvian town. Now, they are struggling to survive
In 2013, a Chinese mining company forcibly relocated a community of 5,000+ people in Peru. Ten years later, the community is living in poverty and the company has failed to honor its promises.
Between flames and smoke, Brazil tries to fight record breaking wildfires
The National Confederation of Municipalities estimates that 11 million people have been directly affected by the fires. The economic losses reached at least 1,1 billion BRL (203 Million USD), according to them.
From art therapy to self-discovery: An interview with Nigerian artist Bella Mfon
"While acknowledging art as a huge factor in her healing process, Mfon has meticulously honed her skill to make a name for herself in the Nigerian art scene and beyond."
Seeking independence from Chinese exports, Brazil enters bid to explore rare earths
Rare earths are essential for the green energy transition, however, they are also difficult to mine and harmful to the environment, leading to the “rare earth paradox.”
How religious leaders exploit desperate people with disabilities in Nigeria
“Before I knew it, two men arrived and dragged me to the podium to testify that my sight had returned. They forced me to say something that wasn’t true.”
I tried online therapy in Uganda, but is it an accessible mental health alternative for everyone?
"[T]eletherapy is still in its infancy in Uganda. It allows individuals to receive therapy and counselling services anonymously from licensed professionals via video conferencing, phone calls, or online messaging."
Twenty-five new cases of whooping cough in a week in North Macedonia, mostly unvaccinated babies affected
“It's essential to remember the lives at stake, especially our little ones. Vaccines against pertussis have proven to be safe and effective, and every action we take today shapes the health of tomorrow."
African Union: Concerns grow on African continent over the spread of mpox
According to the African Union, the resurgence of mpox on the African continent is a public health emergency. The epidemic has caused hundreds of deaths in over ten African countries.
Barbados’ decision to give outstanding centenarians its stamp of approval is just one way the country honours its elders
Barbados has long-standing traditions of celebrating the elderly and making them feel special and included, yet elderly abuse is a pressing concern.
China helped Cameroon build drinking water infrastructure. Is it a debt crisis or developmental aid?
Cameroon has built up it's clean water infrastructure thanks to access to Chinese loans. However, what are the long-term consequences of the resulting debt?
Vaping loopholes are endangering children and the environment in Nigeria and Burkina Faso
"Although the use of tobacco products is prohibited for people under the age of 18, the tobacco laws of both Nigeria and Burkina Faso do not explicitly mention or regulate vaping."
When will fair employment for people with disabilities become a reality in Thailand?
"Does society perceive them as people with dreams and aspirations, or solely as vulnerable and marginalised with scarce opportunities all the time?"
Tea, the heartbeat of daily life in Mauritania
In Mauritania, tea is an integral part of the national cultural heritage. Consumed at any time, it fosters a vital ritual of socialization.
Workplace Burnout Syndrome is finally being recognized in Bosnia and Herzegovina
As of January 1, 2022, Workplace Burnout Syndrome is a recognized occupational disease in Bosnia and Herzegovina.