Are you Asthmatic, read tips on managing it

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmt7XxOYpJfUCyP6YTqSRpXglZEHQkwu0vlkcwS9-1_sr2ASflXkvuCe8XHKbmJYi8Pr2lB27E_l-IFJczVqbnuX1-va4IcElLKNXYXn-7DXcGHKPbnmS-N5X794KMNpJYSXobkvprTRxN/s1600/asthmatic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="430" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmt7XxOYpJfUCyP6YTqSRpXglZEHQkwu0vlkcwS9-1_sr2ASflXkvuCe8XHKbmJYi8Pr2lB27E_l-IFJczVqbnuX1-va4IcElLKNXYXn-7DXcGHKPbnmS-N5X794KMNpJYSXobkvprTRxN/s640/asthmatic.png" width="640" /></a></div> When you heard that you are Asthmatic, what came to your mind? I cant cope at all. For some, it has gotten to a stage where the worries has indeed affected their outlook.<br /> If you have or don’t have Asthma, then here are some of the few symptoms. Coughing, wheezing, and chest tightness. They are common characteristics of attacks for asthmatic patient. Sometimes asthma is called bronchial asthma or reactive airway disease. Asthma can be controlled with proper treatment.<br /> What then are the symptoms and different types of asthma. Can you recognize the many common and uncommon symptoms of asthma? Without a good understanding of the different asthma symptoms and the various types of asthma, it’s difficult to treat this condition with medications and breathe easier.<br /> Here below are some few things you need to know about asthma.<br /> <b>Asthma Symptoms</b><br /> Do you have to wheeze in order to have asthma? Not at all! Discover the specific signs and symptoms of asthma. Find out how early treatment can help you manage asthma symptoms and live an active life.<br /> <b>Asthma Attack Symptoms</b><br /> Do you know the early warning signs of an asthma attack? Read more about asthma attack symptoms so you can prevent an emergency.<br /> <b>Unusual Asthma Symptoms</b><br /> Sometimes asthma symptoms include sighing, fatigue, and rapid breathing, not coughing or wheezing. Learn more about unusual asthma symptoms so you know when to use treatment.<br /> <b>Hypoxia and Hypoxemia</b><br /> Hypoxemia (low oxygen in your blood) can cause hypoxia (low oxygen in your tissues). It is advised to read the particular type of asthma you have, and what easily triggers the attack. Is it stress, anxiety or the likes?<br /> <b>Types of Asthma</b><br /> Do you know about the different types of asthma? Learn about these types so you can seek effective treatment when you do have a breathing problem.<br /> <b>Allergic Asthma</b><br /> Do allergies make you cough, wheeze, and sneeze? Read more about allergic asthma, so you can prevent these symptoms.<br /> <b>Cough-Variant Asthma</b><br /> Do you suffer from frequent coughs? You may have asthma. Read about cough-variant asthma and how it is treated.<br /> <b>Occupational Asthma (Work-Related Asthma)</b><br /> Is your asthma work-related? Learn about asthma in the workplace and how to prevent an asthma attack.<br /> <b>Nocturnal Asthma (Nighttime Asthma)</b><br /> Does asthma keep you awake at night? Discover the signs and symptoms, prevention, and treatment of nocturnal asthma so you can get quality sleep.<br /> Health Conditions that mimic Asthma includes cardiac asthma and vocal cord dysfunction. You may have some similar symptoms but note that your doctor should decipher the type of treatment you will need for the health condition.

Are you Asthmatic, read tips on managing it

When you heard that you are Asthmatic, what came to your mind? I cant cope at all. For some, it has gotten to a stage where the worries h...

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4 reasons why the malaria vaccine pilots may be a game changer

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYlcQnPmwUEWtsjz_LblG8-npO9wH_pAme3GGGgo-tINgfmi3yfQYrcR48gMm3uON4Uga_vK8aAc2-2BofRlJ3N-VPBPfCSnjzCiC1yPQueyk10xxRQV5N9wuxayUsOaJQ9tdKqI_EHni_/s1600/MALERIA.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYlcQnPmwUEWtsjz_LblG8-npO9wH_pAme3GGGgo-tINgfmi3yfQYrcR48gMm3uON4Uga_vK8aAc2-2BofRlJ3N-VPBPfCSnjzCiC1yPQueyk10xxRQV5N9wuxayUsOaJQ9tdKqI_EHni_/s640/MALERIA.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <h1 class="article-title" itemprop="headline"> <span style="font-size: small;">Last week, the world’s <a href="http://www.gavi.org/library/news/statements/2016/malaria-vaccine-pilots-to-go-ahead/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">first malaria vaccine was given a green light</a> to be rolled out as part of large-scale implementation projects in three sub-Saharan African countries. With nearly US$ 50 million in funding from the Global Fund to Fight Aids, Tuberculosis and Malaria, Gavi and UNITAID, this initiative marks a critical step in creating new tools for the fight against this devastating disease.</span></h1> <h3> <b>1) Malaria remains a major killer</b></h3> Despite huge progress in the fight against malaria – the number of cases has halved since 2000 – the mosquito-borne disease remains a major killer. With more than 200 million cases a year, resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 children every day, RTS,S, or Mosquirix to use its brand name, has become one of the most widely anticipated vaccines. Malaria is endemic in almost every country in sub-Saharan Africa (for where the vaccine has been designed), as well as large parts of Asia and Latin America, and demand for a vaccine is likely to be high. Expectations will be even greater. This is the world's first vaccine against a parasite.<br /> <br /> <h3> <b>2) RTS,S is both safe and effective</b></h3> In clinical trials, RTS,S was found to be both safe and effective. However, it only offered partial protection, with a 39% efficacy at preventing clinical cases of malaria over the course of a four-year follow-up period. Effectiveness was very much dependent upon children receiving all four doses of the vaccine. What’s more, the trials were carried out with the vaccine used in conjunction with high use of other interventions, such as long-lasting insecticide-treated bed nets and anti-malarial drugs.<br /> <h3> <b>3) Partial protection could go a long way</b></h3> It is low for a vaccine but given the large number of people at risk, providing protection in just four out of 10 cases could still go a very long way. Ultimately, it’s the public health impact that counts more than the efficacy of the vaccine. Moreover, since there can be more than one episode per child, the trials found that the vaccine prevented on average 1,774 cases of malaria per 1,000 children.<br /> <br /> <h3> <b>4) Pilots will help us get the answers we need</b></h3> Last year, after RTS,S passed all the required regulatory hurdles, two advisory bodies to the World Health Organization – the Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on immunisation (SAGE) and the Malaria Policy Advisory Committee (MPAC) – recommended against its immediate widespread use. These pilots are being carried out first in order to find out how well the vaccine performs in a real-world setting, to see how feasible it is to get four doses to children – three doses outside of the normal childhood immunisation schedule – and in terms of safety.<br /> While we cannot simply roll out the vaccine to everyone, the huge potential to save lives and reduce illness now means we cannot justify holding off indefinitely. These large-scale four-year pilot projects are designed to shed light on how effective the vaccine will be in practice by seeing how it performs in a real-life setting, in high and low transmission areas, with and without high coverage of other interventions. With vaccinations due to begin by 2018, it is hoped that we will soon have the answers we need. Given the vast scale of the number of people who potentially stand to benefit, it is our duty to fill these gaps in our knowledge. And while the testing and hopefully implementation of this vaccine goes on, so does the march of science; scientists are already working to improve upon its effectiveness as well as look towards second generation vaccines.<br /> <i>Credit: World Malaria Report  / </i><a href="http://www.who.int/malaria/publications/world-malaria-report-2015/en/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><i>WHO</i></a><br /> <br /> <br />

4 reasons why the malaria vaccine pilots may be a game changer

Last week, the world’s first malaria vaccine was given a green light to be rolled out as part of large-scale implementation projects in...

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9,579 Tested HIV Positive In 6 Months In Lagos – LSACA

<br /> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTg7o15GBWCMt8qpPrZ_rurEugMHD-6dKfcf_wKZI2JeuX1Wdy39b4BlVTQcN5k2HReTjiqQmosZKGfbMBBBzesCrPcqwL7daHUjiqUp0tgmjrM9ytiatidFq7utAgNTRJ86nTXPI0RMVb/s1600/HIV-300x225.gif.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTg7o15GBWCMt8qpPrZ_rurEugMHD-6dKfcf_wKZI2JeuX1Wdy39b4BlVTQcN5k2HReTjiqQmosZKGfbMBBBzesCrPcqwL7daHUjiqUp0tgmjrM9ytiatidFq7utAgNTRJ86nTXPI0RMVb/s640/HIV-300x225.gif.png" width="640" /></a></div> No fewer than 9, 579 people were tested positive to HIV of the 616, 318 that attended the HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) awareness programme from January to June, 2016.<br /> Dr Oluseyi Temowo, the Chief Executive Officer, Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), made this known on Wednesday in Lagos.<br /> Temowo spoke at a news conference in Ikeja to mark the 2016 World AIDS Day with the theme: “Hands Up for #HIV Prevention’’.<br /> The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that United Nations had in 1988 declared every Dec.1 as the World AIDS Day.<br /> This is to honour AIDS victims and focus on issues surrounding HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome).<br /> Temowo said that in 2015, a total number of 599, 560 people were counselled, tested and received results out of which 15, 311 people were found to be positive.<br /> The LSACA chief said that 52, 803 people living with the scourge were currently on Antiretrovirals (ARVs).<br /> “These statistics simply means that there are many more people who are not aware that they have the virus, that is why knowing one’s status is very important.<br /> “It is a common knowledge that an HIV positive person can be symptom free for 10 years and will continue to infect others, if not checked and treated.<br /> “Being HIV positive does not translate to death with appropriate medications,” he said.<br /> Temowo said that the agency had mobilised its HCT trucks to all the nooks and crannies of the state to conduct free HIV conselling and testing.<br /> This, he said, would enable every Lagos resident to be aware of his or her health status.<br /> Temowo said that access to HCT would allow individuals to know their status and take appropriate steps to prevent the transmission to other people.<br /> He said that this would also stop the progression to AIDS through lifestyle modification and health seeking behaviour.<br /> According to him, this is geared toward achieving the eradication of the virus by 2030.<br /> “Achieving AIDS free generation requires collective efforts, this is why we are calling on government at all levels, individuals and organisations to join us in this quest to make Lagos State an HIV Free Zone.<br /> “We implore residents to visit all government hospitals within their areas to access free HCT, while HCT trucks will move around to reach other areas for this purpose.<br /> “We also advise people to ensure these various means of prevention- condom use, harm reduction, voluntary medical male circumcision, prevention of mother-to-child transmission, counselling and testing,” he said. <br /> source: Leadership

9,579 Tested HIV Positive In 6 Months In Lagos – LSACA

No fewer than 9, 579 people were tested positive to HIV of the 616, 318 that attended the HIV Counselling and Testing (HCT) awareness pr...

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Pneumonia replaces malaria as number one child killer disease in Nigeria – Report

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfbnZu_ZuWgV9e_TcsqKEBD5zWlPLgqtqNG1A_PFIiVofq70M4OJcWTJbocDtKZVXlDI0ROFBRDa97dCGTtdhsGYkOQjFYTdiPe3RDgoZGZ4bEkB7d7RE-vRik-o2aYhZtVMiY8-u9s4oC/s1600/Nigerian-children.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="394" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfbnZu_ZuWgV9e_TcsqKEBD5zWlPLgqtqNG1A_PFIiVofq70M4OJcWTJbocDtKZVXlDI0ROFBRDa97dCGTtdhsGYkOQjFYTdiPe3RDgoZGZ4bEkB7d7RE-vRik-o2aYhZtVMiY8-u9s4oC/s640/Nigerian-children.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> Pneumonia has overtaken malaria as the number one killer disease among children under the age of five in Nigeria.<br /> <br /> A report by the International Vaccines Access Centre (IVAC) revealed that the disease was responsible for 127,000 child deaths in the country last year.<br /> <br /> This was disclosed on Monday in Abuja at an event held to mark the World Pneumonia Day<br /> “Pneumonia is now the leading cause of child deaths in Nigeria, a position previously held by malaria over the years. In 2015, about 17 per cent (127,000 deaths) and 10 per cent (75,000) of all under-five deaths were caused by pneumonia and diarrhoea, respectively”, the report stated.<br /> <br /> To assist Nigerians in the treatment of Pneumonia, a drug manufacturing company, GSK, said it has placed a 10-year price freeze on drugs for the disease as the country graduates from the Global Alliance for Vaccinations International (GAVI) funds.<br /> <br /> “We are supporting the immunization programme, we are providing the vaccines that are used for the prevention of pneumonia in children”, Medical Director of GSK, Lana Odunuga, said.<br /> <br /> “And one of the things I highlighted, part of our own support is actually to make sure that even at a time when Nigeria graduates from GAVI fund, which will eventually happen, Nigeria will still be able to access the vaccines at the same price at which they are getting it now.<br /> <br /> “In addition to that, we have also tried to make it possible to reduce the cost a child pays for vaccines in Nigeria by one dollar,” he stated.<br />

Pneumonia replaces malaria as number one child killer disease in Nigeria – Report

Pneumonia has overtaken malaria as the number one killer disease among children under the age of five in Nigeria. A report by the Inte...

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HIV Research for Prevention (HIVR4P) 2016; Seizing the moment for Nigeria(ns) by Gabriel Adeyemo

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="image-container" itemprop="image" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img alt="5919-original-780x400" class="attachment-full size-full wp-post-image" height="328" src="http://4a7jjc25uykf24u8sd3k8m5n.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/5919-original-780x400.jpg" width="640" /> </div> <div class="image-container" itemprop="image" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">  </div> <br /> <br /> The HIV Research for Prevention (HIVR4P) conference began yesterday the 16th of October 2016 in Chicago, USA. Unlike many other related conferences on HIV, AIDS, STIs, etc, the HIVR4P is very specific. It is the only global scientific conference that is dedicated exclusively to cutting-edge and up-to-date research on all forms of biomedical HIV prevention which include & not limited to HIV vaccines, Pre Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP), Microbicides, treatment as prevention (TasP), and other biomedical prevention approaches. This year’s HIVR4P brought about 1,400 leaders in HIV prevention research, programs and policy makers to build on the successes of its inaugural to respond to a growing agreement that effective HIV prevention will require a combination of approaches.<br /> Nigeria(ns) and the Demand for PrEP (#LeNNiB).<br /> PrEP; Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, is the use of anti-HIV medication that keeps HIV negative people from becoming infected. When used as prescribed, a single pill taken once daily will interfere with HIV’s ability to copy itself in the body after it has been exposed. Although approved by the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA), having shown safety and effectiveness, and been around in the U.S. for over a year, not a lot of people know about it.<br /> The New HIV Vaccine and Microbicides Advocacy Society (NHVMAS) in the past months has mobilized civil society organizations and advocates in Nigeria and other partners to demand for PrEP through the; Leave No Nigerians Behind, #LeNNiB campaign.<br /> Nigeria is a high burden country for many diseases. We (Nigeria) currently housed the second largest population of people living with HIV globally and have the largest number of new HIV infection each year. In 2015 alone, 210,000 persons were infected with HIV, despite the availability of condoms and other prevention tools. This was one of the world’s highest figures. Yet, HIV infection is avoidable if all persons at substantial risk for HIV – Women, Young Girls, Adolescents, MSMs, FSWs, IDUs, Sero-discordant couples and Men with multiple sex partners who find it difficult to use condoms – have access to varieties of HIV prevention tools.<br /> Despite several pleas to GILEAD Sciences; an American biopharmaceutical company that developed and commercialized Truvada since 2004, which is the major prescription medicine that is used as PrEP to help reduce the risk of getting HIV-1 infection when used together with safer sex practices, their failure to register Truvada for use as PrEP in Nigeria is a denial of access to persons at substantial risk of HIV and finds the use of condoms challenging as a HIV prevention tool for HIV. This makes a layman to wonder if truly the world is fighting HIV/AIDS in one accord and that we are helping ourselves to end the epidemic that has being around for the past 34-35 years.  Or maybe Nigeria has been left behind in the global response to tackle the HIV epidemic.<br /> Many have argued that the use of PrEP in Nigeria will promote promiscuity and other social vices. Others claimed it would limit the use of condoms and increase STIs. Also, we claimed not to have the funds to foster the processes and use of PrEP but we forgot the sero-discordant couples. We have forgotten the limited powers of the condom being contraceptives and also not 100% safe in the case of miss-use, leakage or sudden burst.<br /> Lest we forget our scores and deliberately not seize this moment as a nation, Nigeria has the second highest number of people living with HIV in the world. We are making poor progress with prevention of mother to child transmission of HIV as this has tagged us “the country that leads the global manufacturers of children infected with HIV”. Opportunistic infection such as Tuberculosis also remain a challenging problem and a growing public health hazard in Nigeria as the country is identified as one of the 10 high burden countries in the world. With the high number of new infections, Nigeria is racing towards being a country with the highest number of people living with HIV in the world….”I believe this will be a very nice award and a place to clap for ourselves having achieved this feat”… Truth is, we need to stop this trend. We need to ensure effective HIV prevention tools are available to person who needs them.<br /> Also, we should note that despite the low incidence of HIV in countries such as Kenya, France, Canada, USA, Australia, they already got PrEP approved and being served as part of their HIV prevention spectrum.<br /> Our Ministry of Science and Technology has kept quiet, maybe because they lack funds to support life saving researches and are preparing for their proposed invention of “pencils” in the 2018; The Nigerian Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) is not seen doing anything feasible on securing or sounding the alarm for the urgent need for PrEP; Our National Academy of Science is now a place where nothing happens except to celebrate international day of blahblahblah….<br /> The fate of the nation’s health and her citizens has now being left in the hands of Civil Society Organizations (CSO), who are advocating & fighting for the masses and vulnerable people. The Ministry of Health is now a playing ground where policies abound, rebound, etc without implementations.<br /> Gilead’s efforts to quickly register Truvada for use as PrEP in Nigeria should commence before the conclusion of the ongoing PrEP demonstration project in Nigeria. This is a call on behalf of the many people already asking for PrEP in Nigeria. Nigeria have to stop this trend of new infections as there are individuals already asking for PrEP, yet doctors cannot prescribe. We need/must meet the global targets of ending HIV as Nigerians cannot and must not be left behind. NAFDAC is already waiting for Gilead Sciences to register Truvada for use as PrEP in Nigeria, so also the over 174 million Nigerians are also waiting for new HIV infection to stop.<br /> There are evidences that PrEP works when taken. Also, data from various demonstration projects has provided some information on what the “real-world” implementation of PrEP will be. Although, there may not be answers and truly do not need any, but Nigeria really should IMPLEMENT PrEP NOW!!!…<br /> <br /> Gabriel Adeyemo MPH<br /> Public Health Analyst; HIV/AIDS Advocate.<br /> @vinnydrey @s4mnigeria

HIV Research for Prevention (HIVR4P) 2016; Seizing the moment for Nigeria(ns) by Gabriel Adeyemo

    The HIV Research for Prevention (HIVR4P) conference began yesterday the 16th of Octob...

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Modern Birth Control Methods (Must Read)

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1i05YVaomZXmTRKyUSrsoKo_wmDU1cw9GaphPE-EJb-TUHcwq0CIZAwkQrsBqiZVPO9DAdgJA7W9KBOto-3dtXIYMdR3Lpc2_FPb5S8iG3-4lH0WvB6IyPLTzTmjJx891diqtToR3zLcW/s1600/contraception.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1i05YVaomZXmTRKyUSrsoKo_wmDU1cw9GaphPE-EJb-TUHcwq0CIZAwkQrsBqiZVPO9DAdgJA7W9KBOto-3dtXIYMdR3Lpc2_FPb5S8iG3-4lH0WvB6IyPLTzTmjJx891diqtToR3zLcW/s400/contraception.jpg" width="263" /></a></div> <br /> <i><b>We could have titled this article, "Contraception: Not Your Mother's Birth Control," because women today have never had more options when it comes to birth control. Did you know there are at least 17 forms of contraception today? And that several of these options can do more than just prevent pregnancy.</b></i><br /> <i><b>So if you're still using the same form of birth control you were using a decade or more ago, it's time for an update. And, if your lifestyle or focus has changed over the past few years or even months, your health care professional can help you determine a method that best fits your current needs.</b></i><br /> <br /> <strong>Hormonal-based options—several to choose from</strong><br />Good options for women who have been using <abbr title="Drugs taken orally that are used to prevent pregnancy."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5918">oral contraceptives</a></abbr> with no problems but are now ready for a change are one of the two new <abbr title="A hormone that promotes the development and maintenance of female sex characteristics."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5367">estrogen</a></abbr>-based contraceptives: NuvaRing and Ortho Evra.<br /> NuvaRing is inserted into the <abbr title="The muscular "><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/4709">vagina</a></abbr> like a tampon, where it releases a steady amount of estrogen and <abbr title="A synthetic hormone that mimics the body's progesterone. A progestin is usually included in an oral birth control pill and in postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy to prevent endometrial cancer."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/6064">progestin</a></abbr> throughout the month. You wear it for three weeks, then take it out for a week and have your period. Then you insert a new ring. Side effects include <abbr title="The body's chemical messengers. Estrogen and progestin (a synthetic form of progesterone) are the main hormones involved in the reproductive process. "><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5541">hormone</a></abbr> effects similar to those from the pill and a mild increase of <abbr title="A mucous substance produced by cervical glands that is normally clear and is present during stress and sexual excitement. Discharges may turn whitish, yellow or green and have a bad odor, a condition caused by several factors, including infection and medications."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/4706">vaginal discharge</a></abbr>. As with oral contraceptives, NuvaRing may increase the risk of blood clots and stroke, primarily in women who smoke. NuvaRing is 91 to 99 percent effective when used consistently and correctly as directed.<br /> <br /> Ortho Evra is a skin patch with <abbr title="Chemicals made by glands that travel through the blood and work as messengers. Estrogen, androgen and progesterone are all hormones."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5543">hormones</a></abbr> embedded in its adhesive layer. You stick it on your lower <abbr title="Area between the chest and the hips that contains the stomach, small intestine, large intestine, liver, gallbladder, pancreas and spleen."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/4557">abdomen</a></abbr>, buttocks or upper body (but not your breasts), where it slowly releases estrogen and progestin for a week. After a week, you peel it off and replace it with a new one. After you've used three in a row, you take a break for a week, during which you get your period. The patch delivers a higher dose of estrogen than most birth control pills, and it's unclear whether it increases the risk of blood clots or not. It also is 91 to 99 percent effective when used consistently and correctly as directed.<br /> If you want to steer clear of estrogen, talk to your health care professional about progestin-only, long-term, reversible contraceptives. These are Implanon, a matchstick-sized rod implanted in your arm, and the Mirena intrauterine system, an IUD.<br /> Implanon relies on a progestin called etonogestrel for its protective effects. It is implanted in your upper arm and prevents pregnancy for up to three years. Common side effects include abnormal bleeding, headache and <abbr title="A serious but common mental disorder that can affect anyone, including children, teens, women, men and the elderly. Feelings of hopelessness, sadness, weight gain or loss, trouble concentrating and sleeping, or sleeping too much and a general disinterest in things that used to be enjoyable are hallmark symptoms. Physical symptoms may include persistent headaches, stomach distress and general malaise for which there are no apparent cause."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5220">depression</a></abbr>, and it's not recommended for women with a history of <abbr title="Uncontrolled growth of cancerous cells within the milk-forming glands of the breast, or within the ducts connecting the glands to the nipple. "><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5014">breast cancer</a></abbr>. Implanon is 91 to 99 percent effective when used consistently and correctly as directed.<br /> <br /> Mirena continuously releases progestin called levonorgestrel and can remain in place five years or longer. This IUD can reduce heavy menstrual bleeding, which can be an issue for some women as they near <abbr title="When a woman's monthly menstrual periods end permanently, signifying the end of her childbearing years. Although the average age for menopause in the United States is 51, some women experience menopause earlier due to natural causes or following surgery, illness or other treatments that lessen ovarian function. Menopause is said to have occurred when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 months."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5771">menopause</a></abbr>. The major side effect is some irregular bleeding.  Mirena has been <abbr title="U.S. Food and Drug Administration."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5393">FDA</a></abbr>-approved to treat heavy menstrual bleeding in women who use intrauterine contraception as their method of birth control prevention. It is recommended for women who have had a child. This is a new <abbr title="A specific disease or condition."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5607">indication</a></abbr> for Mirena, which was approved by the FDA in 2000 as a contraceptive.<br /> The copper IUD is a hormone-free, long-term reversible option that also prevents fertilization. It can be used for up to 10 years but isn't a good option if you experience heavy bleeding. IUDs are considered more than 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy.<br /> And, for those of you who prefer oral contraceptive pills as an short-term reversible birth control option, but need to avoid estrogen, then the "mini pills," which contain only <abbr title="Produced by the ovaries, rising levels of this hormone signal the body to prepare the uterus with a lining of tissue in preparation for a fertilized egg. If no egg is fertilized, levels of this hormone fall, signaling the body to shed the lining and menstruation to take place."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/6063">progesterone</a></abbr> hormone, may be indicated for you.<br /> <br /> <strong>Barrier methods—there if you need them</strong><br /> Of course, you can always choose the protect-as-you-go option: barrier methods such as condoms (male or female), the <abbr title="A smaller version of the diaphragm, this rubber cap fits over the cervix to block sperm. Women who want to use a cervical cap must have it made to fit them exactly."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5084">cervical cap</a></abbr>, <abbr title="A soft cup that fits over the cervix to block sperm. Women who want to use a diaphragm must have it specially made to fit them exactly. They are made from rubber, latex or silicone."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5243">diaphragm</a></abbr> and spermicides. These are typically effective at preventing pregnancy 80 percent of the time (though spermicidal creams and jelly can improve their effectiveness), so they may be best if you're in a monogamous relationship and can generally predict when you're going to have intercourse. One caveat: If you're <em>not</em> in a monogamous relationship, add a condom to your contraceptive arsenal regardless of what you're using; it's the only thing shown to protect against most sexually transmitted infections—which can affect you no matter <em>what</em> your age!<br /> <br /> <strong>Permanent birth control—when you know it's time</strong><br /> Permanent contraception is the most common form of birth control overall and the most popular type of birth control for women over age 35. In fact, 30 percent of women between the ages of 35 and 39 have opted for permanent birth control, while 10 percent of women in this age group have male partners who have been sterilized. Between the ages of 40 and 44, the percentage of women opting for sterilization jumps to nearly 35 percent.<br /> There are three choices for ending <abbr title="The capacity to impregnate, conceive and/or bear children."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5399">fertility</a></abbr>, each of which is more than 99 percent effective. You're no doubt familiar with vasectomy—the man's form of sterilization—and <abbr title="A surgical procedure in which fallopian tubes are tied to prevent pregnancy; it can also help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. "><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/4832">tubal ligation</a></abbr>, in which your <abbr title="Two tubes attached to the top of the uterus leading to the ovaries. Each tube is four to five inches long with its wide end near the ovary. When an egg is released from one of the ovaries, it travels through the fallopian tube toward the uterus. If sperm are present, the egg is most likely to be fertilized in the fallopian tube. Infection can cause tube tissue to scar and close up."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5383">fallopian tubes</a></abbr> are cut or blocked to prevent an egg from traveling down them to meet sperm. Today, however, women have a new option: a minimally invasive, nonsurgical permanent birth control, also known by its brand name, Essure.<br /> The nonsurgical procedure can be done in your doctor's office in about 30 minutes with only a local anesthethic, unlike tubal ligation, which requires surgery. During the procedure, your doctor uses a special instrument called a <abbr title="A small camera on the end of a long tube that enables health care professionals to look directly into the uterus."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5584">hysteroscope</a></abbr> to place an insert through your vagina and <abbr title="The doughnut-shaped gateway between the vagina and the uterus. The cervix is coated with mucus, which can be thick or thin, depending on a woman's monthly hormone levels. Because of its anatomical position, it is an easy target for infection."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/5087">cervix</a></abbr> and into the opening of your fallopian tube in your <abbr title="The womb; where a fetus develops. During pregnancy, the uterus expands. When a woman is not pregnant, the uterus is small, hollow and shaped like a flattened pear."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/4714">uterus</a></abbr>. Within three months, the insert cause your body to form a tissue barrier that prevents sperm from reaching the egg. During this three-month period, you need to use another form of birth control. After three months, the doctor performs a special <abbr title="High-energy electromagnetic radiation used to diagnose and treat disease; diagnostic test using high energy to visualize internal body organs."><a class="glossary-term" href="http://www.healthywomen.org/glossary/term/4660">x-ray</a></abbr> to make sure your tubes are completely blocked. Risks include mild to moderate pain immediately after insertion. This method may reduce the risk of tubal (ectopic) pregnancy compared to tubal ligation. Women typically can return to their normal activities within a day or two. The FDA, however, has received thousands of complaints since the release of Essure in 2002. In 2016, the FDA ordered changes in the package labeling for Essure to include a boxed warning and a "patient checklist," both designed to ensure that women understand the risks and benefits of the device. The FDA is also requiring the manufacturer of Essure to conduct a clinical study to determine risks of Essure for particular women.<br /> As you can see, your options are much broader than that pill package that's been a fixture in your medicine chest for awhile. So make an appointment with your health care professional and talk about what's right for the woman you are today, not the woman you were then.<br /> source;healthywomen <br /> <br /> <br /> <br />

Modern Birth Control Methods (Must Read)

We could have titled this article, "Contraception: Not Your Mother's Birth Control," because women today have never had mo...

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Women's Health Tips for Heart, Mind, and Body

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglcj9mC1C_oYrSXuBr3mel8tlRn-uaeEUb9CI_ai-xujvoug9C2jqvSZmiudFXvR-rcM2j5Wrpwb5v7_AH3wNd034lTQgznq0ON74hZK5UQpGs9ZEi_UVxuWRwjJ-UBPtLWVsOtUS5c8IP/s1600/healthy-habits-woman-1021x500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglcj9mC1C_oYrSXuBr3mel8tlRn-uaeEUb9CI_ai-xujvoug9C2jqvSZmiudFXvR-rcM2j5Wrpwb5v7_AH3wNd034lTQgznq0ON74hZK5UQpGs9ZEi_UVxuWRwjJ-UBPtLWVsOtUS5c8IP/s640/healthy-habits-woman-1021x500.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <br /> Looking for the path toward a healthier you? It's not hard to find. The journey begins with some simple tweaks to your lifestyle. The right diet, exercise, and stress-relief plan all play a big role.<br /> <br /> <div class="node"> There's an easy recipe if your goal is to keep away problems like heart disease and strokes.</div> <ul class="node"> <li>Eat more fruits and veggies.</li> <li>Choose whole grains. Try brown rice instead of white. Switch to whole wheat pasta.</li> <li>Choose lean proteins like poultry, fish, beans, and legumes.</li> <li>Cut down on processed foods, sugar, salt, and saturated fat.</li> </ul> <div class="node"> When eating healthy, flexibility often works best, says Joyce Meng, MD, assistant professor at the Pat and Jim Calhoun Cardiology Center at UConn Health. If you like to follow a strict diet plan, go for it. If not, it's OK. "Find what works for you."</div> <div class="node"> Tricia Montgomery, 52, the founder of K9 Fit Club, knows first-hand how the right diet and lifestyle can help. For her, choosing healthy foods and planning small, frequent meals works well. "I don't deny myself anything," she says. "I still have dessert -- key lime pie, yum! -- and I love frozen gummy bears, but moderation is key."</div> <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="2"> </a> <h3> Exercise Every Day</h3> <div class="node"> The more active you are, the better, Meng says. Exercise boosts your heart health, builds muscle and bone strength, and wards off health problems.</div> <div class="node"> Aim for 2 and a half hours of moderate activity, like brisk walking or dancing, every week. If you're OK with vigorous exercise, stick to 1 hour and 15 minutes a week of things like running or playing tennis. Add a couple of days of strength training, too.</div> <div class="node"> If you're busy, try short bursts of activity throughout the day. Walk often. A good target is 10,000 steps a day. Take the stairs. Park your car far away from your destination.</div> <div class="node"> Montgomery exercises every day, often with her dog. By adding lunges, squats, and stairs to a walk, she turns it into a power workout. "I also am a huge Pilates fan," she says.</div> <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="3"> </a> <h3> Lose Weight</h3> <div class="node"> When you shed pounds you'll lower your risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer.</div> <h3> Lose Weight continue...</h3> <h3> Aim for a slow, steady drop. Try to lose 1-2 pounds a week by being active and eating better. </h3> <div class="node"> "It doesn't have to be an hour of intense exercise every day," Meng says. "Any little bit helps."</div> <div class="node"> As you improve, dial up the time and how hard you work out. If you want to lose a lot of weight, try for 300 minutes of exercise a week.</div> <div class="node"> "Eating a healthy diet will go a long way," Meng says. Start by cutting sugar, which she says is often hiding in plain sight -- in store-bought items like salad dressing, packaged bread, and nuts. Try to avoid soda and sugar-laced coffee drinks, too.</div> <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="2"> </a> <h3> Visit Your Doctor</h3> <div class="node"> Get regular checkups. Your doctor keeps track of your medical history and can help you stay healthy. For example, if you're at risk for osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones, he may want you to get more calcium and vitamin D.</div> <div class="node"> Your doctor may recommend screening tests to keep an eye on your health and catch conditions early when they're easier to treat.</div> <div class="node"> Keep the lines of communication open. "If you have questions, ask your doctor," Meng says. "Make sure you understand things to your satisfaction." If you're worried about a medication or procedure, talk to him about it.</div> <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="3"> </a> <h3> Cut Down Your stress</h3> <div class="node"> It can take a toll on your health. You probably can't avoid it altogether, but you can find ways to ease the impact. Don't take on too much. Try to set limits with yourself and others. It's OK to say no.</div> <div class="node"> To relieve stress, try:</div> <ul class="node"> <li>Deep breathing</li> <li>Meditation</li> <li>Yoga</li> <li>Massage</li> <li>Exercise</li> <li>Healthy eating</li> <li>Talking to a friend, family member, or professional counselor</li> </ul> <a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="4"> </a> <h3> Create Healthy Habits</h3> <div class="node"> If you make the right choices today, you can ward off problems tomorrow.</div> <ul class="node"> <li>Brush your teeth twice a day and floss every day.</li> <li>Don't smoke.</li> <li>Limit your alcohol. Keep it to one drink a day.</li> <li>If you have medication, take it exactly how your doctor prescribed it.</li> <li>Improve your sleep. Aim for 8 hours. If you have trouble getting shut-eye, talk to your doctor.</li> <li>Use sunscreen and stay out of the sun from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.</li> <li>Wear your seatbelt.</li> </ul> <div class="node"> Take time every day to invest in your health, Meng says.</div> <div class="node"> It paid off for Montgomery. She says she overcame health problems, feels good, and has a positive outlook. "My life," she says, "is forever changed."</div> <div class="node"> source: WebMD </div> <div class="node"> <br /></div>

Women's Health Tips for Heart, Mind, and Body

Looking for the path toward a healthier you? It's not hard to find. The journey begins with some simple tweaks to your lifestyle. Th...

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How to keep your Penis clean and odour-free.

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="image-container" itemprop="image" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img alt="penis-banana" class="attachment-full size-full wp-post-image" height="225" src="http://4a7jjc25uykf24u8sd3k8m5n.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Penis-Banana.jpg" width="400" /> </div> <br /> <br /> <div class="metro-factbox-content blue"> Gently wash the penis with warm water each day when you’re having a shower or bath. If you have a foreskin, pull it back gently and wash underneath.<br /> If you don’t wash underneath the foreskin correctly, a cheesy-looking substance called smegma may begin to gather.<br /> Smegma is a natural lubricant that keeps the penis moist. It’s found on the head of the penis and under the foreskin.<br /> If smegma builds up in the foreskin, it can start to smell, stop you easily pulling your foreskin back and become a breeding ground for bacteria. This can cause redness and swelling of the head of your penis, called balanitis.<br /> <br /> <strong>Don’t forget your balls!</strong><br /> <br /> Don’t forget to clean the base of the penis and the testicles, where sweat and hair can combine to produce a strong smell, just as unpleasant as in your armpits.<br /> These areas need frequent washing to stop sweat from accumulating, especially as they are enclosed in underwear for most of the day.<br /> Make sure the area between the base of the testicles and the anus is also clean and odour-free.<br /> While you’re down there, it’s a good idea to check your testicles for lumps once a month after a warm bath or shower.<br /> </div>

How to keep your Penis clean and odour-free.

Gently wash the penis with warm water each day when you’re having ...

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This Is What Happens If You Don’t Shower For 2 Days

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="image-container" itemprop="image" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img alt="1" class="attachment-full size-full wp-post-image" height="359" src="http://4a7jjc25uykf24u8sd3k8m5n.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/1-3.png" width="640" /> </div> <br /> <br /> <div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: justify;"> Having a shower is a daily routine for most of us, but if you’ve ever been tempted to skip your body-washing session when you’re rushed for time one morning, you might want to think again.</div> <div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: justify;"> According to an article published by <em data-redactor-tag="em" data-verified="redactor">TwentyTwoWords</em>, there are a number of pretty gross things that happen to your body when you skip showering for two days straight. The first problem comes down to bacteria.</div> <div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: justify;"> Humans carry around 1,000 types of bacteria around with them, including 40 types of fungus, reports the website. While most of these are actually good for us, it needs help fighting off the bad bacteria from soap.</div> <div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: justify;"> “You can’t contain the bad bacteria if you don’t shower,” the site explains. “And if they find their way to your eyes, nose, or mouth, you can get sick.”</div> <div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: justify;"> Bacteria is also the cause of body odor. In fact, the gases given off by bacteria can reportedly lead to around 30 nasty smells from one body. Lovely.</div> <div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: justify;"> And if that isn’t enough to make you take showering seriously, there’s another great reason to keep clean, as it’s also vital for healthy skin. Showering helps to keep skin blemish-free by preventing oils in the skin from building up, which is particularly important if you regularly work out.</div> <div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: justify;"> “Keeping moist, salty sweat soaked clothing close to your skin for long periods after working out leads to irritation and the increased risk of small abrasions or skin breakdown,” Holly L. Phillips, M.D., a women’s health physician told <em data-redactor-tag="em" data-verified="redactor">Women’s Health</em>. “This can raise your risk of bacterial and fungal infections, like staph bacteria or the fungus that causes jock itch.”</div> <div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: justify;"> If you really must skip a shower, Phillips says it’s essential to change out of your gym clothes and dermatologists recommend to always keep the armpits, groin and face clean, as these areas are said to be especially prone to attracting bacteria.</div> <div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: justify;"> However, fans of really long showers will be disappointed hear these don’t do your skin any good either. Too much shower time can strip the oils from your body, which can leave your skin feeling dry and flaky. On the plus side, no one will complain about your funky smell.</div> <div class="body-el-text standard-body-el-text" style="text-align: justify;"> Read More: <span style="color: red;"><a href="http://www.esquire.com/lifestyle/news/a49560/this-is-what-happens-if-you-dont-shower-for-two-days/" style="color: red;">esquire</a></span></div>

This Is What Happens If You Don’t Shower For 2 Days

Having a shower is a daily routine for most of us, but if you’ve ...

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Stop using the Galaxy Note 7, Samsung alerts users.

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div> <div class="image-container" itemprop="image" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img alt="samsung-galaxy-note-7" class="attachment-full size-full wp-post-image" height="426" src="http://4a7jjc25uykf24u8sd3k8m5n.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Samsung-Galaxy-Note-7.jpg" width="640" /> </div> <div class="image-container" itemprop="image" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">  </div> <br /> <br /> Samsung has halted the production of its Galaxy Note 7 smartphones and advised customers all over the world to stop using the phone.<br /> <br /> The company had failed to correct a problem that was causing the devices to burst into flames.<br /> <br /> The tech firm had tried to switch the batteries suppliers and updating the device software.<br /> <br /> But the replacements had also caught fire after they were issued.<br /> <br /> Samsung on Tuesday said it is taken the phone off the market, promising customers they would be able to exchange the phone for other devices.

Stop using the Galaxy Note 7, Samsung alerts users.

    Samsung has halted the production of its Galaxy Note 7 smartphones and advised custom...

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Why You Must Stop Shaving Pubic Hair

<div class="image-container" itemprop="image"> <img alt="pubic-hair" class="attachment-full size-full wp-post-image" height="314" src="http://4a7jjc25uykf24u8sd3k8m5n.wpengine.netdna-cdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Pubic-Hair.png" width="600" /> </div> Contrary to well acclaimed hygienic practice, a medical expert has warned of the dangers in completely shaving the pubic hair. Dr Arikawe Adeolu, an Abuja-based medical expert, advised that it is safer to trim the hair rather than shaving it off completely. He said that complete shaving of the hair could cause infection.<br /> Adeolu told our correspondent on Tuesday that shaving or waxing of the hair around the pubic could cause cracks and expose the skin to bacterial infection.<br /> He added that the pubic hair served a major purpose of providing some level of cushioning for the individual, especially during sexual activity, preventing the skin from rubbing against another and causing abrasion.<br /> He explained that if the skin around the pubic region was completely shaved and the individual’s skin came into contact with another person’s skin, friction would be increased due to the skin to skin contact.<br /> He advised that individuals who were worried about the lack of hygiene due to untended pubic hair should consider trimming rather than complete shaving or waxing of the hair.<br /> “When you completely shave the pubic hair, it re-grows in a slanted fashion with the tip sometimes growing into the pubic skin, which can crack open the skin.<br /> “It is usually a small crack which cannot be seen with the Unclad eyes but due to this crack and loss of integrity of the skin at that level, there is increased risk of getting infection.<br /> “Complete shaving can also cause boil to develop in that region. This is because when you shave, you cause some level of abrasion in the area which opens up the skin.<br /> “These small openings cannot be seen with the eye but they are big enough for the micro organisms to get into the body.<br /> “Also, because the pubic area is always moist, this serves as breeding ground for organisms like bacteria.”<br /> Adeolu said that trimming the pubic hair would also help to reduce the risk of contacting Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI), which could also be contacted when fluid from an infected partner’s Instruments came into contact with the pubic area.<br /> According to him, if the partner is already infected, the virus in the Fluid or body fluid can easily penetrate the skin of the other to infect the individual.<br /> He said that this infection was mostly caused by a virus known as ‘Molluscum contagiosum’, adding that there had been significant increase in incidences of such infection in hospitals.<br /> “It is a viral infection that is also categorised as an STI. It affects the skin and does not need treatment; usually after a couple of weeks or months, the symptoms go away by themselves.<br /> “You also have an increased risk of contacting other STIs such as HIV, Hepatitis, genital warts by complete shaving of the pubic hair,’’ Adeolu said.

Why You Must Stop Shaving Pubic Hair

Contrary to well acclaimed hygienic practice, a medical expert has warned of the dangers in completel...

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