South African Pharmacy Council

National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week is from 20 – 26 October 2024. This year’s theme is “Bright Futures begin Lead Free”. This week we aim to highlight to government and the public the need for action to protect the health of children.  The campaign builds on the momentum gained through the successful banning of the use of lead in petrol and the progress achieved by many countries in creating laws that limit the use of lead in paint, which paints children are exposed to in their homes, schools and playgrounds. This week we can all contribute by doing these three key actions:  • Get the Facts: Learn about lead exposure and hazards, and how you can protect you and your family, as lead is still a risk in our communities. • Get Your Child Tested: A blood test can determine if your child has lead poisoning.  • Get Your Home Tested: Minimise your risk of lead exposure. Hire a certified professional to test your home for lead if it was built before 1978. #NationalLeadPoisoningPreventionWeek

Poliomyelitis, commonly known as poliovirus, is a highly infectious disease that most commonly affects children under the age of 5. Although there is no cure, there is a safe and effective vaccine. World Polio Day reminds us of the important role that polio vaccines play in protecting children’s lives and safeguarding public health. The virus is spread person to person and typically through contaminated water. It can attack the nervous system, and in some instances, lead to paralysis. Polio can be suspected when there is sudden weakness of the leg or arm or both or other parts of the body. This weakness shouldn't have been present at birth. Do your part by making sure that all children are immunised against polio by taking all eligible children to your nearest clinic for routine immunisation with the polio vaccine. #vaccine #polio #polioawareness #health

World Iodine Deficiency Day, also known as Global Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day, is observed annually on October 21. The day is dedicated to increasing awareness about the importance of iodine in human health. Iodine, an important mineral necessary for thyroid hormone production, is vital to our physical functioning.   What is Iodine? Iodine, a naturally occurring mineral, is essential for thyroid hormone production. Because the body cannot produce iodine naturally, it must be taken from the food we eat.   Why Is Iodine So Important? Iodine is responsible for regulating vital body systems such as metabolism. During pregnancy, it is essential for the baby's brain and bone development. Lack of iodine during pregnancy might lead to serious consequences.   What Is Iodine Deficiency? Iodine deficit occurs when the body does not have enough of this vital element. It reduces thyroid hormone production, causing a variety of health problems.   Foods that help with iodine deficiency ·      Seaweed, ·      Iodised salt, ·      Cod fish, ·      Cottage cheese, ·      Greek yoghurt, ·      Eggs, ·      Shrimp, ·      Tuna and prunes in your daily diet.   What are the signs of iodine deficiency? ·      Fatigued ·      Sensitive to coldness ·      Constipation ·      Dry skin, hair and nails ·      Slow your heart rate   Sources 1.   Pace Hospitals, World Iodine Deficiency Day, https://lnkd.in/dcQm4MXm    2.   Global Iodine Deficiency Disorders Prevention Day, Health Systems Trust, https://lnkd.in/dSY5PB4h     #IodineDeficiencyDisordersPreventionDay #IodineDeficiency #iodine

National Down Syndrome Day National Down Syndrome Day is commemorated to raise awareness about Down Syndrome and to share important facts about the condition. The theme for this year is “It’s all in the genes”. What is Down syndrome? Down syndrome is a chromosomal disorder that occurs at conception, characterised by an extra copy of the 21st chromosome (Trisomy 21). This extra chromosome can lead to delays in physical and intellectual development. Babies with Down Syndrome do look slightly different from other babies and therefore, they can usually be identified at birth. Some of the typical features include: • Small low-set ears • A single crease on the palm of the hand • Short hands and fingers • Inclining pinkie • Eyes that slant upwards • Tiny folds covering the inner corners of the eyes (epicanthic folds) • Small white flecks on the iris (Brushfield spots) • Wider gap between the big toe and second toe • A small nose with a broad, flat bridge • A small mouth that makes the tongue appear large Here are some of the myths that still exist about Down Syndrome and those who have it today: 5 Myths about people living with Down Syndrome • Down syndrome is a rare disorder. • Down syndrome is hereditary and runs in families. • Most children with Down Syndrome are born to older parents. • Parents will not find community support in bringing up their child with Down Syndrome. • All persons with Down Syndrome have a severe cognitive disability. 5 Truthful facts about people living with Down Syndrome • Down Syndrome is the most commonly occurring chromosomal condition. • Translocation, a type of Down syndrome that accounts for 3 to 4% of all cases, is the only type of Down Syndrome known to have a hereditary component. Of those, one-third (or 1% of all cases of Down Syndrome) are hereditary. • Most children with Down Syndrome are born to women younger than 35 years old simply because younger women have more children. However, the likelihood of having a child with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother, especially after age 35. • There are provincial support groups and other community organisations directly involved in providing services to families of individuals with Down Syndrome. • Most persons with Down Syndrome have a mild to moderate cognitive disability, or intellectual disability. This is not indicative of the many strengths and talents that each individual possesses. Be considerate of the extra time it might take a person who has a disability to get things done or said. #SupportAndCelebrate #InclusionMatters #ItsAllInTheGenes #EmbraceDiversity Sources 1. What is Down Syndrome, Down Syndrome South African, https://lnkd.in/dPrT_4n9 2. Myths and Truth, Down Syndrome South African, https://lnkd.in/dn7maakZ

12 to 20 October 2022 is World Bone and Joint Week. There are different bone and joint conditions that affect millions of people. It is important to understand these diseases so that we can identify and treat them to allow access to better quality of life, as musculoskeletal conditions often lead to considerable disability and lower productivity. Different bone and joint conditions: • Osteoarthritis – When the cartilage wears down between joints, thus making the bones rub one another, causing stiffness and major swelling. • Gout – The sudden swelling of a joint accompanied by major pain. Usually on a toe, foot or ankle. • Bursitis – Swelling of the bursa (fluid sac that acts as a shock absorber between tendons, muscles, and joints). • Osteoporosis – The most common joint and bone disease. Bones become brittle, causing fractures. #WorldBoneandJointWeek

World Trauma Day is observed annually to remind us of the impact that trauma has on people and communities alike. It also highlights the different types of traumas one can experience such as physical, emotional or mental. This year’s theme “Workplace Injuries: Prevention & Management”, aims to focus on the prevention of trauma-causing incidents in the workplace. These can include harassment, injury, poor mental health awareness etc. How can we help prevent trauma? ·       Educate yourself and others. ·       Be mindful of those around you. ·       Organise Mental Health Workshops ·       Seek help with your own trauma. Sources: 1.       https://lnkd.in/d2KM7Nbt  2.       https://lnkd.in/d4eYS7Xq  

17 October 2024 is National Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Day. This day is an Opportunity to recognize the courageousness and selflessness of health workers on the ground, and to raise awareness about when to call for emergency medical assistance. The national emergency number for ambulances is 10177. When making the call you should this provide information: ·      The nature and location of the emergency. ·      Details about injuries. ·      Your personal details. Ways in which we can commemorate Emergency Medical Personnel: ·      Showing appreciation for the work of EMS personnel by pledging to keep them safe. ·      Interacting with EMS personnel in your local community about service amendments or complaints. ·      Writing messages to EMS personnel to show them support and encouragement. We appreciate all Medical personnel and the work that they do to keep us safe and healthy in emergency situations. #NationalEmergencyMedicalServicesDay #EMSDay #EmergencyServices

World Spine Day will be observed on 16 October 2024. This day is an opportunity to emphasize the universal significance of spinal health. The 2024 theme is “Support Your Spine“ and the campaign will feature the two-toned blue and green ribbon to spread awareness about the worldwide impact of spinal pain and disability. With this campaign we aim to encourage people to maintain spinal health. World Spine Day highlights the critical importance of worldwide efforts to address spinal pain and disability by urging governments as well as the public to act by participating in their communities and make meaningful contributions. You too can contribute by wearing your ribbon on this day. #WorldSpineDay #SpineHealth #SupportYourSpine

Global Handwashing Day is an annual campaign that aims to educate people on the importance of washing our hands with soap and clean water and to foster a culture of handwashing in our households and communities. Over the years great strides have been made in hand hygiene awareness but there is still more work to be done. This year’s theme of “Why Are Clean Hands Still Important?” encourages us to remember why hand hygiene will always be important. ·       Washing your hands with soap and water is a simple and effective way to help prevent diarrheal illnesses and respiratory infections.  ·       Hand hygiene lessens the rates of school absenteeism by improving the learners’ health.   ·       Hand hygiene reduces the risks of healthcare-associated infections and thus also reduces the spread of antimicrobial resistance. Hand hygiene not only protects yourself, but it protects your community too. Be sure to spread the word, not the germs. Sources: 1.       Global Handwashing Day 2024 Fact Sheet - The Global Handwashing Partnership 2.       Global Handwashing Day | Clean Hands | CDC 3.       Global Handwashing Day 2024 | South African Government (www.gov.za)

Good nutrition can help prevent and control diseases. A healthy diet supports general health and well-being. #nutrition #Nationalnutritionweek Sources 1.              National Nutrition Week, https://lnkd.in/dqM4Qyze