The World Health Organization (WHO) on Wednesday reiterated that there is no conclusive scientific evidence linking the use of acetaminophen (commonly known as paracetamol) during pregnancy to autism. In a statement on its website, WHO noted that an estimated 62 million people worldwide — roughly 1 in 127 individuals — live with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a group of conditions associated with brain development. While awareness and diagnosis of autism have improved in recent years, the exact causes remain unclear, with research suggesting multiple contributing factors. 'Over the past decade, extensive research, including large-scale studies, has explored possible connections between acetaminophen use in pregnancy and autism. So far, no consistent link has been found,' WHO said. The World Health Organization (WHO) has advised women to continue following the guidance of their doctors or health workers, who can assess individual needs and prescribe medicines when necessary. It stressed that all medications should be used with caution during pregnancy—particularly in the first trimester—and strictly under professional supervision. WHO further emphasized that extensive scientific evidence confirms that childhood vaccines do not cause autism. Multiple large-scale studies conducted across different countries have consistently reached the same conclusion. Medical groups have long cited acetaminophen, or paracetamol—the primary ingredient in Tylenol—as among the safest painkillers to take during pregnancy. WHO spokesman Tarik Jasarevic acknowledged that some observational studies, which are based purely on observations and do not include control or treatment groups, had “suggested a possible association between prenatal exposure to acetaminophen or paracetamol and autism.' It noted that the original studies suggesting a link were deeply flawed and have since been discredited. Since 1999, independent experts advising WHO have repeatedly affirmed that vaccines, including those containing thiomersal or aluminum, are safe and do not cause autism or other developmental disorders. The World Health Organization (WHO) noted that childhood vaccine schedules are developed through a rigorous, evidence-based process involving global experts and input from individual countries. According to the health body, the WHO-guided childhood immunization schedule—adopted worldwide—has saved at least 154 million lives in the past 50 years. It stressed that the schedule is vital to the health of every child and community, having evolved with science to protect children, adolescents, and adults from 30 infectious diseases. WHO explained that every vaccine recommendation made by its Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization (SAGE) undergoes a thorough review of evidence and is designed to provide optimal protection at the most effective time. WHO noted, however, that autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders are among the key mental health and neurological issues under discussion at the fourth UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs and Mental Health, held on Thursday, September 25. 'As a global community, we must deepen our understanding of the causes of autism and strengthen efforts to provide appropriate care and support for autistic people and their families,' it stated. The organization warned that delaying, disrupting, or altering immunization schedules without scientific backing significantly increases infection risks, not only for children but also for communities. Infants too young for vaccination, along with people with weakened immune systems or chronic health conditions, face the highest risks. WHO reaffirmed its commitment to advancing autism-related goals in collaboration with partners, including autistic-led organizations and groups representing people with lived experience. The organization stressed its solidarity with individuals living with autism and their families, describing them as a dignified community deserving of evidence-based care free from stigma. WHO’s clarification that neither the painkiller Tylenol nor vaccines have been proven to cause autism. The statement came in response to remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration suggesting otherwise. Trump had urged pregnant women to 'tough it out' and avoid Tylenol, citing an unverified link to autism, while also calling for sweeping changes to standard childhood vaccination schedules. Medical experts, however, continue to affirm that acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol—the active ingredient in Tylenol—remains among the safest pain relief options during pregnancy. WHO spokesperson Tarik Jasarevic acknowledged that some observational studies had hinted at a potential link between prenatal paracetamol exposure and autism. However, he emphasized that such studies are limited, lacking treatment or control groups, and no consistent evidence supports the claim.

For many men, a growing midsection is dismissed as a harmless sign of aging, prosperity, or “just part of being a man.” But medical experts warn that carrying extra weight—especially around the abdomen—is far from harmless. That potbelly could be an early warning sign of serious health problems that are often ignored until they become life-threatening. **The Hidden Dangers of Belly Fat** Unlike fat that accumulates under the skin, belly fat often surrounds vital organs such as the liver, pancreas, and intestines. This type of fat, known as *visceral fat*, produces inflammatory substances and hormones that disrupt normal body function. Over time, it increases the risk of conditions such as: * **Heart disease** – Belly fat is strongly linked to high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and plaque buildup in arteries. * **Type 2 diabetes** – Visceral fat makes the body less sensitive to insulin, raising blood sugar levels. * **Stroke** – Obesity-related inflammation can cause blockages or blood clots in the brain. * **Certain cancers** – Research suggests abdominal obesity raises the risk of colon, pancreatic, and prostate cancers. **Why Men Tend to Ignore the Warning Signs** Culturally, men are often less likely to seek medical advice until symptoms become severe. A mild shortness of breath, persistent fatigue, or poor sleep might be brushed off as “nothing serious” rather than a possible health red flag. Many also underestimate the role of diet, stress, and inactivity in worsening abdominal obesity. **Turning the Tide** The good news? Reducing visceral fat is possible—and even small changes can have a big impact. Experts recommend: 1. **Regular exercise** – Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, mixing cardio with strength training. 2. **Balanced diet** – Cut back on processed foods, refined carbs, and excessive alcohol. 3. **Stress management** – Chronic stress can increase cortisol, which promotes belly fat storage. 4. **Routine check-ups** – Blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar should be monitored regularly. **The Bottom Line** A potbelly is more than just a cosmetic issue—it’s a health warning you shouldn’t ignore. By taking action early, men can reduce their risks, improve their quality of life, and ensure that their middle years are truly their best years.

The Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, has clarified that genetically modified foods (GMOs) pose no inherent risk to human health as long as they comply with approved safety standards. She stated this during an interview on Channels Television on Thursday, in response to the increasing public discourse surrounding the consumption and regulation of GMO products in Nigeria. “GMOs are genetically modified foods when it comes to food, and they are not bad for us,” she said. “They’re not bad for us, depending on what type of foods they are and whether the safety considerations have been taken.” Adeyeye explained that the National Biosafety Management Agency (NBMA) is responsible for ensuring the safety of GMO products, while NAFDAC collaborates with them to certify food quality. “We work in collaboration with the biosafety management agency. We have an MOU with them. They are mandated to ensure that the foods that have GMO are of quality, they are safe, and they are efficacious. Without them certifying that they have done their due diligence in their laboratory or for desk review or whatever, we cannot approve” she added. The NAFDAC DG, who described herself as a “food freak,” emphasized the importance of checking food labels for GMO indications. She assured Nigerians that approved products in the market undergo strict safety evaluations. “For NAFDAC, our goal is to ensure that the food we approve for the market is safe, has quality, and is efficacious,” she stated. Adeyeye’s comment on GMO foods came amid the ongoing debates over the safety and labeling of genetically modified foods in Nigeria, with advocates calling for transparency while critics raise health concerns.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a warning to Nigerians about potential health risks linked to certain Dove-branded cosmetic products recently banned by the European Union. In a public alert, NAFDAC revealed that EU authorities have restricted the sale and marketing of Dove Exfoliating Hand Soap (100g) and Dove Deodorant in Brussels, Belgium, due to safety concerns. The alert, numbered 018/2025 and titled “Alert on the Ban of Dove Hand and Deodorant Soap due to Butylphenyl Methylpropional Contamination,” was published on the agency’s official website. NAFDAC explained that the affected products contain a chemical known as 2-(4-tert-butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde, also referred to as BMHCA—a substance banned in cosmetic products across the European Union. “The products do not comply with the Cosmetic Products Regulation as they are said to contain 2-(4- tert-butylbenzyl) propionaldehyde (BMHCA), which is prohibited in cosmetic products due to its risk of harming the reproductive system, causing harm to the health of an unborn child, and may cause skin sensitization,” NAFDAC warned. NAFDAC listed the affected products and their details, which include items produced in Italy and the United Kingdom. The items include: Dove Exfoliating Hand Soap (barcode 8710447439227), Dove Deo Go Fresh 50ml (batch number 9212174), Dove Invisible Dry 50ml (batch number 9183646), and Dove Men + Care Silver Control Spray 150ml (batch number 62867LD). The agency noted that the identified products are not registered in its database and emphasized that importation of soaps into Nigeria is already prohibited under the country’s import restriction policies. “Importation of soaps is prohibited in Nigeria as per the restricted and import prohibition list,” the agency said. It added, “Beyond the import restrictions, soaps and cosmetics are part of the items ineligible for foreign exchange to import in Nigeria.” NAFDAC further advised importers, distributors, and retailers to be vigilant and ensure the listed products are not found in the local supply chain. “These products are also not available in the NAFDAC database. Importers, distributors, retailers, and consumers are advised to exercise caution and vigilance within the supply chain to avoid the importation, distribution, sale, and use of the above-mentioned products. Members of the public in possession of the product should discontinue the sale or use and submit the stock to the nearest NAFDAC office,” it added. NAFDAC, however, urged healthcare providers and consumers to report any adverse reactions associated with these or other cosmetic products using its designated reporting channels. The agency reiterated its dedication to safeguarding public health and assured that it will maintain ongoing surveillance of cosmetic products in the Nigerian market to curb the distribution of harmful items.

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has officially launched the insecticide-treated nets (ITNs) replacement mass campaign, calling on stakeholders to intensify their commitment to eradicating malaria across the state and nation. The flag-off event, held at the Event Centre in Asaba, marks the beginning of the distribution of over 3.1 million ITNs throughout the state. The ceremony drew several dignitaries, including a representative of the Deputy Governor, commissioners, development partners, and community leaders. Delivering the Governor’s address, the Deputy Chief of Staff, Government House, Sir Chris Osakwe, noted that while Delta State’s malaria prevalence rate stood at a commendable 10%, greater efforts were still required to completely eliminate the disease. Governor Oborevwori highlighted that Nigeria accounts for about 25% of Africa’s malaria burden, with nearly 110 million clinical cases annually. He stressed that malaria is responsible for 30% of child deaths and 11% of maternal deaths each year, despite being a preventable disease. He thanked development partners for their continued support and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working collaboratively to eliminate malaria. Speaking on behalf of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, Mr. Raphael Onyinlo emphasized that Nigeria contributes 27% to the global malaria burden and 31% of global malaria-related deaths, with a current national prevalence of 22%. Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, described the flag-off as a rallying call for action, signifying renewed dedication to protecting residents from malaria through widespread ITN distribution. National Malaria Elimination Programme (NMEP) Coordinator, Dr. Nnenna Ogbulafor, represented by Dr. Mary Esema, said the campaign is a critical step in the federal government's and partners’ efforts to shield all Nigerians—particularly vulnerable groups—from malaria's devastating effects by promoting consistent ITN use. Partner organizations, including the Catholic Relief Services, Society for Family Health (represented by Mr. John Ocholie), BASF (Dr. Godwin Aidengbon), and the World Health Organization (WHO), praised the initiative as a testament to government ownership and public mobilization. They noted that over 3.2 million nets would be distributed, urging residents to use them correctly to prevent mosquito-borne illnesses. State Health Educator, Mr. Emmanuel Odejerho, educated the public in pidgin on proper ITN usage, cautioning against misuse. A key highlight of the event was a live demonstration of how to sleep inside the net, presented by the Governor’s representative, along with the symbolic presentation of the insecticide-treated nets.

Surgeons at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center in Los Angeles have successfully completed the world’s first human bladder transplant, marking a groundbreaking advancement in treatment for severe bladder conditions, according to hospital officials. The operation took place on May 4 and involved 41-year-old Oscar Larrainzar, a father of four who previously lost much of his bladder to cancer. Following additional complications, including kidney removal due to cancer and end-stage kidney disease, Larrainzar had been on dialysis for seven years. During the eight-hour procedure, he received both a new bladder and kidney from an organ donor. Surgeons first transplanted the kidney, then the bladder, and connected the two using a technique they developed. According to UCLA, the transplant showed positive results almost immediately. Dr. Nima Nassiri, one of the surgeons on the team, called the outcome a major success. “The kidney immediately made a large volume of urine, and the patient’s kidney function improved immediately,” Nassiri said. “There was no need for any dialysis after surgery, and the urine drained properly into the new bladder.” Nassiri and fellow surgeon Inderbir Gill said full bladder transplants had not been performed previously due to the complex vascular structure of the pelvis, making it a technically difficult procedure. “This first attempt at bladder transplantation has been over four years in the making,” Nassiri said. In the past, patients requiring bladder reconstruction typically underwent procedures that used a section of the intestine to create a new bladder or had a stoma bag fitted to collect urine. However, Dr. Nima Nassiri noted that these methods carried various short- and long-term risks, which doctors now hope to avoid through complete bladder transplantation.

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has sounded the alarm over the escalating threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), calling it a "silent killer" more deadly than malaria, tuberculosis (TB), and HIV combined. Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja, NCDC Director General Dr. Jide Idris emphasized the urgent need to address this global health crisis, which remains largely unrecognized by many Nigerians. Idris said, “AMR is a silent killer. It kills more than the combination of malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS together. The worst thing is that not much is known about it, especially among the public. It has become a global focus. “AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites evolve to resist the effects of medications—making common infections harder to treat and increasing the risk of disease spread, severe illness, and death. “This resistance, while naturally occurring, is significantly accelerated by the misuse and overuse of antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents in humans, animals, and agriculture. “It is unacceptable that most Nigerians don’t know how dangerous AMR is; we must act now,” the DG said. He said that the federal government had stepped up its response and that the country was already working on implementing its National Action Plan on AMR 2.0, which has strategic pillars including Infection Prevention and Control (IPC), antimicrobial stewardship, and financing. “AMR was supposed to be part and parcel of our current health programmes. We are now about to roll out specific programmes targeting AMR. “These efforts will include IPC, antimicrobial stewardship, and sustainable financing—these are critical areas we’re looking at,” he added.

Daily exposure to certain chemicals known as phthalates, commonly used to manufacture plastic household items, has been linked to hundreds of thousands of heart disease-related deaths worldwide, according to a new analysis of population data. For decades, scientists have warned about the health risks associated with phthalates, which are found in products such as cosmetics, cleaning agents, plastic piping, insect repellents, and solvents. “There is a clear disparity in which parts of the world bear the brunt of heightened heart risks from phthalates. Our results underscore the urgent need for global regulations to reduce exposure to these toxins, especially in areas most affected by rapid industrialization and plastic consumption,” said study senior author Leonardo Trasande. When these chemicals degrade into microscopic particles and are ingested, they have been associated with increased risks of obesity, diabetes, fertility problems, and various cancers. The study, conducted by researchers at NYU Langone Health, focused specifically on di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), a common phthalate used to soften plastic in items like food containers and medical devices. Previous research has shown that DEHP exposure can trigger inflammation in the arteries of the heart, heightening the risk of heart attacks and strokes over time. Using global health and environmental data, including urine samples from 200 countries and territories, the researchers estimated that DEHP exposure contributed to 356,238 deaths in 2018—accounting for over 13% of heart disease mortality among individuals aged 55 to 64. “This study reinforces the growing evidence that phthalates pose a serious threat to public health,” said lead author Sara Hyman, associate research scientist at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. The economic impact of these deaths was estimated at approximately \$510 billion, potentially reaching up to \$3.74 trillion. While a 2021 study by the same team linked phthalates to over 50,000 premature deaths annually in the U.S., this latest research is believed to be the first to offer a global estimate of cardiovascular mortality due to phthalate exposure. Published in *The Lancet eBiomedicine*, the report highlighted that the East Asia–Middle East region and the East Asia–Pacific region accounted for 42% and 32% of the DEHP-related heart disease deaths, respectively. The researchers suggest that these higher figures may reflect increased plastic production in those areas, often with weaker regulatory controls.

The 2024 HIV prevalence data by state reveals that Rivers State has the highest number of people living with HIV, recording 208,767 cases. It is closely followed by Benue State with 202,346 cases and Akwa Ibom with 161,597. These three states top the list in the latest HIV Spectrum Estimates released by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA). According to the data, over two million Nigerians are currently living with HIV, underscoring the urgent need for continued investment in prevention, testing, and treatment services. Lagos State, Nigeria’s commercial hub, ranks fourth with 108,649 cases. Anambra State comes next with 100,429, while the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) reported 83,333, the highest in the north-central region. Other high-prevalence states include Delta (68,170), Imo (67,944), Enugu (61,028), Edo (60,095), and Taraba (58,460). In the mid-tier bracket are Abia (54,655), Kaduna (54,458), Kano (53,972), Plateau (51,736), Borno (50,433), Oyo (50,063), Cross River (43,452), Ogun (43,348), and Nasarawa (44,993). Adamawa reported 40,059 cases, while Gombe (31,825), Jigawa (31,409), Osun (30,714), and Niger (29,756) follow. Bauchi (28,698), Kogi (28,421), Ondo (27,150), Katsina (26,788), and Bayelsa (25,339) fall into the lower-middle category. States with the lowest numbers include Kwara (20,259), Kebbi (19,339), Ekiti (18,857), Sokoto (15,223), Ebonyi (14,151), Zamfara (13,253), and Yobe (11,956). The report also notes that an estimated 43,683 people died from HIV-related causes in the past year — 28,589 adults (13,650 men and 14,939 women) and 15,094 children under 15. As of the latest count, 1,753,425 people living with HIV are aware of their status, including 1,693,457 adults (579,209 men and 1,114,401 women) and 54,983 children. Access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) has expanded significantly, with 1,735,808 people on treatment. This includes 1,690,057 adults (577,632 men and 1,112,425 women) and 45,751 children. Out of those receiving ART, 1,160,256 underwent viral load testing, and 1,112,339 showed viral suppression — comprising 1,083,177 adults and 29,162 children. Among pregnant women, 93,186 were identified as needing ART to prevent mother-to-child transmission, but only 31,095 received treatment, exposing a critical gap in prevention efforts. NACA’s Director-General, Dr. Temitope Ilori, assured that the Federal Government is taking proactive steps to avoid any potential shortages of HIV medications across the country.

The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has issued a public alert regarding the circulation of counterfeit Artemether/Lumefantrine tablets in Nigeria, falsely branded as Aflotin 20/120. In a post shared on its official X handle on Tuesday, NAFDAC revealed that the fake medication was identified and reported by Ajanta Pharma Limited, the legitimate manufacturer based in Mumbai, India. The company disclosed that it originally produced batch number PA2128L in December 2018 as Combisunate 20/120 (Artemether 20mg/Lumefantrine 120mg), with an expiry date of November 2020, packaged in 30 x 24 tablet packs. However, the batch has been counterfeited and repackaged as Aflotin 20/120mg in 1 x 18 tablet packs. NAFDAC noted that the overprinted labeling on the counterfeit product did not align with Ajanta Pharma’s authentic style. Following an investigation and inspection of the product, Ajanta Pharma confirmed that the Aflotin 20/120mg with Batch No: PA2128L currently found in Nigeria is a fake. “The genuine Aflotin 20/120 tablet is a combination of Artemether/Lumefantrine (20mg/120mg) and is primarily used for the treatment of uncomplicated malaria caused by the Plasmodium falciparum parasite,” it said. The regulatory agency emphasised that counterfeit medicines endanger people’s health because they do not comply with regulatory standards, which means the safety, quality, and efficacy of these products are not ensured. “The use of counterfeit medicines often fail to treat diseases or conditions effectively, leading to serious health consequences, including death,” NAFDAC said. It said all NAFDAC zonal directors and state coordinators had been informed and directed to conduct surveillance and remove any counterfeit products found within their zones and states. NAFDAC further urged distributors, retailers, healthcare professionals, and caregivers to remain cautious and vigilant throughout the supply chain to prevent the distribution, sale, or use of counterfeit medicines. The agency emphasized that all medical products should be sourced exclusively from authorised or licensed suppliers.