Globesity, a term denoting the escalating global obesity epidemic, represents a significant public health crisis with severe health and economic ramificati

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant challenges to global health, with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) emerging as a key risk factor for adverse outcomes. This study systematically reviews and quantifies the association between T2DM and COVID-19 outcomes, including mortality, severity, and need for mechanical ventilation. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted that adhered to PRISMA guidelines. We searched PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Embase for studies published from december 2019 to march 2024. Eligible studies reported on the impact of T2DM on COVID-19 outcomes in the adult population. Data were extracted and analyzed using a random-effects model, and heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. Publication bias was assessed using Egger regression, Kendall’s Tau, and the Fail-safe N calculation. Eighteen studies were included in the meta-analysis for mortality, six for severity and five for mechanical ventilation. T2DM was significantly associated with higher mortality (OR = 3.66, 95% CI: 2.20–5.11, p < 0.001), higher severity (OR = 1.97, 95% CI: 1.02–2.92, p < 0.001), and higher need for mechanical ventilation (OR = 2.34, 95% CI: 1.18–3.49, p < 0.001). Heterogeneity was high for mortality (I2 = 83.83%) but low for severity and mechanical ventilation (I2 = 0%). No significant publication bias was found. T2DM is associated with significantly worse outcomes in COVID-19 patients, including higher mortality, higher severity and a greater likelihood of needing mechanical ventilation. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions and management strategies for individuals with T2DM during the ongoing pandemic. Future research should focus on understanding the underlying mechanisms and exploring strategies to mitigate these risks.

On January 20, 2025, the United States initiated its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) through an executive order, citing concerns over the organization’s handling of global health crises, political influences, and financial inequities. This commentary explores the historical context of the U.S.-WHO relationship, provides an analysis of the justifications for withdrawal, and examines the global and domestic consequences of this decision. Historically, the U.S. has been a significant player in the WHO, contributing substantial funding and advancing global health initiatives. However, tensions have arisen, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic, where accusations of inefficiency, political bias, and financial disparities became more pronounced. The withdrawal highlights a call for WHO reform, particularly in enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency. On a global scale, the U.S. departure threatens to destabilize WHO’s funding, weaken leadership, and hinder future pandemic preparedness. Domestically, the U.S. plans to redirect resources to alternative organizations and enhance national health capacities. Critics argue that this move could weaken international collaboration, erode trust, and damage U.S. influence in global health governance. This commentary ultimately underscores the complexities and potential risks associated with disengagement from multilateral health initiatives and the broader implications for global health security.

A comprehensive study was conducted on oils from raw and boiled black variety of tigernut (Cyperus esculentus L), in order to evaluate their potential uses. The quality of the extracted oils was assessed in terms of acid value, iodine value, saponification value, peroxide value, specific gravity, flash point, kinematic viscosity and unsaponifiable matter with the mean range values of 9.03-9.12 mg KOH/g, 57.30-92.60 mg of I/100 g, 179.40-180.30 mg KOH/g, 6.90-7.50 meqO2/kg, 0.90-0.91 g/cm, 275.00-282.00°C, 8.30-8.42 mm2/s at 100°C and 0.50-0.82%, respectively. The major fatty acids of the tigernut oil were oleic acid (32.14-50.85%)> linoleic acid (24.08-46.71)> palmitic acid (12.96-15.84%)> stearic acid (4.35-4.60%). Palmitoleic, eicosenoic, erucic, nervonic, elaidic, eicosadienoic, docosadienoic, α-linolenic, γ-linolenic, dihomo-γ-linolenic, eicosatrienoic, eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids were present in small quantities with none of them recording up to 1.0% in either of the samples while lauric and myristic acids in the boiled sample were not at the detectable range of GC. The boiling process reduced the content of lauric, myristic, arachidic, behenic, palmitoleic, pentacosylic and oleic acids by 100, 100, 98.72, 99.21, 99.76, 1.47 and 36.79%, respectively. Unsaturated fatty acids predominated in all the samples with an adequate amount of essential fatty acid (linoleic acid). Generally, the boiling method showed deviations in fatty acid components from the raw sample. Phosphatidylethanolamine had the highest content (223.08 mg/100 g) in raw tigernut while the lowest was lysophosphatidylcholine (3.83 mg/100 g) also in the raw sample. However, the total phytosterols were of low values with range of 1.59e-3 to 9.74e-3 mg/100 g except that of stigmasterol and sitosterol. The high percentage PUFA and the low sterols particularly cholesterol may make processed black variety of tigernut a good food source on health wise basis.

Infectious diseases, including malaria, Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and Hepatitis C virus (HCV), remain significant public health concerns in developing regions like Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Socio-demographic factors, such as gender, age, income level, and access to healthcare resources, have been shown to influence the prevalence and outcomes of these diseases. Despite their importance, there is limited research exploring the interrelationship between these infections and socio-demographic factors within this region. The study aims to investigate the prevalence of malaria, HBsAg, and HCV among patients in Lafia, Nigeria, and to examine the relationship between these infections and socio-demographic factors. Specifically, it seeks to identify correlations between demographic variables, clinical manifestations, and health behaviors, such as mosquito net usage and vaccination status. A cross-sectional design was employed, involving 264 patients from Lafia, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Data were collected using structured questionnaires which were pretested in a previous study to gather demographic information, vaccination status, and clinical symptoms. Laboratory assessments confirmed the presence of malaria, HBsAg, and HCV. Statistical analysis, including correlations between socio-demographic factors and disease prevalence were analyzed, and used to identify associations between socio-demographic factors, clinical manifestations, and disease prevalence. Significant findings include a negative correlation between male sex and malaria infection (Pearson Correlation = -0.139, p = 0.024), a positive correlation between age and HCV prevalence (Pearson Correlation = 0.218, p < 0.001), and a negative correlation between the use of mosquito nets and malaria infection (Pearson Correlation = -0.231, p < 0.001). Additionally, HBsAg-positive individuals exhibited more pronounced clinical symptoms (Pearson Correlation = 0.173, p = 0.005), while higher income levels correlated with reduced mosquito net usage (Pearson Correlation = -0.144, p = 0.020). The study underscores the role of socio-demographic factors in shaping the prevalence of malaria, HBsAg, and HCV. This study highlights the interplay between socio-demographic factors and the prevalence of malaria, HBsAg, and HCV in Lafia, Nigeria. It underscores the importance of comprehensive public health interventions tailored to the specific needs of the population to reduce disease burden and improve health outcomes, including health education, to address socio-economic vulnerabilities and promote preventive measures such as mosquito net usage. Addressing these factors could mitigate the burden of infectious diseases in Lafia and similar regions.

Malaria and hepatitis are prevalent public health issues in Nigeria, significantly impacting health outcomes. Given the importance of the Federal Medical Center, Makurdi, as a key healthcare provider in the region, it is crucial to understand the prevalence and factors associated with these diseases within this setting. This study is designed to address this need, aiming to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of malaria and hepatitis B and C among patients at the Federal Medical Center, Makurdi. A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving the meticulous analysis of patient records and diagnostic data from the Federal Medical Center, Makurdi. Data on malaria and hepatitis B and C prevalence were collected from laboratory reports and patient interviews. Socioeconomic information, including income, education level, and healthcare access, was also gathered. Statistical analyses were performed with utmost care to identify associations between disease prevalence and risk factors. The study examined 248 patients at the Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi, assessing malaria, Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Malaria prevalence was 52.4%, with higher rates in males (57.7%) than females (47.2%). HBsAg prevalence was 6.9%, and HCV was 4.8%, with no significant differences by sex or marital status. Income level impacted HCV rates, with middle-income individuals showing higher prevalence (21.4%). Malaria was most common in the 26–40 age group (35.4%). The findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions. Enhanced access to preventive measures, such as insecticide-treated nets and safer blood transfusion practices, and educational disease prevention programs, are essential. Addressing socioeconomic disparities is crucial for effective disease control. To mitigate the burden of malaria and hepatitis B and C at the Federal Medical Center, Makurdi, a multifaceted approach is required. Improving preventive measures, healthcare access, and addressing socioeconomic determinants will reduce disease prevalence and improve patient outcomes.