Barnor Memorial Hospital

28/09/2025

15/09/2025

In remembrance of the late Dr. Matthew Annum Barnor. Today, 15th September, marks his birthday. Though it has been 20 years since his passing, his memory, legacy, and contributions remain deeply cherished and continue to live on.

11/09/2025

Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Awareness Day is observed on September 9th every year. The day aims to raise awareness about the risks of alcohol consumption during pregnancy and the impact of FASD on individuals, families, and communities.

History:

The first FASD Awareness Day was observed in 1999, and since then, it has become an annual event. The day was chosen because the ninth day of the ninth month represents the nine months of pregnancy.

Theme:

The theme for FASD Awareness Day 2025 is "Everyone Plays a Part: Take Action ". This theme emphasizes that every individual has a role in supporting those affected by Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) and promoting awareness and prevention. It encourages people to take actionable steps to support individuals with FASD.

Objectives:

1. Raise awareness about FASD and its effects
2. Prevent FASD by promoting abstinence from alcohol during pregnancy
3. Support individuals and families affected by FASD
4. Encourage early diagnosis and intervention

Remember, FASD is a preventable condition. By raising awareness and promoting education, we can reduce its occurrence and support those affected.

@65

25/08/2025

Pre-eclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, most often the liver and kidneys. It typically begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women who previously had normal blood pressure.

While the exact cause is not fully understood, it is believed to be related to a problem with the placenta, the organ that nourishes the fetus. In pre-eclampsia, the blood vessels that supply the placenta may not develop properly, leading to a reduced blood supply. This can affect the mother's blood vessels and lead to high blood pressure and other symptoms.

Key Signs and Symptoms

The early signs of preeclampsia—high blood pressure and protein in the urine—are often detected during routine prenatal check-ups. You may not notice these signs yourself. As the condition progresses, more noticeable symptoms can develop, including:

- Severe headaches that do not go away with medication
- Vision changes, such as blurred vision, seeing flashing lights or spots, or temporary loss of vision
- Pain in the upper belly, usually under the ribs on the right side
- Nausea or vomiting (after the first trimester)
- Sudden weight gain or sudden swelling in the hands, face, or feet
- Shortness of breath

Risk Factors

While any pregnant woman can develop pre-eclampsia, certain factors can increase the risk, such as:

- Having a history of pre-eclampsia in a previous pregnancy
- Having chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease before pregnancy
- Being pregnant with multiples (twins, triplets, etc.)
- Being a first-time mother
- Having a family history of pre-eclampsia
- Being over 35 years old or having a BMI of 35 or more

Pre-eclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, most often the liver and kidneys. It typically begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women who previously had normal blood pressure.

While the exact cause is not fully understood, it is believed to be related to a problem with the placenta, the organ that nourishes the fetus. In pre-eclampsia, the blood vessels that supply the placenta may not develop properly, leading to a reduced blood supply. This can affect the mother's blood vessels and lead to high blood pressure and other symptoms.

Key Signs and Symptoms
The early signs of pre-eclampsia—high blood pressure and protein in the urine—are often detected during routine prenatal checkups. You may not notice these signs yourself. As the condition progresses, more noticeable symptoms can develop, including:

Severe headaches that do not go away with medication

Vision changes, such as blurred vision, seeing flashing lights or spots, or temporary loss of vision

Pain in the upper belly, usually under the ribs on the right side

Nausea or vomiting (after the first trimester)

Sudden weight gain or sudden swelling in the hands, face, or feet

Shortness of breath

Risk Factors
While any pregnant woman can develop pre-eclampsia, certain factors can increase the risk, such as:

Having a history of pre-eclampsia in a previous pregnancy

Having chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease before pregnancy

Being pregnant with multiples (twins, triplets, etc.)

Being a first-time mother

Having a family history of pre-eclampsia

Being over 35 years old or having a BMI of 35 or more

Complications

Severe birth asphyxia
Fetal demise,
maternal death
Kidney failure.

If left untreated, pre-eclampsia can lead to serious complications for both the mother and baby, including:

- Eclampsia: The development of seizures in a woman with pre-eclampsia, which can be life-threatening.
- HELLP syndrome: A severe form of pre-eclampsia that stands for haemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells), elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count.
- Placental abruption: When the placenta separates from the inner wall of the uterus before delivery, causing severe bleeding.
- Preterm birth
- Foetal growth restriction: The baby may not get enough oxygen and nutrients, leading to slow growth.

The only definitive cure for pre-eclampsia is delivering the baby. Treatment often involves close monitoring and medication to manage blood pressure, and in severe cases, an early delivery may be necessary to prevent further complications.

12/08/2025

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin essential for various bodily functions. It is an important nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health.

Here’s a detailed overview of vitamin C:

Chemical Structure:

Vitamin C is a colorless, crystalline substance that is soluble in water and has antioxidant properties, meaning it can neutralize free radicals in the body.

Functions of Vitamin C:

1. Antioxidant Activity: Vitamin C helps to protect cells from oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, which can lead to cellular damage and contribute to chronic diseases.

2. Collagen Synthesis: It is vital for the production of collagen, a protein that helps maintain skin, blood vessels, bones, and connective tissues. Collagen gives strength and structure to these tissues.

3. Immune Function: Vitamin C plays a role in supporting the immune system. It is involved in the production and function of immune cells, and some studies suggest it may help reduce the duration and severity of colds.

4. Neurotransmitter Synthesis: It is involved in synthesizing neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, which play a role in mood regulation.

Sources of Vitamin C:

Vitamin C is found in a variety of foods, particularly fruits and vegetables. Some of the best sources include:

* Fruits:
- Oranges and other citrus fruits (lemons, limes, tangerines)
- Kiwis
- Strawberries
- Pineapples
- Mangos

* Vegetables:
- Bell peppers (especially red and yellow)
- Tomatoes
- Spinach
- Leafy greens

Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)

The RDA for vitamin C varies by age, s*x, and life stage. For adults, it is generally recommended as follows:

* Infants 0-6 months: 40 mg
* Infants 7-12 months: 50 mg
* Children 1-3 years: 15 mg
* Children 4-8 years: 25 mg
* Children 9-13 years: 45 mg
* Adolescents 14-18 years: 65-75 mg
* Men (19yrs - 60yrs): 120 - 200 mg per day
* Women (19 yrs - 60 yrs): 120 - 200 mg per day
* Pregnant Women: 85 mg per day
* Breastfeeding Women: 120 mg per day

Deficiency

Vitamin C deficiency can lead to a condition known as scurvy, characterized by:

* Weakness and fatigue
* Gum disease or bleeding gums
* Skin issues (such as rough, dry skin, and easy bruising)
* Joint pain
* Severe cases can lead to more serious health problems, including anemia and immune dysfunction.

Toxicity

Vitamin C is generally considered safe, even at high doses since it is water-soluble, meaning excess amounts are usually excreted in urine. However, excessive consumption can lead to side effects such as:

* Diarrhea
* Nausea
* Stomach cramps
* Increased risk of kidney stones in susceptible individuals

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that contributes to various bodily functions, particularly in the support of the immune system, skin health, and collagen production. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables typically provides enough vitamin C for most people. If you are considering supplementation, it is advisable to consult with a doctor, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant.

06/08/2025

Breastfeeding and Working Mothers
Balancing work and motherhood can be challenging, especially when it comes to breastfeeding. However, with proper support and planning, working mothers can successfully breastfeed their infants while maintaining their careers.

Benefits of Breastfeeding
- For Babies: Provides essential nutrients, boosts immunity, promotes bonding, and supports healthy development.
- For Mothers: Reduces risk of certain cancers, helps postpartum recovery, and can enhance emotional well-being.

Challenges for Working Mothers:
- Limited time and privacy for breastfeeding or expressing milk.
- Lack of workplace support or facilities.
- Societal pressures and misconceptions.
- Legal Rights and Workplace Support

Practical Tips for Working Mothers
- Plan ahead: Establish a pumping schedule aligned with your work hours.
- Seek encouragement from family, colleagues, and healthcare providers.
- Use proper equipment: Buy a good breast pump and storage containers.
- Stay informed: Know your rights and available workplace resources.

Community and Policy Initiatives
- Organizations and governments can promote breastfeeding-friendly workplaces.
- Public awareness campaigns can reduce stigma and encourage supportive environments.

Supporting breastfeeding among working mothers benefits families, workplaces, and society. Through legal protections, workplace accommodations, and community support, mothers can successfully nurture their babies while pursuing their careers.

06/08/2025

The Importance of Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a natural and vital process that provides numerous health, emotional, and developmental benefits for both infants and mothers. It is recommended by health organizations worldwide, including the World Health Organization (WHO) as the optimal way to nourish new-borns.

* Benefits for Infants:

- Optimal Nutrition: Breast milk contains the perfect balance of nutrients essential for a baby's growth and development, including vitamins, minerals, and antibodies.

- Immune System Support: It provides antibodies that help protect infants from common childhood illnesses such as diarrhoea, respiratory infections, and ear infections.

- Enhanced Brain Development: The fatty acids and nutrients in breast milk support cognitive development and brain growth.

- Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Breastfeeding is associated with a lower risk of developing conditions like asthma, allergies, obesity, and type 2 diabetes later in life.

* Benefits for Mothers:

- Faster Postpartum Recovery: Breastfeeding helps the uterus contract and reduces postpartum bleeding.

- Long-term Health Benefits: It lowers the risk of breast and ovarian cancers, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases.

- Emotional Bonding: The physical closeness fosters a strong emotional connection between mother and child.

- Cost-Effective and Convenient: Breast milk is free and always available at the right temperature without preparation.

Impact and Support:
Promoting breastfeeding can significantly improve public health outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and support sustainable practices by reducing reliance on formula feeding and packaging waste.

Encouraging Breastfeeding:
- Initiate breastfeeding within the first hour after birth.
- Maintain exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months.
- Continue breastfeeding alongside complementary foods up to two years or beyond.

Breastfeeding is a cornerstone of infant health and maternal well-being. Supporting and promoting breastfeeding practices benefits individuals, families, and communities worldwide. Let’s work together to create an environment that encourages and sustains this natural gift.

01/08/2025

Every year, World Lung Cancer Day is celebrated on 01 August to create awareness and educate people worldwide about the concerning issues of lung cancer and raise the urge to focus more on lung cancer research and arrange financial and moral support for it.

This year, 2025, the World Lung Cancer Day theme is "Breaking Barriers: Championing Early Detection and Equal Care". This theme emphasizes the urgent need to support prompt diagnosis, eliminate obstacles to early screening and treatment, and ensure equal opportunities to care for everyone, irrespective of socioeconomic background, gender, or location. Additionally, it aims to improve lung cancer outcomes, empower patients, and lessen stigma through advocacy and awareness.

Lung cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide i.e. 20% of total cancer mortality. It is also one of the common cancers in the Male population in developing countries.

It's a type of cancer that begins in the lungs and most often occurs in people who smoke (both in smokers and in people exposed to second-hand smoke) though lung cancer can also occur in people who have never smoked. Lung cancer often doesn't cause signs and symptoms in its earliest stages. Lung cancer signs and symptoms typically occur when the disease is advanced stage.
Risk factors of Lung Cancer

***These are some risk factors for Lung Cancer***

Smoking, including passive smoking,
Exposure to radiation therapy, radon gas, asbestos and other carcinogens
Family history
Old age population
Obesity
Alcohol abuse
Viral infections (HPV)

25/07/2025

📢 Free Hepatitis Screening

Date: Tuesday, 29th July 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Location: Barnor Memorial Hospital

Take charge of your health — get tested early and stay informed.

All are welcome!

65+ Years of Trusted, Family-Centered Healthcare

22/07/2025

Understanding the Structure of Your Heart

The heart is an extraordinary organ, often described as the most vital muscle in your body. About the size of your fist, it works tirelessly, pumping blood throughout your entire circulatory system, delivering oxygen and nutrients to every cell, and carrying away waste products. To understand how it performs this incredible feat, let's explore its fascinating structure.

1. The Heart's Location and Protection
Your heart is located in the center of your chest, slightly to the left, nestled between your lungs. It's protected by your rib cage and encased in a double-layered sac called the pericardium. This sac contains a small amount of fluid that lubricates the heart, allowing it to beat without friction.

2. The Four Chambers: The Heart's "Rooms"
The human heart is divided into four distinct chambers, acting like four separate "rooms" that blood passes through:

- Atria (Upper Chambers):

- Right Atrium: Receives deoxygenated blood (blood low in oxygen) from the body through two large veins called the superior vena cava (from the upper body) and the inferior vena cava (from the lower body).

- Left Atrium: Receives oxygenated blood (blood rich in oxygen) from the lungs through the pulmonary veins.

- Ventricles (Lower Chambers): These are the heart's main pumping chambers.

- Right Ventricle: Pumps deoxygenated blood to the lungs through the pulmonary artery.

- Left Ventricle: This is the strongest chamber, pumping oxygenated blood to the entire body through the aorta, the body's largest artery. Its muscular wall is thicker and more powerful than the right ventricle's, reflecting the greater work it performs.

3. The Four Valves: Ensuring One-Way Flow
To ensure blood flows in the correct direction and doesn't flow backward, the heart has four valves. Think of them as one-way doors:

Tricuspid Valve: Located between the right atrium and the right ventricle. It opens to allow blood to flow from the right atrium into the right ventricle and closes to prevent backflow when the ventricle contracts.

Pulmonary Valve (or Pulmonic Valve): Located between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. It opens to allow blood to be pumped to the lungs and closes to prevent backflow into the right ventricle.

Mitral Valve (or Bicuspid Valve): Located between the left atrium and the left ventricle. It opens to allow blood to flow from the left atrium into the left ventricle and closes to prevent backflow when the ventricle contracts.

Aortic Valve: Located between the left ventricle and the aorta. It opens to allow oxygenated blood to be pumped to the rest of the body and closes to prevent backflow into the left ventricle.

4. The Septum: Dividing the Sides
A thick muscular wall called the septum divides the heart into two main sides: the right side and the left side.

The interatrial septum separates the two atria.

The interventricular septum separates the two ventricles.
This division is crucial because it prevents oxygenated blood from mixing with deoxygenated blood, ensuring efficient circulation.

5. The Myocardium: The Heart Muscle
The heart itself is primarily made of a specialized type of muscle called myocardium. This muscle is unique because it can contract rhythmically and continuously without conscious effort. The thickness of the myocardium varies between chambers, with the left ventricle having the thickest and strongest walls to generate the high pressure needed to pump blood throughout the body.

6. Major Blood Vessels Connected to the Heart
Several large blood vessels are directly connected to the heart, forming the highways for blood circulation:

Vena Cavae (Superior and Inferior): Bring deoxygenated blood from the body back to the right atrium.

Pulmonary Artery: Carries deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the lungs. (Note: This is an artery because it carries blood away from the heart, even though the blood is deoxygenated).

Pulmonary Veins: Bring oxygenated blood from the lungs back to the left atrium. (Note: These are veins because they carry blood towards the heart, even though the blood is oxygenated).

Aorta: The largest artery in the body, carrying oxygenated blood from the left ventricle to the rest of the body.

The Journey of Blood Through the Heart (Simplified)
Deoxygenated blood from the body enters the right atrium via the vena cavae.

It passes through the tricuspid valve into the right ventricle.

The right ventricle contracts, pushing blood through the pulmonary valve into the pulmonary artery, which takes it to the lungs.

In the lungs, the blood releases carbon dioxide and picks up oxygen.

Oxygenated blood returns from the lungs to the left atrium via the pulmonary veins.

It passes through the mitral valve into the left ventricle.

The powerful left ventricle contracts, pumping blood through the aortic valve into the aorta, which then distributes the oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body.

Understanding the intricate structure of your heart helps appreciate its incredible efficiency and vital role in maintaining your health. Taking care of your heart through a healthy lifestyle is key to ensuring it continues its tireless work for years to come.

65+ Years of Trusted, Family-Centered Healthcare

20/06/2025

We wish to announce that 20th June, 2025 marks the 20th anniversary of the passing of the late Dr. Matthew Annum Barnor.