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Malaria, a global health challenge, remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, Southeast Asia, and South America. While traditionally associated with fever and systemic complications, the neurological impact of malaria, including stroke, has become a significant concern. This review aims to examine the incidence, clinical presentation, and outcomes of stroke in individuals with malaria, highlighting the role of malaria in both ischaemic and haemorrhagic strokes. A literature search identified nine studies published between 1999 and 2024, comprising case reports and case series involving malaria-related strokes in patients aged 2 to 47 years. Most cases involved Plasmodium falciparum, with a notable association between this parasite and haemorrhagic strokes. Plasmodium vivax, while less commonly implicated, was associated with ischaemic strokes, especially in younger patients. Diagnostic challenges, including misdiagnosis, were frequently encountered due to the overlap of neurological symptoms with cerebral malaria, emphasizing the need for a high index of suspicion. The pathophysiology of malaria-related strokes is multifactorial, with both mechanical obstruction of cerebral vessels and hypercoagulable states contributing to stroke development. Treatment generally involves a combination of anti-malarial therapy and supportive care, including management of complications such as raised intracranial pressure or seizures. Outcomes vary, with ischaemic stroke patients showing better recovery than those with haemorrhagic strokes. However, mortality remains high, particularly in cases with severe complications like cerebral venous thrombosis. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for improving survival and minimizing long-term neurological impairment. Further research is needed to refine diagnostic approaches, elucidate the underlying mechanisms, and optimize management strategies for stroke in patients with malaria.

Background Congenital malaria remains a significant public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in regions with high malaria endemicity. The increased vertical transmission of malaria is partly associated with the high susceptibility of women to malaria during pregnancy. This systematic review aimed to assess the prevalence, characteristics, and treatment outcomes of congenital malaria in Nigeria. Methods Twelve studies were included in this review. Studies were retrieved from multiple electronic databases such as PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, African Journals Online (AJOL), and Cochrane Library and subjected to a multistage screening per established eligibility criteria. The study was registered with PROSPERO and was conducted per PRSIMA-established guidelines. Quality assessment of included studies was done using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) framework, while a narrative synthesis synthesized and summarized extracted data. Results The prevalence of congenital malaria in Nigeria ranged from as low as 5.1% to as high as 96.3%. Clinical manifestations were often non-specific, with fever being the most common symptom. Treatment regimens included a variety of antimalarial drugs, such as chloroquine, sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine, amodiaquine, quinine, and artemisinin-based combination therapy. While treatment outcomes were generally positive, some studies reported complications and deaths. Conclusions The findings highlight the need for improved diagnostic tools, standardized treatment protocols, and targeted interventions in high-burden areas. Further research is required to investigate the long-term health outcomes of neonates with congenital malaria and to evaluate the effectiveness of different treatment strategies. By addressing these gaps, effective prevention and management strategies can be developed to reduce the burden of congenital malaria in Nigeria.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), such as preeclampsia and eclampsia, present significant risks to maternal and fetal health. While immediate complications are well-documented, emerging research highlights potential neurocognitive impacts on both mothers and their offspring. This narrative review synthesizes evidence on these neurocognitive outcomes associated with HDP, focusing on preeclampsia and eclampsia. A literature search was conducted for studies published from 2000 to February 2024. Maternal outcomes, including memory, executive function, and psychosocial well-being, were assessed across 11 studies, while fetal and neonatal neurocognitive outcomes were explored in five studies. Consistent findings indicate that preeclampsia and eclampsia are linked to impairments in maternal cognitive functions and psychosocial health. Offspring exposed to these conditions in utero also show cognitive deficits and alterations in brain connectivity. Contributing factors include placental dysfunction, altered angiokine levels, maternal stress, and socioeconomic variables. To mitigate these impacts, future research should focus on clarifying the underlying mechanisms and developing early interventions. This review emphasizes the necessity of multidisciplinary approaches to improve neurocognitive outcomes for both mothers and their children affected by preeclampsia and eclampsia.

Background Preeclampsia and eclampsia (PE/E) are hypertensive disorders of pregnancy with significant morbidity and mortality for both mothers and fetuses. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of PE/E, associated complications, and mortality rates in pregnant women in Nigeria using a systematic review and meta-analysis approach. Methods A search strategy was employed to identify relevant studies published in English from electronic databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct, AJOL, DOAJ and Cochrane Library. Studies investigating the prevalence of PE/E, associated complications, and mortality rates in pregnant women in Nigeria were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were conducted using standardized tools. Pooled prevalence estimates were calculated using random-effects models. Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I 2 statistic. Publication bias was evaluated using the Egger test. Results The analysis revealed a pooled prevalence of 4.51% (95% CI 3.82–5.29) for preeclampsia and 1.39% (95% CI 1.02–1.84) for eclampsia in Nigerian pregnant women. Significant heterogeneity was observed for both PE ( I 2  = 99.20%, P  < 0.001) and eclampsia ( I 2  = 97.43%, P  < 0.001). The pooled maternal mortality rate associated with PE/E was 6.04% (95% CI 3.67–8.89), and the fetal mortality rate was 16.73% (95% CI 12.04–22.00). Analysis of complications associated with PE/E revealed a prevalence of 6.37% (95% CI 3.34–10.22) for acute kidney injury, 3.00% (95% CI 1.43–5.06) for cerebrovascular accident (stroke), 3.98% (95% CI 0.61–9.68) for puerperal sepsis, and 5.26% (95% CI 2.24–9.31) for aspiration pneumonia. Conclusion This study identified a significant burden of PE/E and associated complications in Nigerian pregnant women. High maternal and fetal mortality rates highlight the critical need for improved strategies in Nigeria. Future research should focus on identifying Nigerian-specific risk factors and implementing standardized diagnostic criteria.

Background Epilepsy poses a significant health burden globally. In Nigeria, limited access to healthcare and potential regional variations in risk factors necessitate an understanding of epilepsy's characteristics and treatment. This study addresses this gap by conducting a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the prevalence, demographic variations, seizure types, and treatment modalities of epilepsy in Nigeria. Methods A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines (CRD42024549637). We searched PubMed, Google Scholar, and other databases (6 total) from inception to February 2024 using a combination of MeSH terms and keywords related to epilepsy and Nigeria. Studies included observational studies, clinical trials, and those reporting on the prevalence, characteristics, and management of epilepsy in Nigeria. We excluded studies outside Nigeria, lacking relevant data, or non-research materials. Two reviewers screened titles/abstracts and full texts for eligibility. Data extraction included demographics, sample size, location, seizure type, and treatment outcomes. The JBI tool assessed study quality. We did systematic synthesis and meta-analysis for prevalence. Results The prevalence of epilepsy ranged from 0.45 to 36.09%. The overall pooled prevalence of epilepsy is 14.21% (95% CI 1.56–36.16) among all age group patients. Children presented with the highest prevalence (36.09%), followed by adults (11.85%) and in combine adult and children studies (3.16%). The South-South zone had the highest prevalence (21.73%), while the North-Central zone had the lowest (0.47%). Generalized tonic–clonic seizures were the most common type reported (76.9–83.13%). Carbamazepine was a frequent first-line treatment, with some studies indicating good results, particularly in children. Monotherapy was generally preferred. Conclusion Epilepsy prevalence in Nigeria varies considerably. Children and the South-South zone appear to be more affected. Carbamazepine is a common first-line treatment. Further research is required to explore underlying causes, optimal treatment strategies, and adherence challenges.

Stroke is a leading cause of disability worldwide, with low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), particularly in Africa, experiencing an increasing burden due to rising incidences driven by urbanization, lifestyle changes, and non-communicable diseases. This scoping review maps stroke rehabilitation interventions in Africa, identifying barriers to implementation and adherence, and highlighting research gaps to inform future policy and clinical practices. A literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and African Journals Online (AJOL), supplemented by grey literature from WHO reports and government publications. Inclusion criteria focused on studies of stroke rehabilitation interventions in African countries, targeting adults diagnosed with stroke, and included randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, qualitative studies, and systematic reviews. Findings indicate that stroke rehabilitation interventions in Africa, including physical therapy, task-specific training, psychoeducational programs, tele-rehabilitation, mobile phone-supported interventions, and programs targeting activities of daily living (ADLs), are implemented in some settings to enhance functional independence, motor, cognitive, and speech functions, and psychological well-being. However, adherence to these protocols is often limited by significant barriers, including financial constraints, geographical and transportation challenges, a shortage of skilled rehabilitation professionals, cultural and language barriers, and patient-related factors such as cognitive impairments and lack of social support. The review also reveals variability in the availability of standardized rehabilitation protocols across African settings, with some regions lacking consistent implementation. Research gaps include insufficient epidemiological data, limited evaluation of cost-effective and culturally appropriate rehabilitation models, and underexplored caregiver burden. This review advocates further studies on technology integration, community-based rehabilitation, and culturally tailored interventions to improve adherence and accessibility. It also emphasizes addressing systemic and infrastructural barriers to ensure equitable access to rehabilitation services for stroke survivors across Africa. Future research should focus on optimizing rehabilitation strategies, reducing long-term disability, and improving quality of life for stroke survivors in Africa.

Background Headache disorders, including migraine, pose a significant burden globally, with varying prevalence rates across different regions. However, research on migraine in Nigeria and other low-income countries is limited. Understanding the prevalence, characteristics, and treatment outcomes of migraine in Nigeria is essential for informing healthcare policies and improving patient care. Methods This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to synthesize existing literature on migraine prevalence, characteristics, and treatment outcomes in Nigeria. Eligible studies were identified through comprehensive searches of multiple electronic databases and grey literature sources. Studies reporting migraine prevalence, diagnostic criteria, treatment modalities, and outcomes were included. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed following established guidelines. Results Ten studies involving 7,768 participants met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of migraine headache in Nigeria was calculated to be 16% (95% CI = 7–28), with significant heterogeneity observed among studies (I² = 99.35%, P  < 0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed a higher prevalence of migraine among women compared to men. Common triggers for migraine included physical activity, sleep deprivation, mental and physical fatigue, and emotional stress. Treatment modalities varied, with simple analgesics, NSAIDs, ergotamine derivatives, and amitriptyline being commonly used. However, many participants reported inadequate pain relief or significant side effects, highlighting the need for improved management strategies. Conclusion The findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis underscore the significant burden of migraine in Nigeria and the need for improved healthcare policies and interventions. Addressing gaps in access to specialized care and implementing more effective treatment regimens could help alleviate the burden of migraine on individuals and healthcare systems in Nigeria. Further research is needed to standardize diagnostic criteria and methodologies and provide more reliable prevalence estimates.

Background This systematic review aimed to assess pregnant women’s knowledge, perceptions, and attitudes toward oral health changes in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and examine their oral health-seeking behavior during pregnancy. Methods A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, Google Scholar, African Journals Online (AJOL), the Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), and the Cochrane Library. Both Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and free-text terms related to oral health, knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, antenatal care, pregnancy, and Africa were used. Boolean operators (“AND,” “NOT,” and “OR”) refined the search strategy. Two independent reviewers screened studies and extracted data using Rayyan software, with a third reviewer resolving conflicts. The Robins-E tool assessed the risk of bias. Results Fifteen of seventy-five studies initially identified met the inclusion criteria after full-text screening. Most employed a cross-sectional design. Findings revealed low oral health-seeking behavior among pregnant women in Africa, attributed to factors such as negative dental experiences, concerns about harm to the unborn child, and the belief that dental care is unnecessary. Many women visited dental clinics only when they noticed significant oral health changes. Conclusions The reviewed studies demonstrated a low risk of bias and consistent findings. Pregnancy is a critical period, and poor oral health can adversely affect birth outcomes. Insufficient knowledge and misconceptions deter women from seeking dental care during pregnancy. To address this, targeted oral health education must improve awareness and overcome barriers to seeking care.

Background Annually, tropical diseases are a major cause of mortality; for instance, in 2019, neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) caused 150,000 deaths and 19 million DALYs, with sub-Saharan Africa bearing over half the burden and the other concentrations in Asia and South America. Their impact, though significant, is lower than ischemic heart disease and respiratory infections. The World Health Organization is critical in combating these tropical diseases through surveillance, information campaigns and health promotion. Through international collaborations and initiatives, tropical diseases have been relatively mitigated; for example, global initiatives eradicated smallpox (1980), cut polio cases by 99% (1988–2022), and reduced Guinea worm cases from 3.5 million (1986) to 14 (2023), while NTD prevalence dropped significantly from 1990 to 2020. Main body The potential departure of a major player like the United States, the largest WHO donor, which contributed $1.284 billion (20% of its budget) in 2022–2023, surpassing the Gates Foundation ($689M), Gavi ($500M), and the EU ($412M), and its potential withdrawal threatens WHO’s financial stability, jeopardizing emergency responses, disease prevention, and global health initiatives, urging stakeholders to reinforce global health systems. Governments, international organizations, and private partners must work together to create strong, flexible frameworks that prioritize prevention, research, and equitable healthcare delivery. By fostering collaboration, transparency, and mutual accountability, the global health community can continue to make progress toward eliminating the burden of major tropical diseases such as malaria and Dengue fever, among others. Failure to do so could reverse hard-won gains such as the 99% reduction in polio cases since 1988, the near-eradication of Guinea worm disease (from 3.5 million cases in 1986 to 14 in 2023), and declining NTD burdens, leading to resurgence and increased mortality among vulnerable populations worldwide, with devastating consequences for millions of people throughout the world. Conclusions This review examines the role of countries and organizations in fighting tropical diseases, with a perspective on the potential consequences of the U.S. exit from the WHO. We also discuss the importance of cross-border collaborations in fighting tropical diseases, healthcare systems strengthening efforts, and a call to strengthen efforts through other sources of funding and collaborations.

A factor that impacts the health outcome of individuals is effective communication, and language is an important part of communication. The use of patients’ local language during health service delivery has been shown to influence patient satisfaction, compliance and overall health outcomes. A narrative review of existing literature was conducted, and the methodology involved searching through PubMed, Google Scholar, SCOPUS, Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), COCHRANE Library, and African Journals Online (AJOL) focusing on original studies that examined the influence of indigenous languages on healthcare delivery. Also, only literature published in the English language was considered and narrative reviews, preprints, opinions, letters, and commentaries were excluded. Twenty studies were reviewed, and there were diverse categories of eligible populations among the papers included in this review: sixteen Quantitative Studies, two systematic reviews, and two mixed-method studies. The key findings showed that the use of local languages in healthcare delivery improves metrics such as patient satisfaction, compliance with medical instructions, and health improvement. The identified limitations of this study include the restrictions in the criteria for the literature that were reviewed, limited focus on specific healthcare specialties, and possible publication bias. The recommendations include implementing policies that prioritize local language use in healthcare service delivery, community engagement, and promotion of health technologies that support communication in multiple languages.