BBC – A mother-of-three has been jailed for more than two years for inducing an abortion after the legal limit.

Carla Foster, 44, received the medication following a remote consultation where she was not honest about how far along her pregnancy was.

The “pills by post” scheme, introduced in lockdown, allows pregnancies up to 10 weeks to be terminated at home.

However, Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court heard the woman was between 32-34 weeks pregnant when she took them.

Abortion is legal up to 24 weeks. However, after 10 weeks the procedure is carried out in a clinic.

Prosecutors argued Foster had provided false information knowing she was over the time limit and had made online searches which they said indicated “careful planning”.

The court heard between February and May 2020 she had searched “how to hide a pregnancy bump”, “how to have an abortion without going to the doctor” and “how to lose a baby at six months”.

Based on the information she provided the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS), she was sent the tablets because it was estimated she was seven weeks pregnant.

Her defence argued that lockdown and minimising face-to-face appointments had changed access to healthcare and so instead she had to search for information online.

“The defendant may well have made use of services had they been available at the time,” said her barrister Barry White. “This will haunt her forever.”

On 11 May 2020, having taken the abortion pills, an emergency call was made at 18:39 BST saying she was in labour.

The baby was born not breathing during the phonecall and was confirmed dead about 45 minutes later.

A post-mortem examination recorded the baby girl’s cause of death as stillbirth and maternal use of abortion drugs and she was estimated to be between 32 and 34 weeks’ gestation.

Foster, from Staffordshire, already had three sons before she became pregnant again in 2019.

The court heard she had moved back in with her estranged partner at the start of lockdown while carrying another man’s baby.

The judge accepted she was “in emotional turmoil” as she sought to hide the pregnancy.

Foster was initially charged with child destruction, which she denied.

She later pleaded guilty to an alternative charge of section 58 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861, administering drugs or using instruments to procure abortion, which was accepted by the prosecution.

Leniency letter ‘not appropriate’

Sentencing, judge Mr Justice Edward Pepperall said it was a “tragic” case, adding that if she had pleaded guilty earlier he may have been able to consider suspending her jail sentence.

He said the defendant was “wracked by guilt” and had suffered depression and said she was a good mother to three children, one of whom has special needs, who would suffer from her imprisonment.

She received a 28-month sentence, 14 of which will be spent in custody with the remainder on licence.

Ahead of Monday’s hearing, a letter co-signed by a number of women’s health organisations was sent to the court calling for a non-custodial sentence.

However, the judge said it was “not appropriate” and that his duty was “to apply the law as provided by Parliament”.

He told the defendant the letter’s authors were “concerned that your imprisonment might deter other women from accessing telemedical abortion services and other late-gestation women from seeking medical care or from being open and honest with medical professionals”.

But he said it also “has the capacity to be seen as special pleading by those who favour wider access to abortions and is, in my judgment, just as inappropriate as it would be for a judge to receive a letter from one of the groups campaigning for more restrictive laws”.

‘Archaic law’

The sentencing has sparked outcry among women’s rights organisations and campaigners.

BPAS said it was “shocked and appalled” by the woman’s sentence which they said was based on an “archaic law”.

“No woman can ever go through this again,” said its chief executive, Clare Murphy.

“Over the last three years, there has been an increase in the numbers of women and girls facing the trauma of lengthy police investigations and threatened with up to life imprisonment under our archaic abortion law,” she said.

“Vulnerable women in the most incredibly difficult of circumstances deserve more from our legal system.”

She said MPs must do more to offer protection so “no more women in these desperate circumstances are threatened with prison again”.

Meanwhile, Labour MP Stella Creasy called for “urgent reform”.

“The average prison sentence for a violent offence in England is 18 months,” she said in a tweet.

“A woman who had an abortion without following correct procedures just got 28 months under an 1868 act – we need urgent reform to make safe access for all women in England, Scotland and Wales a human right.”

The Crown Prosecution Service said: “These exceptionally rare cases are complex and traumatic.

“Our prosecutors have a duty to ensure that laws set by Parliament are properly considered and applied when making difficult charging decisions.”

When asked whether the prime minister was confident criminalising abortion in some circumstances was the right approach, Rishi Sunak’s official spokesperson said the current laws struck a balance.

“Our laws as they stand balance a woman’s right to access safe and legal abortions with the rights of an unborn child,” he said.

“I’m not aware of any plans to address that approach.”

The post Mother jailed for taking abortion pills after legal limit appeared first on Barbados Today.

Diario Libre spoke with the gastroenterologist Carmen Cabral, who affirmed that salmonella is one of the main bacteria causing food poisoning, together with Clostridium perfringens, Escherichia Coli (E. Coli), and Campylobacter.

The specialist acknowledged that, lately, in her professional practice at Centro Medico Moderno, she has seen an increase in positive diagnoses for salmonella and Escherichia coli.

“Could it be that they are in the water, in the vegetables? Could it be that people are eating more in the street? Something is happening!” the specialist commented.

According to Cabral, “before there was a lot of amoeba, but now you do a gastrointestinal panel on patients, and you find Campylobacter, Escherichia coli and salmonella like nothing else. I’m not even surprised anymore.”

“Where there is no good food handling, that’s where you get infected,” she said.

The gastro listed the symptoms: nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fever, headache, and sometimes bloody diarrhea.

“When the patient goes to the emergency room it is because he is dehydrated most of the time because he has vomited a lot. Then come the complications where the patient can go into sepsis or septic shock,” she said.

The physician emphasized washing vegetables for salads, washing hands after going to the bathroom, covering food to avoid flies, and not reheating food more than once.

“A lot of pesticides are used and the handling from the field to the final consumption destination is too much. Some people think that vinegar is enough,” he commented.

Cabral recommends using chlorinated water with 20 drops of chlorine per gallon and leaving the products to soak for half an hour.

“They should be washed with bottled water, because if you use tap water, we are not at all,” she specified.

The doctor pointed out that the effects of food poisoning would depend on the organism of each individual but that there is an incubation period depending on the pathogen in the food.

Salmonella, frequent in poultry, eggs, and dairy products, usually lasts between six hours to six days in its incubation period.

Escherichia coli typically lasts three to four days; sometimes, it can take up to 10 days. It is found in raw or undercooked meat, unpasteurized juice or milk, soft cheeses made with unpasteurized milk, fresh fruits and vegetables, and contaminated water and feces of people carrying the bacteria.

In seafood poisoning, the reaction usually takes 30 to 60 minutes and up to 24 hours.

Cabral recommends seeking medical advice since these bacteria can cause intestinal perforation and affect the liver and gall bladder if not adequately treated.

Treatment usually includes antibiotics, usually with metronidazole, and sufficient hydration.

View the full post PAHO: Mental health must be top of political agenda on NOW Grenada.

Santo Domingo.- The Center for Diagnosis and Advanced Medicine and Medical Conferences and Telemedicine (Cedimat) in the country has successfully performed the first percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation, known as Melody, to replace a dysfunctional pulmonary valve in patients who had previously undergone repair for congenital heart disease.

The procedure was carried out on two patients, Maria Alejandra Perdomo, 18 years old, and Elixandra Dipré, 20 years old. Both patients had undergone repair for Tetralogy of Fallot, a heart defect, at a younger age but later developed conditions in their pulmonary valves. Maria Alejandra had severe valve stenosis and insufficiency, while Elixandra had different pulmonary valve conditions.

Cedimat highlighted that this therapy is a minimally invasive alternative to replacing the pulmonary valve, eliminating the risks associated with open-heart re-operation in both children and adults.

The procedure was performed by Dr. John Breinholt, a pediatric cardiologist specializing in catheterization, and Dr. Adabeyda Báez, a pediatric cardiologist. They inserted the delivery system into the femoral vein through a small access hole in the groin and guided it to the heart. Once in position, they inflated a balloon to expand the valve, securing the Melody valve properly.

The implantations took place as part of a social event at the Cedimat Pediatric Cardiology Unit, during which nine open-heart surgeries and 16 catheterizations were also performed. The procedures addressed various conditions, including the total anomalous pulmonary venous return, single ventricle, and severe paravalvular aortic stenosis, among others, according to Rebeca Pérez, coordinator of the unit.

The coordinator and pediatric cardiologist expressed gratitude to the Penn State College of Medicine, UChicago Medicine, the Gift of Life International Foundation, Rotary International, and the Dr. Juan Manuel Taveras Rodríguez Foundation. They also acknowledged the expertise of Madhusudan Ganigara in non-invasive cardiac imaging for patient selection, as well as the support of doctors Rodrigo Soto and Tom Karl, along with the local team, during these procedures and cardiac surgeries.

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Public Health, represented by pulmonologist and advisor Natalia García, has issued a warning regarding the ongoing heat wave across the country, which is exacerbated by the influx of dust from the Sahara desert. This combination of high temperatures and dust pollution poses a significant risk to respiratory and cardiovascular health among the population.

The environmental pollution caused by heat waves and dust particles leads to the generation of particulate matter. When these particles are inhaled, they can enter the bloodstream and cause vasoconstriction, potentially inducing arterial hypertension. Natalia García explains that exposure to heat increases the likelihood of strokes due to the vasoconstriction caused by suspended particulate matter. The dense heat intensifies the impact of these particles. Consequently, she advises the general population, particularly individuals with respiratory conditions or chronic diseases, to take appropriate measures and avoid overexposure to these conditions.

García emphasizes that individuals with chronic illnesses experience worsened symptoms during such atmospheric heat. For instance, cancer patients should avoid exposure to the heat wave as it can lead to dehydration, requiring emergency care or hospitalization. Such patients must be diligent in taking their medications, attending medical evaluations, avoiding heat exposure, and maintaining proper hydration.

This recommendation also applies to people with diabetes, while individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) face a higher risk due to their susceptibility to air pollution and smoking. The ongoing weather conditions could also trigger an increase in cases of rhinosinusitis, which already has a high incidence in the country.

Meteorological analyst Jean Suriel attributes the rising temperatures to factors such as the Saharan dust clouds, which will continue to affect the country until the weekend, exacerbating respiratory allergies and the heat. Additionally, winds from the south and southeast, along with high humidity, contribute to the prevailing heat wave. The persistence of the El Niño phenomenon and the transition from spring to summer further contribute to the intense heat.

The recent high temperatures in the Dominican Republic indicate the arrival of a scorching summer. With only two weeks until the start of summer 2023 in the northern hemisphere (beginning on June 21 and ending on September 23), the country is expected to experience 94 days of intense heat, particularly between August 15 and October 15, according to Jean Suriel’s warning.

“World Food Safety Day which is observed annually on 7 June, aims to raise awareness about the importance of safe food practices and to highlight the global need for safe food”

View the full post World Food Safety Day: 7 June on NOW Grenada.

National Sickle Cell Week from 18-24 June will raise awareness about the disease and Grenada’s special status in discovering this inherited blood disorder

View the full post Plight for patients with Sickle Cell Disease in Grenada on NOW Grenada.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the author(s) do not represent the official position of Barbados TODAY.

By Wayne Campbell

“The bicycle is an instrument of sustainable transportation and has a positive impact on climate.”- United Nations.

There was a time when the popular mode of transportation was the bicycle. During that golden era no one was overweight or obese. In fact, hypertension was not so common in the population. As the international community inches towards a world operated by Artificial Intelligence many of us are content with our sedentary lifestyles. The truth is we all like and welcome the trappings of modernity. Unfortunately, this comes at a high price of ill-health. This life is characterised with little or no physical activity. In fact, physical inactivity is responsible for a host of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD’s) such as hypertension, cancer and diabetes. According to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) Global Action Plan on Physical Activity 2018–2030, physical activity has multiplicative health, social and economic benefits and investment in policy actions to increase physical activity can contribute to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. How many of you were aware that the United Nations has designated a special bicycle day?  

Since its establishment in 2018, World Bicycle Day has been marked annually on June 3 by advocates in many countries. The WHO opines that we must acknowledge the uniqueness, longevity and versatility of the bicycle, which has been in use for two centuries, and that it is simple, affordable, reliable and clean. Additionally, the bicycle as a mode of transportation is environmentally-sound as a sustainable means of transportation, fostering environmental stewardship and health.  

World Bicycle Day is set aside to encourage stakeholders to emphasise and advance the use of the bicycle as a means of fostering sustainable development, strengthening education, including physical education, for children and young people, promoting health, preventing disease, promoting tolerance, mutual understanding and respect and facilitating social inclusion and a culture of peace.

The United Nations General Assembly welcomed initiatives to organise bicycle rides at the national and local levels as a means of strengthening physical and mental health and well-being and developing a culture of cycling in society.

Celebrating the Bicycle

The United Nations states that regular physical activity of moderate intensity such as walking, cycling, or doing sports has significant benefits for health. At all ages, the benefits of being physically active outweigh potential harm, for example through accidents. Some physical activity is better than none. By becoming more active throughout the day in relatively simple ways, people can quite easily achieve the recommended activity levels.  According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), safe infrastructure for walking and cycling is also a pathway for achieving greater health equity. For the poorest urban sector, who often cannot afford private vehicles, walking and cycling can provide a form of transport while reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, diabetes, and even death. Accordingly, improved active transport is not only healthy, it is also equitable and cost-effective. The WHO adds that meeting the needs of people who walk and cycle continues to be a critical part of the mobility solution for helping cities de-couple population growth from increased emissions, and to improve air quality and road safety. The COVID-19 pandemic has also led many cities to rethink their transport systems.

Cycling and Sustainable Development

World Bicycle Day draws attention to the benefits of using the bicycle, a simple, affordable, clean and environmentally-fit sustainable means of transportation. The bicycle contributes to cleaner air and less congestion and makes education, health care and other social services more accessible to the most vulnerable populations. A sustainable transport system that promotes economic growth reduces inequalities while bolstering the fight against climate change is critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.  On March 15, 2022, the General Assembly adopted the resolution on integration of mainstream bicycling into public transportation systems for sustainable development. It emphasised that the bicycle is an instrument of sustainable transportation and conveys a positive message to foster sustainable consumption and production, and has a positive impact on climate.

The United Nations is adamant that everyone can help limit climate change. This can be achieved from the way we travel, to the electricity we use, the food we eat, and the things we buy, we can make a difference. The world’s roadways are clogged with vehicles, most of them burning diesel or gasoline. Walking or riding a bike instead of driving will reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help your health and fitness. It is quite unfortunate that in some societies sidewalks or designated lanes are not readily available for commuters to use. It appears that urban planners are biased towards older modes of transportation and made no accommodation for them; of course the bicycle would be classified as such.

Bicycle Patrol

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) states that it uses sidewalk-level police presence through bicycle patrols. These special operations units offer high-visibility and proactive community policing presence that is budget-friendly for any size department. The JCF adds that bicycles can fulfil several roles in a wider range of environments than patrol cars or SUVs, and can be used in many of the same environments as foot beats with faster response times.

These units can be a float in a parade, monitor the crowd along the route, be used in rural and urban search and rescue, provide security in dense pedestrian centres, patrol inside buildings  whether a mall or apartment complex and provide highly-effective crowd control mechanisms at demonstrations.  Fascinatingly, the JCF has a unit which the officers patrol solely on bicycles. Of course many Jamaicans are still divided on this issue of having police officers on bicycles. Interestingly, there is no discrimination along gendered lines as both male and female officers are included in this unit. 

Benefits

Cycling is often recommended as a low-impact and engaging workout for people of all ages. It is an aerobics exercise and helps strengthen your heart, blood vessels and lungs. Like other aerobic exercises, cycling can build up your muscular strength and endurance. Additionally, cycling can improve one’s mental health. Cycling can also be good for your mind. For one, it helps create positive endorphins in your brain. Given that cycling is a relatively low-impact exercise, it’s an ideal form of exercise if you have arthritis and osteoarthritis. This is because cycling does not place a lot of stress on your joints.

However, it is rather unfortunate that in Jamaica it appears that there is a lack of vision regarding the development of green spaces as well as designated parks where families can ride bicycles and have some bonding and fun together. We need to advocate for more cycling trails in the development of housing solutions as this will not only add to the aesthetics of the community but also aids in the physical well-being of all.

Wayne Campbell is an educator and social commentator with an interest in development policies as they affect culture and or gender issues.

waykam@yahoo.com

The post #BTColumn – Ride to better health appeared first on Barbados Today.

Based on scientific studies, a pregnant woman infected with dengue can pass the virus on to her foetus during pregnancy or around the time of birth

View the full post Ministry of Health secures mosquito nets on NOW Grenada.

Santo Domingo.- The Technological Institute of Santo Domingo (INTEC) and Macrotech, a specialized company in comprehensive health services, have signed a collaboration agreement to promote educational and scientific initiatives that improve the quality of life and contribute to the sustained development of the Dominican Republic.

Dr. Julio Sánchez Mariñez, the rector of INTEC, and Joaquín Toribio, the founder and general director of Macrotech, signed the agreement. The collaboration aims to support educational and scientific activities for students in the Biomedical Engineering program, including internships for students from various fields of study at the university.

Dr. Sánchez Mariñez expressed his appreciation for Macrotech’s support and highlighted the importance of developing technical capacities to design solutions for complex health issues. He emphasized the positive impact of the collaboration on society and sustainability.

Joaquín Toribio, the general director of Macrotech, expressed satisfaction in contributing to the development of technical skills and offering the company’s laboratory practical training in the Biomedical Engineering program. This commitment reinforces their dedication to societal contributions.

The signing ceremony, held at the university, was attended by Macrotech representatives Melissa Bisonó, the commercial director; Esteban Rodríguez, the regional senior marketing manager; and Norelyn Ramírez, the regional communications manager. INTEC was represented by Alliet Ortega, the Vice Chancellor of Administration and Finance; Arturo del Villar, the academic vice-rector; and several deans and faculty members from various areas of study.

The collaboration between INTEC and Macrotech will foster innovation, research, and the development of skills in the healthcare sector, contributing to the advancement of the country’s healthcare system and the well-being of its population.