• How expectant mothers can manage microcephaly
By Ngozi Nwoke
Emily Okoro, a woman whose unwavering dedication to her son, Eli Okoro, born in 1994 with microcephaly, a rare congenital disorder, is a testament to the transformative power of maternal love.
Okoro, now a young adult, has faced unimaginable challenges throughout his life. His condition led to speech and learning disabilities, making him a subject of ridicule in his community.
People would mockingly refer to him as a monkey or gorilla, leaving deep emotional scars. The pain of these words drove him to seek solace in isolation, often spending days in the forest, far from the prying eyes of society.
But amidst the heartbreak and despair, his mother’s love remained a beacon of hope. Having lost five children before Eli, she considered his birth a blessing despite his condition.
She refused to abandon him, even when faced with cruel advice from those around her. Instead, she chose to shield him from the harsh realities of the world, protecting him from bullying and mockery.
In an emotional interview with Saturday Sun, the distressed mother recounted the difficulties she faced raising her deformed son.
She said: “He hardly stayed in the house. He often stayed in the bush, where he preferred to stay with animals and pets, not returning home for hours, even days. He would survive by eating leaves or raw fruits. The children mocked him and made him jump about like a monkey. I’m always worried about his inability to attend school and behave like a normal child.”
Mrs. Okoro’s concerns go beyond the emotional toll of societal ridicule. The weight of poverty also made it difficult for her to afford her son’s medical treatments, leaving her in fear for his future. Despite these challenges, her love for her son remains unwavering.
Ifesinachi Obu, a two-year-old girl born with a tiny head, captivated the hospital ward with her playful demeanour and smile. Despite being diagnosed with microcephaly, her mother, Mrs. Funmilayo Obu, still beams with hope.
“It’s been a challenge getting the right care for my daughter. The therapy sessions are expensive, and the hospitals are often crowded. But we’re managing, and I’m grateful to God for the support of my husband and the microcephaly support group I joined.”
In Ijero, Ebute-Metta in Lagos, five-year-old Isaiah faces similar challenges. His mother, Fortune Eneneche, shared her struggles in raising her son with microcephaly.
“It’s not easy, but we’ve learned to adapt. We’ve had to modify our home to accommodate his needs, and we have had to agitate for his inclusion in schools. It’s a challenge, but it’s worth it,” Mrs. Eneneche said.
Microcephaly, a rare and debilitating birth defect, has been identified as a significant health concern for newborns.
It is a condition where a baby’s head is noticeably smaller than expected due to abnormal brain development during pregnancy or after birth.
According to medical experts, this condition can lead to various challenges, including slowed growth and physical deformation. The defect can have far-reaching implications for the child’s development, health, and overall quality of life.
The experts say the exact causes of microcephaly are still being researched, warning that it is essential for expectant mothers to prioritise their health and well-being during pregnancy to minimise risks. Health experts are working to raise awareness about this condition, with non-governmental organisations providing support for affected families. As the nation grapples with various health challenges, the fight against microcephaly and other birth defects remains a critical concern for healthcare stakeholders.
A paediatric neurologist, Adebayo Adejumo, explained that early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in improving the quality of life for children with microcephaly.
He stated: “Microcephaly in a child can be caused by various factors, including genetic mutations, infections during pregnancy such as Zika virus, rubella, or toxoplasma, as well as exposure to toxic substances like methylmercury. Maternal lifestyle factors, such as substance abuse or certain prescription medications, can also contribute to the risk.
“Additionally, nutritional deficiencies like inadequate vitamin intake, pregnancy complications such as stroke or lack of oxygen, and untreated medical conditions like phenylketonuria can increase the risk of microcephaly.
“In some cases, the exact cause may not be known, but consulting a healthcare professional during pregnancy is essential for early detection and guidance on the disorder.”
Adejumo further noted that it is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive treatment plan, including physical therapy, speech therapy, and medication to manage associated conditions like seizures.
Bukola Akinyemi, a retired Professor of Neurology in Ibadan, emphasised the importance of awareness and education about microcephaly.
“I have seen cases of microcephaly that could have been prevented or better managed with proper prenatal care and early intervention.
“We need to educate our people about the importance of prenatal care and the risks associated with microcephaly,” Akinyemi said.
The expert revealed that current research on microcephaly is yielding promising results, offering hope for improved outcomes for individuals affected by the condition.
According to her, scientists are homing in on understanding the genetic causes of microcephaly, with significant progress made in identifying genetic mutations contributing to the condition.
“Advances in ultrasound and genetic testing are also enhancing diagnostic accuracy, facilitating earlier detection and intervention,” she stated.
The expert disclosed that researchers are exploring potential treatments, including NRTI therapies, KIF11 inhibitors, and gene therapy.
“Studies are also investigating growth and survival rates of children with microcephaly, providing valuable insights into the condition’s long-term effects,” Akinyemi added.
While noting that there is no cure for microcephaly, she emphasised that these research efforts aim to improve outcomes for individuals with the condition, adding that “The future looks bright, and we are optimistic that these findings will translate to better care and support for those affected.”
The Hope and Care for Exceptional Kids (HACEK), a non-governmental organisation and support group in Lagos, provides resources and advocacy for families navigating the challenges of caring for children with microcephaly.
The group’s founder, Mrs. Mabel Hardy highlighted the need for increased support and awareness.
“We are doing our best to support families affected by microcephaly, but we need more resources and awareness. We need the government and private sector to partner with us to provide better care and support for these families,” Hardy said.
Clinical psychologist, Olopade Wale Monsuru clarifies that microcephaly and psychosis are distinct medical conditions.
According to him, microcephaly is a neurological condition affecting brain development, often linked to intellectual disabilities and developmental delays, whereas psychosis is a mental health condition involving a disconnection from reality. He emphasised that while microcephaly may present cognitive and behavioural challenges, it is not a form of psychosis.
Monsuru encourages individuals with concerns about specific conditions or symptoms to seek further evaluation from a specialist.
“Psychosis, on the other hand, is a mental health condition characterised by a disconnection from reality, often involving hallucinations, delusions, or disorganised thinking.
“While individuals with microcephaly may experience cognitive or behavioural challenges, microcephaly itself is not a form of psychosis.”
The Nigerian government has implemented measures to enhance maternal and child health services.
On its website, The Lagos State Ministry of Health highlighted the government’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure and increasing access to prenatal care.
The ministry emphasises the importance of measuring head circumference at birth and during routine check-ups, as this is a key indicator of microcephaly.
They advise parents to monitor their child’s head growth and development closely, reporting any concerns to their paediatrician.
As Nigeria’s health sector continues to address the challenges posed by microcephaly, awareness, education, and healthcare infrastructure development remain critical in preventing the disease.
By working together, families, healthcare providers, and the government can improve the lives of children affected by this condition.
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