Maintaining healthy blood sugar levels is essential for overall wellbeing and the prevention of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and kidney complications. Health experts say that while blood sugar fluctuations are normal, consistently high levels can pose serious health risks if not properly managed. Fortunately, lifestyle choices play a major role in keeping blood sugar within a healthy range.

Adopt a Balanced and Nutritious Diet

Diet remains one of the most effective tools for controlling blood sugar. Nutritionists recommend consuming meals rich in whole grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes, and lean proteins. Foods high in refined sugar and processed carbohydrates—such as sugary drinks, pastries, and white bread—should be limited, as they cause rapid spikes in blood glucose levels. Including fiber-rich foods helps slow sugar absorption into the bloodstream and improves overall glucose control.

Engage in Regular Physical Activity

Exercise helps the body use insulin more efficiently, allowing sugar to move from the bloodstream into the cells for energy. Health professionals advise at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking, cycling, or dancing, on most days of the week. Regular exercise also supports weight management, which is closely linked to better blood sugar control.

Maintain a Healthy Body Weight

Excess body weight, particularly around the abdomen, can increase insulin resistance. Losing even a small percentage of body weight has been shown to significantly improve blood sugar levels. Combining a healthy diet with regular physical activity is considered the most sustainable approach to weight management.

Stay Hydrated and Limit Sugary Beverages

Drinking enough water supports healthy metabolism and helps the kidneys flush out excess sugar through urine. In contrast, sugary beverages such as sodas, sweetened juices, and energy drinks can cause sharp increases in blood glucose levels and should be avoided or consumed sparingly.

Manage Stress and Prioritize Quality Sleep

Chronic stress triggers the release of hormones that can raise blood sugar levels. Health experts recommend stress-management techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, prayer, and adequate rest. In addition, getting 7–9 hours of quality sleep each night helps regulate hormones that influence blood sugar and appetite.

Monitor Blood Sugar and Follow Medical Advice

For individuals living with diabetes or prediabetes, regular blood sugar monitoring is crucial. This helps track how the body responds to food, activity, and medication. Medical professionals also stress the importance of adhering to prescribed medications and attending routine health check-ups.

A Preventive Approach to Better Health

Experts agree that controlling blood sugar is not only vital for people with diabetes but also important for the general population. By adopting healthy eating habits, staying active, managing stress, and seeking regular medical guidance, individuals can maintain stable blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of long-term health complications.

The Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) has dismissed recent media reports claiming that about 2,000 house officers are stranded without job placements annually, describing the assertion as inaccurate and based on a misinterpretation of facts presented during its recent budget defence before the Senate Committee on Health at the National Assembly.

According to the Council, it informed the Senate Committee that approximately 4,000 house officers are currently enrolled under the centralised housemanship scheme, which operates across 48 Federal Government hospitals nationwide.

The MDCN further explained that, beyond the federal scheme, there are 81 additional accredited hospitals—comprising State Government, Military, and Private health institutions—that also provide housemanship training. Although these hospitals operate outside the federal centralised scheme, they remain fully accredited by the MDCN and continue to offer valid housemanship placements.

The Council stressed that it is misleading to describe doctors undergoing training outside the federal scheme as “stranded.” MDCN accreditation, it noted, guarantees that these institutions meet the required standards for housemanship training, with available placement opportunities across the country.

In total, the MDCN revealed that Nigeria currently has 129 accredited hospitals where newly qualified medical doctors can commence their housemanship immediately. Any delays experienced by some graduates, the Council clarified, are largely due to personal preferences for specific locations or institutions—particularly those within the federal centralised scheme—rather than a shortage of available training positions.

During the budget defence session, the MDCN also advocated for the expansion of the centralised housemanship scheme to include accredited non-federal hospitals. This, it explained, would promote greater equity in remuneration and access by allowing house officers in State, Military, and Private hospitals to benefit from the federal funding framework presently limited to federal institutions.

Reaffirming its commitment, the MDCN stated that it remains dedicated to ensuring that all eligible medical and dental graduates have access to quality housemanship training in accredited institutions across Nigeria. The Council also pledged continued transparency, accuracy, and sustained efforts to strengthen the nation’s medical training and regulatory systems.

The MDCN urged the public and stakeholders to rely on verified information issued by the Council and to disregard misleading interpretations that do not accurately reflect the realities of housemanship training and placement in Nigeria.

Vitamins are among the most widely discussed and essential nutrients required for human health. Despite their popularity, many people still ask fundamental questions: What exactly are vitamins? Why does the body need them? How can we obtain adequate amounts, and what happens when intake is insufficient? This article breaks down the basics of vitamins, their classifications, functions, sources, and the health consequences of deficiencies.

What Are Vitamins?

Vitamins are organic substances required in small amounts to support specific biochemical processes in the body. Unlike some nutrients, the human body cannot produce sufficient quantities of most vitamins on its own, making dietary intake essential.

For a substance to be classified as a vitamin, it must meet three key criteria: it must be organic, needed only in small amounts for specific biochemical functions, and obtained primarily through the diet.

Classes of Vitamins

Vitamins are broadly classified into two groups: fat-soluble vitamins and water-soluble vitamins.

Fat-Soluble Vitamins

Fat-soluble vitamins dissolve in fats and oils and are stored in body fat and the liver. They include vitamins A, D, E, and K.

Vitamin A (Retinol)

Vitamin A plays a vital role in vision, skin health, and immune function. Deficiency can lead to eye problems such as night blindness and dry eyes. Major dietary sources include liver, carrots, and palm oil.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D exists mainly in two forms: D1 and D2. It is essential for calcium absorption and maintaining healthy bones. Deficiency can result in osteomalacia in adults and rickets in children. Sources include sunlight exposure and fish oil.

Vitamin E (Tocopherol)

Vitamin E functions primarily as an antioxidant, protecting cells from damage. A deficiency may cause nerve and muscle damage. It is commonly found in vegetable oils and nuts.

Vitamin K

Vitamin K exists in two forms, K1 and K2, and is crucial for proper blood clotting. Deficiency can lead to excessive bleeding. Green leafy vegetables are the primary sources.

Water-Soluble Vitamins

Water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water and are not stored in the body. Excess amounts are excreted in urine, making regular intake necessary. This group includes the vitamin B-complex and vitamin C.

Vitamin B-Complex

The B vitamins play essential roles in energy production, nerve function, and cell metabolism.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Supports nerve function and energy metabolism. Deficiency causes beriberi.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Important for cell growth and metabolism. Deficiency may result in a sore tongue and cracked lips.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Aids energy production and cell repair. Deficiency leads to pellagra.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Required for coenzyme A formation. Deficiency can cause fatigue.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Involved in amino acid metabolism. Deficiency may lead to anemia and neuropathy.

Vitamin B7 (Biotin): Supports fat and carbohydrate metabolism. Deficiency is associated with hair loss and dermatitis.

Vitamin B9 (Folate): Essential for DNA synthesis. Deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): Crucial for red blood cell formation. Deficiency results in pernicious anemia.

Common sources of B-complex vitamins include whole grains, meat, and eggs.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Vitamin C is vital for collagen formation and immune support. Deficiency leads to scurvy. It is abundant in citrus fruits, tomatoes, and peppers.

Why Adequate Vitamin Intake Matters

Poor vitamin intake can lead to a range of health problems, from mild fatigue and skin issues to severe conditions such as anemia, bone disorders, and immune dysfunction. Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein sources is key to meeting daily vitamin requirements.

As research continues to highlight the importance of micronutrients, understanding vitamins and their role in the body remains essential for long-term health and disease prevention.

(DDM) – Cancer advocates have urged the Federal Government to launch a nationwide screening programme to confront rising deaths.

DDM notes that Project Pink Blue Health and Psychological Trust Centre made the appeal during World Cancer Day activities in Abuja.

The group organised a symbolic walk to draw public attention to cancer prevention and early detection.

The organisers also staged a 20-kilometre cycling event to amplify their message on awareness.

They completed a 10-kilometre run to mobilise citizens against the growing cancer burden.

The events took place around the Transcorp Hilton area in the nation’s capital.

Project Pink Blue warned that treatment costs have reached levels many families cannot afford.

The organisation said patients often face painful choices between food and medication.

Programme Associate Faridah M. Banwo described the financial pressure on patients as severe.

She said many patients borrow money to continue chemotherapy.

She added that relatives sometimes sell property to pay for radiotherapy.

She stressed that this year’s theme, “United by Unique,” reflects the personal struggles of patients.

She explained that each patient faces distinct medical and financial challenges.

She urged federal and state authorities to increase funding support for cancer care.

She called on lawmakers to raise allocations to the national Cancer Health Fund.

She advised state governments to create cancer support funds for poor patients.

She argued that targeted funding can reduce preventable deaths.

The group cited national statistics to show the scale of the crisis.

It reported that Nigeria recorded over 127,000 new cancer cases in 2022.

It noted that more than 79,000 people died from cancer in the same period.

It said nearly sixty-two percent of diagnosed patients did not survive.

Executive Director Runcie C.W. Chidebe blamed systemic healthcare gaps for the high mortality.

He rejected claims that patients alone cause late detection.

He listed weak infrastructure as a barrier to timely diagnosis.

He identified limited oncology personnel as another obstacle.

He said transportation difficulties delay many patients.

He added that poverty prevents early hospital visits.

He called for a coordinated national screening system.

He said Nigeria currently relies on scattered screening efforts.

He explained that a national plan would invite eligible citizens for tests.

He said hospitals should routinely offer breast and cervical checks.

He argued that structured screening reduces late-stage detection worldwide.

He pointed to Nigeria’s HIV testing model as proof of feasibility.

He said coordinated campaigns once improved HIV awareness nationwide.

He urged leaders to apply similar commitment to cancer control.

Project Pink Blue continues to support patients through counselling.

The NGO also provides navigation services for treatment access.

It conducts research and advocacy in rural communities.

Health experts say early detection greatly improves survival chances.

They insist that prevention costs far less than treatment.

They warn that delayed action will increase national health burdens.

Advocates want sustained investment in diagnostic centres.

They also want modern equipment in public hospitals.

They believe stronger systems will save thousands of lives yearly.

They insist that government leadership remains critical to success.

They conclude that Nigeria must act quickly to reverse current trends.

(DDM) – Nigeria continues to struggle with one of the world’s highest burdens of sickle cell disorder.

DDM gathered that the Sickle Cell Awareness Initiative Ireland–Nigeria (SCAIIN) has called for urgent policy action.

The NGO advocates nationwide newborn screening to prevent deaths and reduce lifelong complications from the disease.
The call was made during a sickle cell health promotion programme at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt.
SCAIIN launched a targeted awareness campaign to address stigma, misinformation, and late diagnosis, all factors worsening outcomes.
Founder Mrs Esther Pepple Onolememen stressed that Nigeria must move beyond awareness to structured early detection and care.
She said social discrimination and ignorance continue to isolate families affected by sickle cell disorder.
Onolememen noted that newborn screening allows early planning, prompt intervention, and better quality of life for children.
She added, “Newborn screening is the foundation of effective sickle cell care. Without it, we are reacting too late.”
She emphasized that early detection can prevent complications and save lives.
Onolememen commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for supporting the initiative.
She said sickle cell disease is both a health and development issue affecting productivity, family stability, and social outcomes.
NDDC Managing Director Dr Samuel Ogbuku described sickle cell disorder as a major public health challenge in the Niger Delta.
Access to early diagnosis and specialised care remains limited in the region, he added.
Represented by Dr Patience Ezugu, Director of Education, Health and Social Services, Ogbuku said preventive healthcare drives the Commission’s involvement.
He highlighted the importance of knowing one’s genotype early, especially for young people.
Ogbuku said patients deserve improved access to care and ongoing support.
He reaffirmed NDDC’s commitment to partner with stakeholders for early diagnosis, community education, and research-driven interventions.
The human cost of delayed diagnosis was highlighted by Mr Derefaka Yemiesibo, a parent of a child living with sickle cell disorder.
He expressed gratitude to NDDC and SCAIIN for sustained advocacy that gives families hope and visibility.
The programme featured health education, counselling, and distribution of medical support kits to patients.
It reinforced calls for a shift from crisis response to prevention-led sickle cell management in Nigeria.
Advocates stressed that early intervention, education, and community support are crucial to reducing mortality.
The event emphasized collaboration between government agencies, NGOs, and families in addressing the disorder.
Experts say that structured newborn screening could transform sickle cell outcomes nationwide.
The programme also aimed to reduce stigma and encourage regular monitoring for affected families.
Stakeholders called on policymakers to adopt legislation supporting routine screening and early intervention programmes.
DDM gathered that preventive healthcare remains central to reducing Nigeria’s long-term sickle cell burden.
The collaboration between SCAIIN and NDDC highlights a growing focus on sustainable health solutions in the Niger Delta.
Families and healthcare workers were urged to prioritise awareness, screening, and supportive care for newborns.
The initiative underscores that effective sickle cell management begins with early detection and community engagement.

(DDM) – The Delta State Government has rejected claims that it prioritises flashy infrastructure over primary healthcare.

DDM gathered that the comments followed social media criticism from health influencer Aproko Doctor.

The influencer suggested politicians often focus on flyovers and modern hospitals while neglecting grassroots healthcare centres.

Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, dismissed the assertion as inaccurate for the state.

He said roads and flyovers may be visible, but healthcare remains a key priority of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration.

Onojaeme disclosed that 150 primary healthcare centres have been renovated across the three senatorial districts in the past two years.

He added that another 150 centres are already being scoped, bringing the total to 300 soon.

The initiative aims to improve community-level access and reduce pressure on general and tertiary hospitals.

The commissioner highlighted the state’s free maternal and under-five healthcare programme as a major success.

He noted steady reductions in maternal and infant mortality rates as a result of the programme.

Governor Oborevwori recently approved ₦2 billion to sustain these healthcare initiatives.

Onojaeme also said state-owned hospitals now retain 100% of internally generated revenue for prompt procurement and maintenance.

He revealed that dialysis machines have been installed across state hospitals, reducing costs from ₦70,000 to ₦45,000 per session.

CT scan machines at Warri Central Hospital and DELSUTH Oghara have improved diagnosis speed and accuracy for serious conditions.

Echocardiography machines have also been procured to enhance early detection of heart-related ailments.

The state government has ordered three MRI machines for Asaba Specialist Hospital, Central Hospital Warri, and DELSUTH Oghara.

Delivery of the MRI machines is expected by April, ensuring all three senatorial districts have high-end imaging access.

Beyond equipment, the government is establishing a new College of Health Sciences at Ovrode, complementing the existing institution at Ofuoma.

The long-abandoned Mother and Child Hospital in Ekpan is nearing completion.

Another Specialist Hospital is under development in Osubi, Okpe Local Government Area, modelled after Asaba Specialist Hospital.

Onojaeme stated that Delta State has over 60 functional government-owned hospitals, the highest in Nigeria.

On health insurance, the Delta State Contributory Health Scheme now covers more than 2.78 million residents.

The scheme targets formal and informal workers, prioritising vulnerable groups via the Equity Health Plan.

Recent expansions include enrolling 10,000 widows and registering indigent residents.

Facial recognition technology has been introduced at accredited facilities to improve efficiency and transparency.

Onojaeme reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to Universal Health Coverage.

He stressed that affordable, accessible, and quality healthcare remains a central goal for all Deltans.

The commissioner urged the public to recognise the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen primary healthcare services across the state.

(DDM) – Primate Elijah Ayodele has called on Nigerians to pray urgently for the National Hospital in Abuja.

DDM notes that the spiritual leader delivered the message in a brief video posted on his Facebook page.

Ayodele simply said, “National Hospital—let’s pray for National Hospital in Abuja. Let them pray.”

He did not provide specific details about the concern he hinted at.

Observers noted that his serious tone suggested potential challenges at the federal medical facility.

Analysts believe the appeal may target hospital staff, government officials, and the general public.

The warning could relate to health, safety, management, or operational issues at the hospital.

National Hospital is one of Nigeria’s most important healthcare centers, serving patients nationwide.

Any caution regarding its wellbeing is considered significant for citizens and healthcare stakeholders.

Ayodele’s message prompted widespread attention on social media, with calls for collective prayers.

Experts emphasize the need for support for frontline staff in key medical facilities.

The National Hospital has handled complex medical cases and continues to play a vital role.

Religious and community leaders often influence public awareness on critical national issues.

Ayodele’s warning highlights the intersection of spiritual guidance and public health concerns.

Observers encourage vigilance and proactive support for hospital operations.

Medical professionals continue to provide essential services amid ongoing national healthcare challenges.

The public has been urged to remain calm and follow official information from hospital authorities.

Ayodele’s call comes amid broader conversations about strengthening healthcare systems in Nigeria.

He concluded with a reminder that prayer and vigilance go hand in hand in difficult times.

Citizens are encouraged to heed his advice while also supporting healthcare workers.

The situation underscores the importance of national solidarity in maintaining key medical institutions.

Officials at the National Hospital have yet to respond publicly to Ayodele’s message.

Healthcare watchers continue to monitor the facility for any emerging issues.

Public health experts stress that spiritual and practical support can complement each other in emergencies.

The message serves as a reminder of the critical role of faith and awareness in society.

Nigerians are advised to pray responsibly and support measures to strengthen healthcare delivery.

Ayodele’s appeal may inspire collaborative actions between communities and hospital management.

The National Hospital remains central to Nigeria’s capacity to respond to medical emergencies.

This development highlights ongoing concerns about healthcare readiness and resource management.

Stakeholders are expected to pay closer attention to operational challenges at the facility.

Citizens await further updates from both spiritual and medical authorities on the situation.

(DDM) – A recent encounter at a Positive Living Centre has sparked concern about the emotional struggles facing people living with HIV.

DDM gathered that a young woman expressed deep anger about how she contracted the virus.
She reportedly spoke about wanting others to feel her pain.

Health advocates say such reactions reveal unresolved trauma.
They warn that anger can cloud judgment and fuel harmful thoughts.
They stress that emotional support remains essential after diagnosis.
They explain that many newly diagnosed patients experience grief.
They note that some patients also feel betrayal or stigma.
Counsellors say these feelings require careful professional guidance.
They emphasise that revenge does not bring healing.
They insist that harmful intentions can worsen mental health.
They add that fear and isolation often follow diagnosis.
Nigeria continues to battle stigma around HIV.
Many people still misunderstand how the virus spreads.
Public health experts say education reduces panic and blame.
They highlight that HIV treatment has improved greatly.
Modern medicines help people live long healthy lives.
Doctors encourage strict adherence to medication.
They explain that treatment lowers the virus in the body.
They say consistent care protects both patients and communities.
They warn that stopping medication harms the patient’s health.
They emphasise that treatment supports long-term wellbeing.
Positive Living Centres provide counselling and testing services.
These centres also connect patients to support groups.
Support groups often reduce loneliness and fear.
Advocates say shared experiences build resilience.
They encourage compassion toward people with positive status.
They remind the public that HIV is a medical condition.
They reject narratives that promote blame or shame.
They call for calm and factual conversations.
They urge families to support affected relatives.
They say empathy improves treatment outcomes.
They highlight the role of media in shaping opinions.
They ask broadcasters to share verified health information.
They warn that misinformation can spread quickly online.
They note that false claims can endanger lives.
They encourage responsible storytelling about HIV.
They call for more public health campaigns.
They want schools to teach accurate health education.
They say early education builds safer communities.
They conclude that healing requires responsibility and care.
They maintain that hope grows with the right support.
They affirm that compassion and knowledge save lives.

(DDM) – Health professionals in Nigeria have renewed calls for better public education on snakebite response.

DDM gathered that a Nigerian clinician urged authorities to overhaul public health information following debates over a recent snakebite death.

A medical doctor, Dr Stella Kokondo Essien, spoke publicly about the dangers of misinformation.

She explained that correct first aid after a snakebite can significantly affect survival chances.

She stressed that victims should minimise movement immediately after a bite.

She warned that running or struggling can circulate venom faster in the body.

She said immobilising the affected limb should be the first priority.

She advised using simple splints to keep the limb still during transport.

She strongly discouraged tying tight tourniquets around bitten limbs.

She explained that tight bindings can damage tissues and reduce blood supply.

She noted that severe constriction can even threaten the survival of the limb.

She encouraged rapid transport to the nearest hospital.

She said professional care offers the best chance of recovery.

She also addressed confusion about hospital treatments.

She rejected claims that intravenous fluids worsen snakebite outcomes.

She clarified that IV fluids help stabilise patients in emergencies.

She said fluids support circulation and organ function.

She added that fluids assist while doctors prepare antivenom treatment.

She emphasised that antivenom remains the main treatment for venomous bites.

She said early access to antivenom improves survival odds.

She explained that some snake venoms affect breathing muscles.

She warned that untreated venom can lead to breathing failure.

She said hospitals provide supportive care to manage such risks.

She noted that delays before reaching hospitals can worsen outcomes.

She added that excessive movement after a bite can increase venom spread.

She highlighted that bites on upper limbs may spread venom faster due to proximity to the heart.

She used the recent public debate to highlight broader misinformation issues.

She warned that false advice can influence families during emergencies.

She said wrong actions at critical moments can cost lives.

She urged the public to verify medical advice with trained professionals.

She called on media figures to consult experts before sharing health tips.

She emphasised that emergency care follows tested medical protocols.

She said myths should not replace scientific guidance.

She advocated stronger public health education campaigns nationwide.

She argued that many Nigerians lack access to correct first-aid knowledge.

She said better awareness could prevent avoidable deaths.

She urged collaboration between health authorities and the media.

She concluded that reliable information can save lives in emergencies.

She insisted that Nigeria must strengthen its health education systems.

She encouraged communities to prioritise accurate medical knowledge.

(DDM) – Health experts in Nigeria have raised fresh concerns about how the public discusses and understands snakebite treatment.

DDM gathered that the Nigerian Association of Resident Doctors issued a detailed statement addressing misinformation after a reported snakebite death in Abuja.

The association reacted to public conversations that followed the reported death of a young singer named Ifunaya.

Doctors described the loss of a young life as deeply painful and extended condolences to her family and supporters.

They said emotional reactions are natural but must not replace accurate medical understanding.

NARD leaders signed the statement to clarify modern standards in snakebite care.

They identified misinformation spreading through television discussions and social media commentary.

The group specifically referenced claims made during a recent breakfast television programme.

They warned that inaccurate medical claims on national platforms can mislead millions of viewers.

They stressed that wrong advice can push people toward harmful first-aid practices.

The association rejected the suggestion that tying a snake-bitten limb helps victims.

They explained that medical science abandoned that method years ago.

They said constricting a limb can worsen tissue damage and increase complications.

They added that constriction does not reliably stop venom from spreading.

They emphasized that current global guidelines strongly discourage that practice.

NARD also addressed confusion about intravenous fluid treatment in emergencies.

They explained that doctors use intravenous fluids to stabilize many critical patients.

They said fluids help manage shock, dehydration, and systemic complications.

They rejected claims that such fluids serve as malaria treatment in snakebite cases.

They stressed that supportive care often determines survival in emergencies.

The doctors highlighted that antivenom remains the main treatment for venomous bites.

They noted that early access to antivenom can save lives.

They pointed to shortages of antivenom in Nigerian hospitals as a serious concern.

They blamed long-term supply and funding gaps for those shortages.

They said procurement and supply chain weaknesses affect many health facilities.

They reminded the public that doctors often work with limited resources.

They said frontline workers still try to deliver the best care possible.

They warned that blaming doctors for systemic problems discourages morale.

They urged Nigerians to seek information from qualified medical professionals.

They encouraged journalists to consult experts before airing medical advice.

They called for responsible reporting that informs rather than provokes anger.

They also urged governments to stock life-saving medicines consistently.

They stressed that snakebite cases occur more in rural and farming communities.

They said those regions need stronger emergency preparedness.

They concluded that preventable deaths should inspire health system reforms.

They called for national focus on solutions instead of sensational debates.

They insisted that better funding and planning can reduce future tragedies.

They encouraged collaboration between media, government, and medical professionals.

They reaffirmed their commitment to public health education and patient safety.