Disease, Conditions & Treatments

Meningitis is inflammation of the meninges, which are protective layers that surround the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by different types of pathogens including bacteria, viruses, and in rare cases fungi. Viral meningitis is usually mild and often resolves without treatment. Bacterial meningitis is far more serious and can become life threatening very quickly. One of the serious forms is Meningitis B, caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup B, due to how rapidly it develops and the severity of its complications.

Cancer, simply defined, is the uncontrollable growth and spread of cells, as a result of genetic mutations resulting in abnormalities of DNA in cells. This often results in masses of cancerous cells forming tissues known as tumours, which can be particularly dangerous if they form in major organs and therefore impact their function, such as the lungs or brain. Any and every cell in the body could become cancerous, all cells are capable of accumulating mutations which could eventually result in disabling the genes which repair DNA or control cell growth. The only reason as to why not everyone is suffering from cancer is because of our body’s own immunosurveillance, which is where cells are killed by our own immune system’s T cells before they can progress, after being identified by B cells.

Hormones are essential in regulating our every bodily function, and we have over 50 different major types present in our systems. One of these hormones is aldosterone, and its role in the body is to control our blood pressure and volume. 

High blood pressure or hypertension is often referred to as a “silent killer" by many physicians as it is known for not presenting any symptoms until significant damage is done. This condition affects over 30% of the world's population, according to the Pan American Health Organisation, and is a major risk factor for a variety of serious health issues such as heart failure, kidney disease, and vision loss. Given its widespread impact and insidious nature, understanding its origins is the crucial first step toward effective management.

HIV has been part of the world’s medical story for over forty years. Once a diagnosis filled with fear, it is now one that comes with treatment, prevention, and hope. Advances in research have turned a deadly virus into a condition that can be controlled, giving millions of people the chance to live full, healthy lives.