Dorcas Wangira

Dorcas Wangira, BBC's Africa health correspondent, discusses groundbreaking advancements in malaria treatment for newborns, set to protect vulnerable infants in eight African countries. Professor Damian Bailey uncovers the science behind pickle juice as a remedy for muscle cramps, revealing the quirky yet intriguing reasons athletes are turning to it. Meanwhile, Helen Meese examines the ethical implications and practical applications of assistive robots in healthcare, highlighting their potential to revolutionize patient support in a post-pandemic world.

In this discussion, Dorcas Wangira, BBC Africa's health correspondent, dives into a groundbreaking gene discovery that could transform chronic pain management. She explores a decade-long study revealing that cash transfers significantly reduced child mortality in Kenya. The conversation also touches on rabies control efforts in India and the troubling paradox of fewer wildfires but more vulnerable populations. Finally, Wangira addresses the controversy surrounding the destruction of $9.7 million in contraceptives due to US policy changes.

In this discussion, Professor Jim Collins, a leading researcher at MIT, reveals how AI is revolutionizing antibiotic discovery in the fight against drug-resistant infections like gonorrhea and MRSA. Family doctor Ann Robinson joins to highlight concerns about bloodstream infections in Indian ICUs, emphasizing the need for hygiene reforms. BBC's Dorcas Wangira reports on Rwanda's new laws allowing adolescents to access reproductive health services, sparking debates on youth health. Lastly, the nutritional role of mangoes for diabetics is reexamined, suggesting they may not be as harmful as previously thought.

Dorcas Wangira, BBC's Africa health correspondent, discusses the alarming destruction of Sudan's Mycetoma Research Centre amid conflict, impacting care for a neglected disease. The podcast also highlights innovative telehealth solutions for remote communities in the Americas. Furthermore, researchers reveal promising results for a non-hormonal male contraceptive implant and the potential for adults to overcome severe peanut allergies through microdosing. Finally, insights into the health effects of traditional versus processed diets in urban Africa add depth to the conversation.

Dorcas Wangira, a BBC Africa health correspondent, and Brooke Nicholl, a Senior research fellow at the University of Sydney, delve into urgent global health issues amidst significant USAID funding cuts. They discuss the grim implications for AIDS and polio programs in Africa, as well as the pressing need for sustainable health strategies. The duo also tackles the challenges of MPox in the Democratic Republic of Congo and highlights an innovative initiative empowering women's mental health in Guatemala through supportive community circles.

Anastasia Golubeva, a BBC Russian journalist, reveals the chilling intensification of anti-LGBTQ+ crackdowns in Russia, sharing harrowing personal accounts from activists facing police raids on gay clubs. Dorcas Wangira, BBC Africa's health correspondent, reflects on the pandemic's far-reaching effects in Africa, exploring economic struggles and psychological scars that persist post-COVID-19. Both guests provide insightful commentary on the resilience and challenges of marginalized communities amidst evolving societal landscapes.

Dorcas Wangira, Africa Health correspondent, and Dominic Hughes, BBC’s Global Health correspondent, delve into the alarming rise of mpox cases across Africa and beyond. They discuss the recent surge with over 17,000 cases and the risks posed by a new strain. The conversation highlights the significant challenges in vaccine access, particularly in fragile healthcare systems and the stigma surrounding the disease. They also address treatment difficulties and the emotional impact on those infected, emphasizing the urgent need for global awareness and response.

BBC's Africa Health Correspondent, Dorcas Wangira, discusses the challenges of maternal healthcare in Nigeria and Kenya, highlighting the causes of maternal deaths and prevention efforts. The podcast also features Isata Dumbuya, a midwife from Sierra Leone, sharing the success of reducing maternal mortality rates by 60% through improved healthcare initiatives.

BBC Africa health correspondent Dorcas Wangira discusses the projected increase in global life expectancy by 2050 and the importance of public health measures. They also cover topics such as evolving mosquito behavior in Kenya, advancements in childhood cancer treatment, and the high metabolic energy expenditure during pregnancy.

BBC reporters Katie McEvinney and Dorcas Wangira discuss the impact of false online rumors about birth control on abortion rates in Scotland and attitudes towards contraception in Africa. They highlight the responsibility of social media platforms, the effectiveness and safety of hormonal contraceptives, and the challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa. Seeking advice from reliable sources is crucial for choosing the right contraception method.