The MHSA Team for 2023/2024

The MHSA Team which is segmented into two, Administrative and Executive, is as follows:

Presidential Comment

I am beyond grateful to have been given this opportunity to lead such a wonderful team. At the core of MHSA’s beliefs, there is rooted the representation of the students within the Faculty of Health Sciences as well as raising and promoting health awareness. Having formed last year’s executive team, together with the wisdom endowed from the previous administrative team, I am confident that I will direct MHSA into further success.

Hugh Portanier Mifsud – MHSA President

The Third Eye wishes the new executive the best of luck!

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Along the years, teenage pregnancy has carried a lot of negative connotations with it, which gradually altered the perception of people and created many opinions. As a result of these new assumptions, teenage pregnancy has been categorised as a taboo to many people but, with due time this particular subject has started to come to fore more often, instigating with it a new perspective on the experience.

What can lead to Teenage Pregnancy?

To become more aware and elucidated on the subject, it is good to know the circumstances that often start this pregnancy. At times adolescents unfortunately would not know the right education on the subjects and this can also include a lack of information on certain anatomical parts. Other times there might be an absence of contraceptives available, due to financial problems, or for the simple reason that one cannot buy them. Adversely to this, in underdeveloped countries the most common underlying cause of teenage pregnancies is poverty and a lack of accessibility to adequate sex education.

As a continuation to the above is sexual violence. More often than not, we tend to view such a topic by giving importance to the lack of basic things such as contraceptives. However, sexual violence is quite a common causing agent of such pregnancies, especially in those still to be developed countries. When such a horrific act is done, most likely contraceptives were neglected which can easily get the person pregnant. In countries such as Africa, women that are victims to such violence also face a high risk of morbidities.

Apart from this, teenagers might be subject to peer pressure from their friends which can lead to them exploiting sexual behaviour to feel more recognised inside their social group. With this can unfortunately arise substance abuse of alcohol and drugs and which could lead to a teenage pregnancy.

How it became a Taboo Subject

Teenage pregnancy has been both socially and culturally viewed as a taboo in the past recent years. Due to this reason, it was seen as something to be kept in secret and was shunned from the public, which managed to lead to a lack of awareness. Furthermore, when such a subject is evaded harmful misconceptions and stigmas originate. Some of the main reasons that led to this taboo were:

• Fear of social alienation – Teenagers that end up pregnant may be estranged from society and even their own families which can ultimately lead to discrimination.
  
• An absence of understanding – Societies were not always so keen on being educated on this subject. For this reason, there was never a good base of understanding about the intricacies of teenage pregnancy and the underlying causes of it.
  
• Religious and Moral principles – These factors have affected many people as sometimes religion was misinterpreted and used as way of discriminating due to it being seen as an act of premarital sex.

Offering Support

Providing support has to be considered for both the mother, the partner and the relatives that are present. This assistance should involve the appropriate resources needed to secure their wellbeing and health. Additionally, the unborn child is also to be considered in this holistic care.

The primal things to consider are:

• Healthcare – These woman should be provided with all the essentials such as
  prenatal care, support and also counselling. When assisting we should be non –
  judgemental and be open to any other assistance they may require.
  
• Emotional support – Both the parents and the mother may feel incredibly
  overwhelmed as it may have happened suddenly without a plan. Therefore, support
  groups can be recommended, and we can also go with them if need be.
  
• Childcare – Childcare centres can be a big step in gaining more time for themselves
  and to maybe continue their studies. There are many affordable child care centres out
  there and these could also be a great help if the parents would like to work to support
  their child.

Support after the mother gives birth is also immensely crucial as sometimes they might find
the situation challenging. Thus, psychological assistance should still be provided at this time
as anxiety may start to arise and post – partum depression can easily develop. Additionally,
educational and career goals should be periodically encouraged as they can be put on hold
due to parenthood. Therefore, we must promote this awareness and education to not only
prevent this social inequity but to create a better world for all of those who find themselves
discouraged and alone in such a complex time.

The post Removing the Stigma on Teenage Pregnancy | MHSA appeared first on The Third Eye.

What is Mental Health ?

Mental Health are two current words which are being articulated in every corner of our daily lives, and sometimes without deciphering a definition. Therefore, as WHO rightly explained, mental health is a

State of well-being in which the individual realizes his or her own abilities, can cope with the
normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his
or her community.

WHO 2022

Thus, our mental health has the ability to define the ways that we feel on a day-to-day basis, how we think and process information, as well as behave both on our own and side by side others. It is not always about a mental disorder, as usually people focus on just maintaining a non – appearance of such mental health problems. It also includes a person’s ability to uphold continuous wellness and happiness. Therefore, since our mental health will be affected both through ourselves and others, this well – being should be practised on and individual level and a communal one.

How Mental Health Affects Physical Health

As we all know, our body is made up of different systems which correlate simultaneously. One separate part can have a comprehensive influence on the rest of the body resulting in the whole structure to be affected. Thereby, our mental state will ultimately have its apparent affects on our physical state due to the simple foundation that one compliments the other cohesively.

Some of the very prevalent symptoms which are usually felt amid a depressive episode, for instance are fatigue and insomnia. Depression can be felt as exceptionally draining to the whole body and sometimes the daytime exhaustion is a result of the insomnia. As a consequence of this, headaches can start to emanate making the person feel even more irritable and in pain, ultimately making it even more strenuous for the person to better themselves.

Supplementary to the aforementioned is anxiety, more specifically chronic anxiety as it usually impedes on the daily performance of a person. One of the problems that may occur here is a long – term release of stress hormones on a regular basis leading to headaches, light-headedness, and weight gain which can then intensify into depression. The Cardiovascular system is also affected here as anxiety can be a trigger for fast heart rate, chest pain, palpitations, all adding up to high blood pressure.

Therefore, we should be mindful when trying to apprehend and support someone suffering from a mental health issue, as at times the person can truly show you their daily struggle from minor indications but which causes them a lot of distress.

Mental Health in Earlier Years

The outlook and frame of mind concerning mental health has altered quite a bit from former times. Nowadays, in most countries, we are fortunate enough to go and seek the appropriate help we require, without much thought given and sometimes even as a free service. These new approaches and advancements required centuries and a great deal of committed and devoted people to come in view, as things were not always so admissible and customary. Olden times viewed mental health in a far more bizarre way with superstition and supernatural beliefs, rather than with a view of care, empathy, and science. Usually, people that were suffering from a mental health problem were affiliated with curses, witchcraft, and even satanic possessions. These people were seen as outcasts and barely ever found the care and compassion they so helplessly needed. To make matters worse, since mental health carried such a pessimistic and unfavourable connotation with it, the medications used were equally inhumane. Practises such as:

• Insulin Coma therapy
• Isolation
• Lobotomies
• Electroconvulsive shock therapy

were among the few that were used. These barbaric solutions usually left patients far worse than they initially started and in a more state of loneliness. An example of this for instance was documented in the famous novel ‘The Bell Jar’, by Sylvia Plath, were Sylvia recounted her own personal experience with Electroconvulsive Shock Therapy with a genuine description of how it actually was perceived by patients.

In furtherance, the asylums that patients were left at utilized equipment such as strait jackets to limit the persons mobility, leather wristlets and even manacles. These were deemed safe and necessary, but people were sometimes left in them for hours or even days without any merited motive.

How Time Improved Mental Health

The subject of mental health has since reformed and evolved throughout these past few years. People have become more inclined to learn and acknowledge the beauty in accepting and aiding others that are found to be struggling. Due to this safety being integrated into societies people are becoming less discouraged to seek the requisite help. Consequently, the
stigmas have since been diminished which finally improved the mental illness stereotypes.

One of the very paramount factors which achieved the aforesaid were the primacies given by the government towards mental wellbeing. These were seen through more funding granted for research as well as budgeting more money and funds. Governments also reconstituted gradually mental health establishments so that patients could recover in a more dignified
facility.

Malta has since also progressed immensely in this sector, providing numerous services and helplines allowing anyone to make use of them.

Some excellent representations include:

• Richmond Foundation
• Victim Support Malta
• SOAR Malta ( support towards domestic violence)
• Kellimni. Com
• Betapsi Malta ( The University Psychology Student Association)
• Mount Carmel Hospital

Thus, as a society we can continue to build on our past generations and sustain the mental health community by truly allowing mental health to be part of our lives and further work on making it a less denounced topic. It is us who should sometimes be the voice of people that are struggling and to periodically remind them that yes, there is hope left regardless of the situation.

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November 14th is the particular day in which the world congregates to venerate diabetic people. Diabetes is unfortunately a chronic condition which has affected many lives, especially here in Malta. It continues to do so both in the young and older generations on a global scale, and thus knowledge concerning Diabetes should be propagated in an ubiquitous level.

Understanding Diabetes

When one has Diabetes, it simply means that their glucose levels in the blood are too high in consequence of the pancreas (a visceral organ in the abdomen), not producing adequate amount of insulin or just the body not being able to make use of its insulin well. To clarify better, insulin is a hormone made in the pancreas which is accountable in helping the body to make use of the sugar consumed by using it as energy. Therefore, if the pancreas is lacking this, the insulin will not be present to uphold its function, instigating diabetes.

Diabetes can be categorised as either Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, or Gestational:

• Type 1 – It can also be identified as insulin – dependant or juvenile diabetes. This is mostly due to it being seen mostly in children and younger generations. It is believed to be an autoimmune response from the body itself, meaning that the body attacks itself. Since the body will attempt to dispense of the glucose using the kidneys, children often complain of having to urinate a lot, and this can be a first major symptom. One can also feel incredible thirst and even loosing weight without any effort in place. Conversely, type 1 can be controlled through maintaining a balanced diet, habitual exercise, and not forgetting to check the blood glucose level and knowing the proper ranges.

• Type 2 – This classification of diabetes is considered to be more familiar within adults rather than children. One of the leading distinctions from type 1 is that it evolves in a far decelerated rapidity, and one could be living with this without any definite awareness. With type 2, the typical agents that can result in this diagnosis are being medically obese ( BMI 30.0 or higher) and a sedentary inactive lifestyle. Furthermore, at times, some patients may present a family history of diabetics, leading to them easily having it. A healthy diet and some daily exercise can really make a difference with type 2 diabetes. However, if these non – pharmacological factors are found to be unsuccessful, there are medications which can be prescribed.

• Gestation Diabetes – This 3rd category of diabetes is known to be diagnosed during pregnancy. Adversely, with the high blood glucose levels the mother can be easily affected, as well as the foetus. Thankfully however, the mother can properly take care of herself and the unborn baby by for instance going on walks as this will count as an approach to exercise. In addition, the diet can be compromised of an admixture of fruits and vegetables. Proteins, unsaturated fats, and whole grain foods are also advised so that a balanced diet is taken. Furthermore, this type of diabetes commonly goes away after the delivery. Be that as it may, mothers should still stay apprehensive as now they are more at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Taking Care Of Diabetes

Managing Diabetes can be formidable at times, yet one must be vigilant everyday so as to not let the blood sugar levels escalate. This therefore will take certain discipline within oneself, but it is all very accomplishable. One of the very first things recommended in managing any type of diabetes is to develop a care plan with a GP and discuss this with your closed ones. Support here goes a long
way, so it is crucial to include those around you and get them to be more inclined towards awareness and commitment. Commitment here will include checking the blood sugar levels daily or depending on when the doctor recommends. Additionally, the routine might include taking specific medications like Metformin or insulin. It is vital to check with your doctor if there are any adverse side effects being seen.

Smoking is another risk factor which can lead to diabetes. Thus, if you are someone that suffers from diabetes, do consider smoking caseation. Additionally due to smoking there are risks like diseases of the heart, strokes, a reduction in blood flow in regions like the legs. Be that as it may, the nicotine from the cigarettes alters the cells and so there will be a weak response to insulin, eventuating in high blood sugar levels. Usually, diabetes that stems from smoking will be under the category of type w2.

Another key point to remember when controlling diabetes is to plan appointments to the diabetic clinic. Usually, patients schedule up to two or four appointments yearly and with them an eye exam is good to be added. Such visits will include an assessment regarding the diet that the patient is following and how to maybe improve it. Additionally, the weight is measured along with a check up on the blood sugar level and the blood pressure. By attending these appointment, patients will gather a better view on any diabetic complexities such as kidney damage, heart disease or even nerve impairment.

Diabetes Around Malta

Diabetes in the Maltese island is a common condition which is taking over almost every generation, with nearly 1 in 10 suffering from it. Unfavourably, as time has elapsed the statistics kept on showing how the situation exacerbated and in 2019 it was established that 31, 709 people were diagnosed with diabetes. Such findings could be rooted to many probabilities, yet mostly obesity is a big initiator. Thankfully, the health authorities have taken these statistics into account along with other NGO’s that are ready to sustain and encourage those contending.

Such examples include:

1. The Maltese Diabetes Association: This is a voluntary organisation that intends to gather diabetics so that they can have the comfortable space where they are free to discuss any struggles or assistance that they may need. In addition, monthly talks are provided by specialised people in this sector with considerable time given to questions.

2. The Diabetes Shared Care Programmes: This programme takes place at Mater Dei hospital. In contravention of this diabetics are given a follow up at their respective health care centres which are managed by a number of doctors, nurses, ophthalmologists, and podiatrist. Consequently, patients are given a holistic long – term follow-up so that their diabetes is under control.

Aside from the above, there are various diabetic clinics around Malta, which can be found in the local health centres, providing free care for anyone in need. Alternatively, some patients may opt for private clinics which also offer a professional standard of care!

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What is Breast Cancer?

Breast Cancer originates from specified changes within body cells, also known as mutations. The body cells start to divide and increase in an irrepressible manner, consequently evolving into breast cancer.

Generally, the place where the cancer commences its growth is either in the lobules or the ducts of the breast. The lobules are the glands that produce milk and the ducts are what help contribute to facilitate milk out of the body. Since the cancer cells often spread in a rapid way, they can eventually attack other healthy tissues in the breast, also attacking the lymph nodes beneath the arms.

Therefore, the common types of breast cancers are:

1. Ductal Breast Cancer (Starting in the ducts)
2. Lobular Breast Cancer (Starting in the lining of the lobules)

Breast Cancer can also be categorised based on its potential to spread to other regions of the breast and the body. A non – invasive one means that the cancer has not spread yet. We call this a Ductal Carcinoma in Situ ( DCIS) as it remains in the ducts. On the contrary, an invasive breast cancer will metastasize in a fast pace, spreading to other parts like the lymph nodes, different sections of the breast and other areas inside the body. Regrettably, specialists find this type of cancer commonly, with statistics showing that eight out of ten cancers are invasive.

Be that as it may, over the years there has been an enormous decline in the mortality rate, particularly between the 1930’s and the 1970’s according to WHO. Notably in the 1980’s, the survival rate improved due to the early screening and other various treatment derogating the metastasizing.

History of Pink October

During October we celebrate the Pink October campaign. People and organisations aspire to increase awareness regarding breast cancer for both genders, with aim that it becomes a less stigmatised topic.

Pink October originated back in the 1990’s, with the contribution of certain devoted women and other willing societies. Charlotte Hailey, for instance, was one of the main pillars in starting Pink October. Her loved ones, being survivors of breast cancer, instigated a certain incentive in Charlotte to convey more awareness and a grander insight into the subject. Thus, the pink ribbon was created to bring forth this awareness. Along with each number of ribbons given, Charlotte use to leave a small note that said:

The National Cancer Institute annual budget is $1.8 billion, only 5 percent goes for cancer prevention. Help us wake up our legislators and America by wearing this ribbon

A. Zubko, 2012

Evidently, her persistent exertion reached a good number of people that decided to support her. Betty Ford was one of the contributors, along with Evelyn H Lauder and the American Cancer Society. Due to their diligence they continue to this day to not only share awareness but raise funds to help with research on prevention and other relations

Risks and Symptoms

Breast cancer is displayed in many forms, one of which can be as a lump (in the breast area?) without any pain. This detection is not something to be taken lightly, so one should consult a doctor immediately and remain safe as possible. Nevertheless, lumps can develop from many other causes, that of which are rarely cancer. Some examples can include cysts and even early signs of infection.

There are certain symptoms which can occur in the very early stages, but one can recognize them with some proper observations. These include:

• Swelling in the breast area
• The skin of the breast appearing red or dry
• A peeling sight in the areola area
• Alteration in the placement of the nipple ( ex: being inverted)
• Pain in the breast

It is vital to remember that breast cancer is not transmissible. Moreover, there is not a recognised bacteria contributing to growth, unlike cervical cancer, for example. As mentioned before, women are more prone to breast cancer detection. The probability of getting breast cancer rises as we age. That said, there are some factors which can mitigate these chances.

These include:

• Undertaking physical activity – 5 hours of moderate to vigorous physical activity throughout the week, such as a hurried walk, can help immensely.
• Setting up a healthy balanced diet
• Avoiding harmful activities like smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol

Additionally, breastfeeding can be a great tool in reducing the risks. Yet, in some cases, breast cancer can be found in the family history, hence it is challenging to evade such chances. Therefore, one ought to check themselves regularly!

Dealing with the news

Breast cancer, or any type of such diagnosis, is never a simple news to digest. It takes time and emotional effort to process this news and there will never be a good and bad way to deal with such matters. Everyone is entitled to feel sad and scared, as initially it may seem like a dark endless tunnel. However, after this turmoil of emotions and acclimation to the situation, a person is likely to be willing to fight the illness. If this is the case, there are a number of things one might do to help have a smoother recovery:

1. Familiarise yourself with the type of cancer. This may require you to consult with doctors and nurses to see if the cancer is invasive or non-invasive and other relevant details. Bringing a family member or a friend with can be helpful in increasing support!
   
2. Discuss with your loved ones. Such news may make a person feel alienated, however, talking can help immensely to decrease this from occurring. Cancer should not be fought alone, therefore, it is good to reach out!
   
3. See the future steps for treatment. If one chooses that treatment is paramount, there are some steps to be considered. Firstly, research what treatment is accessible in the country. Subsequently, check what effects the treatment will have on your body (example: Loss of appetite). Keep in mind that there may be alternatives to certain treatments!
   
4. Join a cancer support group. In Malta there are quite a large number of choices, two of which are the Action for Breast Cancer Foundation and the Malta Male Cancer Awareness. These can offer an immeasurable amount of support which can overcome certain obstacles that come with cancer.

Therefore, we should support one another during these harsh times, by being sensible and patient. What may seem as small gestures, such as being present and available, can already be enough!

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Environment Health

The environment which a population resides in holds a significant impact on one’s overall health, comprising the physical and mental aspect. As a whole, environmental health prioritises the growing relation between humans and their surroundings, cultivating a thoroughgoing health system.

Significantly, we as humans ought to remember that how we impact and behave towards our environment, will be ultimately felt through our health and well-being, albeit at times not visible.
A community, therefore, should promote its advances towards four major basis that secures a proper environmental system.

• Firstly, clean water should be indisputably available everywhere in sanitary conditions. This implies the elimination of bacteria, microbes, and any harmful chemicals from water.
• Secondly, clean air is fundamental as it mitigates the chances to develop respiratory problems.
• Thirdly, a country should provide nourishing food perpetually, as this not only increases life expectancy, but benefits one’s mental health.
• Furthermore, a risk – free environment is to be accessible to every citizen as every aspect can impede on one’s overall state of health.

With the above mentioned however, most countries suffer from poor environmental conditions. This inadequate ecological wellness imminently eventuates in severe and even life–threatening diseases. When the environment holds a high percentage of chemical pollution, it shows that heavy toxic chemicals are being used, affecting not only current generations but also forthcoming ones. When such matters start to arise, a substantial number of diseases will become a main problem that ultimately hinders the lifestyle of many.

Diseases

• Cardiovascular Diseases

One of the many general forms of diseases are the cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). CVDs are a collection of conditions that have a direct impact on the blood vessels and the heart. As a consequence of the increase in traffic congestion and many urban progressions, our air has become intensely polluted. Through this, a gradual but serious deterioration will occur in how the cardiovascular system functions and even narrow the blood vessels and raise the blood pressure. Certain particulate matter for instance can instigate health concerns such as cardiac arrhythmias and chest pain which can easily develop into strokes and even cardiac arrest. This happens due to the particles being of miniscule size, thus able to reach the bloodstream more rapidly. Additionally, artificial ecosystems and environments, where an
environment survives only through human reinforcement, limit our natural contact with nature, creating a more hazardous surrounding.

• Respiratory Diseases

As a continuation of the above, respiratory diseases are also a major problem towards the sustainability of environmental health. These diseases affect the lungs which are the main organs that supply the body with oxygen through inhalation and clears it from carbon dioxide via exhalation. Moreover, the lungs suppress microbes and other harmful substances through certain preventive barriers from damaging the respiratory system. Regardless however, through many generations of air pollutants, our air has become more and more contaminated.

This has increased through various examples, one of them being the constant burning of fossil fuels. Since fossil fuels lead to an increase of Carbon Dioxide in the air, an increase in global warming will occur. Consequently, there will be a conversion in climate patterns and eventually a rise in communicable diseases. In relation, smog, which is an amalgamation of smoke and fog, can trigger diseases such as bronchitis and even asthma. As cars emit exhaust, an airborne particle is formed which irritates our lung and furthers our risks to other diseases.

• Water Borne Diseases

Water as we know it is something which is easily accessible to us daily. In most countries this is mainly the case, yet that being said, there are countries which unfortunately cannot say the same. Regions such as Southeast Asia, Africa and many more, are undergoing grave health issues due to the unhygienic water that is obtainable to them. According to WHO, around 829, 000 people are dying everyday because of such water.

Since the water is not being filtered and is found to be immensely polluted, most end up suffering from diseases like Cholera, Diarrhoea, and Schistosomiasis, which is a diseases found through harmful worms. Children, for instance that contract bacteria which cause diarrhoea, have yet to develop a resilient immune system and so will end up dying due to access dehydration. Similar to this are problems like improper sewage disposition, oil spills and the irresponsibility of discarding plastic and other garbage in the ocean.

What Can Be Done

Through what has been discussed, it is evidently clear that this dereliction of our environment has to stop. Despite these facts however, there is still hope in maintaining good environmental health. People from every country should be educated and made aware of the consequences periodically. For example, this
can include learning on how to avoid unnecessary exposure to harmful chemicals. Subsequently, purchasing cleaning supplies that are safe for our health and are economic friendly can already be a big step. Another way could be through safe farming. As opposed to using pesticides, one might try weeding or even using traps which increases organic products!

Additionally, governments can work with NGO’s and other organizations to work towards this sustainability. It is essential that as a country walking and electric cars become the main form of transportation and form a scrape plan for old cars. Furthermore, one might choose to evade air pollution by having less expenditure in heavily polluted areas. Leaving for work earlier can be an asset as there would be less build up of pollution. Finally, we must not forget to take care of our oceans and lakes. One way of doing this is to limit the usage of plastic. The government can provide recycling bins on beaches and organise monthly beach clean ups. Consequently, vaccinations should be provided as to prevent water borne diseases from spreading, whilst also filtering the water accordingly!

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The fresh faces of the new team are as follows:

• President: Stella Sammut
• Vice-President: Gail Bonnici
• Secretary General: Nikita Schembri
• Treasurer: Kimberly Bellia
• Human Resources Officer: Miguel Sammut
• Education Officer: Mattea Pulis
• External Affairs Officer: Kyle Cilia
• Health Officer: Sarah Cachia
• International Officer: Duncan Munro
• Leisure Officer: Angele Gauci
• Media Officer: Emily Abela
• Social Policy Officer: Sarah Zerafa

The term for the new team will commence on the 1st of June 2021.

The Third Eye got in touch with newly elected President, Stella Sammut, and current President, Nicholas Aquilina, to get their comments on the new and previous term.

As the newly elected president of MHSA, I would like to thank my predecessors for all their hard work and determination to keep the organisation on its feet despite the circumstances. I am honoured to take on such a humbling role within the organisation which has helped me become the person I am today. Together with the newly elected executive board, I am confident that our team will continue working on the solid foundations that make up this organisation as well as continue to represent and provide opportunities to our Faculty’s students.

Stella Sammut, newly elected MHSA president

Aquilina looks back on his term as President and the personal growth that MHSA has given him!

I am extremely grateful for the time I had in the organisation and the role I played. Throughout my time in MHSA I have truly learnt the value of what it means to be an activist, and how important it is to give a voice to the students. I’d also like to wish best of luck to the future executive on this new and exciting journey they have ahead of if them.

Nicholas Aquilina, current MHSA president

The Third Eye wishes the best of luck to the new team and looks forward to future collaborations with the organisation!

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Written by Sarah Cachia

STD is not only an acronym for MHSA’s Sexual Health Campaign “STD – Sex, Toys & Dysfunction”, but medically stands for Sexually Transmitted Diseases, which can also be called Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).

What are STDs?

It’s pretty self-explanatory, they are sexually transmitted diseases, which get transmitted from one person to another when in contact with infected body fluids, including blood and semen, or through contact with infected skin or mucous membranes like mouth sores. Symptoms may vary, however unusual discharge from the penis or vagina can be rather common. Other signs and symptoms include – dyspareunia, changes in urination, bumps or sores. However, some people do not show any signs at all. This is called being asymptomatic.

There are several known types of STDs, and below are some of the common types, according to how they are classified.

• Bacterial: Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis
• Viral: Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) and Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
• Parasitic: Trichomoniasis

Fortunately enough, bacterial STDs can be cured with the correct use of antibiotics, especially if treatment begins early enough. On the other hand, viral STDs cannot be cured, but symptoms can be managed with medications, whilst parasitic STDs are treated with topical medicine and pills.

What happens when having sex with someone who has an STD?

Due to the fact that STDs may be asymptomatic, many STDs may go unreported between partners. This means that the infection would unknowingly be transmitted to the significant other.

Although one may be infected, STDs are not necessarily transmitted during every sexual encounter. When receiving treatment, the level of infection in the body fluids would be minimal. As a result, the chance of transmission is also reduced.

In fact, there are various factors that influence the likelihood of transmission of an STD including:

• The type of infection,
• How much of the infection is present in the bodily secretions or blood,
• The duration of the sexual intercourse,
• If broken skin or open sores are present,
• Whether lubricants are used or not, and what type,
• The genders,
• Overall health and immune system,
• The type of sex engaged in; anal, oral, or vaginal, and
• Whether a condom is used or not.

Prevention

Even though it is recommended to use a condom for safe sex, it is known that these do not necessarily protect one from all types of STDs. Other forms of prevention are washing before and after sexual intercourse and getting vaccinated for Hepatitis B.

Stigma with regards to STDs

People with STDs can face quite a bit of stigma from society and as such, may choose not to speak out. This can lead to feelings of guilt, worthlessness, depression, and other mental health problems. The fact that this topic is taboo to this day, causes one having an STD to feel inferior and therefore not be open about it prior to having sex.

Peer pressure is influential especially if knowledge and communication of safe sex practices is minimal whilst sex engagement is high. Thus, awareness with regards to STDs is required in order to eradicate the stigma that is brought about and to inform the public about the consequences brought about.

Getting tested for an STD

One may have the fear of testing positive or how an STD would change their sexual life completely. Whilst STDs may not be deadly, one would rather remain uninformed than face the stigma that STDs bring about.

Locally, the Genitourinary (GU) Clinic provides strictly confidential services for the diagnosis and treatment of Sexually Transmitted Diseases, counselling and testing for HIV, and other genital conditions not necessarily sexually acquired. The GU Clinic may be contacted through +356 2545 7491 (Clinical Direct Line) / +365 2545 7491 (for appointments) or guclinic@gov.mt.

In conclusion, the main aim of safe and healthy sex is that the rights of all persons must be respected, fulfilled, and secured. Thus, it is strongly believed that educating the public with regards to STDs would allow for safer sex and a halt to the stigma.

Check out MHSA’s previous article here!

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Written by Malcolm Camilleri

In March, MHSA is celebrating Endometriosis Awareness Month. This article gives insight into endometriosis and how exercise can improve its symptoms.

Endometrium overview

The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus. It thickens and renews itself every month, in preparation for pregnancy. Therefore, if conception takes place, the endometrium thickens and the embryo sticks to it. Alternatively, it sheds through menstruation if pregnancy does not occur.

Endometriosis is a gynaecological condition where the endometrium-like tissue grows outside of the uterus, most commonly in other parts of the pelvis. This condition often causes pain, pelvic inflammation, and a forward-leaning posture, amongst others. These, to some extent, can all be limited through exercise.

Decreasing inflammation

Regular physical activity has protective effects against inflammation as it increases the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant cytokines in the blood. It also controls oestrogen levels, which are usually high in endometriosis. Research shows that moderate-intensity physical activity, such as brisk walking and swimming, for 20 to 30 minutes daily, can produce said anti-inflammatory effects.

It is important to note that decreasing inflammation will often decrease the severity of other symptoms.

Breaking the pain cycle

Similar to other pain-inducing medical conditions, eliminating one of the factors in the pain cycle will decrease pain itself.

Physical activity has been shown to release endorphins. These hormones work similarly to opioid drugs, relieving stress, and pain. Deep breathing exercises and visualisation follow a similar system by also producing endorphins.

Pain, discomfort, and cramping in the front part of the pelvis usually cause muscle tension in the pelvic floor, abdominal wall, and hip flexors. Stretching can reduce the muscle tension in said tight muscles, breaking the pain cycle, and ultimately decreasing pain.

Improving posture

The previously mentioned cramping contributes to a forward leaning posture, which is often assumed to protect oneself from the corresponding pain. Repeated and prolonged time in said position will cause anterior pelvic muscle shortening and weakness of the muscles at the back.

Stretching of the tight areas and concurrent strengthening of the weak areas will improve the body’s kinetic chain, providing a harmonious balance of forces at the body’s core.

High-intensity exercises such as circuit training and High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), together with high impact exercises such as burpees and plyometrics, may aggravate the inflammation and increase pain perception. This, however, does not mean that one can never perform such tasks. It is suggested to see a physiotherapist for guidance on how to best balance endometriosis and exercise.

Check out MHSA’s previous article!

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MHSA has been contacting the Health Authorities and the Ministry for Health non-stop in order to ensure that Health Sciences Students receive the COVID-19 vaccination.

Students within the Faculty have been working tirelessly as trainees in hospitals and even assisting at the swabbing hubs. With such responsibility, it brings a lot of scarifies and it is not the first time that students had to quarantine and distance themselves for the sake of their loved ones. It is also not the first time that some have been exposed to the virus and contracted it. Aside from working and assisting, students have not stopped attending placements ever since restrictions were being lifted in June.

MHSA stated that even though every course manages its placement differently, one thing in common is that all students come in contact with patients therefore making them as vulnerable as the frontliners in this pandemic.

All through the pandemic, students were on the wards attending to patients as they learn. Their clinical practice on the wars can stretch to 12 hourly duties. There are lecturers too who are with the students on the wards teaching them clinical practice and examining their practice. These are continuously in contact with patients, their partner, and staff. Only logical to treat as frontliners.

Dr Josephine Attard

Health science students came forward, thanking MHSA for addressing this issue that has been going around for months.

The Third Eye got in touch with Nicholas Aquilina, MHSA President, to share his thoughts on the situation:

From the beginning of the pandemic students of the Faculty of Health Sciences have worked tirelessly to continue their studies especially during placements having direct contact with patients continuously having the same exposure as a front-line worker. MHSA has worked tirelessly and is of the opinion that we should be treated as such and we urge the government to take action, be more transparent, and consider the students in the high-risk areas for vaccination.

Aquilina added that this situation has put a lot of pressure on the students:

Students have concerns. Many are worried about family members as they live with vulnerable people. Students’ studies are also of concern as final placements and clinical exams are soon upcoming and would like assurance that they will be conducted safely.

MHSA are urging the Ministry of Health to take action as soon as possible.

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