Poor adherence to blood pressure medication may significantly reduce its ability to prevent heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular complications, according to a major analysis of clinical trial data. The study, involving 91,339 patients across nine randomised trials, found that people who consistently took their antihypertensive drugs experienced greater reductions in blood pressure and cardiovascular events compared with those who skipped doses, underscoring the importance of consistent medication use for heart protection.

Nigeria allocated just 0.05 per cent of its 2025 health budget to hypertension prevention and control, well below the estimated 0.7 per cent annual investment needed to tackle the country's growing hypertension burden, according to Leadership. This means the country is funding hypertension at only 7.1 per cent of the estimated required amount, leaving a shortfall of about 92.9 per cent. The report highlights concerns over the nation's capacity to address the rising public health challenge.

Tribune Online reports a historical curiosity titled Before pharmacy: Why doctors once put onions on burns, framing onion burn treatment as a practice from an earlier era rather than current medical guidance. The available blurb does not explain the method or evidence, instead contrasting that past claim with onions’ familiar place in modern homes, where they sit on countertops and are chopped as a flavorful base for savory stews.

The Ministry of Health (MOH) is set to commemorate World Sickle Cell Day in Jinja, while children in Busoga suffering from the hereditary blood disorder face challenges due to shortages of hydroxyurea, a critical medication for alleviating pain and complications. Hydroxyurea was recently included in the essential medicines list, according to reports.

Uganda is facing a growing cancer burden, with over 37,000 new diagnoses and nearly 28,000 deaths annually, according to recent estimates. Cervical cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths among women, while prostate cancer is the most prevalent among men. This situation is putting significant pressure on patients, families, and the healthcare system.

At least 22 women have died from childbirth-related complications within one week as a nationwide nurses' strike continues in Kenya, according to Taifa Leo. The newspaper also reported 44 newborn deaths and 130 stillbirths or deaths during delivery, with the strike, now over a month old, disrupting services at public hospitals. Health experts warn the situation could worsen if doctors follow through on their threat to strike as well.