Even though infertility is not lethal, it has been described as a radical life changing problem that carries with it significant psychological trauma. Male factor infertility is responsible for about 40-50% of all infertility cases. Despite its high prevalence in Nigeria, not much effort has been made at tackling the problem. The impact of male factor infertility is likely to increase if adequate measures are not taken. This paper reviews the main factors that are responsible for the problem and also highlights the need to focus on prevention and management; how those affected could be assisted by government, agencies and the private sector. Internet search of studies on male infertility was done, and those relevant for this study were reviewed. The major causes of infertility in Nigeria are sexually transmitted infections and hormonal abnormalities. Effort should be made in arriving at a proper diagnosis, and adequate treatment given where causes are treatable. Otherwise the patients should be adequately counseled. In irreversible cases, assisted reproductive techniques may be suggested. This procedure as at now is beyond the reach of the average Nigerian citizen. Centers, where such facilities are available, may be subsidized by the government to reduce the cost.
Background:High blood pressure (BP) is a major health problem in Nigeria and the involvement of thyroid hormones in this condition has not been evaluated in this center.Objective:The objective of this study was to evaluate the proportion of patients with an essential hypertension who had abnormal thyroid hormone levels and the type of thyroid disorders commonly observed in this group of patients.Materials and Methods:A retrospective study of 94 patients (30 males, aged 30.4 ± 2 years and 64 females, aged 43.4 ± 1.3 years) with essential hypertension was carried out between January 2005 and December 2007. Demographic and other medical information were obtained from the health records. Analysis of laboratory results of triiodothyronine (T3), Thyroxine (T4), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were made.Results:Of the 94 patients evaluated, 26 (27.7%) had abnormal thyroid hormone levels, with 23.4% having hyperthyroidism, 4.3% had sub-clinical hypothyroidism and none had overt hypothyroidism. Of the 26 subjects with abnormal thyroid hormone levels, 18 (69.2%) were females while 8 (30.8%) were males. Out of the 18 female subjects with abnormal thyroid hormone levels, 16 had hyperthyroid levels while 2 had sub-clinical hypothyroid levels. Out of the 8 male patients, 6 had hyperthyroid hormone levels while 2 had sub-clinical hypothyroid levels.Conclusion:Thyroid hormone abnormalities are common in patients with essential hypertension. Hyperthyroidism was the most common thyroid disorder observed. Young patients presenting with essential hypertension should be screened for thyroid hormone abnormalities since they can best be managed by treating the underlying causes.
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