Layla Mohammed Salih

M.S.

Family Medicine

M.D.

Medicine and General Surgery

Assistant Lecturer

Kurdistan Doctors Syndicate

Gestational Diabetes: Navigating Challenges and Advancing Care for Maternal and Fetal Health

Cihan University

Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that develops during pregnancy, typically in the second or third trimester, when the body is unable to produce enough insulin to regulate blood sugar levels effectively. It affects approximately 2-10% of pregnancies globally and usually resolves after childbirth. However, if left unmanaged, it can lead to complications for both the mother and baby For the mother, gestational diabetes increases the risk of high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and developing type 2 diabetes later in life. For the baby, it can result in excessive birth weight (macrosomia), premature birth, respiratory problems, and a higher risk of developing obesity or type 2 diabetes in the future Risk factors include being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, being older than 25, and belonging to certain ethnic groups (e.g., Hispanic, African-American, Native American, and Asian). Diagnosis is typically made through glucose screening tests during pregnancy

Exploring Fat-Soluble Vitamins: Sources, Health Benefits, and Nutritional Impact

Cihan University

Fat-soluble vitamins, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, play essential roles in maintaining overall health and well-being. These vitamins are stored in the body's fatty tissues and liver, allowing them to be available for use over time. Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. It can be found in foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and liver. Vitamin D supports calcium absorption and bone health, with primary sources including sunlight exposure, fortified dairy products, and fatty fish. Vitamin E acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage, and is found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils. Vitamin K plays a key role in blood clotting and bone health, sourced from leafy green vegetables like spinach and kale. While these vitamins are vital for various bodily functions, it is important to consume them in balanced amounts, as excessive intake can lead to toxicity due to their fat-soluble nature

Peptic ulcer disease

Cihan University

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) is a condition characterized by sores or ulcers that develop in the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus due to the erosion caused by stomach acid. The two primary types are gastric ulcers, located in the stomach, and duodenal ulcers, found in the small intestine. Causes: The main causes of PUD include infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria and long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or aspirin. Other contributing factors may include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, stress, and spicy foods, which can worsen symptoms but are not direct causes. Symptoms: Common symptoms of PUD include burning stomach pain, bloating, heartburn, nausea, and, in severe cases, vomiting blood or dark stools, which indicates internal bleeding. Diagnosis and Treatment: Diagnosis often involves endoscopy, imaging, and tests for H. pylori. Treatment typically includes antibiotics to eradicate H. pylori infection, medications to reduce stomach acid (such as proton pump inhibitors), and lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and prevent recurrence.

Gene and Genetic disease (Down syndrome and Turner syndrome

Cihan University

Genetic diseases result from variations or abnormalities in genes or chromosomes. Two well-known examples are Down syndrome and Turner syndrome, both of which have distinctive genetic causes and characteristics. Down Syndrome: This condition is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21 (trisomy 21), leading to developmental and intellectual disabilities, as well as distinct facial features, and a higher risk of congenital heart defects and other health conditions. The severity of symptoms varies, and early intervention and supportive care can improve quality of life. Turner Syndrome: Primarily affecting females, Turner syndrome occurs due to a missing or incomplete X chromosome. It results in short stature, infertility, and may cause heart defects and other medical concerns. Most individuals with Turner syndrome have normal intelligence but may face social and developmental challenges. Hormone therapies and other treatments can address some of the physical effects. These syndromes highlight how specific genetic abnormalities can affect multiple aspects of health and development, with ongoing research focusing on improving management and treatment options.

Hypertension causes and effects

Cihan University

Hypertension is blood pressure that is higher than normal. It is the pressure of blood that pushing against the walls of arteries. The arteries that carry blood from the heart to other parts of your body. Usually, the patients are asymptomatic. In most cases, the exact cause of hypertension is unknown but there are some medical conditions can cause hypertension such as kidney disease, diabetes, thyroid problems, lupus and scleroderma. Unhealthy lifestyle, smoking, and stress would increase the risk of getting hypertension. There is long list of medications that can be used to treat hypertension. Poorly controlled hypertension will increase risk of heart attack, stroke and renal diseases.

Hypothyroidism

Cihan University

Hypothyroidism is where thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. The common signs of an underactive thyroid are tiredness, weight gain and feeling depressed. Most cases of hypothyroidism are caused either by the immune system attacking the thyroid gland and damaging it, or by damage to the thyroid that occurs during some treatments for an overactive thyroid or thyroid cancer. There’s no way of preventing an underactive thyroid. Fortunately it can often be successfully treated by taking daily hormone tablets to replace the hormones that the thyroid is not making.

Life-Saving Skills for Emergencies

The course was designed to provide advanced training in essential life saving practices. Over the course of one week, participants, specifically teachers from both primary and secondary schools, engaged in an intensive program that combined both theoretical knowledge and practical training. The curriculum covered critical areas of first aid, including the administration of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), effective wound management, and the implementation of emergency response techniques. The course aimed to equip educators with the skills necessary to manage health emergencies that could arise in educational settings, thereby enhancing the safety and well-being of students under their care. The course also emphasized the importance of timely and effective intervention, reinforcing the role of teachers as first responders in school environments

Electrocardiogram (ECG) Rhythms and Interpretation

Participants were trained in the precise techniques of performing ECGs, interpreting normal ECG readings, and identifying various cardiac pathologies. The course aimed to enhance the participants' diagnostic skills and their ability to recognize significant heart abnormalities. The course was organized by Dr. Layla M. Salih, at the College of Nursing, Cihan University-Duhok. It was conducted under the esteemed initiative "Zakat-Al-Ilm,".

Breast Self-Examination

The workshop began with discussion on the causes of breast lumps, focusing on both malignant and benign conditions. Participants were guided through the stages of breast cancer, with an emphasis on the importance of early detection and how it significantly impacts treatment outcomes. Dr. Layla M. Salih and Dr. Rubar A. Majid provided detailed information on how to differentiate between malignant and benign lumps, explaining the various characteristics of each and how clinical evaluation can aid in accurate diagnosis. Following this, the instructors demonstrated the proper technique for breast self-examination (BSE), a vital self-screening tool for early detection of abnormalities. They emphasized the steps involved in BSE, such as visual inspection for any changes in size, shape, or skin texture, as well as palpation techniques for identifying lumps or other irregularities. The facilitators highlighted the importance of consistency in performing BSE on a regular basis and encouraged the attendee to seek medical advice if any suspicious changes were detected. At the conclusion of the workshop, a question-and-answer session was held, allowing participants to clarify doubts and discuss specific concerns related to breast health. The interactive nature of this segment fostered a deeper understanding of breast cancer prevention and self-care strategies.

Nursing Education from the Past to a Sustainable Future: Addressing and Embracing Opportunities

The workshop aimed to provide first-year nursing students with an in-depth understanding of the historical evolution of nursing and its current practices. The role of nurses in the 21st century were explained, emphasizing the characteristics of professional nursing, general nursing duties, the code of ethics, and the diverse career opportunities available within the field of nursing. The event was supervised by Dr. Layla Mohamad Salih, Head of the Nursing Department, and presented by Dr. Ronak Hassan Barwari, Assistant Professor from the University of Duhok, College of Nursing

Raising Awareness: The Harmful Effects of Substance Abuse on the Human Body

The workshop centered on highlighting both the mental and physical repercussions of drug abuse. Additionally, it included a discussion on religious perspectives regarding this significant issue. The session concluded with an emphasis on prevention strategies and safeguarding the youth from substance abuse.