By Kemi Akintokun
The Scoliosis Focus Foundation on Saturday stressed early medical intervention for scoliosis patients, especially children, to improve outcomes and quality of life.
Founder, Dr Ayomide Akintan-Adejuwon, spoke at the foundation’s 12th anniversary celebration in Lagos, describing scoliosis as a deformity of the spine.
The programme, organised in partnership with God’s Love Medical Mission, had the theme, ‘The Hope of Glory’.
Akintan-Adejuwon, a general practitioner at Gbagada General Hospital, urged parents to present children with spinal deformities early for proper medical management.
She said late presentation often results from spiritual misconceptions or lack of funds, worsening the condition and treatment outcomes.
“There is a need for awareness to enlighten Nigerians and stop the stigmatisation experienced by people living with scoliosis.
“Scoliosis is not a disease or attack. It is a deformity of the spine, mostly idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown.
“If you notice a deformity you don’t understand, the first step is to take the child to a healthcare centre or hospital,” she said.
She cautioned parents against patronising traditional bone healers, warning that mismanagement could result in paralysis.
Akintan-Adejuwon, who also lives with scoliosis, said the foundation has supported patients through treatment, counselling and awareness programmes nationwide.
“In the last 12 years, we have supported individuals with scoliosis and other deformities requiring special care.
“We work with over 20 participants across the country and collaborate with the National Orthopaedic Hospital, Lagos, for urgent cases,” she said
She appealed to government to provide more resources to improve access to care for scoliosis patients.
Consultant spine surgeon, Dr Mutaleeb Shobode, said scoliosis is more common in girls, with nine out of every ten reported cases.
He described scoliosis as a sideways spinal deformity, often affecting the right side, noting that not all cases require surgery.
“Children with curves between 20 and 40 degrees can be managed with braces,” Shobode explained.
He identified late presentation, personnel shortages and inadequate facilities as key challenges, urging investment in local capacity.
Also speaking, Mrs Kemi Aina, who lives with scoliosis, recounted lifelong stigmatisation during her education.
Aina, now an accountant and mother of two, encouraged patients to rise above the condition and pursue their ambitions.
“If you see beyond your physical deformity, you can achieve whatever you want in life,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Modupe Adeloye / Kamal Tayo Oropo
