A Consultant Dermatologist, Dr Ayesha Akinkugbe, has warned that misuse of topical corticosteroids (steroids) could be
harmful to human health.
Akinkugbe, a Senior Lecturer, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, gave the warning at a Dermatology Clinic Outreach to
Makoko Community on Saturday in Lagos.
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The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that topical corticosteroids (steroids) are medications applied directly to the skin to
reduce inflammation and irritation.
They are available in several different forms, including: creams, lotions and ointments.
Akinkugbe said that many consumers misused and abused topical creams due to easy access to anti-inflammatory products
that were available on the counter and through direct sales.
She said that self-administering of most triple action creams and steroids cause patients more harm than good, adding doctors
prescribe creams or ointments for a specific period of time after analyzing the ailments.
According to her, its abuse may lead to severe rashes, pimples, sunlight allergy, discoloration and thinning of the skin, among
others.
Akinkugbe said that the outreach was a collaboration among dermatologists, Vaseline Healing Project and an NGO, Direct
Relief.
According to her, the outreach will increase knowledge of basic skin, nails and hair care practices, increase knowledge about
infectious diseases of bacteria, viruses and fungi, as well as parasitic infestation.
“Makoko is a Riverine Community. We have seen cases of fungal infection of the nails because most of them work with their
hands.
“We have also noticed the resurgence in scabies which might be due to overcrowding,” she said.
The expert said that treatment would be given for scabies, ringworm, acne, eczema, among others, and referral to hospitals for
those that require more attention.
Also, Bhupi Singh, Executive Vice President, Direct Relief, said that the organisation had equipped health professionals in
resource-poor communities.
This, he said was aimed at meeting the challenges of diagnosing, treating, and caring for people in need.
Singh said that through its partnership with the Vaseline Healing Project, they had trained about 300 dermatologists, nurses
and community health workers in Nigeria on best skincare practices.
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He said the project was its first in Nigeria, adding that to ensure its success, boats and buses were provided to convey the
residents to the outreach location, with over 500 beneficiaries.
Singh expressed concern about pharmacists prescribing much steroids to people, issues of bleaching, use of harsh chemicals on
the face and skin, stressing that it was dangerous to health.
“The dermatologists will advice on the best treatment and care, and also give Vaseline to everyone to ensure better protection,”
he said.
Commenting, Mr Solomon Gbinigie, Council Leader, Yaba Local Council Development Area, commended the organizers for the
initiative, saying that health was a critical issue in Africa.
Gbinigie advised the people against self medication, urging them to visit healthcare centers and hospitals for medical
treatment.
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