Drug abuse and lack of proper drug literacy have become significant global health issues, with Nigeria facing its own challenges in this regard. Stella Babatope, a leading scientist, has raised critical concerns about the growing abuse of pharmaceutical drugs, particularly contraceptives, and their potentially devastating long-term health effects. In a review highlighting the findings of her 2019 research at Babcock University, Babatope calls for stronger drug regulation and improved literacy to curb the misuse of contraceptives among young Nigerians.
Pharmaceutical drugs, especially contraceptives, play a crucial role in reproductive health management worldwide. However, misuse and uncontrolled consumption, particularly of combined oral contraceptives (COCs), have raised alarms about their side effects, which can lead to conditions such as cardiometabolic syndrome. COCs, which combine estrogen and progesterone, are widely prescribed for birth control, as well as for managing hormonal imbalances and menopausal symptoms. While effective when used correctly, improper use of COCs can lead to severe side effects such as hormonal dysregulation, weight gain, menstrual cycle disruptions, and the development of cardiometabolic syndrome.
In her 2019 study, Babatope examined the consequences of COC abuse among young girls in Nigeria. She discovered that the drug’s side effects, such as weight gain, are often misunderstood or ignored, leading to misuse. This situation is exacerbated by the lack of education about the drug’s potential risks, especially among youth who may not fully understand its impact on their health.
To investigate this issue, Babatope conducted a four-month experimental study on female guinea pigs at Babcock University. The study explored the effects of COCs and potential corrective measures for their adverse outcomes. Her research, titled Ameliorating Effect of Ganoderma lucidum on Combined Oral Contraceptive-induced Cardiometabolic Syndrome in Female Guinea Pigs, found that Ganoderma lucidum, a medicinal mushroom, could potentially mitigate the negative side effects of COCs.
Babatope’s findings underline the urgent need for improved drug literacy and stronger regulatory measures to ensure the safe use of contraceptives in Nigeria. Without proper education and regulation, the unchecked use of COCs can lead to serious health complications, including glucose dysregulation (diabetes), obesity, insulin resistance, and increased cardiovascular disease risk.
“The Nigerian government must take immediate action to raise awareness about pharmaceutical drug literacy and enforce stricter regulations to protect the health of young people,” said Babatope. “Education on the risks of drug misuse and proper medical guidance are essential to prevent these harmful consequences.”
Babatope’s research advocates for the urgent reform of Nigeria’s education system to better educate individuals about the dangers of pharmaceutical misuse. She also calls for enhanced regulations surrounding the sale and distribution of contraceptives, with better oversight in medical and educational institutions.
Stella Babatope is a licensed medical laboratory scientist with expertise in pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences. She has contributed significantly to research on cardiometabolic health, diabetic wound healing, menopause, and neuroscience. Currently serving as a Research Assistant at the University of Georgia, USA, Babatope continues her work in cancer research. Her dedication to scientific advancement and public health advocacy positions her as a leading voice in the movement for better pharmaceutical education and regulation.
ANTHONY EMEKA NWOSU
“The Nigerian government must take immediate action to raise awareness about pharmaceutical drug literacy and enforce stricter regulations to protect the health of young people,” said Babatope. “Education on the risks of drug misuse and proper medical guidance are essential to prevent these harmful consequences.”
