Microbiota Gut-Brain Axis and Neurodegenerative Disease: A systematic review on Alzheimer’s disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Parkinson Disease

This review highlights the microbiota gut-brain axis and neurodegenerative diseases excluding studies on animal models. Gut microbiota is capable of modulating some brain activities via the microbiota gut-brain axis. A bidirectional communication exists between the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the central nervous system (CNS) in the microbiota gut-brain axis. Gut dysbiosis has been linked to neurodegenerative diseases as a result of the imbalance in the composition of its microbiota, which has a damaging effect on the host’s health. The association between the role and mechanism of CNS disease and gut microbial is yet to be fully explored. Although some studies have shown a positive relationship between a rich diverse microbial community and the brain of the host, and a negative relationship between microbial dysbiosis, intestinal infection and human brain health, our knowledge, however, is limited due to the inability to identify the major players in this heterogeneous microbial community

Pharmacist-led smoking cessation: The attitudes and practices of community pharmacists in Lagos state, Nigeria: A mixed methods survey

Introduction Community pharmacists are well-positioned to support smoking cessation particularly in low and middle income countries. This study aims to assess the attitudes, barriers and pattern of pharmacist-led smoking cessation services and explore the factors associated with the willingness to offer smoking cessation services. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out using qualitative and quantitative methods. Two hundred and forty two community pharmaceutical premises were randomly selected and interviewed. In addition, one Focus Group Discussion was carried out among nine members of the state branch of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria in Lagos state. Results Approximately 92% had ever encountered smokers in the course of their work however only 49.6% had ever inquired of their smoking status and 49.1% had offered some form of cessation support. Only 44% had NRT’s available within their pharmaceutical premises. Majority (68.5%) were willing to offer smoking cessation services in their premises however only 44.6% had ever received any prior training on tobacco cessation. Those who believed that pharmacists had the required training to offer smoking cessation services were more willing to provide these services. Qualitative findings also revealed that majority felt they had a unique role to play in providing tobacco cessation services. Conclusions These pharmacists were willing to provide smoking cessation services within their practice, however they may require specific training to do so effectively. In developing guidelines for community based smoking cessation, it is recommended that pharmacists be engaged and trained for the provision of smoking cessation services within the community