By Chinedum Treasure
A lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Prof. Solomon Ukibe, has described parasitology as a critical foundation of medical practice, urging greater attention to the field.
Ukibe made the call while delivering the university’s 124th inaugural lecture titled “Parasitology: The Basis of Medical Practice.”
He noted that despite its relevance, parasitology is often overlooked, even though many medical conditions originate from parasitic infections.
According to him, parasitology cuts across all areas of medicine, including surgery, gynecology and internal medicine. He warned against misdiagnosis, stressing that some illnesses mistaken for malaria, typhoid or even cancer could be parasite-related.
He also highlighted the widespread impact of malaria, noting it affects multiple organs and is often improperly treated without proper diagnosis.
In his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Ugochukwu Anyaehie, represented by Prof. Angela Ufele-Obesie, likened unproductive staff to “parasites,” saying such attitudes hinder institutional growth.
Anyaehie emphasized the importance of responsibility and productivity, adding that parasites remain a major challenge in healthcare, particularly in developing regions.
Tags:
Parasitology, Medical Practice, UNIZIK, Solomon Ukibe, Malaria, Health, Nigeria, Medical Microbiology, Education, Inaugural Lecture
