Juliet Jacob 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The Wellbeing Foundation Africa is stepping up efforts to counter dangerous myths about neonatal jaundice, warning that misinformation is costing newborn lives.
Through its Project Oscar – Light for Life Neonatal Jaundice and Kernicterus Screening Programme, the foundation educates mothers and caregivers on early recognition and treatment.
“Too often, jaundice is misinterpreted as a curse or the result of ‘bad blood’, when in reality it is caused by excess bilirubin,” the group said.
In a statement on Friday, the foundation debunked claims that sunlight alone cures jaundice, stressing that untreated cases can lead to kernicterus, a permanent form of brain damage.
It urged families to seek urgent hospital care, where phototherapy and medical supervision are available.
Another common myth—halting breastfeeding—was strongly condemned. “On the contrary, frequent feeding helps babies pass stool and urine, which reduces bilirubin,” the foundation explained.
Warning signs like dark urine, pale stools, or persistent yellowing should prompt immediate hospital visits, it said.
The foundation’s campaign aims to demystify misconceptions, empower mothers, and save lives by pushing for earlier medical intervention and better neonatal care access nationwide.
Foundation Fights Deadly Myths on Neonatal Jaundice in Nigeria
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