According to him, the purpose of the administration of the vaccine was to help curb mother-to-child HBV transmission and would be administered within 24 hours.

Dr Amponsah-Achiano said this at a National Hepatitis B birth dose stakeholders forum held in Accra yesterday to provide stakeholders the opportunity to make valuable input into the implementation of the Hepatitis B birth dose programme by the government.

The forum was co-hosted by the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the Hepatitis Foundation of Ghana. He explained that the Hepatitis B birth dose programme was part of the commitment of the Ghana Health Service (GHS) to combat the Hepatitis B, improve public health, and achieve broader health goals by 2030.

Furthermore, Dr Amponsah-Achiano said that the government was adequately prepared to roll out the administration of the HBV vaccines for babies at birth within 24 hours.

According to him, the Ministry of Health recently developed a plan towards ensuring Ghana self-finances her immunisation programmes as the country transitions from Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI) vaccine support by 2030.

Dr Amponsah-Achiano said that the government had updated the country’s immunisation policy and the EPI Field Guide to reflect Hepatitis B birth dose vaccines.

In addition, he said that the government had updated data recording and reporting tools at the Ministry of Health to reflect the Hepatitis B birth dose vaccination, while the application submitted to GAVI for the introduction of “Hepatitis B birth dose into routine immigration programmes” had been approved.

“Hepatitis B vaccine is not new, but what we are introducing now is the one that we will give to a child who is newly born so that we can prevent the mother-to-child transmission.

It’s been on the drawing board for many years, but fortunately, we have the green light to bring it on board to complete the recommendation of three doses minimum by the World Health Organisation, including the birth dose,” Dr Amponsah-Achiano said.

For his part, the Director General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, in a speech read on his behalf by the Managing Director of the Ghana Infectious Disease Centre, Dr Joseph Adjetey Oliver-Commey, highlighted the importance of immunisation in ensuring that the country minimised the mother-to-child HBV transmission.

Professor Akoriyea also stressed the need for the country to leverage collective expertise, resources and prioritise capacity-building to enable her to achieve the objectives of the immunisation of babies against HBV and prevent mother-to-child transmission of the virus.

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The initiative brings together health professionals, religious and traditional leaders, institutions, and identifiable groups. Youth groups will take a lead role in reaching out to their peers.

The campaign, themed “Life Not Poison,” aims to break the cycle of drug abuse that threatens to waste the potential of young people, starting from Suhum.

Speaking to Adom News, Mr. Asiedu Bekoe expressed deep concern over alarming social media content and documentaries highlighting the growing trend of drug abuse among the youth—whom he described as future leaders and potential parents.

“Ghana is in crisis. The rate of substance abuse is alarming,” he stated.

The launch event saw participation from the Suhum Chief Imam, health directorates, political leaders, and legal experts, all of whom addressed attendees.

Mr. Asiedu Bekoe explained that the campaign will be rolled out across various communities within and beyond the Suhum Constituency.

“I’m not only supporting emergency health needs, but also raising awareness, sensitising the public, and building a support system to connect affected youth with health officers and counsellors,” he said.

He stressed that the fight against substance abuse requires collective action, warning: “Red is not a painkiller—it’s a life killer.”

The MP urged the youth to stay focused and avoid drug use, stating that research has shown no benefits—only destruction, poverty, illness, and in some cases, death.

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In a statement released Wednesday, the Minority Health Caucus described the Minister’s action as “unlawful, void, and of no effect,” accusing him of violating statutory procedures and the principles of natural justice.

They argued that the dismissal was carried out without due process as required under the Ghana Health Service and Teaching Hospitals Act.

The Minority noted that the Minister’s justification—that the appointing authority owes no explanation—was authoritarian and contrary to democratic norms.

They further criticised the lack of involvement of the hospital’s Governing Board or the President, as stipulated by law.

The group also took issue with the Minister’s unannounced inspection of the facility, during which he reportedly clashed with staff over the poor state of infrastructure.

A public confrontation with respected neurologist Dr. Valentine Akwulpwa during the visit drew particular ire, with the Minority describing it as demeaning and insensitive.

Calling for the immediate reinstatement of Dr. Atiku and a formal apology to hospital staff, the Caucus urged professional health bodies and civil society to resist what they called a dangerous precedent of arbitrary ministerial action.

The Minority pledged to pursue legal and parliamentary remedies to ensure accountability and preserve the sanctity of public health institutions.

Read the full statement below:

Wednesday, 23rd April, 2025
STATEMENT BY THE MINORITY CAUCUS IN PARLIAMENT ON THE REMOVAL
OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF TAMALE TEACHING HOSPITAL BY
THE MINISTER FOR HEALTH
1. The Minority Health Caucus in Parliament has received with deep concern the news
of the summary dismissal of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Tamale Teaching
Hospital, Dr. Adam Atiku, by the newly appointed Minister for Health, Hon. Kwabena
Mintah Akandoh. This action, which the Minister has publicly confirmed, was carried
out without recourse to due process and is a matter that raises serious constitutional,
administrative, and governance concerns.
2. According to the Minister, the dismissal is not solely based on the recent unfortunate
death of a patient at the Hospital, but rather an exercise of power which, by his own
admission, the “appointing authority owes nobody any explanation” for. This attitude is
not only authoritarian but diametrically opposed to the principles of administrative
justice, accountability, and the rule of law.
3. It is important to restate the governing legal framework for the administration of
Teaching Hospitals in Ghana. Section 37(1)(e) of the Ghana Health Service and
Teaching Hospitals (Amendment) Act, 2019 (Act 1009), provides that the Chief
Executive Officer of a teaching hospital shall be the Chief Administrator and a member
of the Hospital’s Governing Board. The law does not confer unilateral power on the
Minister of Health to dismiss the CEO of a teaching hospital, let alone in the manner
and under the circumstances now in issue.
4. Furthermore, Section 34(7) of the parent Act 525 stipulates that the removal of a
member of a Teaching Hospital Board, which includes the CEO, must be effected by
the President in consultation with the Council of State. The procedure adopted by the
Minister thus violates the statutory safeguards surrounding appointments and
removals at this level of public administration.
5. In addition, Sections 42(2)(d) and 46 of the Act mandate that disciplinary matters
arising at a teaching hospital must first be referred to the Disciplinary Committee,
which is required to investigate and report its findings to the Board. There is no
indication that any such procedure was invoked in this instance, and therefore the
dismissal of Dr. Adam Atiku lacks both procedural and substantive fairness.
6. We are also compelled to point out that the Minister’s actions were not only unlawful
but emotionally charged and rash. It is reported that the Minister undertook a surprise
inspection of the Tamale Teaching Hospital and, during the visit, was involved in a
heated confrontation with staff members over the facility’s deplorable state of
equipment and infrastructure. Among the critical equipment found to be non-functional
were ventilators, diagnostic and sterilisation machinery, and MRI scanning systems.
This confrontation followed the recent death of a patient, reportedly due to the absence
of a working ventilator.
7. In the course of this unannounced visit, the Minister publicly confronted a medical
officer, Dr. Valentine Akwulpwa—a highly respected neurologist, widely believed to be
the only one serving the entire Northern Region, and possibly one of fewer than four
across the Northern and Upper Regions. Dr. Akwulpwa has served the people of
Northern Ghana with dedication since completing medical school. Rather than
engaging in a private and professional dialogue, the Minister chose to interrogate him
over the circumstances surrounding the recent death of a patient—right in the
presence of the public and the media. This conduct was not only disrespectful to Dr.
Akwulpwa, but also profoundly inconsiderate to the family of the deceased. Matters of
mortality and clinical accountability must be handled with the utmost sensitivity and
confidentiality. The Minister’s public outburst was demeaning, inappropriate, and a
breach of the decorum that must govern professional interactions in healthcare. Every
well-meaning medical practitioner would rightly view this as a collective affront—not
just to Dr. Akwulpwa, but to the dignity of the entire medical profession.
8. The Minister’s public berating of Dr. Akwulpwa, and the implicit disregard for his
long-standing service to an under-resourced region, sends a chilling message to
medical professionals across the country. It suggests a climate where frontline health
workers can be publicly humiliated without cause, and where emotional, populist
grandstanding takes precedence over principled and lawful conduct. We affirm,
without reservation, that mortality review and clinical accountability must always be
done with sensitivity, privacy, and respect for professional decorum—and not as a
political spectacle.
9. Beyond the statutory violations, we find the Minister’s actions to be in breach of the
principles of natural justice. Dr. Atiku, the CEO in question, was neither granted a
hearing nor informed of any misconduct that would warrant his removal. Ghanaian
jurisprudence, including the case of Inspector James Atta v. Inspector General of
Police and Others, is replete with authority that administrative actions affecting the
rights and reputation of individuals must be preceded by fair hearing and procedural
propriety. This standard has clearly been disregarded in the present case.
10. In light of the foregoing, the Minority calls for the immediate reversal of the decision
to remove Dr. Adam Atiku from office. The action is unlawful, void, and of no effect.
We further call on the Minister to formally apologise to Dr. Valentine Akwulpwa and the
staff of the Tamale Teaching Hospital for the unprofessional manner in which the visit
and subsequent discussions were conducted.
11. The Minority Caucus further calls on the Ghana Medical Association, the Ghana
Registered Nurses and Midwives Association, the Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana,
the Health Services Workers Union, and all relevant professional bodies within the
health sector to rise in defence of due process and institutional integrity. Civil society
organisations must also speak boldly to this matter, for the protection of
constitutionalism and the independence of public service institutions is a shared civic
duty. The sanctity of Ghana’s public health institutions must be preserved, and the
demoralisation of our healthcare professionals halted.
12. The Minority remains committed to upholding the rule of law, and to defending the
integrity of our public institutions from arbitrary and unlawful interference. We shall
explore all legal and parliamentary avenues to ensure that this matter is not swept
under the carpet.
SIGNED
HON. DR. NANA AYEW AFRIYIE -RANKING – 0501287870
HON. DR. PATRICK BOAKYE-YIADOM -DEPUTY RANKING – 0244589725
HON. DR. KINGSLEY AGYEMANG -MEMBER
HON. FRANK YEBOAH -MEMBER
HON. ALEXANDRE AKWASI ACQUAH -MEMBER – 0244603554 – 0245597413 – 0208131968

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The $10 million project, led by Asantehene Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, aims to fully restore the hospital to a modern and dignified state after many years of deterioration. The newly refurbished wards are now being used by inpatients, and the focus is shifting to raising funds for the next stage of the project.

KATH’s Public Relations Officer, Mr Kwame Frimpong, speaking on Joy FM’s midday news on Friday, April 18, shared more details about the plans.

He explained that the project includes a strong maintenance plan to keep the refurbished wards in good condition for the future.

“A key component of the project is also a maintenance fund. The initial 10 million dollars, the project managers decided that at least a tenth of that amount should be set aside for maintenance. So there is a very robust plan to ensure that the facilities that we have now been able to replace and thanks to the Asantehene the facilities are maintained, and we will do the best that we can to ensure that over time, it will not just deteriorate as it has happened to the 70-year-old block,” he said.

Mr Frimpong also gave a roadmap for the next steps in the renovation.

“All four old D blocks have not received any comprehensive renovation since their construction in 1955. So, the expectation is that if the A4, A5, and A3 are done, we will be moving to A2 and then A1. That would have completed the A block. Then we will move to the B block, the C block and the D block,” he explained.

The upgrades are not just about looks. “Just as it has happened in the areas that we have started, all the washrooms and the WCs [Water Closets], we are doubling or tripling the numbers. This facility was constructed 70 years ago. The number of patients then was not the huge numbers we see now, but the washrooms have remained the same. We are tripling, at least doubling them,” Mr Frimpong said.

Other improvements include new window systems with mosquito-proof nets, which the current design does not allow.

“We are changing all window systems at the wards so they will have mosquito-proof netting. The current system does not allow for mosquito-proof nets to be fixed because we have to open them out, so it is not compatible,” he said.

Mr Frimpong also revealed that the oxygen supply is being upgraded. “We are also laying new oxygen pipes in the wards to ensure that every bed will have access to an oxygen supply. The current wards do not have this advantage.”

He stressed that the work is more than renovation. “It is a comprehensive and total modernisation. We are also modernising the remaining wards that will be tackled in the course of the project,” he said.

Meanwhile, a fundraising and awards dinner, which was expected to support the next phase, has been postponed.

“The fundraising event regrettably has been postponed due to circumstances beyond the control of the organisers,” Mr Frimpong announced.

“We take this opportunity to apologise to all those who have indicated that they were coming, but because of this postponement, we would have to change their schedule. We are doing this in conjunction with the Manhyia Palace, and a new date will soon be communicated to the public.”

The four-day exercise is aimed at assessing the state of healthcare infrastructure, identifying challenges, and recommending strategies to improve health service delivery across the country.

The Committee will be split into three teams, covering hospitals in Bolgatanga, Tamale, Wa, Damongo, Techiman, Kumasi, Koforidua, Ho, and Accra.

According to the Committee, the tour forms part of its efforts to promote quality and accessible healthcare for all Ghanaians.

During the visits, Members of Parliament will engage directly with healthcare professionals and gather firsthand accounts of the operational challenges confronting these facilities.

The Committee has encouraged all relevant stakeholders to interact with the visiting teams, to provide insights that will help shape policies aimed at strengthening Ghana’s healthcare system.

Read the statement below:

ATTN: EDITOR

ALL MEDIA HOUSES

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PARLIAMENT HEALTH COMMITTEE TOURS REGIONAL AND TEACHING HOSPITALS

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Health will embark on an extensive four-day tour of Regional and Teaching Hospitals across the country from Tuesday, 22nd to Friday, 25th April 2025. This initiative seeks to evaluate the current status of these healthcare institutions, identify challenges, and formulate actionable strategies to enhance the delivery of healthcare services nationwide. The Committee will undertake the assessment exercise in teams of three (3), and are as follows:

• Team one (1) – Bolgatanga Regional Hospital, Nalerigu Regional Hospital, Tamale Teaching Hospital, Tamale Regional Hospital, and Wa Regional Hospital.
• Team two (2) – Damongo Regional Hospital, Techiman Regional Hospital, Sunyani Regional Hospital, and Goaso Regional Hospital.
• Team three (3) – Kumasi Regional Hospital. Okomfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, Koforidua Regional Hospital, Ho Regional Hospital, Ho Teaching Hospital, and the Greater Accra Regional Hospital.

The purpose of the tour is to assess the current health care infrastructure and service delivery in the country. This is aligned with the Committee’s overarching objective to promote and ensure quality healthcare delivery to all Ghanaians. It will also provide Members of Parliament the chance to get a first-hand understanding of the challenges faced by these essential organizations, meet with health practitioners, and receive first-hand accounts relating to operational difficulties of these institutions. The Committee encourages all stakeholders to actively engage with the teams during the visits and share insights that can help improve healthcare delivery in Ghana.

The Parliamentary Select Committee on Health is responsible for the oversight of Ghana’s health policies, programmes, and institutions. It works to ensure that the country’s healthcare system is efficient, accessible, and responsive to the needs of all citizens.

DAVID SEBASTIAN DAMOAH

DIRECTOR, MEDIA RELATIONS

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In response to this growing need, a significant step has been taken toward the creation of the Kumawu Nursing and Midwifery College, an institution set to provide comprehensive nursing education and nurture a new generation of highly skilled healthcare professionals for the nation.

A nine-member Implementation Committee was inaugurated on Wednesday, 16th April 2025, by the Kumawumanhene, Barima Sarfo Tweneboa Kodua, alongside the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Konongo-Mampong, Rev. Msgr. John Opoku-Agyemang.

The Committee draws its membership from the Catholic Church, the Kumawu Traditional Council, the Sekyere Kumawu District Assembly, the District Health Directorate, and the office of the Member of Parliament for Kumawu Constituency, Ernest Yaw Anim.

The Committee has been tasked with key responsibilities including proposing a suitable name for the new college, securing the necessary accreditation, and developing a clear and realistic timeline for its establishment.

Speaking at the brief inauguration ceremony in Kumawu, Barima Sarfo Tweneboa Kodua urged the Committee to work with dedication and unity of purpose, stressing that collaboration and commitment were crucial to realizing the vision.

Member of Parliament for Kumawu, Ernest Yaw Anim, pledged his full backing for the initiative, assuring the Kumawumanhene and the Konongo-Mampong Catholic Diocese of his office’s unwavering support.

“We are committed to taking effective actions to ensure the College is established, in order to deliver transformative benefits in healthcare education and services to Kumawuman and the nation at large,” the MP stated.

Rev. Msgr. John Opoku-Agyemang also reiterated the Catholic Diocese’s commitment to the project, pledging both moral and logistical support for the successful execution of the college.

During their maiden meeting, the Committee deliberated on essential infrastructural requirements, including the construction of classrooms and dormitories, as well as the renovation of the historic Kumawu Hospital building to support the College’s academic and practical training needs.

Once fully operational, the Kumawu Nursing and Midwifery College is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening Ghana’s nursing profession and enhancing healthcare delivery across the country.

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The payment follows the recent uncapping of NHIA funds, a move the Authority says will ensure the timely settlement of claims going forward.

Chief Executive Officer of the NHIA, Dr Victor Bampoe, expressed confidence in the scheme’s financial future.

“The President has instructed the Finance Minister to release, within 30 days, the funds accrued to the National Health Insurance Scheme. We expect to receive funds more regularly, so we can, in turn, pay service providers promptly,” Dr Bampoe said.

The NHIA is also set to expand its free dialysis programme to improve access to life-saving treatment for kidney patients nationwide.

As part of the initiative, the Authority will procure additional dialysis machines and essential consumables for health facilities across the country.

Dr Bampoe explained that the expansion forms part of government efforts to strengthen critical healthcare delivery and ensure more patients with renal conditions are covered under the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS).

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While commending the mother for bravely sharing her story during Autism Awareness Month, the PSG emphasized that the claims made in the video are medically inaccurate.

“Babies may require oxygen as part of medical care, but it is not a cause of autism,” the Society stated.

In alignment with this year’s World Autism Awareness Day theme, “Advancing Neurodiversity and the UN Sustainable Development Goals,” the PSG reiterated that autism is a neurodevelopmental condition influenced by genetic and environmental factors — not curses, vaccines, or isolated medical interventions.

The Society also raised concerns about the potential negative effects of excessive screen time, which may worsen symptoms of autism.

PSG urged health workers to be vigilant in identifying and referring children with potential signs of ASD for appropriate care.

Dr. Hilda Mantebea Boye, President of the PSG, called for greater public support, urging parents, teachers, religious leaders, and caregivers to seek early medical help for children with developmental concerns.

“Early intervention improves outcomes,” she emphasized, stressing the importance of fighting stigma and fostering inclusivity for children with autism in Ghanaian communities.

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The announcement was made during a media workshop aimed at strengthening cholera risk reporting in the region.

Speaking to JoyNews, Akumatey Tetteh, the Greater Accra Regional EPI Manager, confirmed the milestone, describing it as a major public health achievement.

“I can confidently say that Greater Accra is cholera-free at the moment,” Tetteh noted. “During the first and second quarters of this year, we recorded 151 cases and 10 deaths. However, as of now, there have been no new cases. Our surveillance shows zero reports of cholera, and we are safe for now.”

Eunice Joan Teah Dzagli, the Greater Accra Regional Health Promotion Officer, also stressed the region’s commitment to maintaining this status, especially during the rainy season.

“We are aiming for zero cholera cases during this rainy season,” she said. “Achieving this goal requires a collective effort from the media, religious bodies, and various agencies. We do not want to return to the challenges we faced in November, December, and January.”

The declaration marks a significant step in the region’s efforts to strengthen public health and prevent future outbreaks.

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His remarks follow a string of devastating floods in Accra, especially during the rainy season, which continue to claim lives and destroy property.

The persistent flooding has largely been attributed to poor waste disposal habits, unregulated construction, and inadequate drainage systems that leave communities vulnerable.

Speaking on the Citi Breakfast Show, Dr. Kuyon said Ghana’s failure to prevent flooding goes beyond technical constraints, arguing that the core issues are behavioral and leadership-related.

“If we all change the way of doing things, history will take a different course and will never recur. What is happening is that we are those who cause the flooding. Until we as a people begin to change our lifestyle, this stopping or prevention will be a herculean task.

“We can do all that we have to do, like the GARID project, but nothing will happen if we don’t make a change. People were assigned to do this project, timelines have passed, but it has not been done. You cannot do magic to prevent the flooding because people have failed to do their job,” he stated.

Dr. Kuyon further highlighted institutional inaction and weak leadership as central to the recurring problem.

“Part of the problem is leadership. Some agencies and departments are to ensure that these things are done, but they fail in that duty.

“NADMO can do everything by going round, identifying disaster sites, putting in the measures to stop that disaster from occurring but if other related authorities do not do their part, the disaster cannot be prevented,” he added.

CAPHA noted that the government’s pledges align closely with its December 2024 public appeal, urging action on critical issues such as stunting, anaemia, low birth weight, and poor dietary diversity among vulnerable groups.

The coalition welcomed the ambitious targets outlined in Commitment 1, including halving stunting in children under five, reducing anaemia in women of reproductive age by 50%, lowering low birth weight by 30%, and increasing exclusive breastfeeding to 70%.

CAPHA described these targets as bold steps in line with the World Health Assembly Nutrition Goals, marking significant progress in Ghana’s fight against long-standing nutrition challenges.

In addition, CAPHA praised the government’s Commitment 7 to implement evidence-based strategies to tackle micronutrient deficiencies, notably making multiple micronutrient supplements (MMS) a standard part of antenatal care.

The organisation highlighted the potential of this intervention to greatly improve maternal and fetal health outcomes.

Another key highlight is Commitment 5, which seeks to extend maternity leave from 12 to at least 18 weeks across all sectors. CAPHA called this a “progressive shift” that supports exclusive breastfeeding, enhances maternal recovery, and ensures better early childhood care.

Commitment 2 was also acknowledged for its focus on fully implementing Ghana’s National Food-Based Dietary Guidelines, which include public education campaigns, professional training, eliminating industrial trans fats, and adopting nutrition labelling systems to improve food environments, particularly for pregnant women and children.

However, CAPHA emphasised the importance of swift and sustained implementation to achieve tangible results.

The coalition urged the government to ensure adequate funding, as outlined in Commitment 9, which promises at least USD 6 million annually for nutrition commodities.

“We call on the government to move beyond declarations and walk the talk. Strong intersectoral coordination and accountability systems will be crucial,” CAPHA stated. The organisation reaffirmed its support for the government and its resolve to advocate for maternal and child nutrition as a national development priority.

He called for intensified awareness creation among residents to ensure that they are abreast with the signs, symptoms and precautionary measures to help in the prevention of the spread of the disease and early detection for timely treatment.

Professor Akoriyea made the call during an engagement with the Upper East Regional Coordinating Council in Bolgatanga as part of a working visit to the region since his assumption into office earlier this year.

In the early part of 2025, the country recorded its meningitis cases in the Upper West Region, and as of February, 16 persons had lost their lives to the disease out of the total 173 suspected cases.

Additionally, in the Upper East Region, two persons out of 31 suspected meningitis cases died, although the region has not recorded a meningitis outbreak.

The Director General noted that although the meningitis situation was under control, the situation was not over, and it was imperative for stakeholders in the health sector, especially in the two regions (Upper West Region and Upper East Region), to be cautious and vigilant to prevent its spread.

He expressed concern over people’s failure to visit the health facilities for treatment when experiencing the signs and symptoms but assured the public that GHS had procured enough vaccines to contain the situation.

Professor Akoriyea stressed the need for robust surveillance at the country’s borders and entry points, adding that the diseases could infiltrate into the country from the Sahelian countries due to proximity.

The Director General decried the shortage of health workers in the Upper East Region, attributing it to staff refusing postings to the area due to insecurity, particularly in conflict-prone areas like Bawku.

“Without peace, health indicators will not improve,” he stated, emphasising that safety concerns deter professionals from working in the region.

He also criticised interference in staff transfers by influential figures, calling for support to ensure equitable distribution of health workers.

Speaking on behalf of Mr Donatus Atanga Akamugri, the Upper East Regional Minister, Al-Hassan Ibrahim Abdul-Kadir, the Acting Regional Coordinating Director, acknowledged the concerns raised by the Director General, pledging to address them with the Regional Minister.

He noted that there are ongoing efforts and collaboration with the Ghana Medical Association to enhance security for health workers in the Region.

The year-long campaign on the theme: “Are Your Kidneys OK? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health”, highlights the potentially life-changing impact of early detection and intervention in preventing and managing kidney disease.

The Ghana Kidney Association marked the day with a range of activities, including a webinar on March 13, chaired by Prof. Sampson Antwi.

It featured seasoned kidney specialists such as Prof. Vincent Boima, Dr Beatrice Nyann, Perditer Okyere, Elliot Koranteng Tannor and Edward Kwakyi.

The objectives of World Kidney Day include:
•    Raising awareness about our “amazing kidneys” highlights that diabetes and high blood pressure are key risk factors for Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD).
•    Encouraging systematic screening of all patients with diabetes and hypertension for CKD.
•    Encouraging preventive behaviours.
•    Educating all medical professionals about their key role in detecting and reducing the risk of CKD, particularly in high-risk populations.
•    Stressing the important role of local and national health authorities in controlling the CKD epidemic.
•    Encouraging Transplantation as a best-outcome option for kidney failure and the act of organ donation as a life-saving initiative

In achieving this objective, the Ghana Kidney Association has been conducting educational programmes and screening for kidney disease every year during WKD events.

The association has been to almost every region in Ghana to educate Ghanaians and to conduct free screening programmes for kidney disease and its risk factors. These advocacy programmes are important because the burden of chronic kidney disease is on the rise.

It is expected that in low-to-middle-income countries, the burden is at least three to four times that of high-income countries.

Again, the people affected in these countries are young, between the ages of 20 to 50 years, representing the economically productive group of our society, most of whom cannot afford the cost of dialysis or kidney transplantation.

Prevention, therefore, is the key to curtailing the rising burden of this disease.

Normally, everyone is born with two kidneys, except in certain rare situations where people are born with just one kidney.

The kidneys primarily remove toxins and waste products from the blood. Other functions of the kidneys include controlling blood pressure, maintaining healthy bones, controlling water balance, controlling acid-base balance and production of a hormone called erythropoietin, which plays a key role in the formation of red blood cells.

In addition, the kidneys ensure that certain key minerals in the body, such as potassium, sodium, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium and others are all maintained in the right balance for the body to function well.

Kidney failure, thus causes serious problems for affected individuals.

Globally, kidney diseases afflict over 700 million people and account for 1.2 million deaths annually. Kidney diseases are wreaking havoc in low and middle-income countries where both the prevalence and death rates are significantly higher than in high-income countries.

The prevalence of CKD in Ghana is estimated to be about 13.3 per cent, translating to about four million Ghanaians living with CKD.

The Ghanaian media (radio, television, newspapers) and social media are inundated daily, with people seeking help as they battle kidney diseases, usually in the prime of their lives.

The recent brouhaha over dialysis issues lends additional credence to putting the spotlight on kidney diseases. This goes to support the fact that CKD is a major public health problem in Ghana.

Hypertension (high blood pressure) and diabetes (uncontrolled blood sugar) are the two main causes of kidney failure worldwide.

Other factors that increase the risk for kidney disease include obesity, cardiovascular diseases, smoking, family history, allergic reactions, abuse of certain prescribed medications and herbal concoctions, severe dehydration, insufficient blood flow to the kidneys and some infections such as HIV and Hepatitis B and C.

In addition, certain environmental factors such as toxins from heavy metals and pesticides, as well as underground water with high fluoride levels, have been noted to cause kidney disease.

The adoption of Western lifestyles, which comes with changes in diet, less physical activity, rapid urbanisation and an ageing population due to relative improvement in the health care system, have been blamed for this sharp rise in CKD.

At the early stages of kidney failure, there are no noticeable symptoms. This is worrying for countries like Ghana, where people hardly go for regular medical checkups.

As a result, kidney problems are detected when they are in their advanced stages.

People with kidney failure present with symptoms such as decreased urine production, swollen legs and feet due to fluid retention, shortness of breath, excessive fatigue, chest pain, trouble sleeping (insomnia), decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, itchy skin, muscle cramps, confusion, seizures and coma.

At this stage, they will need renal replacement therapy to survive. I will conclude next week.

The writer is a member of the Paediatric Society of Ghana and the Director of Medical Affairs, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital.
astom2@yahoo.com

Cannabis Compounds and the Endocannabinoid System

Marijuana contains over 100 bioactive compounds, including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), which interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This interaction produces various physiological effects. While marijuana has therapeutic potential, high-quality evidence remains limited.

Marijuana’s Therapeutic Potential

The endocannabinoid system regulates physiological processes, including pain, inflammation, and immune response. THC and CBD interact with this system to produce therapeutic effects (Pertwee, 2014). This regulates pain perception through cannabinoid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, helping to reduce pain perception (Woodhams et al., 2017).

Cannabinoids have therapeutic potential for pain management, providing relief from chronic neuropathic pain (Wilsey et al., 2013) and reducing chronic pain in rodents (Costa et al., 2007). They also regulate inflammation and immune response. CBD has anti-inflammatory properties, stimulating anti-inflammatory cytokines (Nagarkatti et al., 2009). It reduces inflammation and improves symptoms in multiple sclerosis patients (Rog et al., 2005) and reduces oxidative stress (Scuderi et al., 2018).

Marijuana as a Treatment for Malaria

Malaria is a life-threatening disease with limited treatment options. THC and CBD have antimalarial properties, inhibiting Plasmodium falciparum growth (Nosten et al., 2018). They are effective against chloroquine-resistant strains (Nosten et al., 2018; Thomas et al., 2019). CBD inhibits Plasmodium berghei growth in rodents by inducing oxidative stress (Takahashi et al., 2020). Cannabis sativa extracts also exhibit antimalarial activity (Onyeibor et al., 2019). THC and CBD may offer additional benefits, including anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, in treating malaria (Klein et al., 2003; Nagarkatti et al., 2009).

Chronic Pain Treatment with Cannabis

Chronic pain affects millions worldwide (NIH, 2020). Current treatments have significant side effects. THC and CBD have analgesic properties, which reduce pain in chronic and multiple sclerosis patients (Wilsey et al., 2013). Cannabinoids provided pain relief and improved sleep quality in 28 trials (Mücke et al., 2018). Cannabis reduced opioid use by 64 percent in chronic pain patients (Bradford et al., 2018). THC and CBD improved the quality of life in chronic pain patients (Fitzcharles et al., 2016). Cannabinoids work by activating receptors, inhibiting neurons, and modulating inflammation (Pertwee, 2014).

Sleep Disorders and Cannabis

Sleep disorders, including insomnia and sleep apnea, affect millions worldwide (NIH, 2020). Current treatments have significant side effects. THC and CBD have sleep-promoting properties, which improve sleep quality in chronic pain and Parkinson’s disease patients (Chagas et al., 2014, Pertwee, 2014). CBD reduces insomnia symptoms in anxiety disorder patients (Shannon et al., 2019). Cannabinoids improved sleep quality in 22 studies (Bonn-Miller et al., 2018). THC and CBD improved sleep quality in obstructive sleep apnea patients (Prasad et al., 2019). CBD also improves sleep quality in chronic pain patients (Phillips et al., 2020).

Benefits and Risks of Marijuana Use

Oral marijuana ingestion has benefits, including increased bioavailability and reduced respiratory problems (Pertwee, 2014). It relieves chronic pain, reduces inflammation in multiple sclerosis patients, and has immunomodulatory effects (Klein et al., 2003; Nagarkatti et al., 2009). However, oral ingestion also carries risks, including delayed effects, over-intoxication, and medication interactions (Pertwee, 2014). Long-term use can lead to cognitive impairment, psychosis risk, and respiratory problems (Large et al., 2011). Marijuana use during pregnancy increases the risk of low birth weight and complications (Huizink et al., 2017).

Conclusion

Oral ingestion of marijuana is emerging as a promising treatment for malaria, chronic pain, and sleep disorders. THC and CBD have antimalarial, analgesic, and sleep-promoting properties. Further research is needed to understand the benefits and risks. Research should determine optimal dosage, safety, potential interactions, and effects on vulnerable populations.

The writer is a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (N.D. candidate), medical journalist, and medical laboratory technologist.

“We are waging a war against the influx of opioids into the country,” Mr. Akandoh stated during the supervised destruction of 230 cartons of opioids at Ashaiman on Friday.

The drugs, valued at GH₵20 million, were imported into Ghana on March 14, 2025, and destroyed in accordance with a court order.

The consignment included:

• 160 cartons of Tafradol Tapentadol (120 mg)

• 44 cartons of Timaking Tapentadol (120 mg and 250 mg)

• 26 cartons of Rahol Tapentadol (120 mg)

Mr. Akandoh disclosed that investigations into the shipment through Tema Port have begun, with the importer and clearing agent expected to be interrogated.

He noted that the importer is not Ghanaian and claimed the consignment was destined for Niger.

“We are in touch with the Niger government to verify whether they approved it,” he said, adding, “Even if the Niger government has okayed the importation of the drugs, our borders will never serve as safe havens for opioids.”

He reiterated that Ghana’s laws allow drug shipments only through Tema Port and Kotoka International Airport.

The Ministry witnessed the destruction to ensure none of the drugs entered the market.

Mr. Akandoh added that security agencies, particularly Customs, have been tasked to seize all drugs found at land borders.

He cautioned that allowing Ghana to be used as a hub for opioids could undermine national productivity, as youth—who are the country’s future—are most affected by opioid abuse.

The Minister assured that the government will soon announce further measures to regulate drug imports and exports.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), Dr. Delese Mimi Darko, also spoke at the event. She outlined the dangerous side effects of opioids, including nausea, vomiting, confusion, hypertension, hallucinations, and depression.

Dr. Darko affirmed that drug regulations are being strictly enforced, with ongoing seizures and destructions. She added that the FDA is intensifying public education campaigns targeting the youth and maintaining 24-hour surveillance at Kotoka International Airport.

The destruction exercise was witnessed by officials from the Tema High Court, Narcotics Control Commission (NACOC), Ministry of Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation (MESTI), FDA, Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Police, National Security, and the Ministry of Health.

These issues are further exacerbated by conflict, the ongoing effects of COVID-19, the rising cost of living, income inequality, and climate change.

The consequences of child hunger and malnutrition extend beyond health, affecting children’s rights to education, protection from violence, participation, and an adequate standard of living, including healthcare.

In Ghana, malnutrition remains a pressing issue for children across the country.

According to the Ghana Demographic and Health Survey (GDHS) 2022, the national stunting rate is 18%, while the rate of wasting stands at 6%.

Additionally, 12% of children are underweight, and 2% of children under 5 are classified as overweight.

Alarmingly, nearly half (49%) of children aged 6–59 months in Ghana are anaemic, with 28% experiencing mild anaemia, 20% moderate anaemia, and 1% severe anaemia. This figure is notably high compared to WHO standards.

To address this global challenge, World Vision has launched a three-year multi-sectoral campaign called ENOUGH: Ending Child Hunger and Malnutrition, which will run from FY24 to FY26.

The campaign was also launched in the Krachi West and Krachi Nchumuru districts. Program Coordinator Barbara Asare Yeboah stated that the initiative will contribute to the efforts of the government of Ghana and other stakeholders toward ending child hunger and malnutrition.

“This campaign will leverage two out of the three ongoing technical programs: Healthy Environment & Wellness (HEAL) and Livelihood Enhancement & Family Empowerment (LIFE),” she said. The campaign will also collaborate with programs like Reading Improvement & Skills Enhancement (RISE), Community Engagement and Sponsorship Programmes (CESP), and other crosscutting sectors such as Humanitarian & Emergency Affairs, Faith & Development, and Child Protection & Advocacy.

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]]> https://www.adomonline.com/5-hospitals-handed-over-by-health-ministry-yesterday-are-part-of-akufo-addos-legacy-eastern-regional-npp/ Fri, 04 Apr 2025 10:52:36 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2521771

The investigative report revealed severe health and infrastructural challenges, including overcrowding and congestion that have left many patients unable to receive adequate medical attention.

Registrar of HeFRA, Dr Wilfred Baah, visiting the facility in the company of the Ashanti Regional Health Director, acknowledged the deteriorating conditions at the Tafo Hospital, which have hindered effective healthcare delivery.

The JoyNews report highlighted that many patients seeking care at the facility are forced to wait for extended periods due to an overstretched healthcare system that lacks sufficient space and resources.

The hospital’s overcrowded wards, compounded by an insufficient number of beds, have resulted in a dangerous backlog of patients, some of whom have reportedly had to be turned away due to a lack of beds.

HeFRA has urged the GHS to take swift action to address key issues, including immediate measures to relieve congestion and reduce patient backlogs.

“…Whether you like it or not, health is expensive and when they go abroad, they pay through the nose, so why can’t we develop it here? If the President is unwell and is admitted to UGMC or Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, what will happen? Are there no competent doctors to look after them? There are…”

These sentiments are not new, and perhaps their re-emergence is to drive home the call for Ghana to invest heavily in the health sector to make the country the premier medical tourism hub for the West African sub-region.

Interestingly, successive governments have been discussing the concept of making Ghana a medical tourism destination, but what remains is actualising the dream of benefiting from the projected $55.83 billion medical tourism market, according to Statista 2025.

Canada, Singapore, Japan, Spain, the UK, Dubai, and India are ranked among the top medical tourism destinations.

In Africa, South Africa is the leader as a medical tourist destination. Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt are prominent in North Africa, attracting European patients. Kenya is also making strides in East Africa, with not much happening in West Africa.

The Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital is attracting some foreign clients for heart surgeries, but in the larger scheme of things, much more needs to be done to stop Ghanaians and other Africans from travelling outside the continent for such services and to attract more clients from outside Africa.

Ghana’s Potential

Ghana has significant potential to become a thriving medical tourism destination due to its strategic location. The country’s geographical position – close to the Prime Meridian and the Equator – near the centre of the Earth, makes it a convenient destination for medical tourists from Europe, the Americas, Africa, and the Middle East, with relatively short flight times compared to other medical tourism hubs.

Also, the Kotoka International Airport (KIA), arguably a regional aviation hub, offers direct and connecting flights from major global cities, with the country’s warm temperature all year round aiding post-treatment recovery for patients from colder regions who seek a stress-free healing environment.

With the growing demand for wellness and alternative medicine, Ghana’s natural resources, including its serene environment, herbal medicine expertise, and wellness retreats, provide opportunities for medical tourists seeking holistic treatments.

Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, historical sites, and vibrant tourism industry can complement medical tourism by offering a holistic experience for international patients and their families.

The country’s Oxygen City, Ho, provides fresh air, natural landscapes, and a relaxing atmosphere that enhances recovery and promotes wellness tourism.

Medical tourists can explore other sites across the country while receiving care.

According to the Ghana Tourism Authority, more than 1.1 million tourists visit the country annually, providing significant economic, healthcare, and socio-cultural benefits to the country.

Should the country offer high-quality healthcare services at a fraction of the cost compared to Western countries and established medical tourism destinations, it would become an attractive alternative for medical tourists.

Another strength is the country’s experienced consultants and specialists across the world who could be encouraged to return to help develop and grow niche areas for medical tourism.

Benefits

Medical tourism boosts foreign exchange earnings because medical tourists bring in foreign currency, which helps strengthen the economy and support national development.

Increased demand for medical services will lead to more investments in hospitals, clinics, and advanced medical equipment, as well as the expansion of the healthcare system.

Growth in medical tourism will also create thousands of jobs in healthcare, hospitality, transport, and tourism-related sectors, helping to address the country’s unemployment challenge.

Government’s Intervention

The encouraging news is that the Government has promised to diversify tourism to include health/medical tourism and pledges to expand infrastructure and systems and promote strategic branding.

Interestingly, in its first budget, the Government states it will give significant attention to medical tourism, finalising, publishing, and implementing the Medical Tourism Policy and Strategy.

“In this regard, the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital will be refurbished into an ultramodern quaternary specialist hospital to reduce reliance on medical care and training abroad.

“Additionally, Ho Teaching Hospital will be upgraded to provide comprehensive specialist services, improving regional access to advanced medical care.”

Ho Teaching Hospital

The Ho Teaching Hospital (HTH), strategically located to serve the people of the Volta Region and beyond, with a vision to become a medical tourist centre through innovative healthcare, is already patronised by clients from neighbouring Republic of Togo, Benin, and Nigeria.

Recently, the Hospital commissioned five new facilities, including a family health centre, a pharmacy complex, and an HTH Annex to enhance healthcare delivery.

The Ho Teaching Hospital Annex is nestled in a lush, green, and serene environment, offering a peaceful and healing atmosphere for patients, visitors, and medical professionals alike. Surrounded by well-manicured gardens, towering trees, and vibrant tropical plants, the Annex blends modern healthcare excellence with nature’s tranquillity.

The Hospital’s expansive green spaces provide a calming retreat, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

Patients recovering from treatment can enjoy fresh air, soothing natural scenery, and a quiet ambience that enhances the healing process. The chirping of birds, gentle rustling of leaves, and a well-maintained landscape create an oasis of comfort and relaxation, setting it apart as an ideal destination for wellness and medical tourism.

With its eco-friendly design and spacious walkways, the Ho Teaching Hospital Annex is not just a healthcare facility—it’s a sanctuary where nature and medicine come together to foster holistic healing.

While this is encouraging, it is important that the Government helps these hospitals undergo international accreditation processes to boost trust and build brand visibility.

The government must also introduce favourable medical travel policies to encourage clients to choose Ghana for medical tourism.

A Coordinating Unit should also be created within the Ministry of Health to facilitate the health tourism agenda.

An Agency with appropriate legislation (Act of Parliament and its corresponding Legislative Instrument) can also be created to manage the fast-growing sector.

Conclusion

With the right investments in healthcare infrastructure, international accreditation, and marketing/branding, Ghana can become the medical tourism destination in Africa.

By leveraging its affordability, quality care, and tourism appeal, the country can attract a growing number of medical travellers seeking world-class treatment in a welcoming and culturally rich environment.

The Writer is the Medical Tourism Coordinator, Ho Teaching Hospital.

The team, comprised of researchers, circular economy experts, and learning and development professionals, conducted a study tour of major recycling plants producing Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) that meets the required standards for energy generation and as a substitute for fossil fuels.

Austrian Apprenticeship Programme

The team also studied Austria’s apprenticeship model, a dual education system where students receive 80% hands-on training within companies and 20% vocational school instruction. Hosted by the Austrian Chamber of Commerce, the team engaged in discussions on the framework guiding Austria’s national apprenticeship programme.

Mr. Thomas Reichenbach, Education Advisor at the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber, explained that the apprenticeship model is designed to equip young people with the necessary skills for employment and career progression.

The Head of Jospong Academy and leader of the delegation, Brigadier General Mike Akpatsu (Rtd.), in an interview described the study tour as highly insightful.

He said the Jospong Group, as one of the largest employers of Ghanaian youth, has gained valuable knowledge on apprenticeship as a tool for skill development.

He gave the assurance of the readiness of the Jospong Group to contribute inputs into Ghana’s national apprenticeship programme if given the opportunity.

Mr. Jacob Ladi, Project Manager for the Waste Academy Project funded by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) and Komptech GmbH, emphasized that the study tour was a crucial component of the broader initiative.

“One of its key outcomes is the execution of a waste-to-energy research project to be conducted by researchers from the Africa Environmental Sanitation Consult (AfESC) who were on the trip in collaboration with the Technical University of Vienna”.

He said, “The research is expected to provide a blueprint for the implementation of waste-to-energy solutions in Ghana and across Africa”.

He further highlighted that “one of the biggest takeaways from the trip was the opportunity to incorporate lessons from Austria’s apprenticeship programme into the Jospong Group’s capacity-building efforts. This approach will equip the workforce with the right skills to tackle waste management challenges effectively and drive sustainable solutions for the future”.

Mr. Ladi expressed deep appreciation to the Austrian government for its support and reiterated his confidence that, by the end of the project in 2027, all key deliverables will be successfully achieved.

A Communications Officer of Zoomlion Ghana Limited, Mr. James Deku, emphasized Jospong Group’s commitment to sustainable waste management and green job creation.

He pointed out that “consistent capacity building and knowledge-sharing initiatives remain integral to the group’s operations”.

The “Jospong-Komptech Waste Academy” initiative is a knowledge transfer programme aimed at enhancing capacity in waste management.

The programme, which was launched last year in Ghana, is funded by the Austrian Development Agency and Komptech GmbH.

This project reinforces Jospong Group’s dedication to advancing waste-to-energy solutions and workforce development

The Ghana Breast Health Study (GBHS) found that Ghanaian women who use chemical relaxers, particularly long-term or former users, have a significantly higher likelihood of developing breast cancer, regardless of tumour type.

Hair relaxers, which chemically alter hair texture, are used by an estimated 90% or more of women of African descent. In Ghana, nearly all participants (96% of breast cancer patients and 94% of healthy controls) reported using relaxers.

The GBHS, comparing 1,071 breast cancer patients to 2,106 women without the disease, found that former relaxer users had more than double the risk of developing breast cancer. Long-term users and those choosing “gentler” non-lye relaxers also showed increased risks.

While previous studies suggested relaxers might increase oestrogen-driven (ER+) breast cancers, this study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found the heightened risk applied to both ER+ and ER- tumours, indicating multiple pathways of harm.

Although the study doesn’t prove direct causation, it supports growing concerns about relaxer health effects. A 2022 US study linked frequent relaxer use to higher uterine cancer risk, prompting calls for stricter regulation.

In Ghana and other African countries, where relaxers are widely accessible, public health experts emphasize the need for education.

The researchers are calling for in-depth investigations into relaxer ingredients and their effects. Health advocates recommend minimising use, opting for natural styles, or seeking fewer toxic alternatives, emphasising that knowledge is key to prevention.

Those who are registered often show reluctance in renewing their membership, creating significant challenges in accessing healthcare at some facilities.

To help address this issue and promote better health within the Lower West Akyem Municipality, Mr. John Massey Arthur, CEO of Brand Forwarder Ventures and Manager of the Kasapreko Depot in Asamankese, has facilitated the registration of deprived children, pregnant women, the elderly, and some youth onto the NHIS.

In a media address, Mr. Arthur explained that his office is frequently approached with requests for assistance with hospital bills, many from individuals in vulnerable situations.

It became apparent that many rural folks in the area lacked health insurance, and those who were registered were hesitant to renew their cards.

In celebration of his birthday and in line with his company’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Mr. Arthur took it upon himself to register as many rural residents as possible.

He noted, “In most cases, children and women are very vulnerable at health facilities. Sometimes, patients are detained after treatment because they cannot afford to pay their bills. Meanwhile, the NHIS could offer tremendous support for such people.”

Mr. Arthur emphasized the importance of contributing to the well-being of children, saying, “Nobody knows the future of these children. They could be our saviors in the future. We all have a responsibility to contribute to their well-being and ensure they have a brighter future.”

Mr. Frank Okyere, Public Relations Officer for the National Health Insurance Scheme, underscored the necessity for all Ghanaians to register for the NHIS.

He assured that issues of extortion, overbilling, and unauthorized charges at health facilities have been addressed.

“There are reforms aimed at penalizing health facilities that shortchange NHIS cardholders,” he added, emphasizing that the scheme will continue to collaborate with key stakeholders to ensure universal coverage.

Dr. Arthur was adjudged the Most Outstanding in Healthcare Services at the second edition of the event  which serves as a beacon for excellence and innovation, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated exemplary performance and conduct across various domains.

The recognition is a testament to his exemplary leadership, commitment to healthcare innovation, and outstanding contributions to the field of alternative medicine in Ghana.

Dr. Arthur’s journey to success has been driven by passion, vision, and a commitment to providing accessible alternative healthcare solutions.

He has dedicated his career to transforming the landscape of healthcare by offering alternative therapies and treatments alongside conventional medical practices.

His holistic approach to healing has made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals, not only in Ghana but also across the African continent.

From surviving stage three head and neck cancer for over 20 years to leading groundbreaking initiatives in health, nutrition, and clinical counselling, his journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

As CEO of Balm of Gilead Clinic and the Neda Soul Cancer Foundation, Dr. Arthur has dedicated his life to cancer advocacy and holistic healing, working closely with the oncology unit at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.

His expertise spans multiple disciplines—food science, nutrition, dietetics, clinical counselling, agronomy, environmental health, and herbal medicine—all geared toward improving lives.

A former official of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) Ghana, Dr. Arthur is a national executive member of the Church of Pentecost Health Professionals Network and a firm believer in the power of food as medicine.

His mantra, Let Your Kitchen Be Your Pharmacy, has made him a sought-after voice on television, radio, and international platforms.

Currently pursuing his third master’s degree in public health and health promotion, he continues to champion wellness and disease prevention.

A devoted elder of the Church of Pentecost, Dr. Arthur’s influence extends far beyond medicine. He is a visionary whose life’s work is inspiring hope, healing, and transformation.

In Ghana, the situation is even more alarming. Statistics reveal that one in five Ghanaians will experience a mental health condition in their lifetime, with an estimated 2.2 million people currently living with mental disabilities.

However, the country faces a critical shortage of mental health professionals—only about 80 psychiatrists serve the nation’s 30 million people.

Experts say this severe gap in mental health care resources has left countless individuals without proper diagnosis, treatment, or support.

A member of the Mental Health Authority’s communications team, Abigail Harden, in an interview with JoyNews, emphasised the urgency of the crisis.

“The shortage of mental health professionals is a serious challenge. Many people living with mental disabilities are left without proper care, and our facilities are struggling to cope,” she stated.

“Beyond the lack of medical professionals, many individuals with mental disabilities face dire living conditions, often abandoned or without access to proper housing. Psychiatric facilities remain under-resourced, making it difficult for healthcare workers to provide adequate care,” she added.

Mental health advocates are calling for increased investment in mental health services, the training of more professionals, and better policies to ensure that people living with mental disabilities receive the care they deserve.

As Ghana grapples with this growing crisis, the question remains: Will the country take decisive action to address its mental health challenges and provide the necessary support for those in need?

For now, however, the reality remains grim—millions are suffering in silence, with little hope for immediate relief.

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Perhaps you grab a snack every hour or eat multiple small meals throughout the day.

This habit can have serious health consequences, including weight gain, insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.

As we age, our bodies undergo significant changes that increase the risks associated with frequent eating.

Many people eat frequently due to stress, boredom, or social pressures, altering their eating habits.

The global population is aging rapidly, leading to changes in physiological needs that impact health and quality of life.

Frequent eating is common among middle-aged and older adults, yet little is known about its health consequences.

This article reviews the current evidence on these consequences.

How Aging Affects Metabolism and Health

After 40, our bodies undergo significant physiological changes.

These changes impact metabolism, hormone levels, and overall health, making frequent eating particularly detrimental.

As we age, our resting metabolic rate slows, declining by 1-2% per decade after age 20. This leads to reduced calorie-burning efficiency (Journal of Gerontology, 2013).

Hormonal changes also play a crucial role.

Testosterone levels decrease by 1-2% annually after age 40, affecting metabolism, body composition, and leading to weight gain (Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, 2010).

Women experience hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause, resulting in an average weight gain of 2.3 kg during this transition (International Journal of Obesity, 2014).

Age-related muscle loss, or sarcopenia, slows metabolism, increases the risk of chronic diseases, and affects up to 50% of adults over 80 (American Medical Directors Association).

Additionally, decreased insulin sensitivity contributes to the negative effects of frequent eating after 40, declining by 20-30% between ages 40 and 60.

Changes in gut bacteria and reduced physical activity also play a role (Journal of Clinical Investigation, 2015).

Health Risks of Frequent Eating

Frequent eating increases the risk of weight gain and obesity, which are linked to chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.

A study published in PLOS Medicine found that a sustained change from a typical Western diet to an optimized diet can increase life expectancy by more than a decade for young adults (Fadnes et al., 2022).

Research has shown that middle-aged adults who eat more often are more likely to experience weight gain and obesity (Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics).

A diet high in refined carbohydrates, sugar, and saturated fats can lead to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition).

Middle-aged adults are also at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke (Journal of the American College of Cardiology).

Additionally, frequent eating may increase the risk of cognitive decline and certain cancers.

However, a diet high in antioxidants, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce these risks (Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease).

Frequent eating has also been linked to increased symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), including bloating, abdominal pain, and changes in bowel habits (Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology).

Prevention Strategies

• Limit portion sizes to maintain a healthy weight and prevent overeating.

• Eat a balanced diet rich in whole, unprocessed foods such as vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

• Restrict eating times to two main meals per day, avoiding heavy, greasy, or high-calorie foods, especially after 5 p.m.

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to control hunger and boost metabolism.

• Engage in regular exercise, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week.

• Get enough sleep (7-9 hours per night) to regulate hunger hormones and support weight loss.

• Practice mindful eating by paying attention to hunger and fullness cues, eating slowly, and savoring food.

Conclusion

The available evidence suggests that frequent eating after 40 increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.

Therefore, adults over 40 should adopt healthy lifestyle habits to promote overall health and well-being. Further research is needed to fully understand its health consequences.

— The writer is a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (N.D. Candidate), medical journalist, and medical laboratory technologist.

Yes, you read that right, poor oral hygiene could be costing you more than just a bright smile!

Renowned dental expert Dr. Louisa Ansong Satekla warns that neglecting your gums could have serious consequences for your overall health, including your productivity as a man.

According to Dr. Satekla, gum disease, scientifically known as periodontitis, is an inflammatory condition that can lead to blood vessel damage.

This damage restricts blood flow—not just in the mouth, but throughout the body, including areas responsible for male sexual function.

“And this is not me saying it. This is not Dr. Marfor saying it. It is backed by research that there is a link between gum disease and erectile dysfunction in men. Our blood vessels that run up and down they are not there for no reason they are connecting every part of our body and so they can travel,” she explains.

Dr. Satekla advises men to prioritize oral hygiene as part of their overall wellness routine. Her key tips include, brushing and flossing daily to remove plaque and bacteria, regular dental checkups to detect gum disease early and a healthy diet – rich in vitamins and low in sugar.

Next time you skip your dentist appointment, remember: taking care of your teeth isn’t just about fresh breath—it could save your performance in more ways than one.

While teen boys and girls are facing many of the same issues, including school pressure and mental health concerns, they may need different kinds of support, according to a Pew Research Center Survey published Thursday.

“One of our main objectives with the research was trying to understand the challenges that teens are facing these days, and specifically how they’re experiencing school, and whether these things differ by gender,” said Kim Parker, Pew’s director of social trends research.

“We’ve been doing a lot of work this year on men and masculinity, and part of that conversation involves what’s happening with boys and girls.”

The survey was conducted September 18 through October 10 among 1,391 teens ages 13 to 17.

While the data did show differences among them ­­–– such as girls reporting more of a pressure to fit in socially and look good while boys said they felt they should be strong and good at sports more often –– many of their perspectives were similar.

Both girls and boys said it was highly important to find a career they enjoy, making money and cultivating friendships in the future, according to the data.

“We are prone to negatively stereotyping teenagers as superficial in their interests, and these results are an excellent reminder that teenagers are serious about the schoolwork they’re doing now, and they are looking ahead to their careers,” said psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour, author of “The Emotional Lives of Teenagers: Raising Connected, Capable, and Compassionate Adolescents.” She was not involved in the report.

The pressure to perform

Teen boys and girls alike reported they felt pressure to get good grades, according to the data.

And for those who didn’t see it as an even split, both teen girls and boys perceived girls as getting better grades and being favored by teachers, the report showed.

What they perceive matches existing data that shows girls on average do tend to get better grades than boys, Damour said.

But grades aren’t a zero-sum game –– the success of girls in school doesn’t have to mean boys do worse, said Dr. Annie Maheux, assistant professor of psychology and neuroscience at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and Winston Family Distinguished Fellow at the Winston National Center on Technology Use, Brain and Psychological Development.

The disparity might be a sign that something in schooling isn’t working for boys as well as it should, noted Maheux, who wasn’t involved in the survey.

“Schools are set up in such a way that kids who sit still and are less impulsive are going to do well, and we know that there’s a big difference in brain development in early adolescence, and that the part of the brain that’s used for impulse control and critical thinking develops later in boys than girls,” said Michelle Icard, a parenting educator and speaker.

“We are teaching to half of the audience and need to broaden the way we approach education,” said Icard, who wasn’t involved in the report.

More activity and teaching styles that incorporate hands-on learning, for example, might help teen boys do better academically, said Icard, author of “Fourteen Talks by Age Fourteen: The Essential Conversations You Need to Have With Your Kids Before They Start High School.”

Support in friendships

There is good and bad news when it comes to what teens said about their friendships.

Only 2% of teens said that they didn’t have any friends, according to the Pew report. And while that number of those without friends would ideally be zero, it is lower than expected and feels positive, Icard said.

Friendships are especially important in adolescent years, she added.

“Teens are at an age where they’re less likely to turn to an adult for support. They’re naturally going to reach out to their peers before looking to an adult, and peers can be great ushers to adults as needed,” Icard said. “But if you don’t have someone who says, ‘Hey, this is a problem you should talk to a grown-up about,’ then that can be dangerous.”

Although most boys reported they had a close friend they could turn to for support, the number was lower (85%) compared with that of girls (95%) who said they could turn to a friend for support, the data showed.

“We need to try to lose the mythology that boys don’t make close relationships,” Damour said. But at the same time, “we need to take very seriously that we continue to socialize boys to feel that vulnerable emotions are unacceptable. And so long as we’re doing that, we’re going to have boys and adult men who don’t enjoy the strong social support they deserve.”

Different expressions of mental health

There was a difference in how teen boys and girls perceived their struggles: Both said that girls were more likely to experience anxiety and depression and boys were more likely to struggle with substance abuse, fighting and class disruptions, according to the data.

But those findings don’t mean that one group is experiencing mental health concerns and the other is just facing a behavioral issue, Damour said.

“Under mental health, we should fold in the finding that boys are more likely to engage in physical fights,” she said. “One of our well-established understandings as clinicians is that when girls are in distress, they have been socialized to collapse in on themselves –– they’re more likely to experience anxiety and depression. When boys are in distress, they are more likely to act out and get themselves in trouble.”

While disciplinary action might be appropriate when a teen is abusing substances or acting out, it is important that such punishment is paired with an understanding that the behavior comes from suffering, which needs to be addressed, too, Damour said.

“When we see anger in a teenage boy, we think, ‘Well, that’s not depression,’ but it might be. Or if you see a boy who’s acting recklessly, you might think, ‘Oh, he’s a daredevil,’” Icard added.

“That behaviour is a reflection of feeling untethered to other people. So, I wouldn’t presume that boys feel less anxious and less depressed.”

The initiative seeks to provide continuous support for renal patients covered by the NHIS. NHIA’s Deputy Chief Executive of Operations, Dr. Senanu Kwesi Djokoto, assured beneficiaries of this commitment while addressing the 2024 Annual Performance Review Meeting of the Tamale Teaching Hospital.

The event, themed “Transforming Service Delivery Through Professional Excellence and Ethical Practice,” brought together key NHIA officials, including the Director of Special Initiatives and Liaison to the Ministry of Health, Dr. Anthony Gingong, and Director of Financial Accounting, Dr. Gustav Cruickshank.

Dr. Djokoto’s presence was part of the maiden working visit of NHIA Chief Executive Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe to the Northern and Upper East Regions.

“With this move, I am certain that there will be no interruption to the services being rendered by accredited facilities,” he assured.

He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening partnerships between the NHIA and teaching hospitals to enhance the free primary healthcare agenda.

“The Ghana Medical Care Trust Fund (Mahama Cares) was launched on Wednesday. It will adopt a comprehensive approach to addressing chronic illnesses. For individuals with hypertension, diabetes, and those requiring interventions like dialysis, a visionary policy is necessary to support them in mitigating the devastating financial consequences of their conditions,” he added.

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Situated in Abura-Dunkwa, the capital of the Abura Asebu Kwamankese District, the hospital began as a clinic in 1946 and was later upgraded to a district hospital on August 10, 2000.

It serves a population of about 126,313, annually with a bed capacity of 54.

However, 25 years on, the hospital is still using the same equipment, and the state of the facility has deteriorated significantly.

During a recent visit by Adom News, it was evident that the hospital is in a state of disrepair.

The number of functioning hospital beds has dropped in both quantity and quality, as many of the beds are rusted and damaged.

The equipment and furniture are in shocking condition. Rusted file trolleys, worn-out mattresses, and furniture dating back 25 years are still being used.

The hospital also lacks sufficient seating for patients, further compromising comfort and care.

Additionally, the hospital does not have a dedicated surgical theater, forcing medical staff to use a single multipurpose room for both surgeries and deliveries.

In some cases, surgeons have had to operate on patients while women are in labor in the same room, putting both patients’ safety and care at risk.

Residents have expressed deep concerns about bringing sick relatives to the hospital, fearing that the poor conditions could lead to death.

Some patients admitted to the facility have also reported experiencing severe spinal pain due to the substandard beds.

The hospital’s challenges paint a grim picture of the healthcare system in the region, highlighting the urgent need for intervention and modernization to ensure better care and safety for the community.

Hosted by health advocate Dr Sue, Konsulting Room 5 will tackle all your health and wellness concerns, offering expert insights in a detailed yet entertaining manner.

Whether you’re curious about nutrition, mental health, fitness, or medical breakthroughs, this show has you covered.

“This is a health show on TV that we discuss health topics and bring in patients who have suffered that condition and the person shares how he or she got it and how he or she is managing it, and then that experience is used by the resource person to explain the condition better” Host of Konsulting Room 5 Dr Sue said in an interview.

The premiere episode airs on 15th March 2025 at 3 PM, featuring none other than Dr Louisa Ansong Satekla, a renowned Ghanaian dental surgeon and World Oral Health Day Ambassador. Dr Louisa brings both medical expertise and relatable lifestyle tips to the conversation.

Don’t miss the debut of Konsulting Room 5 on JoyNews where your health questions meet expert answers in a refreshing and informative way!

Show will be airing on the JoyNews channel at 3 pm on Saturdays, with a repeat on Sunday at 6 pm.

Dr. Joseph Akwasi Boateng, a physician at Nyaho Medical Center, raised concerns about the poor maintenance of health facilities, citing Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital as a prime example.

“Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital has been around for 96 years, even before Ghana’s independence, but we have allowed it to fall into disrepair. A hospital of its stature should not be in such a state,” he lamented.

Dr. Nyarko also condemned the mistreatment of patients by healthcare workers, calling for more respect and kindness. “The hospital is for the care of the patient. It’s not about the hospital staff or administrators. Any health worker who insults a patient is not a health worker,” she stated.

The conference was marked by a generous donation of medical equipment to help treat neonatal jaundice at the Princess Marie Louise Children’s Hospital, made possible by Hungarian Ambassador H.E. Tamás Endre Fehér and other stakeholders, including The Ga Mantse.

Ambassador Fehér emphasized Hungary’s continued support for initiatives aimed at ensuring that every newborn receives the best possible care, ensuring a strong start in life.

The event ended on a note of collective responsibility and commitment to improving neonatal healthcare in Ghana.

He insists that the Akufo-Addo government secured World Bank funding to support free dialysis treatment until the end of 2025 after a pilot programme ran from June to November 2024.

Health Minister Mintah Akandoh told JoyNews that the initiative originally covering children under 18 and adults over 60 before expanding to all renal patients had no dedicated funding.

“I get confused when people say that there is free dialysis somewhere in Ghana. This is a misleading statement. There is no free dialysis anywhere,” he insisted.

He explained that only 4 million cedis was allocated, with 2 million coming from the budget and another 2 million from corporate social responsibility funding.

“You can’t depend on 4 million cedis for something that requires at least 75 million cedis. The National Health Insurance formula expired on 31st December 2024. Beyond that date, there is absolutely nothing like free dialysis,” he added.

But speaking to JoyNews, Dr Nsiah Asare refuted these claims, stating that public health should be a priority. “Ensuring affordable healthcare is a core mandate of any responsible government. The funds were secured, and dialysis treatment should not be abandoned,” he said.

In Parliament, former Health Committee Chair Dr Nana Ayew Afriyie also opposed the Health Minister’s claims, insisting that funds are available to sustain dialysis treatment.

Meanwhile, the Renal Patients Association president, Kojo Baffour Ahenkora, has cautioned the government against cancelling the policy, warning that it could increase the mortality rate among kidney patients.

“For the past three weeks, we have been trying to meet with the Minister to discuss the way forward, but we have not been successful. The mortality rate is currently low, but if this policy is cancelled, deaths will rise because many of the patients are young between 18 and 40 years old, including students who are not working. We even have nine and 13-year-olds on dialysis. Where will they find the money?” he questioned.

He urged the government to fix any flaws in the previous administration’s approach rather than abandon the policy. “I think if the previous administration did not do something right, they should correct it and let us move forward, we need to move forward from some of these things, we the individuals cannot pay,” he added.

As the world marks Kidney Day under the theme “Are Your Kidneys OK? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health,” awareness is being raised about kidney disease in Ghana.

Early detection and treatment are essential in preventing kidney failure and reducing the burden on dialysis services.

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But one Ghanaian-founded dating platform is pushing back against the tide of international competitors to offer a service that resonates deeply with Ghanaians and the wider African community.

Dream Dalliance is more than just a dating app; it’s a business that’s reshaping how Ghanaians connect, interact, and build relationships—without the constraints of paywalls, subscription fees, or intrusive ads.

A local solution for a global market

Dream Dalliance is Ghana’s very first dating platform designed with one purpose: to create meaningful, authentic connections for people looking for love, friendship, or anything in between.

While international apps like Tinder, Bumble, and Badoo dominate the global scene, they often fail to speak to the unique cultural and social dynamics of Ghana.

Dream Dalliance offers a local solution that understands its users’ preferences, values, and expectations, positioning itself as the first real homegrown alternative.

For the founder of Dream Dalliance, Prince Senyo Dzahene, the idea was born from a deep desire to create a dating platform that not only catered to Ghanaians but did so in a way that was genuine and accessible.

“There is a growing need for a platform that connects people in a way that feels real, and Dream Dalliance is built with the belief that love and friendships should be free of barriers,” Prince shares.

The features that set dream dalliance apart

What makes Dream Dalliance stand out in a crowded market isn’t just the local focus, but the features that enhance user experience and bring a modern touch to the dating world.

Here are a few aspects that are transforming the way Ghanaians approach online connections:

• Multilingual Chat System: One of the key differentiators is the platform’s ability to connect people from diverse backgrounds through a chat system that supports over 50 languages. Users can choose to chat in any language they prefer, facilitating communication between people from different linguistic regions. Whether you’re chatting in English, French, or any other language, Dream Dalliance removes language barriers, making connections smoother and more accessible.
• Seamless Signup Process: Signing up is as easy as clicking a few buttons. Dream Dalliance leverages social login integrations, allowing users to sign up with their Gmail, Twitter, or Facebook accounts. This simplicity encourages adoption, particularly for users who want a quick and frictionless experience.
• Enhanced Communication Tools: Communication is at the heart of any relationship, and Dream Dalliance delivers with its feature-rich chat system. Whether it’s video calls, audio calls, or video broadcasts, the platform offers everything needed to keep conversations engaging. The ability to send emojis, stickers, and gifs adds a playful, personalized touch to each interaction.
• Smart Search Algorithm: Dream Dalliance’s intelligent search algorithm ensures users can find others based on specific filters like location, gender, interests, and other personal preferences. The goal is to connect people with shared values, making it easier to foster genuine relationships.
• Unique Features: In addition to traditional features like adding friends and sending gifts, Dream Dalliance introduces a fun twist with its Hot or Pass feature. This allows users to engage with one another in a playful, no-pressure environment, a feature many international platforms lack.

A platform built on freedom: no paywalls, no ads, no fees

In stark contrast to the pay-to-play model of most international dating platforms, Dream Dalliance takes a different approach.

There are no paywalls, no subscription fees, and no annoying ads interrupting your experience.

Richmond and his team are committed to making Dream Dalliance a free platform for all because they believe everyone should have the opportunity to connect without financial barriers.

This approach is a breath of fresh air for users tired of encountering locked features behind expensive paywalls.

Dream Dalliance’s model is not just about fostering love and friendship; it’s about providing access to everyone, regardless of their economic status.

A competitive edge in the global dating market

Dream Dalliance doesn’t just serve the local Ghanaian market; its strategic vision aims at the broader African continent.

While international platforms have a global reach, they are often disconnected from the local context. Dream Dalliance’s local ownership and cultural relevance give it a unique edge over international competitors.

Ghanaians and Africans who sign up can interact with others who share their culture and experiences, creating a sense of belonging that’s hard to find on mainstream dating apps.

For Dream Dalliance, the future is about scaling locally while keeping the platform’s focus on user experience.

Richmond envisions the app expanding beyond Ghana, with plans to reach other African countries where cultural nuances are important in forging connections.

The road ahead: scaling a Ghanaian brand globally

As Dream Dalliance continues to grow, the team is focused on expanding its user base and enhancing features that encourage deeper connections.

The platform is currently working on refining its user experience and exploring potential partnerships to bring even more value to its community.

The dream is clear: to provide a platform where Ghanaians and Africans can build authentic relationships, without being restricted by the typical barriers of mainstream international dating apps.

Dream Dalliance is more than a business; it’s a movement toward creating a digital space where people feel understood, respected, and connected.

As Dream Dalliance continues to scale, its success will be defined by its ability to provide genuine, accessible, and culturally relevant connections—an important step forward in the African dating landscape.

To explore Dream Dalliance and become part of this groundbreaking community, visit Dream Dalliance.

The awards ceremony, held on March 7, 2025, to commemorate International Women’s Day, saw Vice President Prof. Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang presenting the award to Dr. Brempong in recognition of her contributions to the development of the pharmaceutical industry in Ghana.

Driven by her passion for healthcare innovation and governance, Dr. Brempong is a strong advocate for policies that promote sustainable healthcare solutions.

She is also committed to empowering women and young professionals in science, healthcare, and entrepreneurship.

Her remarkable contributions have earned her multiple awards, including:

• Africa Outstanding Professional Award (2022)
• Most Outstanding Female in Pharmaceuticals in Ghana Award (2022)
• 50 Most Influential Women in Ghana Award (2023)

Beyond her corporate and advisory roles, Dr. Brempong has been actively involved in public health research, spearheading studies on:

• Vaccine manufacturing feasibility
• Medication shortages
• Cardiovascular disease care

Before her appointment at the Office of the President, she served as the Chief Executive Officer of Makhealth Pharmaceuticals Limited.

She previously worked with some of Ghana’s leading pharmaceutical companies, including Ernest Chemists Limited and Entrance Pharmaceuticals Limited.

Dr. Brempong holds a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and a Master of Science degree in Entrepreneurship from University College London, both obtained concurrently in 2022.

She also earned a Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from the School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana, Legon, in 2016.

Her academic background, combined with her extensive industry experience, has enabled her to blend healthcare expertise with business acumen to drive innovation in healthcare solutions.

The Ghana Women of Excellence Awards is organized under the auspices of the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection to celebrate International Women’s Day. The 2025 edition was themed: “Empowering the Ghanaian Woman for National Development.”

A few dozen people get sick, health workers attempt to locate and test everyone with a bad cough and other symptoms.

A concerted effort is made to make sure that patients take their medications for the entire duration of treatment, at least six months, to help stem the creation of drug-resistant infections.

The problem is that Western Kenya has a high burden of HIV infections, which makes the communities more vulnerable to TB infections.

People living with HIV are more than 14 times more likely to fall ill with TB disease than people without HIV.

Other locations — like the communities on the Uganda shores of Lake Victoria, Copperbelt Province in Zambia, Eastern Cape Province in South Africa, or Enugu State in Nigeria — have this vulnerability.

Of the 30 countries that the World Health Organization identified as having a high burden of TB and HIV co-infections, 22 are located in sub-Saharan Africa.

South Africa, India, Nigeria, Mozambique, and Kenya tragically have the most co-infections globally.

HIV is not like TB. While TB treatment takes six long months, this is a curable disease. HIV, on the other hand, cannot be cured.

It can, however, be kept in check through medicine that suppresses the infection. The virus attacks the immune system, allowing other diseases like TB, kept in check by the immune system, to strengthen.

In fact, TB is the leading cause of death for people living with HIV infections.

This is where partnerships with foreign donors can make a difference, with resources for programs that have located people living with HIV and then provided them with proper medicines.

These programs help keep infections in check, preventing HIV from spreading and preventing other infections like TB from becoming more widespread.

Similar programs help locate people with TB and provide them with medicines throughout the six months of treatment.

The trend right now is to disrupt these partnerships and cut foreign aid, unraveling the safety net that addresses HIV and TB.

This places regions like Western Kenya at extreme risk from two contagious diseases that do not respect national borders.

If they are not contained in even one location, we run the risk of the contagion spreading.

There are so many ways that this situation can be improved, in sub-Saharan Africa and throughout the Global South.

We need new medicines for TB, to shorten the treatment time and make it easier for patients to take the drugs.

We need medicines that can cure HIV instead of just keeping the infections in check.

We also need vaccines to prevent both of these infections. The only available TB vaccine, BCG, dates back to 1921.

It protects babies and young children against severe forms of TB, but it offers inadequate protection for adolescents and adults against the most common form of the disease.

There is no vaccine to prevent HIV, although new prevention methods have been identified and need development and distribution.

This is my work as a scientist, helping to develop solutions for infectious diseases that are barely held in check, if at all — even as the systems that address these diseases have just lost significant funding.

There is no disagreement that foreign aid makes a difference; more resources are needed, not less.

An estimated US$22 billion is required annually for TB diagnostic, treatment and prevention services by 2027.

Yet only US$5.7 billion was available in 2023. Governments in both the Global South and Global North need to provide more resources.

Global funding for neglected disease basic research and product development has declined by more than 20% since it peaked in 2018.

As of 2023, high-income countries provided 59% of all funding; those numbers are now expected to drop further this year.

It would be great to see low- and middle-income countries generating more research that tackles diseases like TB and HIV, and we are on the path to doing so, but we are still unfortunately at the beginning stages of this journey.

Today, progress against these diseases stands at the edge of a precipice as governments face impossible decisions on where to channel diminishing resources.

The funding for this work does not turn on like a switch if foreign aid from high-income countries is suddenly discontinued.

We have already lost so much ground during the COVID-19 pandemic.

An estimated 700,000 TB deaths stemmed from the disruptions caused by the pandemic. Less than half of all people infected with drug-resistant TB received treatment in 2023.

And now we risk losing the ground that we have made up since COVID.

It is important that the Global South and Global North continue to work together, finding solutions to these diseases that keep too many parts of society vulnerable.

The world will always be connected.

Solutions to these diseases benefit us all.

This article is written by Dr. Monicah Otieno, PhD, Head of Nonclinical Development, Gates Medical Research Institute

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This concern was raised during the Authority’s annual review conference in Sunyani.

Bono Regional NHIA Manager, Joseph Mensah, expressed concern over the persistent practice of healthcare providers imposing unauthorized fees on insured patients.

“These unlawful charges discourage individuals from renewing their health insurance cards, which ultimately impacts our operations and efforts to ensure accessible healthcare,” he stated.

Speaking at the conclusion of the 2024 Bono Regional NHIA Annual Review Conference, Mr. Mensah emphasized the negative effects of these fees on healthcare access and reaffirmed the NHIA’s commitment to addressing these challenges.

Despite these setbacks, the NHIA achieved 94% of its membership target for the year, enrolling 1 million people out of a goal of 1.1 million.

The Bono Region ranked second nationwide in universal health coverage, with over 74% of its population insured—marking a significant milestone for the region.

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They are calling on the government to intervene urgently.

The In-Charge and Physician Assistant of the health centre, Duah Joseph, revealed that the weighing centre and Out-Patient Department (OPD) are in a severe state of disrepair, posing a serious risk to both staff and patients, especially as the rainy season approaches.

He explained that due to the aging nature of these structures, essential materials such as wood, roofing, and blocks have significantly weakened.

Without urgent renovations or the construction of new facilities, he warned that the situation could have disastrous consequences.

Additionally, he highlighted the lack of staff accommodation, which has made it difficult for healthcare workers to secure housing, further affecting service delivery.

Meanwhile, the Executive Director of Tim Africa Aid Ghana, Isaac Kwabena Kakpeibe, who recently commissioned a new washroom for the centre, has appealed to local chiefs and residents to support efforts to improve the facility.

He also urged the community to take good care of infrastructure provided by NGOs to encourage further assistance.

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Officials at Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), a leading health agency on the continent, have said they are worried as the missing patients risk spreading the highly contagious disease that is suspected to have killed at 900 people in DR Congo last year.

The patients fled from facilities in Goma and Bukavu – two cities that descended into chaos as they were seized by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels over the past weeks.

“We were looted. We lost equipment. It was a disaster,” Dr Samuel Muhindo, in charge of a clinic in Goma, told the BBC.

Mpox – formerly known as monkeypox – can cause symptoms such as lesions, headaches and fever.

According to Africa CDC, since the start of this year almost 2,890 mpox cases and 180 deaths have been reported in the country, which has been at the epicentre of several recent outbreaks.

Dr Muhindo described how 128 patients had fled Goma’s Mugunga health centre in the wake of the fighting at the end of January.

His health workers had not been able to trace them as paperwork at the clinic was destroyed, he said.

At Bisengimana, a hospital in Goma that also treats mpox, looters took medicines and personal protective equipment.

Fires were lit outside the centre and when the perpetrators departed, patients’ medical records were left strewn on the floor.

The situation has been further complicated by the M23’s decision to close a network of camps in Goma where tens of thousands of people who had sought refuge from fighting in recent years.

They were given 72 hours to leave last week, although the M23 later said it was encouraging “voluntary returns”.

“Now we are afraid of an outbreak of the epidemic in the areas where the displaced people returned to,” Dr Muhindo said.

His fears have been echoed by the Africa CDC.

“Once again, we are calling really for the ceasefire and also the agency to establish a humanitarian corridor to facilitate the continuation of mpox interventions,” Dr Ngashi Ngongo, Africa CDC’s mpox incident manager, said on Thursday.

Over the last week, the Africa CDC says the number of missing mpox patients has risen by 100 as fighting escalates and the rebels take more territory.

Dr Ngongo added that a new variant of mpox with “high potential for higher transmissibility” had also been detected in DR Congo.

The country’s ability to respond to the disease has been hampered by the conflict, between the M23 and DR Congo’s army, as well as a lack of funding.

The mpox facility at Mugunga, funded by the UN children’s agency (Unicef) and UK Aid Direct, managed to reopen last week.

But it is already so overstretched that there are times when four or five patients have to share one bed.

“I first fled from Minova to Goma when the M23 rebels began to advance from there,” Sadiki Bichichi Aristide, a 23-year-old being treated at Mugunga along with two of his children, told the BBC.

“I began to fall sick in a [camp for displaced people]. It started with my fingers, and then I had lesions, which began to rupture on my hands. My neighbours told me to go to Mugunga with my children. I left my wife behind.”

He said he had seen “so many” people with mpox before he arrived at the clinic last week.

Dr Oummani Rouafi, Unicef’s Goma health specialist, told the BBC that the only reason Mugunga hospital had reopened was because staff had managed to hide some equipment and medicine from the looters.

But this had not been the case at many other treatment centres that had been completely ransacked, he said.

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GHANET has described the President’s message as reassuring and therapeutic.

In a statement, the network acknowledged that Mahama’s assurance during the State of the Nation Address(SONA) was the third time in two weeks.

The funding, as outlined in the USAID Foreign Assistance Discretionary Request Report, was meant to support key sectors such as health, economic growth, education, and governance.

Since 2007, Ghana has benefited from the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), an initiative designed to combat HIV/AIDS and provide care for affected individuals.

With the latest funding cut, efforts to provide antiretroviral therapy, testing, and prevention programs will face significant challenges.

However, GHANET has expressed concern over the potential shortage of antiretroviral (ARV) medications, especially if the government takes full responsibility for procurement.

“This fear is heightened by recent happenings where even donated ARVs were nonchalantly abandoned at the ports for several months,” the statement said.

GHANET has therefore urged the government to operationalise the National HIV and AIDS Fund (NHAF), which was initiated in 2016 under the previous Mahama administration but stalled after a change in government.

The organisation emphasised that the absence of the fund had significantly affected HIV awareness campaigns, leading to a new generation with little knowledge of the disease.

“It therefore did not come as a surprise when the country recorded 17,700 new infections and 12,500 AIDS-related deaths in 2023 alone,” GHANET noted.

The group also called for local production of ART medications and HIV-related commodities, citing Ghana’s existing capacity for ARV manufacturing since 2005.

GHANET believes this could not only meet local demand but also serve neighbouring West African countries with high PLHIV populations.

The network has further appealed to the Ministers for Finance and Health to ensure that President Mahama’s commitment is reflected in the 2025 budget.

The group urged the government to fulfil the Abuja Declaration’s requirement for African nations to allocate at least 15% of their national budgets to health.

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The initiative was announced during a dissemination meeting on universal nutrition and health coverage held in Kumasi, aimed at improving maternal and child health through sustainable nutrition systems.

Speaking to Adom News, Olivia Timpo, Deputy Director of Nutrition at GHS, expressed concern over the rising cases of anemia despite efforts to promote good health practices.

She noted that while exclusive breastfeeding rates have declined, anemia prevalence remains high, necessitating intensified education on proper nutrition.

To address the issue, she revealed that counseling units have been established at health facilities to provide guidance on nutrition and anemia prevention.

The campaign aims to raise awareness and encourage healthier dietary habits to reduce the risk of anemia-related complications among vulnerable groups.

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The campaign will target children from newborns to five years old in select areas of Greater Accra, spanning nine districts in the region.

It is scheduled to run from February 27 to March 2, 2025, with health professionals reaching out to various locations, including homes, lorry stations, markets, schools, and churches, to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Deborah Noble-Yorke, the Health Promotion Officer in the Ablekuma South District, confirmed the campaign in an interview with Adom News.

She emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, “We are committed to ensuring that every child is protected from polio, and this campaign is critical in reaching those who may have missed out during last year’s efforts.”

Noble-Yorke also noted that the previous campaign faced challenges, with some schools and parents refusing to allow health professionals to vaccinate their children, leaving some children unvaccinated. This has led to the reinitiation of the campaign.

“The success of this campaign depends on the cooperation of parents, school leaders, and community members,” Noble-Yorke urged. “We urge all parents to bring their children forward for the vaccination. It is essential for the well-being of our children and for the collective health of our communities.”

The districts included in the vaccination drive are Ablekuma North, Ayawaso West, Ayawaso North, Adentan, Ga Central, Ga South, and Tema West.

Noble-Yorke reassured the public that the Ghana Health Service remains committed to providing high-quality healthcare, aligned with the Ministry of Health’s goals and the President’s vision to improve public health in the country.

Parents are strongly encouraged to support the campaign and ensure their children are vaccinated against polio, a potentially life-threatening disease.

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