Health News from Ghana

The latest health news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

Femi Asante reveals 10 failed IVF and five surrogacy attempts
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Femi Asante reveals 10 failed IVF and five surrogacy attempts

Femi Asante, the wife of Nana Asante Bediatuo, has opened up about her arduous path to motherhood, revealing the significant medical and emotional hurdles she faced over several years. Speaking in a recent interview on The Pesewa podcast, she disclosed that she underwent 10 unsuccessful In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF) cycles and five failed surrogacy attempts before achieving her goal of becoming a mother. Her candid revelation highlights the often-hidden struggles many couples face with infertility and the immense lengths taken to build a family. During the podcast discussion, Asante provided a raw account of the repetitive cycle of hope and disappointment that characterized her journey. The process of IVF, which involves complex medical procedures to assist with conception, failed 10 times, a number that underscores the physical and financial toll such treatments can take. Compounding this challenge, five attempts at surrogacy—where another woman carries the pregnancy for the intended parents—also did not result in a successful birth, adding layers of complexity and grief to her experience. Asante spoke deeply about the spiritual crisis triggered by these repeated failures. Despite being a person of faith, she admitted to feeling a profound sense of anger toward God as her prayers for a child seemed to go unanswered year after year. She described the internal conflict of maintaining a religious life while grappling with the perceived silence of her faith in the face of her deepest desire. This vulnerability sheds light on the psychological impact of infertility, which often extends beyond clinical concerns to affect a person's core beliefs and mental well-being. By sharing her story, Asante joins a growing number of public figures in Ghana who are breaking the silence surrounding infertility and assisted reproductive technologies. Her testimony serves to destigmatize the use of IVF and surrogacy while acknowledging the resilience required to navigate such a difficult path. While the interview focused primarily on her past struggles, her openness provides a platform for broader conversations about reproductive health and the emotional support systems needed for those undergoing fertility treatments.

A person wearing surgical gloves holds a massive, round bladder stone with a textured, yellowish-pink surface. The individual is dressed in a mustard-yellow scrub shirt, and a bottle of hand sanitizer is visible on a table in the background. The image depicts the 880g stone recently removed from a patient by doctors in Kumasi, Ghana.
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Kumasi Hospital surgeons remove 880g bladder stone from patient

A surgical team at Kumasi Hospital in the Ashanti Region has successfully performed a rare medical procedure to remove an 880-gramme bladder stone from a 49-year-old patient. The patient, identified as Akoto, had reportedly lived with the condition for nearly three decades, enduring persistent pain and urinary difficulties before seeking the surgical intervention that ultimately provided relief. The stone, which measured 11.8 cm in length, is being described by medical officials as a remarkable case due to its extraordinary size and weight. Dr. Samuel Koranteng Asante, the Chief Executive Officer of Kumasi Hospital, stated that the facility has not yet found a comparable documented case in African medical literature. While official verification against historical medical records is still required, the sheer scale of the stone suggests it is among the largest ever surgically extracted on the continent. Medical professionals at the hospital used the successful operation to highlight the importance of early diagnosis and preventive health measures. Dr. Asante urged the public to seek immediate medical assessment if they experience persistent urinary symptoms, as delaying treatment can lead to extreme complications like the one seen in this case. Doctors also emphasized the role of consistent hydration in preventing the formation of bladder and kidney stones, advising the public to maintain healthy lifestyle habits to safeguard their urological health.

Rotary Club of Accra Ridge screens 700 residents in Kotoso
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Rotary Club of Accra Ridge screens 700 residents in Kotoso

The Rotary Club of Accra Ridge has conducted a comprehensive health outreach in Kotoso, screening approximately 700 residents for various medical conditions. The two-day exercise, held on September 18-19, 2026, marked the fifth anniversary of the club's health initiative in the community. The programme aimed to bridge the healthcare gap by providing essential medical services directly to the people of Kotoso and its surrounding areas, emphasizing the club's commitment to community service and public welfare. Beyond general medical consultations, the outreach provided specialized services tailored to the specific needs of the local population. Specifically, 139 individuals received eye screenings, while the team facilitated National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) registrations and renewals for 281 residents to ensure long-term access to formal healthcare services. The initiative also included the distribution of free medications for various diagnosed conditions and educational resources focused on sexual and reproductive health to promote preventive care. Club President Gretel Rejoice Asigbe-Tsriku highlighted the significance of the sustained effort, noting that health is a fundamental right that should be accessible to all. She emphasized that the club remains committed to supporting underserved communities through periodic health interventions and local partnerships. Community members expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting that the combination of immediate medical treatment and the formalization of insurance coverage provided much-needed relief for many families. This five-year milestone underscores the Rotary Club's dedication to improving public health outcomes in the region. By integrating clinical screenings with administrative support for the NHIS, the initiative seeks to create a lasting impact on the well-being of Kotoso residents. The club intends to continue its collaboration with local stakeholders and health authorities to address evolving health challenges and promote sustainable health practices within the community.

Prof. Samuel Akoriyea Kaba (4th from right), DG of GHS, presenting the items to Alhaji Alhassan Lawal (2nd from left), Bolgatanga Municipal Director of Health Services
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BasicNeeds-Ghana donates GH₵700,000 equipment to 42 health facilities

BasicNeeds-Ghana, a non-governmental organization, has presented medical and counseling equipment valued at GH₵700,000 to 42 health facilities across six regions. The donation is designed to enhance mental health and psychosocial support for pregnant women, adolescent girls, and new mothers, with a specific focus on those affected by HIV/TB and survivors of gender-based violence. The initiative supports 14 district hospitals and 28 sub-district health facilities operating under the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the Christian Health Association of Ghana (CHAG). The project aims to integrate mental health services directly into maternal healthcare to ensure that psychological well-being is prioritized alongside physical health. Dr. Peter Badimak Yaro, Executive Director of BasicNeeds-Ghana, emphasized that the initiative has already facilitated the training of 1,304 healthcare workers. These professionals are now equipped to screen and manage mental health conditions, a move that has already benefited nearly 18,000 pregnant women and new mothers who have been screened for various psychosocial needs. Representatives from the Ghana Health Service praised the intervention, noting that the provision of specialized equipment will significantly improve the quality and privacy of counseling spaces within the beneficiary facilities. Despite the success of the project, Dr. Yaro called for increased and sustainable government investment in mental health services. He noted that while non-governmental organizations provide critical support, long-term improvements in the sector require robust national funding to ensure that mental healthcare remains accessible to all vulnerable populations.

Dr Fred Adomako-Boateng — Ashanti Regional Director of Health Services
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Ashanti Region records decline in breast cancer cases to 351 in 2025

The Ashanti Region has recorded a significant decrease in breast cancer cases for the year 2025, with health authorities reporting 351 cases compared to 561 documented in 2024. The data was disclosed by the Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, during the launch of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Kumasi. The decline reflects a shifting trend in recorded cases within the region, though health officials continue to stress the importance of sustained vigilance. Speaking at the event, which was held under the theme "Early Action, Better Outcome," Dr. Adomako-Boateng emphasized that early detection remains the most critical factor in improving survival outcomes. He noted that while the reduction in numbers is notable, the focus must remain on ensuring that patients receive quick diagnoses and timely treatment. The Regional Director urged the public to adopt preventive measures and participate in regular examinations, as late-stage diagnosis continues to be a major hurdle in effective treatment. The health challenge remains substantial both nationally and globally. In Ghana, approximately 5,487 new cases of breast cancer are recorded annually, leading to more than 2,000 deaths. Many of these fatalities are attributed to patients seeking medical help only when the disease has reached an advanced stage. Globally, breast cancer affects roughly 2.4 million women each year, maintaining its status as the second most common cancer worldwide. Dr. Adomako-Boateng concluded the launch by calling for increased community awareness and expressed gratitude to partners, including Jhpiego and the Pfizer Foundation, for their technical and financial support. Health officials in the Ashanti Region are expected to intensify screening exercises and public education campaigns throughout the month of October to further promote early detection and reduce the mortality rate associated with the disease.

New CHPS compound to ease healthcare challenges in remote Nanumba North communities 
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Nasongdo CHPS compound opens to serve remote Nanumba North communities

A new Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound has been inaugurated in Nasongdo, marking a significant improvement in healthcare accessibility for remote farming communities in the Nanumba North Municipality of the Northern Region. The facility, situated within the Chamba East Electoral Area, is designed to bring essential medical services closer to residents who have previously struggled with long-distance travel to reach the nearest health centers. This development aligns with the national strategy under President John Mahama’s administration to establish CHPS compounds in underserved and hard-to-reach areas across the country. The new health facility is set to serve a wide range of communities, including Nasongdo, Tigbando Bengulbu, Kabulkora, Mangoase, Danbado Ukalnjabondo, and Biyundo. Local leaders and residents have welcomed the project, highlighting its potential to save lives by providing immediate medical attention. Before the opening of this compound, patients often faced grueling journeys to access care, a challenge that contributed significantly to health complications and high maternal mortality rates in the municipality. Equipped to handle various medical needs, the Nasongdo facility will offer clinical consultations, outpatient services, and public health interventions. A critical focus of the compound will be maternal care, providing expectant mothers with professional support during pregnancy and delivery. By offering these localized services, health authorities aim to drastically reduce instances of pregnancy loss and other preventable health crises that arise from delayed medical intervention. In addition to the healthcare improvements, the community has also seen advancements in educational infrastructure with the establishment of new classroom blocks for local schools. These combined efforts in health and education reflect a holistic approach to rural development in the Nanumba North Municipality. The operationalization of the Nasongdo CHPS compound is expected to serve as a cornerstone for public health education, ensuring that remote populations are better informed and protected against common illnesses.

MPs, CSOs push for dedicated budget line for malaria
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Health Committee MPs advocate for dedicated malaria budget line

Members of Parliament’s Health Committee have committed to intensifying advocacy for a dedicated budget line specifically for malaria elimination. The move follows a closed-door meeting with Hope for Future Generations (HFFG), a non-governmental organisation focused on health and malaria eradication. The lawmakers aim to address persistent funding gaps that have slowed the country's progress toward achieving a malaria-free status. During the engagement, committee members suggested that malaria funding should be established as a specific line item within the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) or the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS). This proposal draws inspiration from the existing financial structures for persons with disabilities, which ensure a guaranteed percentage of funds are directed toward specific social needs. MPs argued that such a mechanism would provide the stability required for long-term health planning at the local level. A primary concern raised during the discussions was the management of indoor residual spraying (IRS) contracts. Lawmakers identified significant monitoring and funding deficiencies in current IRS programmes, noting that delays in budget approvals and the subsequent disbursement of funds often disrupt essential interventions. They emphasized that without streamlined financial processes, even well-designed eradication strategies would struggle to achieve their targets. To conclude the meeting, the Health Committee pledged to push for increased domestic resource mobilization to reduce Ghana's reliance on external donor support for health. The MPs committed to championing greater involvement of local government authorities in malaria control programmes to ensure interventions are properly managed on the ground. By securing a predictable funding stream, the committee hopes to enhance the overall effectiveness of the national response to malaria.

Dr Zakarea Al-Hasan Balure — Owner, Bliss Eye Care
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Zakarea Al-Hasan Balure urges regular eye exams for early disease detection

Dr. Zakarea Al-Hasan Balure, a specialist at Bliss Eye Care in the Upper West Region, has called on the public to prioritize regular eye examinations as a fundamental component of their health routines. Speaking ahead of World Sight Day, Dr. Balure emphasized that early detection is the most effective way to manage and prevent permanent vision loss from conditions that often show no early symptoms. He highlighted that many ocular ailments can be treated successfully if caught in their initial stages, preventing the progression toward total blindness. The specialist specifically identified glaucoma, cataracts, and refractive errors as major concerns for the population. He warned that glaucoma is particularly dangerous because it often develops without clear warning signs, earning its reputation as a silent threat to vision. According to Dr. Balure, many patients only seek medical attention once their sight has already significantly deteriorated, at which point some damage may be irreversible. Regular screenings allow professionals to monitor eye health and intervene before such critical stages are reached. Beyond clinical conditions, Dr. Balure addressed modern lifestyle risks, including the impact of increased screen time on children and young adults. He noted that prolonged exposure to digital devices contributes to eye strain and can worsen refractive errors if not managed correctly. Furthermore, he issued a strong caution against the common practice of self-medication. He urged individuals to avoid using unprescribed eye drops or traditional remedies without professional advice, as these actions can complicate existing conditions and lead to further complications. As Ghana prepares to join the global community in observing World Sight Day, Dr. Balure's advocacy serves as a reminder to integrate eye care into broader national health priorities. He recommended that eye checks be treated with the same importance as other medical screenings to ensure a better quality of life for all citizens. By seeking care from qualified professionals and maintaining a proactive approach to ocular health, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of avoidable blindness.

Asogli State hails GMTF as laudable healthcare initiative
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Togbe Kasa III commends Ghana Medical Trust Fund for healthcare support

Togbe Kasa III of the Asogli State has expressed strong support for the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF), popularly referred to as "Mahama Cares." Speaking during a formal visit from the Fund’s administrator, Mrs. Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku, the traditional leader described the initiative as a significant step toward improving healthcare access for Ghanaians. He specifically noted its potential to address existing gaps within the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and provide a safety net for those in dire need of medical assistance. During the interaction, Togbe Kasa III underscored the importance of integrity and transparency in managing the Fund's resources. He cautioned against any form of misuse, emphasizing that the primary goal of the GMTF must remain the provision of relief to patients facing financial distress. The traditional leader’s endorsement comes as the government under President John Mahama seeks to strengthen social safety nets for vulnerable citizens requiring specialized medical treatments that often fall outside standard insurance coverage. Mrs. Darko-Opoku, the Fund’s administrator, highlighted the strategic importance of community engagement to ensure the success of the initiative. She urged traditional authorities and local leaders to help raise awareness about the services offered by the GMTF. By ensuring that eligible patients are well-informed, the administration aims to maximize the impact of the healthcare support available to those in need, particularly those struggling with the costs of complex procedures and emergency interventions. Beyond immediate financial aid, the Ghana Medical Trust Fund is designed to improve access to specialized medical care and enhance the training of healthcare professionals across the country. A particular focus is being placed on addressing the rising challenge of non-communicable diseases. This holistic approach is intended to build a more resilient healthcare system that can provide high-quality care to all citizens, regardless of their economic status, by bridging the gap between diagnosis and affordable treatment.

Amelia Carroll was 13 when she got her cancer diagnosis last year
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Cancer Research UK urges parents to learn childhood cancer symptoms

Cancer Research UK has issued a call for increased vigilance among parents, revealing that less than one-third of parents feel confident in recognizing the symptoms of childhood cancer. The disease remains the leading cause of death by illness for children under the age of 15 in the United Kingdom. With approximately 1,900 new cases diagnosed annually in children aged 0 to 14, the organization is emphasizing the critical role of early detection in further improving survival outcomes. While survival rates have seen a significant rise since the 1970s—now exceeding 80%—the campaign highlights that early symptoms are frequently overlooked or dismissed as minor ailments. Case studies, such as that of thirteen-year-old Amelia Carroll, illustrate how subtle early signs can be, while the tragic story of Jake, who lost his battle with cancer at age 13, underscores the devastating consequences of delayed diagnosis. Families and experts are now advocating for more stringent adherence to referral guidelines to ensure that children showing persistent symptoms are evaluated by specialists as quickly as possible. Health professionals stress that recognizing persistent symptoms is the most vital step for parents and guardians. The current push for faster diagnosis aims to reduce the long waiting times many families face before receiving a definitive medical conclusion. By increasing public awareness and streamlining the referral process, Cancer Research UK hopes to ensure that every child has the best possible chance of recovery through timely medical intervention.

Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II (seated), Ga Mantse; Linda Ocloo (3rd from left), Greater Accra Regional Minister; Adjoa Obuobia Darko-Opoku (4th from left), Administrator, Ghana Medical Trust Fund; some security officials and other dignitaries. Picture: ERNEST KODZI
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Obuobia Darko-Opoku urges partnerships to expand medical fund awareness

Obuobia Darko-Opoku, the Administrator of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF), has called for strengthened collaborations with traditional leaders, religious figures, and the media to enhance the reach of the Fund’s healthcare support programs. Speaking during a stakeholder engagement session in Accra, she emphasized that while the Fund provides critical assistance for specialized healthcare, many eligible patients remain unaware of how to access these resources. The initiative seeks to ensure that financial barriers and information gaps do not prevent citizens from receiving life-saving medical attention. The engagement focused on bridging the communication gap between the Fund and the public. Darko-Opoku highlighted that many individuals in need of financial support for medical procedures lack access to official institutional announcements. By involving community leaders and media houses, the GMTF aims to bring information directly to the grassroots level, ensuring that the most vulnerable populations understand the eligibility criteria and the application processes for medical assistance. She urged health professionals and local authorities to act as conduits for this vital information. During the session, the Administrator pointed to major ongoing projects, including significant investments at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, as evidence of the Fund's impact on national healthcare delivery. The initiative received strong backing from the Greater Accra Regional Minister, who attended the event and echoed the need for enhanced partnerships. The Minister noted that such collaborations are vital for improving general healthcare access and ensuring that no Ghanaian is left behind due to a lack of awareness or financial means. The GMTF’s drive for community engagement marks a shift toward a more proactive outreach strategy. By leveraging the influence of traditional and religious authorities, the Fund hopes to demystify the assistance process and build trust within local communities. Moving forward, the Fund expects these stakeholders to play an active role in identifying patients in need and guiding them through the necessary steps to secure specialized care support, ultimately strengthening the country's healthcare social safety net.

Two giant tortoises stand side-by-side in an open grassy field under a bright sky. The image focuses on the ancient animals, showcasing their large domed shells and thick, textured legs in a natural setting with a background of lush green trees.
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Jonathan the 194-year-old tortoise offers genetic clues to long life

Scientists are studying the genome of Jonathan, a 194-year-old Aldabra giant tortoise, to uncover the biological secrets behind his remarkable longevity. As the world’s oldest-known living terrestrial animal, Jonathan resides on the island of St Helena, where he has lived since his arrival in 1882. This research seeks to identify how his unique genetic makeup has allowed him to survive nearly two centuries, potentially offering breakthrough insights into human aging and cellular resilience. The genetic analysis has revealed specific variations that set Jonathan apart from shorter-lived species. Researchers identified unique traits related to DNA repair mechanisms, mitochondrial function, and the protection of telomeres—the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes that typically shorten as organisms age. These findings suggest that Jonathan’s cellular systems are exceptionally efficient at resisting the cumulative damage that usually leads to biological decline in most animals. Despite his advanced age, Jonathan remains a symbol of endurance. While he is now largely blind due to cataracts and has lost his sense of smell, his health otherwise remains stable, and he maintains a robust appetite. His documented history on St Helena provides a rare, verified timeline for scientists, making him a unique subject for longitudinal aging studies. He has lived through significant historical shifts, outlasting numerous generations of humans while remaining a beloved figure on the island. The implications of this research extend beyond veterinary science, as understanding how Jonathan’s cells manage stress could eventually inform new treatments for age-related diseases in humans. By mapping the genetic architecture of the world's longest-lived land animal, scientists hope to identify pathways that could be stimulated in human cellular biology to combat aging. For now, Jonathan continues his quiet life on St Helena, serving as a living laboratory for the mysteries of time and biology.