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.

Amelia Carroll was 13 when she got her cancer diagnosis last year
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Cancer Research UK warns only 30% of parents recognise childhood cancer

Cancer Research UK has alerted the public that less than a third of parents feel confident in identifying the symptoms of childhood cancer, despite it being the leading cause of death from disease among children under 15. Each year, approximately 1,900 children aged 0 to 14 are diagnosed with the condition in the United Kingdom. The organisation is now campaigning for increased public awareness and more efficient diagnosis protocols to ensure that early warning signs are not overlooked by families or healthcare providers. While survival rates have improved significantly since the 1970s—with more than 80% of young patients now surviving for at least five years—experts warn that many children still face dangerously long waiting times for a definitive diagnosis. The campaign emphasises the necessity of adhering to strict referral guidelines to help medical professionals catch the disease early. Early intervention is considered vital for improving long-term health outcomes and reducing the physical toll of aggressive treatments on young bodies. The human cost of delayed diagnosis is highlighted by several high-profile case studies, including thirteen-year-old Amelia Carroll, whose early symptoms were initially missed. Another tragic instance involves 13-year-old Jake Swinscoe, who passed away after a battle with the disease. His mother, Lynsey Swinscoe, has since become a vocal advocate for better awareness, urging parents to trust their instincts and seek medical attention if they notice persistent or unusual symptoms in their children. Cancer Research UK is calling for a unified effort to bridge the confidence gap among parents and streamline the pathway from the first consultation to specialist treatment. By improving diagnosis times and fostering a better understanding of how childhood cancer presents, the organisation hopes to further increase survival statistics. Medical experts continue to stress that while childhood cancer is relatively rare, being alert to persistent health changes is the most effective way for parents to protect their children.

Dr Zakarea Al-Hasan Balure — Owner, Bliss Eye Care
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Dr. Zakarea Al-Hasan Balure urges regular eye examinations

Dr. Zakarea Al-Hasan Balure, a prominent eye care specialist at Bliss Eye Care in the Upper West Region, has called on Ghanaians to prioritize regular eye examinations to prevent irreversible vision loss from asymptomatic conditions. Speaking ahead of World Sight Day, Dr. Balure emphasized that early detection is the primary defense against serious ailments such as glaucoma, cataracts, and refractive errors. He noted that many of these conditions can develop and progress without any clear symptoms, making routine clinical checks essential for effective management and treatment. During his engagement with the Daily Graphic, the specialist highlighted a worrying trend of self-medication among the public. Dr. Balure warned that using unprescribed eye drops or relying on traditional remedies without a diagnosis from a qualified professional can exacerbate underlying issues and lead to permanent damage. He stressed that only trained eye care professionals have the expertise to accurately diagnose conditions and prescribe the correct treatments, ensuring that vision is preserved rather than compromised by improper interventions. Dr. Balure also addressed the impact of modern lifestyles on ocular health, specifically citing the increased use of digital screens. He observed that rising screen time among both adults and children is contributing significantly to eye strain and other related discomforts. To mitigate these risks, he advocated for eye exams to be integrated into regular annual health routines. He particularly urged parents to ensure children and young adults undergo frequent screenings, as undetected vision problems can severely hinder academic performance and general development during formative years.

Benjamin Tormadogo reports 21% rise in mental health service demand
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Benjamin Tormadogo reports 21% rise in mental health service demand

Benjamin Tormadogo, a mental health nurse, has highlighted an urgent need for the Ghanaian government to increase investment in mental healthcare. Speaking on JoyNews, he revealed that the country has experienced a 21% surge in demand for mental health services, a trend that is currently outpacing the available resources and infrastructure. He noted that while physical health often receives significant national attention and funding, mental health remains critically underfunded, leaving many vulnerable citizens without necessary support. Tormadogo expressed particular concern regarding individuals seeking help in prayer camps rather than clinical settings. He warned that the lack of access to professional psychiatric care often drives families to these spiritual centers, where patients may be exposed to harmful practices or neglect. By prioritizing national funding and improving the accessibility of professional services, the nurse argued that the government could protect these vulnerable populations and ensure they receive evidence-based treatment. Beyond clinical settings, Tormadogo emphasized the role of the workplace in shaping national mental health outcomes. He urged employers and employees to recognize how workplace conditions directly impact mental wellbeing. He advocated for healthier work environments, suggesting that the private and public sectors must integrate mental health awareness into their operational structures to prevent burnout and other psychological stressors that contribute to the rising demand for psychiatric services. The call for increased investment aims to alleviate the suffering of thousands who struggle with mental health challenges in silence. Tormadogo concluded that without a strategic shift in how Ghana approaches mental health—moving beyond the current focus on physical ailments—the gap between service demand and delivery will continue to widen. Improved funding would not only expand treatment options but also help de-stigmatize mental health conditions across the country.

A woman with long black braids and glasses is speaking during a studio interview. She is wearing a blue t-shirt with a white graphic and is positioned against a background featuring a blurred urban cityscape.
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Dr. Barbara Koomson reassures patients on safety of surgical anaesthesia

Dr. Barbara Koomson, a specialist anaesthesiologist at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, has addressed widespread public concerns regarding the safety of surgical procedures. Speaking ahead of World Anaesthesia Day on October 16, she aimed to allay common fears that patients might not regain consciousness after surgery. Dr. Koomson emphasized that advancements in medical science have transformed anaesthesia into a highly controlled discipline, where patient safety is guarded by specialized professionals using sophisticated technology. The specialist explained that modern anaesthesia involves the use of advanced monitoring equipment to track a patient’s vital signs in real-time. This constant supervision allows anaesthesiologists to make immediate adjustments to ensure the patient remains stable throughout the operation. By highlighting these safety protocols, Dr. Koomson sought to debunk myths and reassure the public that the risks associated with modern surgical sedation are minimal and carefully managed by trained experts. Dr. Koomson further detailed the three primary categories of anaesthesia: general, regional, and local. The selection of a specific type depends on the nature of the surgery and the individual health profile of the patient. While she acknowledged that some side effects may occur, she clarified that these are generally minor and manageable within the clinical setting. Her explanation provides patients with a better understanding of the tailored approach used in contemporary surgical care. World Anaesthesia Day commemorates the first successful public demonstration of ether anaesthesia in 1846, a breakthrough that revolutionized medicine by making painless surgery possible. Dr. Koomson’s initiative at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital underscores the importance of the specialty in the Ghanaian healthcare system. By fostering public confidence, she highlighted the critical role that anaesthesiologists play in ensuring the success of surgical interventions and the overall safety of patients.

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

Femi Asante, the wife of Nana Asante Bediatuo, has opened up about her decade-long struggle to become a mother, revealing that she underwent 15 unsuccessful fertility procedures. Speaking in a candid interview on The Pesewa podcast, Asante shared the immense emotional and physical burden of 10 failed In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) cycles and five failed surrogacy attempts. Her testimony highlights the often-private battles faced by many Ghanaian families dealing with infertility and the complexities associated with modern reproductive technologies. Asante described the grueling nature of the fertility treatments, which spanned several years and required significant endurance. She reflected on the cycle of hope and disappointment that characterized each attempt, noting how the experience tested her personal resilience. Despite her strong faith and consistent prayers for a child, the repeated failures led to a profound spiritual crisis. She candidly shared how the ongoing struggle made her feel angry with God, as the reality of her situation seemed to conflict with her religious convictions and her deep-seated desire for motherhood. The revelation has sparked a broader conversation about the emotional toll of assisted reproductive technologies in Ghana. While these medical advancements offer hope to many couples, Asante’s experience underscores the reality that success is not guaranteed and can come at a significant personal and financial cost. By sharing her story publicly, she has shed light on the psychological impact of infertility, a topic that is often shrouded in stigma or handled in isolation within the domestic context. Her story serves as a reminder of the resilience required of women navigating infertility and the importance of robust emotional support systems during such medical journeys. As more public figures like Asante share their personal health challenges, there is an increasing push for greater transparency and better psychological care for individuals undergoing fertility treatments. Her candidness is expected to resonate with many who face similar struggles, providing a rare glimpse into the private hardships behind prominent public lives.

Stephanie Benson shares journey through diagnosis and double mastectomy
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Stephanie Benson shares journey through diagnosis and double mastectomy

UK-based Ghanaian singer Stephanie Benson has opened up about her family’s harrowing experience with breast cancer and her personal decision to undergo a double mastectomy. After receiving her own diagnosis, the celebrated artist chose the surgical procedure to mitigate future risks, drawing from a history of loss that has deeply affected her family across multiple generations. Her revelation sheds light on the personal challenges of managing hereditary health risks in the public eye. Benson detailed the devastating toll the disease has taken on her relatives, revealing that she lost her mother, grandmother, and aunt to breast cancer. She recalled the profound impact of her mother's death, which occurred when her mother was only 48 years old. At the time, Benson was just 26, a period she described as pivotal in her understanding of the genetic threat the illness posed to her family and her own future health. Following her own subsequent diagnosis, Benson opted for a double mastectomy without hesitation. Her choice was driven by a proactive desire to prevent the complications that had previously claimed the lives of her closest kin. By sharing her journey, she emphasizes the importance of decisive medical intervention and the psychological resilience required to navigate such life-altering medical choices after a diagnosis. The singer’s disclosure serves as a significant contribution to breast cancer awareness, particularly concerning genetic predispositions and the preventive measures available to those at high risk. Her story underscores the necessity of early detection and the courage involved in choosing radical surgical options to ensure long-term survival. Through her advocacy, she continues to encourage others to prioritize their health and seek early medical counsel.

Kobby Kyei launches campaign to support boys' mental health in Ghana
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Kobby Kyei launches campaign to support boys' mental health in Ghana

Ghanaian online journalist Kobby Kyei has launched a dedicated advocacy campaign focused on improving mental health outcomes and reporting mechanisms for boys facing abuse in Ghana. The initiative specifically targets the pervasive "man up" culture, which Kyei identifies as a major barrier to emotional expression and the disclosure of trauma among young males. Through his social media platforms and public appearances, Kyei aims to create a safe and supportive environment for boys to discuss their experiences with sexual assault and mental health struggles, challenging the cultural silence that often surrounds these issues. During a recent discussion on the show Lifestyle with Rosie, Kyei shared personal reflections from his own childhood, noting that cultural expectations often leave boys feeling compelled to suppress their emotions rather than seek help. He pointed out that while there is significant national attention on the challenges and vulnerabilities faced by girls, boys are frequently neglected in discussions regarding domestic and sexual abuse. Kyei explained that this imbalance often leaves young males without the necessary support systems or language to report when they have been harmed, particularly when the perpetrators are trusted figures. The primary goal of Kyei’s advocacy is to foster a more inclusive national dialogue regarding child protection and emotional well-being. By challenging the traditional norms that discourage vulnerability in males, the campaign seeks to provide boys with the same level of support and visibility currently afforded to girls. Moving forward, Kyei intends to use his digital reach to continue these conversations, encouraging a societal shift that prioritizes the mental health of all children and provides a clear pathway for survivors of abuse to seek justice and healing.

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Pope Leo XIV to undergo surgery for localized lung nodule

Pope Leo XIV has announced that he will undergo a surgical procedure to remove a localized nodule in his lung. The 71-year-old pontiff shared the news during Sunday prayers, explaining that the nodule was identified early during a routine medical examination. The operation is scheduled to take place at the beginning of the week, marking the first significant health intervention for the Pope since his election to the papacy.\n\nAccording to his official spokesperson, the nodule is localized, and the surgery is being approached as a preemptive measure following its early detection. Despite the upcoming medical procedure, the Pope is reported to be in good physical condition and has not faced any previous major health complications during his tenure. He is well-known for maintaining an unusually active lifestyle for his age, which includes regular participation in sports and physical exercise. His medical team remains optimistic that his baseline fitness will contribute significantly to a swift and uncomplicated recovery.\n\nMedical officials anticipate a recovery period of approximately one week following the surgery. This recovery timeline is expected to allow the pontiff to remain on track for his intensive international schedule. Most notably, he is currently still planning to proceed with a major two-week apostolic journey to South America scheduled for next month. The Vatican has expressed confidence that the procedure will be successful and will not hinder his ability to fulfill his upcoming pastoral duties or complete the high-profile international visit.

MPs, CSOs push for dedicated budget line for malaria
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Parliament's Health Committee seeks malaria budget in District Assembly Fund

Members of Parliament’s Health Committee have committed to advocating for a dedicated budget line for malaria elimination within the country's public financial frameworks. The committee is pushing for a specific allocation to be included in the District Assembly Common Fund (DACF) or the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), ensuring that malaria interventions receive consistent and ring-fenced funding. This move aims to replicate the success of similar dedicated allocations, such as those provided for persons with disabilities. The commitment follows a closed-door meeting between the committee and Hope for Future Generations (HFFG), a non-governmental organisation focused on malaria eradication. During the session, legislators expressed significant concerns over existing funding and monitoring gaps, particularly regarding indoor residual spraying (IRS) contracts. They argued that a lack of financial oversight and specific budget items often hinders the effective execution of local malaria control programs. Beyond just securing funds, the MPs highlighted the need to address administrative bottlenecks that delay the approval and disbursement of health budgets. They committed to advocating for greater involvement of local government structures in the management of malaria programs. By decentralising these efforts and ensuring funds reach the district level without delay, the committee believes the national goal of malaria elimination can be achieved more efficiently. The push for a dedicated budget line represents a strategic shift toward domestic resource mobilisation for health. As international donor support fluctuates, the committee emphasized that Ghana must take greater responsibility for financing its own malaria interventions. The meeting concluded with a pledge to streamline budgetary processes and secure the sustainable domestic investment necessary to eliminate the disease as a public health threat.

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John Mahama plans three psychiatric hospitals for Ashanti, Northern, and Volta

President John Mahama has announced government plans to construct three new psychiatric hospitals in the Ashanti, Northern, and Volta Regions. This initiative is a central part of a broader government strategy to decentralize mental health services and ensure that specialized care is accessible to citizens across different geographical zones of the country. By establishing these facilities, the government aims to reduce the burden on existing institutions and bring mental healthcare closer to the communities that need them most. Beyond the physical infrastructure, the President emphasized the critical need for a robust workforce to manage these new facilities. He called on the Ghanaian youth to pursue education and training in critical health professions, specifically within the mental health sector. This focus on human resource development is intended to address the long-standing staffing shortages that have historically hampered the delivery of effective psychiatric care. The President's appeal highlights a shift towards professionalizing and incentivizing niche areas of the medical field to ensure the sustainability of the new hospitals. The strategic selection of the Ashanti, Northern, and Volta Regions is intended to cover the middle, northern, and eastern belts of Ghana, respectively. Currently, the nation's major psychiatric hospitals are primarily concentrated in the southern coastal areas, creating significant logistical and financial barriers for patients living in the hinterlands. This expansion project is expected to bridge the equity gap in healthcare delivery and foster a more inclusive national health system where mental health services are given the same priority as physical health interventions.

Magmina Foundation launches breast cancer awareness campaign in Ejisu
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Magmina Foundation launches breast cancer awareness campaign in Ejisu

The Magmina Foundation, in partnership with Nana Yaa Aninwaa Boddom, the Kontire Obaapanin of Ejisu Besease, has launched a breast cancer awareness and free examination campaign at Madona Hospital in the Ashanti Region. Organized to commemorate Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, the initiative aims to bridge the gap in healthcare access for rural women and young ladies. Under the theme "Together, we are stronger," the program provides essential education and clinical screenings to residents within the Ejisu municipality to ensure early detection of the disease. During the launch, Nana Yaa Aninwaa Boddom emphasized that breast cancer should not be viewed as a death sentence, provided it is identified in its early stages. She urged women in the community to prioritize regular medical check-ups and cautioned against the risks of self-medication or relying solely on unproven traditional remedies. Nurse Specialist Abigail Ababio provided technical guidance at the event, teaching participants how to perform monthly self-examinations. She also highlighted a critical but often overlooked fact: while it is predominantly a female health issue, men are also susceptible to breast cancer and must remain vigilant about changes in their bodies. The event saw a significant turnout from local residents who expressed gratitude for the free medical services and the practical health education shared by the specialists. Many participants noted that such specialized initiatives are often limited in rural settings and called for the Magmina Foundation to expand the program's reach to more remote communities. The foundation intends to continue its outreach efforts throughout the month, focusing on debunking myths surrounding the disease and ensuring that early detection becomes a standard practice for women across the region.

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

The Ashanti Region has recorded a significant decrease in breast cancer cases in 2025, with 351 cases documented compared to 561 in 2024. This development was announced by the Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, during the official launch of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Kumasi. Under the theme "Early Action, Better Outcome," health authorities emphasized that while the recorded numbers have dipped, the focus remains on sustaining awareness and encouraging early clinical interventions to save lives. Dr. Adomako-Boateng attributed the progress to ongoing efforts in public education and early diagnosis. He highlighted that breast cancer remains a major health challenge but stressed that timely detection and immediate treatment are critical factors that significantly improve survival rates for patients. He urged women to move beyond the fear of diagnosis and embrace regular screening, noting that high mortality rates in the past were often linked to late-stage reporting when the disease had already progressed significantly. The situation in the Ashanti Region reflects a broader national struggle against the disease. In Ghana, approximately 5,487 new cases of breast cancer are reported annually, leading to more than 2,000 deaths. Globally, the disease affects about 2.4 million women each year, making it the second most common cancer worldwide. Health officials in the region are working to counter these statistics by fostering community awareness and improving access to diagnostic facilities, supported by partners such as Jhpiego and the Pfizer Foundation. Concluding the launch event, Dr. Adomako-Boateng called for a collective approach involving community leaders and health workers to promote preventive measures and regular examinations. He expressed gratitude to international partners for their continued support in strengthening the region's healthcare infrastructure and outreach programs. As Awareness Month continues, the regional health directorate plans to scale up clinical examinations and education campaigns to ensure that the downward trend in recorded cases is accompanied by improved survival and total health outcomes.