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.

Getting your hands dirty boosts your health within weeks
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Ecologist Mira Grönroos Leads Research Showing How Nature Contact Boosts Skin Health and Immunity

Recent research has highlighted a significant link between regular contact with natural elements and the enhancement of human health. Studies led by ecologist Mira Grönroos demonstrate that interacting with soil, trees, and plants can significantly boost skin microbial diversity and strengthen the immune system within just a few weeks. By engaging with the biodiversity found in natural environments, individuals can foster a healthier microbiome, which serves as a primary defense mechanism against harmful bacteria and environmental stressors. One of the most striking findings of the research is that even brief interactions with nature can produce measurable results. According to the study, simply rubbing one's hands in soil for as little as 20 seconds can noticeably increase the presence of beneficial microbes on the skin. In Finland, the Vahvistu project is further exploring these concepts by observing children in nature-rich playgrounds. At the Aurinkolinna daycare, researchers noted that children who regularly play in the dirt exhibit improved skin health and more robust immune function compared to those in more sterile environments. Beyond childhood development, the benefits of nature exposure appear to be universal, extending to adults as well. Gardening with microbially diverse soil has been identified as an effective way for adults to maintain their well-being and diversify their skin microbiota. The research suggests that environments rich in biodiversity are essential in combating a variety of modern immune-related conditions. Specifically, exposure to the diverse microbes found in natural settings may help reduce the risk and severity of chronic conditions such as asthma and eczema. Ultimately, these findings encourage a shift in perspective regarding cleanliness and nature. While modern urban living often prioritizes sterile environments, the research indicates that the health benefits of "getting your hands dirty" far outweigh the inconvenience of a little mess. Fostering regular contact with the natural world is increasingly seen not just as a leisure activity, but as a vital component of preventative healthcare. As scientists continue to uncover the complexities of the human microbiome, the integration of natural elements into daily life remains a key strategy for enhancing long-term well-being.

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Daylight Event Launches 2026 World Heart Day Campaign to Combat Substance Abuse in Ghanaian Schools

Daylight Event, a non-governmental organization, has officially launched the 2026 World Heart Day Campaign, focusing on the urgent need to sensitize school children about the dangers of substance abuse. The initiative, themed "Say No to Drugs, Don’t Hurt the Heart," arrives amid growing concerns from stakeholders regarding the spread of drug use into educational institutions. By targeting the youth, the campaign aims to prevent early experimentation with illicit substances, which health experts warn can lead to severe cardiovascular issues and long-term health complications in adulthood. The campaign is supported by a broad coalition, including the Ministry of the Interior, the Ministry of Education, and various security agencies. Mrs. Sofia Arko, the Tema West Education Director, emphasized the critical role of adults and educators in safeguarding the future of children against substances like tramadol, cannabis, and shisha. To institutionalize this effort, the campaign will facilitate the establishment of anti-drug clubs within schools, alongside regular health screenings and counseling services. Mrs. Judith Azuma of the Restored and Renewed Rehab Centre and Major Kevin Bonsu further highlighted the medical nature of addiction, advocating for a shift in perspective that views substance use disorders as health issues requiring professional treatment. They noted that peer pressure and social media influence are significant contributors to the rising rates of drug experimentation among students. In addition to school-based sensitization, the campaign includes a series of community-level interventions designed to mobilize public support. Miss Akosua Bempomaa, a lead representative from Daylight Event, outlined a schedule of activities including a street awareness walk and the "Tema Fitness Fiesta" on September 27. These events are intended to promote physical health while fostering a community environment that discourages drug use. Security services have also joined the fray, with Chief Inspector Ebenezer Tetteh warning students about the legal and health risks associated with drugs like cocaine, while urging them to report illicit activities to the authorities. The campaign is set to culminate on September 29, coinciding with World Heart Day, featuring a national school conference where health experts will engage directly with students. Stakeholders are calling for increased government investment in rehabilitation facilities and a community-wide move toward supportive recovery efforts rather than purely punitive measures for youth caught in the cycle of abuse. By integrating heart health awareness with drug prevention, the initiative seeks to provide a holistic framework for youth development and public health safety in Ghana.

Getting your hands dirty boosts your health within weeks
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Ecologist Mira Grönroos Highlights Immune-Boosting Health Benefits of Direct Contact with Nature and Soil

Recent research highlighted by ecologist Mira Grönroos reveals a profound connection between regular physical interaction with nature and significantly improved human health. The study indicates that engaging with natural elements like soil, trees, and plants can bolster the body’s immune system and enhance skin health within just a few weeks. This process occurs as beneficial microbes from the environment are transferred to the skin, creating a diverse biological shield that prevents harmful bacteria from thriving. These findings suggest that the modern push for overly sterile environments may be inadvertently weakening natural human defenses. The core of this health boost lies in the skin's microbiota. According to Grönroos, simple actions such as touching tree bark, gardening, or even playing in the dirt facilitate a microbial exchange that is essential for physical well-being. By increasing the diversity of microbes on the skin, individuals can better protect themselves against various pathogens. This research provides a scientific basis for the "hygiene hypothesis," which posits that limited exposure to natural germs and bacteria in early life and adulthood can lead to an increase in immune-related conditions and allergies. Practical observations at the Aurinkolinna daycare center support these claims, showing that children who regularly play in natural soil and greenery exhibit markedly better skin health and immune function than those in more urbanized settings. These benefits are not exclusive to children; adults who participate in gardening or use microbially diverse soil also see measurable improvements in their health. The study emphasizes that environments rich in biodiversity serve as a natural training ground for the human immune system, helping it to distinguish between harmless environmental factors and genuine threats. Ultimately, the research encourages a fundamental shift in how society views dirt and the outdoors. While modern lifestyles often prioritize cleanliness and the avoidance of mess, the biological evidence suggests that fostering regular contact with the natural world is vital for long-term health. By reintroducing natural elements into daily routines—whether through urban gardening or outdoor play—individuals can significantly enhance their physical resilience. The long-term health rewards of getting one's hands dirty far outweigh the minor inconvenience of a bit of mud, making nature exposure a simple yet powerful tool for public health.

Forum for Kidney Patients Ghana Urges Government to Establish New Renal Centre in Central Region
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Forum for Kidney Patients Ghana Urges Government to Establish New Renal Centre in Central Region

The Forum for Kidney Patients Association Ghana has issued an urgent appeal to the government to establish a new renal facility in the Central Region to alleviate the severe pressure on the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital (CCTH). The association proposed that the new centre be situated in either Assin Fosu or Dunkwa-on-Offin to serve as a strategic hub for patients who currently travel long distances to access life-saving dialysis. The current facility at CCTH is reportedly overwhelmed, as it serves a vast catchment area including patients from various neighboring regions, leading to a critical strain on both equipment and personnel. Patients have shared harrowing accounts of the logistical and financial burdens imposed by the lack of decentralized services. Gifty Tetteh, a kidney patient who travels from Akim Oda to Cape Coast for treatment, highlighted the exorbitant transportation costs and the physical exhaustion associated with frequent long-distance travel. These challenges are compounded by the fact that the increasing number of patients has forced the hospital to limit available dialysis slots, often resulting in a reduction of treatment sessions for individuals who requires more frequent care to maintain their health. Thomas Cann, the Central Regional President of the association, has called on the Ministry of Health and the government to prioritize investment in additional dialysis machines and the construction of the proposed new facility. Cann emphasized that the current infrastructure is insufficient to meet the rising demand for renal services in the region. He noted that establishing a satellite centre would not only reduce travel time for patients but also ensure that the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital can provide more consistent and effective care to those in immediate need. This demand for expanded renal services underscores a growing healthcare crisis as the prevalence of kidney-related ailments continues to rise across Ghana. By decentralizing dialysis care to locations like Assin Fosu or Dunkwa-on-Offin, the government could significantly improve the quality of life for patients and reduce the mortality rate associated with inadequate treatment frequency. The association remains hopeful that the government will act swiftly to provide the necessary resources to prevent the further deterioration of the region's renal care capacity.

I wouldn’t have married my wife Simi if she were SS – Adekunle Gold
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Adekunle Gold Advocates for Genotype Testing as Prerequisite for Marriage to Combat Sickle Cell Disease

Nigerian music star Adekunle Gold has sparked a vital conversation on public health and family planning by emphasizing the necessity of genotype testing before marriage. Speaking in a recent interview, the singer revealed that he would not have married his wife, fellow artist Simi, had their genotypes been incompatible. This candid admission serves as a call to action for couples to prioritize medical compatibility to prevent the birth of children with sickle cell disease (SCD), a hereditary blood disorder that remains a significant health challenge across West Africa. Gold's stance highlights the intersection of romantic love and long-term domestic stability, suggesting that medical due diligence is an essential act of responsibility toward future generations. Adekunle Gold highlighted the straightforward nature of the testing process, urging prospective partners to move beyond emotional attachments when considering their future offspring’s health. He shared his personal experience, noting that he and Simi proactively checked their genotypes early in their relationship to ensure they could build a healthy family together. According to the artist, love should not blind individuals to the potential lifelong challenges and difficult family situations that can arise when two carriers of the sickle cell trait or those with the disease conceive children. He cautioned that ignoring these medical realities can lead to preventable hardship for both the parents and the children involved, advocating for informed decisions over emotional impulse. The advocacy comes at a time when health professionals are intensifying efforts to reduce the incidence of sickle cell anemia through education and pre-marital screening. By using his platform to discuss his own marriage, Adekunle Gold aims to destigmatize the conversation around genotype matching and normalize it as a standard step in the courtship process. His message reinforces the idea that informed decision-making is a cornerstone of responsible parenting and sustainable public health. Ultimately, the singer's public discourse encourages a shift in societal norms where health awareness is integrated into the foundation of marital commitments, potentially lowering the long-term burden of SCD on the healthcare system.

David Kafui Klutse (right), Chief Operation Officer, Pharmanova Limited, with Atal Tripathi (2nd from right), Manager, Pharmanova, presenting the drugs to Yvonne Dasoberi (left), Assistant Corporate Communications Officer, GCGL, Esther Agarko (left), General Manager, Pharmacy Services, Danpong Healthcare Limited, presenting donated drugs to Yvonne Dasoberi (right), Assistant Corporate Communications Officer, GCGL. Pictures: BENEDICT OBUOBI
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Pharmanova and Danpong Healthcare Donate GH¢20,000 in Medicines for GCGL Annual Health Screening

Pharmanova Limited and Danpong Healthcare have donated GH¢20,000 worth of medicines to the Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL) to support its annual free health screening initiative. Each pharmaceutical company contributed GH¢10,000 as part of their respective Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs, aimed at enhancing community healthcare access. The donation provided essential medical supplies for the exercise, which was held on September 19, focusing on the early detection and prevention of chronic health conditions such as hypertension and diabetes. The medical supplies were intended to complement the wide range of diagnostic services offered during the event, which primarily targets residents who may face economic or physical barriers to regular medical consultations. By providing these medicines, Pharmanova and Danpong ensured that participants diagnosed with various ailments could receive immediate pharmaceutical intervention. The companies emphasized that their involvement stems from a deep-seated commitment to improving the well-being of the Ghanaian public, looking beyond commercial interests to support vital community health services. A core objective of the GCGL health screening is the early identification of non-communicable diseases, often referred to as "silent killers." The availability of free screening and donated medication encourages individuals to take proactive steps regarding their health and lifestyle choices. This annual event has become a significant fixture in the local health calendar, promoting a culture of regular check-ups and reducing the long-term burden of disease through preventive care and public education. This collaborative effort between the media and the pharmaceutical sector underscores the importance of multi-stakeholder partnerships in achieving national health goals. As the Graphic Communications Group continues to expand its outreach efforts, the sustained support from companies like Danpong and Pharmanova remains crucial. Such initiatives not only provide immediate relief to participants but also set a precedent for other corporate entities to invest in the health and vitality of the communities they serve.

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Infinity 970 and Breathe Cities Launch 'Healthy Lungs, Healthy Life' Campaign to Combat Air Pollution

In an effort to address the escalating public health crisis posed by poor air quality, Infinity 970 and Breathe Cities have officially launched the "Healthy Lungs, Healthy Life" campaign. Unveiled on August 27, 2024, the initiative is designed to educate the Ghanaian public on the significant health risks associated with air pollution, with a primary focus on the Greater Accra Region. The campaign aims to reach approximately 10 million people across the country through extensive television and radio broadcasts, emphasizing the urgent need for behavioral change and increased environmental awareness.\n\nThe urgency of the campaign is underscored by alarming environmental data. Speaking at the launch, Dr. Elvis Kyere Gyeabour highlighted that air pollution levels in Ghana currently stand at five times the recommended limits set by the World Health Organization (WHO). This significant disparity poses a severe threat to respiratory health nationwide. To maximize impact, the "Healthy Lungs, Healthy Life" project is specifically targeting high-risk and influential groups, including commercial drivers and educational institutions, where the exposure to and effects of pollutants are often most concentrated.\n\nMedical experts associated with the initiative, including Dr. Caryn Agyeman Prempeh, have pointed to hazardous local practices as major contributors to the crisis. The campaign specifically warns against the common practice of burning domestic and industrial waste, which releases toxic particulates into the atmosphere. These pollutants are particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly, who are more susceptible to long-term respiratory damage. By focusing on these specific behaviors, the organizers hope to foster a community-led approach to improving air quality and protecting public health.\n\nLooking forward, the organizers are calling for a multi-stakeholder approach to tackle this environmental challenge. The "Healthy Lungs, Healthy Life" initiative seeks to build strong collaborations between government agencies, private sector entities, and local communities to develop and implement sustainable solutions. As air quality continues to be a global health priority, this campaign represents a critical step in aligning Ghana’s domestic efforts with international health standards to ensure a safer, cleaner environment for all citizens.

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Tano South Municipal Assembly Empowers 74 Persons with Disabilities to Combat Street Begging

In a significant move to foster economic independence and social inclusion, the Tano South Municipal Assembly in the Ahafo Region has distributed essential livelihood support to 74 Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). The initiative, held at Bechem, aims to equip beneficiaries with the necessary tools to establish sustainable businesses, thereby reducing the prevalence of street begging within the municipality and the wider region. By providing direct physical and financial assets, the assembly seeks to empower these individuals to contribute meaningfully to local economic development. The support package was diverse, tailored to the specific needs and vocational skills of the recipients. Items distributed included deep freezers for food vendors, industrial sewing machines for aspiring tailors and dressmakers, and high-tech equipment like laptops for students and professionals. Furthermore, the assembly provided scholarships to several PWDs to ease the financial burden of education. Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) Emmanuel Kwame Frimpong, who oversaw the distribution, emphasized that these items were not merely gifts but investments in the human capital of the municipality. He highlighted the importance of sustainable livelihoods in restoring the dignity of PWDs and ensuring they are not left behind in the nation's progress. During the ceremony, MCE Frimpong issued a stern warning against the resale of the provided equipment, noting that such actions would undermine the very purpose of the intervention. He also called upon the general public to patronize the services and products offered by PWDs, arguing that community support is vital for the long-term success of these small businesses. One of the beneficiaries, Victor Atuahene, expressed profound gratitude for the support, particularly the academic resources. He vowed to utilize the assistance to advance his studies, illustrating the transformative potential of such targeted social interventions on individual lives. This initiative by the Tano South Municipal Assembly reflects a broader commitment to fulfilling the legal and moral obligations toward vulnerable populations in Ghana. By transitioning from a model of charity to one of economic empowerment, the assembly is setting a precedent for how local government authorities can effectively utilize the Disability Fund. As these 74 individuals begin their new ventures, the focus remains on monitoring and evaluation to ensure that the resources provided lead to lasting financial stability and a significant reduction in the socioeconomic barriers faced by persons with disabilities in the Ahafo Region.

The water system at Bobin
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Ashanti Region Water Project: 800,000 Residents to Benefit from Ghana-Korea Climate-Smart Initiative

Approximately 800,000 residents across 269 rural communities in the Ashanti Region are set to see a significant improvement in their quality of life through a new climate-smart water purification project. This initiative, a collaborative effort between the governments of Ghana and Korea, aims to provide sustainable access to safe drinking water in areas where supply has traditionally been inconsistent or unsafe. By prioritizing rural development, the project seeks to bridge the stark gap in utility access that persists between Ghana's urban centers and its more remote hinterlands, ensuring that basic health necessities are not determined by geographic location. At the heart of this intervention is the installation of advanced, solar-powered water purification systems. These units are specifically designed to treat local water sources, effectively removing contaminants to ensure the water meets stringent safety standards for human consumption. Because the systems utilize renewable solar energy, they offer a resilient solution to the energy challenges often faced in rural infrastructure projects, aligning with broader climate adaptation goals. Stakeholders involved in the rollout have highlighted that the "climate-smart" nature of the technology ensures that the water supply remains reliable even in the face of changing environmental conditions and energy volatility. The impact on public health is expected to be profound, as access to clean water is a fundamental pillar in preventing waterborne diseases and improving overall community well-being. Community leaders and residents have expressed immense relief and gratitude, noting that the project will alleviate the daily burden of seeking water from potentially contaminated sources. However, the long-term success of the initiative hinges on more than just initial installation. Officials and project partners have emphasized that regular monitoring, robust maintenance schedules, and active community engagement are essential to protecting these vital resources and ensuring the systems remain operational for years to come.

Dr Fred Adomako-Boateng, Ashanti Regional Director of Health Services
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Ashanti Regional Health Directorate and UNICEF to Launch Virtual Labour Room to Combat Rising Maternal Deaths

The Ashanti Regional Health Directorate, in a strategic partnership with UNICEF, is set to introduce a "virtual labour room" concept to tackle the persistent challenge of maternal mortality in the region. This innovative initiative is designed to provide real-time, remote assistance to health workers in smaller, local facilities during complex deliveries. By bridging the gap between frontline staff and specialists at tertiary health centers, the program seeks to ensure that life-saving expertise is available even in remote areas. The intervention comes at a critical time, as the region recorded maternal mortality ratios of 195.6 per 100,000 live births in 2024 and 196.7 per 100,000 in 2025. The core functionality of the virtual labour room relies on electronic connections that link lower-tier health facilities with higher-tier specialist hospitals. This setup allows specialists to guide local midwives and doctors through complications that might otherwise lead to fatalities. Health officials have noted that many maternal deaths in the region stem from conditions that are manageable if expert intervention is provided promptly. By utilizing digital communication tools, the Directorate aims to minimize delays in decision-making and referral, which are often the deciding factors in maternal survival. In addition to the technological rollout, the Health Directorate is implementing a comprehensive six-month clinical mentorship program aimed at enhancing the professional skills of junior medical officers. This program ensures that the human resource component of the healthcare system is strengthened alongside the technological infrastructure. The Deputy Minister of Health has emphasized the importance of these collaborative solutions, noting that the complexities of maternal healthcare require a multi-faceted approach involving both regional leadership and international partners like UNICEF. The virtual labour room system is expected to be fully operational by August, marking a significant milestone in the region's healthcare delivery strategy. As the Ashanti Region continues to grapple with the pressures of a growing population and varying levels of facility readiness, this digital health intervention offers a scalable model for other regions in Ghana. The success of this initiative will likely depend on stable connectivity and the sustained engagement of specialists, but officials remain optimistic that it will provide a necessary safety net for expectant mothers across the region.

Emmanuel Nana Osei educating parents on how to take good care of their children eyes.
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Visio International and Department of Children Screen 300 Children for Eye Diseases in Akuapem North

In a significant boost to pediatric health in the Eastern Region, approximately 300 children in the Larteh and Tutu communities of the Akuapem North Municipality have undergone comprehensive eye screenings. This initiative is the result of a strategic partnership between the non-governmental organization Visio International and the Department of Children. The program was launched in response to growing concerns regarding the prevalence of eye diseases among children in these farming and trading communities, where visual impairments have increasingly become a barrier to effective learning and personal development. The screening exercise was designed to identify and address vision issues that often go unnoticed in rural settings. Many of the children examined were found to be suffering from various eye conditions that, if left untreated, could lead to permanent damage or severe educational setbacks. To remove the financial hurdles associated with specialized healthcare, Visio International has committed to providing all necessary medical interventions at no cost to the families. Additionally, the initiative has introduced a financial support component to assist parents in meeting other basic needs, ensuring a holistic approach to the children's welfare. Beyond immediate clinical interventions, the program focuses on long-term preventive care and parental education. Local eye specialists engaged with the communities to teach parents about the importance of eye hygiene and the early warning signs of visual distress. By equipping families with this knowledge, the organizers hope to foster a culture of proactive health management. This collaborative effort stands as a vital intervention for the youth of Larteh and Tutu, ensuring that their future prospects are not dimmed by preventable or treatable optical health challenges.

Akua Asantewaa Agyei, Deputy Chief Nursing Officer and Nursing Manager for the Newborn Unit and Kids Ward, receiving the items form Sylvia Ammoro, Chairperson of the Kascity District Society
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Kasoa Mother and Child Hospital Receives GH¢ 31,626 Donation from ICAG Kascity District Society to Boost Neonatal Care

The Kascity District Society of the Institute of Chartered Accountants, Ghana (ICAG) has bolstered neonatal and pediatric care at the Kasoa Mother and Child Hospital through a substantial donation of medical equipment and essential supplies. Valued at GH¢ 31,626, the contribution is part of the society’s annual initiative to support vulnerable children and improve healthcare delivery within the Kasoa community. The donation comes at a critical time when local healthcare facilities are increasingly seeking private-sector partnerships to bridge resource gaps and enhance service delivery for the growing population. The items presented to the hospital included vital medical supplies alongside significant hardware, such as a 17kg washing machine and a 60-litre refrigerator specifically designated for vaccine storage. This targeted assistance was not arbitrary; the society conducted prior engagements with hospital management to identify the facility's most pressing requirements. By providing specialized storage for vaccines and upgrading the hospital’s laundry capabilities, the ICAG Kascity Society aims to directly improve hygiene standards and the efficacy of immunization programs for newborns and children. During the presentation ceremony, Chairperson Sylvia Ammoro expressed profound gratitude to the society’s members for their financial contributions and commitment to the cause. She emphasized that investing in the health of newborns is a direct investment in the nation’s future, noting that every child deserves a fighting chance at life through quality medical care. Representatives from the broader ICAG body echoed these sentiments, highlighting the professional organization's dedication to corporate social responsibility and calling on other professional groups to dedicate resources toward community development and healthcare support. This gesture by the Kascity District Society underscores the vital role that professional associations play in supporting Ghana’s public health infrastructure. As the Kasoa Mother and Child Hospital continues to serve a rapidly expanding urban area, such interventions are crucial for maintaining high care standards and reducing neonatal mortality rates. The society has signaled its intention to maintain this annual tradition, ensuring that their professional success translates into tangible benefits for the most vulnerable members of the Kasoa community.