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.

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

Nigerian singer Adekunle Gold has sparked a vital conversation about public health and family planning by emphasizing the critical necessity of genotype testing before marriage. Speaking in a recent interview, the artist revealed that he would not have married his wife, fellow singer Simi, had their genotypes been incompatible. This candid admission serves as a call to action for couples to prioritize health screenings to prevent the transmission of sickle cell disease to future generations. The singer shared his personal experience, noting that he and Simi ensured they were compatible through a straightforward medical test before committing to marriage. Genotype compatibility is essential because when two carriers of the sickle cell trait (AS) or individuals with the disease (SS) conceive, there is a significant risk that their children will inherit sickle cell anemia, a painful and life-long genetic condition. Adekunle Gold stressed that while love is a powerful bond, it should not blind couples to the potential medical risks and the difficult family situations that arise from managing chronic genetic disorders. Beyond his personal life, the musician advocated for broader awareness and education regarding sickle cell disease. He urged prospective couples to make informed decisions about family planning rather than leaving their children's health to chance. By highlighting how accessible these tests are, he aims to demystify the process and encourage young people to incorporate medical screening into their pre-marital preparations. The goal is to reduce the prevalence of sickle cell anemia through preventive knowledge and proactive testing. The singer's advocacy comes at a time when health experts across West Africa continue to push for encouraged genotype screenings as a cornerstone of maternal and child health. His influence as a public figure brings much-needed attention to a condition that affects millions in the region. The ultimate takeaway from his message is that being well-informed is a gesture of love toward one’s future family, ensuring that the next generation is born without the avoidable burden of sickle cell disease.

Ghanaians warned against silent heart disease
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National Cardiothoracic Centre and Medical Experts Sound Alarm Over Ghana's Rising Cardiovascular and Hypertension Crisis

Medical experts and the National Cardiothoracic Centre (NCC) have issued a stark warning regarding a growing health crisis in Ghana, where cardiovascular diseases now account for an estimated 43% to 50% of all deaths. During the launch of World Heart Day 2026, Dr. Kow Entsua-Mensah, Director of the NCC, and Professor Alfred Doku emphasized that hypertension has become a "silent killer," often developing without noticeable symptoms until life-threatening complications arise. Current data suggests that approximately 34% of Ghanaian adults—or more than three in every ten people—may be living with the condition, many of them undiagnosed. Experts are calling for urgent public collaboration and regular health screenings to improve early detection and reduce the national mortality rate. Dietary habits are being identified as a primary driver of these rising figures, particularly the high consumption of traditional salted fish. Dr. Albert Agbi, a Physician Specialist and Cardiologist Fellow at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, has cautioned Ghanaians to moderate their intake of 'koobi' and 'momoni' due to their extreme sodium content, which significantly elevates blood pressure and strains the heart. While not calling for a total ban on these delicacies, Dr. Agbi recommends a shift toward the DASH or Mediterranean diets, emphasizing potassium-rich alternatives like bananas and coconut water. He also noted a concerning trend where some men avoid hypertension medication due to fears of side effects such as erectile dysfunction, further complicating management efforts. Beyond diet, medical practitioners are highlighting the critical role of lifestyle choices, including sleep and regular eating schedules, in maintaining overall health. Dr. Emefa Klah, a General Medical Practitioner, warned that chronic sleep deprivation is a major risk factor for hypertension, recommending that adults aim for at least eight hours of rest daily to mitigate stress-induced blood pressure spikes. Simultaneously, health screenings conducted by organizations like ASA Savings and Loans Ltd in Kintampo have revealed a surge in peptic ulcer disease. Physician Assistant Maxwell Dery noted that poor habits, such as skipping meals and eating late—common among drivers and those with hectic schedules—are fueling the rise of ulcers, which can be exacerbated by spicy foods, alcohol, and carbonated drinks. In response to these growing threats, corporate and community organizations are intensifying efforts to provide accessible healthcare services. The Graphic Communications Group Ltd (GCGL) recently received GH"20,000 worth of medicine donations from Pharmanova Limited and Danpong Healthcare to support its annual free health screening exercise. These initiatives aim to promote early detection of chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension while encouraging healthier lifestyle modifications. Medical professionals stress that consistent medical reviews and a proactive approach to wellness are essential to reversing the trend of preventable deaths and managing the country's collective health burden.

FDA arrests two, warns public over fake ‘Dr Alfred’ capsules sold on social media
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Ghana FDA Cracks Down on Falsified Drugs as Health Workers Warn of Systemic Crises and Inequality

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) of Ghana has intensified its enforcement against illegal pharmaceutical activities, leading to the arrest of two individuals involved in a syndicate manufacturing and distributing falsified 'Dr Alfred Capsules.' These products, marketed on social media for male vitality, were found to be adulterated with Sildenafil citrate, a prescription-only medication not listed on the label. Discovered through operations in Accra and Suhum, the FDA warned that these falsified versions lack safety seals and pose severe public health risks. This domestic crackdown aligns with regional efforts to secure pharmaceutical supply chains, as neighboring Togo recently established an autonomous national agency to regulate health products and combat counterfeit medicines, which are estimated to cause over 100,000 deaths annually across Africa. Simultaneously, Ghana’s internal healthcare delivery is under significant strain due to labor disputes and allegations of ethical lapses. The Health Services Workers’ Union (HSWU) has raised an alarm over critical staff shortages in public facilities, noting that the absence of adequate support staff is undermining operational capacity and stressing existing workers. The union further criticized the government’s failure to pay the '13th-month salary' agreed upon in their collective bargaining agreement. These administrative failures are compounded by reports from Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, where 'intramural services' have come under fire. Allegations suggest that patients with financial means are paying additional fees to secure faster access to specialist care, effectively creating a two-tier system that neglects those without resources. Environmental health issues are also reaching the courts, as local authorities move to protect residential well-being. The Kwadaso Municipal Assembly has initiated legal proceedings against a poultry farmer in Atwima-Techiman following persistent complaints from residents regarding offensive odors and noise pollution. Despite attempts by the Environmental Health and Sanitation Unit to educate the farmer on proper sanitation practices, his continued non-compliance led to an escalation at the Twedie Court. The Assembly has reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing environmental bye-laws, with a final judgment on the public nuisance case expected by the end of the month. These combined developments highlight a complex landscape for the health sector under the current administration. While regulatory bodies like the FDA and municipal assemblies are taking active steps to prosecute offenders and protect consumers, systemic issues regarding labor conditions and equitable access to care at major institutions like Korle Bu remain unresolved. Moving forward, the government faces the dual challenge of strengthening pharmaceutical oversight and addressing the underlying grievances of health workers to ensure a resilient and fair national healthcare system.

Skipping breakfast not solution to weight loss — Dietitians
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National Cardiothoracic Centre Warns of Undiagnosed Hypertension as Health Experts Advocate for Science-Based Nutrition and Heart Health

Professor Alfred Doku, Head of the National Cardiothoracic Centre, has issued a stark warning regarding Ghana’s cardiovascular health landscape, revealing that over 70% of Ghanaians living with hypertension are unaware of their condition. Speaking at the 2026 World Heart Day press launch in Accra, Professor Doku described the situation as a "silent risk factor" that serves as a primary contributor to the country's rising rates of strokes, kidney failure, and heart disease. Because hypertension often presents no visible symptoms, a vast majority of the population remains at risk without proper diagnosis, highlighting an urgent need for regular medical screenings and lifestyle interventions. In tandem with these clinical concerns, the Ghana Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (GAND) has moved to address common dietary misconceptions, specifically warning the public that skipping breakfast is not a reliable or recommended strategy for weight loss. While some studies suggest breakfast skippers might consume fewer calories daily, GAND emphasizes that the practice can lead to adverse health effects, including increased LDL cholesterol and higher risks of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. The Academy advocates for a balanced, personalized approach to dieting, urging Ghanaians to seek professional guidance rather than adhering to generalized weight-loss trends that may compromise long-term metabolic health. Furthering the effort to combat non-communicable diseases through policy, the Association of Ghana Industries (AGI) and the International Sweeteners Association (ISA) recently hosted a high-level roundtable in Accra. The engagement focused on the role of low and no-calorie sweeteners and the development of the Nutrient Profile Model in Ghana's food policy. Leaders including Seth Twum-Akwaboah of the AGI and Laurent Oger of the ISA emphasized that science-based policymaking and collaboration between the food industry and health stakeholders are essential for promoting healthier consumer choices and managing caloric intake across the population. These collective developments underscore a critical push for a more health-conscious Ghanaian society, where clinical awareness and nutritional science work in harmony. As the National Cardiothoracic Centre works to close the diagnostic gap for hypertension, the simultaneous focus on professional dietary advice and evidence-based food regulations provides a framework for reducing the national health burden. Moving forward, health experts agree that bridging the gap between scientific research and public awareness will be the most effective way to improve the long-term well-being of the nation.

Ambassador Horace Nii Ayi Ankrah (right), Board Chairman of VALCO, and other members of the board touring the refurbished VALCO Clinic in Tema Community 4
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Ghana's Health Sector Receives Major Boost Through Corporate Partnerships and Local Infrastructure Revitalization

Ghana's healthcare landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as a series of corporate, parliamentary, and trust-led initiatives revitalize dormant facilities and upgrade medical equipment across the country. From the restoration of critical emergency services in the Upper West Region to the reopening of long-dormant clinics in Tema and multi-million cedi donations in Kumasi, these developments signal a concerted effort to bridge the gap in specialized medical care and emergency response. This surge in health investments highlights a collaborative approach between the private sector and government agencies to ensure that quality healthcare reaches both urban centers and rural communities. In Kumasi, the management of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) has praised the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (GMTF) for delivering what they described as 70 years' worth of impact in just one year of service. The Trust Fund recently donated medical equipment valued at over GH₵4 million, including a state-of-the-art Olympus endoscopy tower, jaundice meters, and various anesthesia consumables. KATH CEO Dr. Paa Kwesi Baidoo noted that the new equipment replaces obsolete machinery, allowing the hospital to reallocate funds to other critical services and develop a new cardiac intervention center. Simultaneously, in Tema, the Volta Aluminium Company Limited (VALCO) has reopened its Community 4 clinic after 15 years of inactivity. VALCO Board Chairman, Ambassador Horace Nii Ayi Ankrah, announced plans to expand the facility into a 110-bed hospital to address occupational health challenges and serve the wider community. Emergency healthcare delivery has also seen a vital breakthrough in the Lawra Municipality, where the municipal ambulance has returned to service after being grounded for over two years. The refurbishment, which cost over GH₵130,000, was made possible through the intervention of Lawra MP Bede A. Ziedeng and the Ministry of Health. In addition to the ambulance restoration, a new GH₵60,000 laboratory was commissioned at the Domwine Health Centre. These improvements are expected to drastically reduce the reliance on informal transport for pregnant women and critically ill patients in remote areas, significantly enhancing diagnostic capabilities for antenatal care and general medical emergencies. Complementing these structural improvements is a focus on preventive care and community outreach. The Graphic Communications Group LTD (GCGL) is scheduled to host a free health screening exercise in Adabraka on September 19, 2026. Hosted at the Graphic Clinic, the event will offer medical consultations, eye and dental screenings, and the registration or renewal of National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) cards for priority groups. This initiative underscores the importance of corporate social responsibility in maintaining public health at the grassroots level, ensuring that even those in underserved urban pockets have access to routine check-ups and insurance coverage. These diverse projects reflect a multifaceted approach to strengthening the national health system under the current administration of President John Mahama. By combining high-end equipment upgrades at teaching hospitals with the restoration of rural emergency services and community-based screenings, stakeholders are addressing the full spectrum of healthcare needs. However, local leaders and health officials have cautioned that the long-term success of these interventions will depend on the recruitment of additional healthcare staff and the implementation of rigorous maintenance protocols to protect these newly restored assets.

Clinic says Nigerian influencer ignored doctor’s advice to split penis enlargement procedure
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Medical Experts Warn Against Cosmetic Surgery Risks as Ghana AIDS Commission Battles HIV Workplace Stigma

The tragic death of a Nigerian influencer following a cosmetic procedure in Thailand has reignited global debates on the risks of elective surgery, even as health officials in Ghana confront systemic discrimination against persons living with HIV. Igho 'Tiny' Ubiribo, a London-based influencer, died in Bangkok on March 6 after undergoing a penis enlargement procedure. Despite medical recommendations to split the treatment into two sessions to mitigate risks, Ubiribo reportedly insisted on completing the procedure in a single visit. Shortly after receiving hyaluronic acid injections, he suffered chest pains and lost consciousness. His death, attributed to a pulmonary embolism, has prompted an investigation by Thailand's Ministry of Public Health into the clinic's adherence to medical standards, with the case set for review by the Medical Council. Responding to the broader pressures men face regarding physical appearance, Professor Mathew Yamoah Kyei, a consultant urologist and surgeon, has issued a cautionary note against such risky procedures. Prof. Kyei emphasizes that concerns regarding penis size are predominantly psychological rather than physical, asserting that any size is capable of providing sexual satisfaction. He warns that enlargement surgeries typically offer only a marginal increase of two to three centimeters and involve significant health risks that require stringent medical screening. By highlighting that sexual satisfaction is not solely dependent on size, health experts hope to discourage men from seeking potentially life-threatening cosmetic interventions based on misconceptions. In a separate but equally pressing health development, the Ghana AIDS Commission has raised an alarm over persistent stigma and structural discrimination affecting persons living with HIV (PLWH) in the country. Dr. Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong, Director General of the Commission, recently highlighted a startling statistic: approximately 1,300 applicants were denied entry into security services due to their HIV status. Speaking at a workshop organized in collaboration with CHRAJ and UNAIDS, Dr. Akanbong characterized this exclusion as a major hurdle in the national fight against the epidemic. He urged for a unified front among stakeholders to ensure that PLWH are integrated into all facets of society, including employment and promotions, rather than being marginalized by outdated institutional policies. These disparate events underscore a critical intersection in modern healthcare: the need for informed personal medical choices and the enforcement of human rights within the health sector. While the investigation into the Bangkok clinic continues to unfold, the situation in Ghana serves as a reminder that health challenges extend beyond the clinical setting and into the realm of social justice. Moving forward, both the regulation of the cosmetic surgery industry and the legislative protection of vulnerable health populations remain paramount to ensuring public safety and equity. Addressing these issues requires a combination of medical literacy, professional integrity, and the dismantling of long-standing social stigmas.

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GTA and Africa’s Brain Bank Launch Construction of Multi-Million Dollar Global Medical City in Ada

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), in partnership with Africa’s Brain Bank, has officially broken ground on the Global Medical City project in Ada, located in the Greater Accra Region. This ambitious initiative represents a significant step forward in Ghana's efforts to establish itself as a premier destination for medical tourism on the continent. By integrating healthcare delivery, research, and education within a single hub, the project aims to transform the nation's healthcare landscape while fostering international investment and regional economic growth. The planned Medical City is designed to be a comprehensive ecosystem that includes state-of-the-art hospitals, specialized clinics, and advanced research centers. Beyond traditional clinical services, the facility will leverage cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence and telemedicine, to enhance patient safety and diagnostic accuracy. Educational and training institutions will also be established on-site, ensuring that the next generation of Ghanaian healthcare professionals has access to world-class resources and practical experience within their home country. A primary driver of this development is the need to retain healthcare expenditure within Ghana and the broader African region. Historically, many citizens have sought specialized medical treatment abroad; however, the Global Medical City seeks to reverse this trend by providing high-quality, specialized care locally. In addition to improving health outcomes, the project is expected to stimulate the local economy through significant job creation and the attraction of global healthcare experts, further solidifying Ghana's reputation as a center for medical excellence. Looking ahead, the first phase of construction is scheduled for completion within the next three to five years. Developers and government officials emphasize that the project will prioritize community investment, offering employment opportunities to local residents in Ada while adhering to international standards of medical care. As the Global Medical City evolves into a world-class medical center, it is poised to serve as a model for healthcare innovation and tourism-led economic development across West Africa.

Free Primary Healthcare starts in 135 districts nationwide
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Health Minister Akandoh Launches Free Primary Healthcare in 135 Districts as Ghana Advances Local Vaccine Production

The Mahama administration has achieved a significant milestone in its health reform agenda with the official rollout of the Free Primary Healthcare (FPHC) programme across 135 districts in all 16 regions of Ghana. Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh announced that the initiative, a cornerstone of President John Mahama’s commitment to universal health coverage, is currently operational in 4,574 facilities, including CHPS compounds, health centres, and polyclinics. The government aims to expand the programme to 150 deprived districts by the end of 2026, with the ultimate goal of achieving nationwide coverage by 2027. This reform is specifically designed to eliminate financial barriers, allowing residents to access essential preventive and primary care services without the requirement of a National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) card. To ensure the success of the FPHC rollout, the Ministry of Health has commenced the distribution of over 24,500 pieces of medical equipment and 5,000 health worker bags to participating facilities. Minister Akandoh further disclosed plans to provide 7,000 motorbikes and tricycles to enhance the mobility of healthcare professionals in hard-to-reach areas. While the programme emphasizes community-level preventive care, the Ministry has issued a stern warning to health workers against demanding illegal payments for services covered under the initiative. Accountability measures, including public reporting channels for complaints, have been established to protect beneficiaries and maintain the integrity of the service delivery. Parallel to these primary care reforms, Ghana is positioning itself as a hub for pharmaceutical self-reliance through a new partnership with the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC). On August 21, 2026, the Ministry of Health signed a Memorandum of Understanding to join the African Pooled Procurement Mechanism (APPM). This agreement is set to bolster local vaccine manufacturing by granting Ghanaian producers access to a consolidated market across all 55 African Union member states. Minister Akandoh noted that this move addresses the historical challenge of limited domestic market size, ensuring that locally produced vaccines meet the rigorous standards of Ghana’s Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) while remaining commercially viable. The sustainability of these expansive health initiatives is supported by consistent financial backing from the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA). In August 2026 alone, the NHIA disbursed GH¢281.66 million in claims to service providers, bringing the total payments for the year to GH¢1.64 billion. Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, Chief Executive of the NHIA, emphasized that timely reimbursements are critical for maintaining the quality of care. Of the August payments, public health facilities received the largest share at 43.58%, followed by private providers at 37.1% and mission facilities at 19.32%. Together, these financial, logistical, and policy developments signal a comprehensive effort by the Mahama administration to modernize Ghana's healthcare infrastructure and ensure equitable access for all citizens.

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WHO Monitors Record Ebola Outbreak in DRC and Kenya’s El Niño Health Contingency Plan

The World Health Organization (WHO) has raised alarms over two significant health crises in Africa: a complex, record-breaking Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the urgent need for climate-resilient health strategies in Kenya. While the DRC grapples with the largest epidemic in its history, Kenya is working in partnership with the WHO to mitigate the catastrophic potential of the upcoming 2026/2027 El Niño season. These situations highlight the dual challenges of infectious disease management and climate-driven health risks currently facing the continent’s healthcare systems. In the DRC, the Ebola outbreak has become "increasingly heterogeneous," with transmission trends varying widely across provinces. A recent WHO report identifies a troubling spike in community deaths, which accounted for 75% of confirmed fatalities between August 31 and September 6. This high percentage suggests significant barriers to care and delays in detection that allow the virus to spread undetected outside of clinical settings. Since the outbreak was declared in May, there have been 6,686 confirmed cases and 3,226 deaths. Vaccination efforts began on August 27, primarily targeting frontline healthcare workers, with 2,007 individuals vaccinated as of early September. The WHO currently assesses the risk within the DRC as "very high" and considers the threat to neighboring countries to be "high." Simultaneously, the Kenyan Ministry of Health and the WHO are ramping up preparedness for the 2026/2027 El Niño deluge to prevent a repeat of previous climate-related disasters. WHO Representative Neema Rusibamayila Kimambo emphasized the importance of continuous risk assessments to safeguard health services ahead of the heavy rains. Past seasons have proven devastating, with flooding causing 122 deaths and displacing over 42,000 people across 27 counties. To address these threats, the government has activated the Health Sector El Niño Contingency Plan, focusing on disease surveillance for waterborne illnesses like cholera and typhoid, ensuring water safety, and maintaining the continuity of essential health services during environmental disruptions. These concurrent crises underscore the necessity for regional cooperation and robust emergency response frameworks. In the DRC, the Ebola epidemic is now the second-largest in history, trailing only the 2014-2016 West African outbreak, necessitating intense international focus. In East Africa, the proactive measures taken by Kenya serve as a critical model for mitigating the health impacts of extreme weather events. Both the WHO and national governments remain on high alert, emphasizing that coordinated surveillance and rapid intervention are the most effective tools for protecting vulnerable populations against both emerging pathogens and the health consequences of a changing climate.

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World Health Organization Warns Tobacco Use Significantly Increases Infertility Risks for Men and Women

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a stark warning regarding the detrimental impact of tobacco use on reproductive health, revealing that smoking significantly reduces the chances of conception. According to a comprehensive review of scientific studies conducted between 2000 and 2026, the global health body highlighted that tobacco consumption is a major contributor to infertility, a condition that currently affects approximately one in six people of reproductive age worldwide. The WHO defines infertility as the inability to achieve pregnancy after 12 months or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse. The findings underscore a particularly high risk for female smokers, who are 40% more likely to experience infertility compared to non-smokers. For men, the consequences are equally concerning; tobacco use is linked to increased instances of erectile dysfunction, ejaculation problems, and a general reduction in sperm quality. Beyond the direct biological impacts on natural conception, the WHO report also indicates that smokers face significantly lower success rates when undergoing assisted fertility treatments, suggesting that the chemical components of tobacco interfere with medical interventions aimed at pregnancy. Despite the alarming statistics, the report offers a measure of hope for those looking to start a family, noting that the negative effects are not entirely irreversible. Women who quit smoking can reduce their risk of infertility by as much as 25%, demonstrating the immediate health benefits of cessation for reproductive outcomes. However, the WHO cautioned that the current data primarily focuses on conventional cigarette use. While newer products like e-cigarettes are gaining popularity, there is currently limited long-term data available to fully determine their specific impact on fertility, though health experts advise caution. The warning also extends to non-smokers, as the review identified passive smoking—or second-hand smoke exposure—as a significant factor that negatively affects fertility levels. As infertility continues to be a growing global health concern, the WHO emphasizes that reducing tobacco consumption is a critical step in improving reproductive health. This latest guidance serves as a call to action for public health officials to integrate tobacco cessation programs more robustly into broader reproductive health and family planning services.

UK Research Links Scalding Hot Beverages to Threefold Increase in Oesophageal Cancer Risk
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UK Research Links Scalding Hot Beverages to Threefold Increase in Oesophageal Cancer Risk

A massive study from the United Kingdom involving nearly one million participants has revealed that consuming very hot beverages can significantly increase the risk of developing oesophageal cancer. The research, published in the International Journal of Cancer, found that individuals who prefer their drinks at temperatures of 65 degrees Celsius or higher face a threefold increase in risk compared to those who wait for their beverages to cool. This thermal damage to the food pipe is identified as a primary catalyst for the disease, particularly for those who consume six or more hot drinks daily. Despite the high relative risk increase, health experts clarify that the absolute likelihood of developing oesophageal cancer remains low for the general population. The study suggests that avoiding extremely hot drinks could prevent approximately two out of every ten diagnosed cases of this specific cancer. Importantly, researchers noted that while beverage temperature is a factor, traditional risks such as smoking and heavy alcohol consumption continue to pose a much more significant threat to oesophageal health. In light of these findings, health authorities are advising the public to wait several minutes for coffee, tea, and other hot liquids to cool to a comfortable temperature before drinking. This simple lifestyle adjustment is recommended as a practical preventive measure. By being mindful of beverage temperature and continuing to avoid more hazardous habits like smoking, individuals can take proactive steps toward better long-term health outcomes without requiring major changes to their daily routines.

Presidential Envoy Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah Commends Mercy Ships for Decades of Healthcare Support in Ghana
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Presidential Envoy Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah Commends Mercy Ships for Decades of Healthcare Support in Ghana

Hon. Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah, the Presidential Envoy for Interfaith and Ecumenical Relations to President John Mahama, has formally commended Mercy Ships for its enduring commitment to Ghana’s health sector. During a visit to the Global Mercy, recognized as the world’s largest civilian hospital ship, the envoy highlighted the organization’s significant role in providing specialized medical care and professional development. This visit underscores the deep-seated partnership between the Ghanaian government and the international humanitarian organization, which has maintained a presence in the country for over 30 years. Since 1991, Mercy Ships has been a pivotal partner in Ghana’s healthcare landscape, delivering life-changing surgical procedures that are often inaccessible to the nation's most vulnerable populations. Afriyie-Ankrah emphasized that the mission’s impact extends beyond immediate surgery; it includes vital training initiatives designed to enhance the skills of local healthcare professionals. By equipping Ghanaian doctors and nurses with advanced techniques and knowledge, the Global Mercy contributes to a sustainable medical legacy that strengthens the national health system. The Presidential Envoy specifically lauded the dedication of the international volunteers who staff the vessel, noting that their sacrifice embodies the highest ideals of service to humanity. He pointed out that the collaboration between Mercy Ships and local Ghanaian institutions is a successful model for international cooperation. This partnership aligns with President Mahama’s administration’s vision of improving the quality of life for all citizens. Afriyie-Ankrah observed that the mission reflects shared values of compassion and service found across different faiths, serving as a powerful unifying force for social justice. In his closing remarks, Afriyie-Ankrah urged Ghanaians to recognize and appreciate the profound impact of these humanitarian efforts. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring accessible healthcare for all, viewing the presence of the Global Mercy as a catalyst for renewed focus on medical equity. As the ship continues its mission in Ghanaian waters, the government intends to deepen its engagement with international partners to ensure that high-quality medical services reach those in greatest need across the country.