Heart disease and stroke have been the top causes of death in Ghanaian hospitals since 2016. According to Dr. Florence Akumiah, a Physician Specialist and Cardiology Fellow in training at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, about 45% of deaths in Ghana are attributable to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) accounting for 18% of total deaths. This is based on data from the World Health Organisation.
A 2023 Ghana WHO STEPS survey of 5,438 adults across all 16 regions found that about one in five Ghanaian adults have hypertension, equivalent to approximately 3.7 million people. The survey also showed that women recorded a higher prevalence of hypertension at 25.3% compared to 18.2% among men. Additionally, hypertension increased with age and was more prevalent in urban areas.
The survey revealed that many people with hypertension remain unaware of their condition, and among those diagnosed, not all are receiving treatment or achieving adequate blood pressure control. Dr. Akumiah noted that more young people are presenting with complications, including stroke, kidney disease, and hypertensive emergencies.
The survey also recorded significant levels of overweight, obesity, high cholesterol, and raised blood glucose. About 70% of participants had never checked their blood glucose, and 90% had never checked their cholesterol. Dr. Akumiah identified excessive salt consumption, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, alcohol, and tobacco use as lifestyle-related risk factors.
Dr. Akumiah urged Ghanaians to "know their numbers" by regularly checking their blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol. She also advised adopting healthier diets and engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly. Furthermore, she recommended reducing salt intake and avoiding highly salted processed foods.
Mrs. Catherine Adu-Asare, Programme Manager, Diet and Healthy Lifestyle Programme, Ghana Health Service, advised the public to reduce salt, processed and deep-fried foods, saturated and trans fats, and foods high in sugar. She recommended increasing consumption of whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. Additionally, she suggested using natural spices instead of seasoning cubes and highly salted foods.
World Heart Day, observed annually on September 29, aims to raise awareness of CVDs and promote their prevention and control. This year's theme, "Don't Miss a Beat," focuses on early recognition of CVDs, prevention, and access to appropriate cardiovascular health services. Key points include:
Key points
- Cardiovascular diseases account for 18% of total deaths in Ghana.
- About 3.7 million Ghanaian adults have hypertension.
- Lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and healthy diets, can help prevent CVDs.
