Hundreds of residents in Sunyani have benefited from a free health screening exercise organised by MTN Ghana as part of the MTN Suncity Festival. The exercise, which followed a health walk, aimed to promote preventive healthcare and encourage people to take responsibility for their health. The screening covered several health conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, HIV, hepatitis B, and breast cancer. Participants also underwent eye examinations, Body Mass Index assessments, and general medical consultations.
The Sunyani Municipal Health Promotion Officer, Justina Takyiwaa, stated that the organisers had targeted 350 beneficiaries, compared to 291 people screened during last year's exercise. By midday on Saturday, 191 people had undergone screening, and she was optimistic that the target would be achieved. Madam Takyiwaa urged women to prioritise breast cancer screening, noting that October was dedicated to raising awareness about the disease.
Breast cancer awareness is crucial, and Madam Takyiwaa encouraged women to take advantage of the awareness month to check their breast health. She revealed that two cases of breast cancer were identified during last year's screening exercise, underscoring the importance of early detection and regular medical examinations. Free breast cancer screening is available at health facilities beyond the festival's activities.
On non-communicable diseases, Madam Takyiwaa described conditions such as hypertension and diabetes as silent killers. She urged the public to adopt healthier lifestyles through balanced diets, regular physical exercise, and adequate rest. Residents are encouraged to check their blood pressure regularly, a service available free of charge at health facilities across the country.
The Bono Regional Manager of MTN Ghana, Kofi Owusu, stated that the initiative reflected the company's commitment to the well-being of its customers and the communities in which it operates. The health walk and subsequent screening were designed to complement each other, promoting physical fitness while providing residents with access to basic medical services.
According to Mr. Owusu, the free screening is particularly important for people who, due to financial constraints or busy schedules, might not have the opportunity to visit health facilities for routine medical examinations. Qualified health professionals and specialists were available to conduct screenings, provide medical advice, and offer further assistance to participants requiring additional medical attention.
The 2026 MTN Suncity Festival features a series of activities, including a health walk, free health screening, music concert, and an inter-community football gala. A Sunyani-based businessman, Ransford Antwi, commended MTN for its continued support for the festival and urged residents to participate actively in the various activities. The festival provides a platform for bringing communities together while promoting local culture, social interaction, and community development.
Key points
- MTN Ghana's free health screening at the MTN Suncity Festival promotes preventive healthcare and early detection of diseases.
- The screening covered several health conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, HIV, hepatitis B, and breast cancer.
- The initiative reflects MTN Ghana's commitment to the well-being of its customers and the communities in which it operates.
