Speaking on Accra-based UTV, he described the situation as serious and warned that many people are unaware of the harmful effects of consuming unprescribed drugs.

According to him, the current centralised operations of the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), largely based in Accra, limit its ability to effectively monitor and control illegal drug activities across the country.

He argued that expanding the FDA’s presence to district levels would strengthen enforcement and help curb the widespread sale of unregulated drugs.

“The FDA must be decentralised to the district level—operating mainly from Accra will not solve the growing problem of illegal street drug hawking,” he stated.

Issah Fuseini emphasised that illegal street drug hawking is not only a public health concern but also a growing national challenge that requires immediate and practical solutions.

He therefore urged government to prioritise decentralisation as a key strategy in addressing the issue and protecting citizens from the dangers of unsafe drug use.

Speaking on Accra-based UTV, he expressed concern over the widespread sale of unregulated drugs, warning that the practice poses serious risks to public health and safety.

“Illegal street drug hawking is not just a health issue; it is a national security threat,” he stated.

His comments come amid renewed efforts by the Pharmacy Council of Ghana and the Food and Drugs Authority to clamp down on illegal drug hawkers.

According to him, the issue is particularly dangerous for vulnerable populations, especially those in rural areas who may lack adequate knowledge about proper drug use.

He recounted a personal experience from 1997 in his hometown, where a young girl nearly lost her life after attempting to terminate a pregnancy using drugs obtained from street hawkers.

Mathias Boateng questioned why such practices continue in Ghana, noting that in many countries visited by Ghanaian leaders, illegal street drug sales are strictly controlled or non-existent.

He stressed the need for decisive action rather than continuous discussions, urging authorities to implement strict measures to curb the practice and protect the youth.

Speaking on Accra-based UTV, he explained that physical factors are often linked to underlying health conditions within the body.

According to him, conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and blood vessel disorders can significantly affect sexual performance. He added that muscular issues may also contribute to the condition.

Touching on psychological factors, Dr. Osei said mental health plays a crucial role, noting that anxiety disorders and depression can lead to erectile dysfunction.

He further explained that certain medications can also trigger the condition as a side effect.

He cited drugs used in managing blood pressure and allergies as examples, especially when taken over a long period.

Dr. Osei emphasized the importance of understanding these risk factors, noting that identifying the root cause is key to managing and treating erectile dysfunction effectively.

Speaking in Parliament, he said targeted investments across education, health, housing, and social protection would translate economic stability into tangible improvements in living standards.

In education, Mr. Ayariga disclosed that government plans include completing 30 abandoned Community Day Senior High Schools and constructing 200 junior high schools, 200 primary schools, and 200 kindergartens under the GETFund. Additional investments will go into teachers’ bungalows, sanitation facilities, textbooks, and school furniture.

On healthcare, the Majority Leader said six new regional hospitals would commence construction, alongside two district hospitals in Bole and Shama, while ten Agenda 111 hospital projects are expected to be completed.

“Healthcare is not a privilege; it is a right,” he stated, adding that GHS 9 billion had been programmed for NHIS claims, essential medicines, vaccines, and free primary healthcare.

Infrastructure and housing will also receive significant attention, with GHS 500 million allocated for district housing, including the resettlement of Akosombo Dam spillage victims. Mr. Ayariga said a renewed push would be made for critical infrastructure such as the Accra–Kumasi Expressway, as well as the construction of mini stadiums across the country.

“These investments are about people,” he said. “They are about classrooms that work, hospitals that heal, roads that connect, and social protection systems that leave no one behind.”

He added that programmes such as LEAP, free sanitary pads for girls, and support for women-owned MSMEs would also be expanded in 2026.

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Rather than extreme diets or complicated regimens, decades of research point to a handful of simple behaviors that are consistently tied to better long-term health.

To start the year right, I wanted you to know the most important things you can focus on this year to improve your current physical and mental well-being and have it pay off for decades to come. And yes, I know how hard it can be to realistically follow through when motivation is low or life gets busy.

I asked CNN wellness expert Dr. Leana Wen to break down five practical, evidence-based actions that can make a real difference in 2026 and beyond. Wen is an emergency physician and adjunct associate professor at George Washington University. She previously served as Baltimore’s health commissioner.

CNN: For your first tip, you said to prioritize regular exercise. Why does exercise matter so much for health?

Dr. Leana Wen: Regular physical activity is one of the most powerful tools we have for preventing chronic disease and improving quality of life. It benefits virtually every organ system in the body. Even short bouts of moderate exercise, such as brisk walking, can lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol levels, boost mood and strengthen the heart.

Breaking exercise into small chunks throughout the day can still provide benefits. LanaStock/iStockphoto/Getty Images

For adults, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week plus muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days. Even if you can’t hit those recommendations, some activity is better than none. If you do not currently exercise, start with a 5- or 10-minute brisk walk once a day; if you already walk regularly, try adding a few extra minutes at a time and increasing your pace.

CNN: Your second tip is to get checkups at least annually. Why is that so important?

Wen: Periodic checkups with a clinician are essential because many high-risk conditions develop silently. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes, for example, often have no obvious symptoms until they have already caused significant damage to the heart, kidneys and blood vessels. Detecting and treating these conditions early dramatically lowers the risk of heart attack, stroke, kidney disease and other serious complications.

A checkup gives you a chance to assess risk factors like cholesterol, glucose levels, body mass index and lifestyle habits. You also can establish monitoring or treatment plans with your provider before problems become severe. Timely treatment through lifestyle changes, medication or both can slow or even reverse disease progression.

These visits also pose an important opportunity to review vaccinations. Recommendations and public messaging from federal health agencies may change, but your clinician can help you understand which vaccines are appropriate for you based on your age, health conditions and personal risk. Staying up to date on routine vaccines — such as flu, Covid-19 and others recommended for your situation — remains one of the most effective ways to prevent serious illness and protect both individual and community health.

CNN: Your third tip is to get adequate sleep. Why does sleep matter as much as diet or exercise?

Wen: Sleep is not optional; it’s a biological necessity that affects nearly every aspect of health we care about. Without adequate sleep, your body has trouble repairing tissues, regulating hormones and managing energy balance.

Research suggests that chronic insufficient sleep is linked to greater risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and mood disorders. One reason may involve hormonal regulation: Sleep deprivation increases hunger hormones and decreases satiety hormones, which can promote overeating, especially of high-calorie foods.

Sleep also affects immune function and cognitive performance, so consistent rest helps us to better respond to stress and supports memory, attention and emotional regulation. Most adults benefit from seven to nine hours of sleep per night, and prioritizing regular sleep schedules can improve quality over time.

CNN: Your fourth tip centers on diet quality, in particular cutting out ultraprocessed foods. Why is working toward a healthier diet so important, and what steps can people take to improve nutrition?

Wen: What you eat influences your health in important ways. Ultraprocessed foods have become a dominant part of the American diet, accounting for more than half of total calories in many age groups. These foods, which include sugary drinks, packaged snacks, fast food, ready meals and sweetened cereals, are generally high in added sugars, unhealthy fats and sodium, and low in fiber, vitamins and minerals.

High consumption of ultraprocessed foods is linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even depression and mental health conditions. Replacing ultraprocessed items with whole or minimally processed foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, legumes and nuts) supports both physical and mental health and helps stabilize energy, blood sugar and appetite.

CNN: Your fifth tip may surprise some people: Consider social connection a core part of staying healthy.

Wen: Human beings are social creatures, and our relationships have direct implications for our health. Strong social connections with family, friends, colleagues and community groups are associated with lower rates of anxiety and depression, better immune function, and reduced risk of chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes. Conversely, social isolation and loneliness have been linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline and early mortality.

Social connection motivates healthier behaviors and provides emotional support during stress, and it encourages engagement in physical activity and other positive habits. Simple acts, such as going for walks with friends, regular catch-up phone calls, shared meals or other group activities, are good for short-term mental health. These interactions also represent a long-term investment in your mental and physical health.

CNN: What advice do you have for people trying to follow these five tips in real life?

Wen: The most important thing is to concentrate on consistency. These habits do not need to be done perfectly to have an impact. Small, repeated actions add up. For instance, walking most days is far better than exercising hard once a month. Going to regular checkups is crucial, rather than waiting until something feels wrong. Improving sleep by even 30 to 60 minutes a night can make a meaningful difference.

It also helps to remember that these five areas are deeply connected. Getting enough sleep makes it easier to exercise and eat well. Regular physical activity improves sleep quality and mood. Social connection supports motivation and resilience, making it more likely that people stick with healthy routines. So instead of treating these as separate goals, think of them as reinforcing one another.

Finally, give yourself permission to start where you are. Health is not built in January alone, and it is not derailed by a bad week or a missed goal. The aim is consistent progress. Choosing habits that feel realistic and sustainable, and returning to them when life gets busy, is what makes these five tips work over the long run.

The initiative is part of the Mission’s ongoing efforts to promote preventive healthcare and overall wellbeing among staff. The workshop offered practical guidance on maintaining both physical and mental health, with medical professionals from GDDA-UK engaging participants on key health issues and lifestyle choices. Staff were encouraged to adopt proactive approaches to wellbeing in their professional and personal lives.

Addressing attendees, High Commissioner H.E. Mrs. Sabah Zita Benson expressed gratitude to GDDA-UK for its support to the Mission and the Ghanaian community in the UK.

“We are grateful for your unwavering commitment to the health of our staff and the wider Ghanaian diaspora,” she said, urging staff to prioritise both their physical and mental wellbeing.

Mrs. Benson added that the High Commission plans to expand the programme beyond its staff.

“Our goal is to scale up this initiative and offer similar health workshops to Ghanaian community groups across the UK,” she stated, noting that a healthy workforce is central to productivity and effective service delivery.

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As part of this directive, he has announced a one-week nationwide clean-up exercise scheduled from Saturday, December 13 to December 20, stressing that he and his team will carry out unannounced inspections to hold local leaders personally accountable for filth.

The move forms part of a broader national effort to ensure a clean and welcoming Ghana ahead of the Christmas and New Year festive season, a period that typically records a significant influx of diaspora visitors.

Mr Ibrahim delivered the message during an unannounced inspection tour of several municipalities in the Greater Accra Region, including Ayawaso West Wuogon, La Nkwatanang, Madina and Adentan.

He underscored that the role of an MMDCE is one of service, not privilege, and insisted that the trust reposed in them by President John Dramani Mahama must be justified through visible results.

“So if you are an MDA or MMCE, President Mahama did not appoint you to come and sit there and disburse the Common Fund. He gave you a job. Leadership is about service. Let that service be performed. Our responsibility is supervision, and we are going to intensify it,” he stated.

The minister further announced that sanitation workers, including ‘borla taxis’, sweepers and waste collection trucks, will be fully deployed nationwide from Monday, signalling a determined government effort to tackle waste accumulation.

“On Monday, the borla taxis will be at work, the sweepers, those that are functional, will be at work. The trucks will be at work,” he said.

To ensure the success of the seven-day exercise, Mr Ibrahim hinted at the formation of a multi-sectoral task force, bringing together key ministries to elevate the clean-up drive into a public health and national responsibility.

“We are all going to the drawing board, together with my colleagues. So we will bring in Transport, Health and Interior to be part of the ministry. These seven days, at least, we must make sure Ghana is clean for the festive season, so that our brothers and sisters who will be coming from foreign countries will have a good impression of Ghana,” he explained.

The involvement of the Interior Ministry suggests that sanitation laws, which carry penalties including fines or imprisonment, will be strictly enforced throughout the campaign period. President Mahama has previously reintroduced the National Sanitation Day, with a clear directive that MMDCEs will be held directly responsible for sanitation outcomes in their districts.

The Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, who accompanied the delegation, stressed the economic importance of sanitation, noting that a clean environment enhances Ghana’s image and boosts tourism.

She added that maintaining a clean environment makes it easier to market the country and leaves a lasting positive impression on visitors.

Mr Ibrahim concluded by reiterating that his ministry’s unannounced inspections across all 261 Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies will mark “the end of the era of pretence,” replacing ceremonial clean-ups with sustained action and measurable results from every MMDCE.

The outreach, held in collaboration with the Assembly Member and Queen Mother, Mama Nyuiewaa I, recorded an impressive turnout. A total of 997 adults—mostly farmers—and children received comprehensive medical services, making it one of the most impactful health initiatives in the region this year.

Residents traveled from across the Volta Region, some arriving at dawn, to access free medical care they often cannot afford locally.

Comprehensive Health Services Provided
The event offered a wide range of medical services including blood pressure and blood sugar tests, weight measurement, general consultations, breast and cervical cancer screenings, ultrasounds, ENT services, dental and eye checks, skin disease treatment, family planning services, wound dressing, and free medications.

Participants also benefited from expert health talks on hypertension, diabetes, breast and cervical cancer, and family planning—equipping them with vital knowledge to prevent long-term health complications.

“Health Is Wealth” in Action
Speaking to the media after the outreach, Afrika Nyornu Foundation Executive Director Maloe Nartey expressed gratitude to supporting partners.

“We couldn’t have done this without the immense support of Newage Agric Solutions Limited and Indus Life Sciences. These organizations understand that health is wealth and consistently support our community outreaches,” she said.

Real Impact on Lives
For many attendees, the outreach was more than a health event—it was a lifeline. One pregnant participant shared her relief:

“I’m six months pregnant and was asked to take a scan, but I couldn’t afford it. I feel so blessed that it was done for me today.”

Her story reflects the experience of many rural women who face financial barriers to essential maternal care.

A Model of Community-Centered Healthcare
The success of the outreach was made possible by the combined efforts of Afrika Nyornu, Newage Agric Solutions Ltd., M&M Medical Centre, Indus Life Sciences, community volunteers, and local leaders. All services, medicines, and consumables were provided free of charge.

The initiative aligns with Afrika Nyornu’s mission to improve healthcare access in underserved communities through targeted, high-impact interventions. The Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to expanding such programs to ensure that no Ghanaian—regardless of location or financial status—is left behind.

Truly, HEALTH IS WEALTH.

Police arrest five suspects behind robberies in Sefwi Bekwai

Speaking at the 8th Annual General Congress of the Fertility Society of Ghana in Tema, Acting General Secretary of HeFRA, Dr. Winfred Korletey Baa, said the move is part of efforts to respond to the growing sophistication of Ghana’s health sector and fertility centres.

“The sophisticated state of the health sector and fertility centers across the country has forced us as regulators to set up a special tool to regulate that space,” Dr. Baa explained.

He added that the upcoming fertility licensing and inspection tool will introduce clear benchmarks for service delivery. The tool will address key issues such as data security, fertility preservation, and compliance with medical standards in both public and private facilities.

According to Dr Baa, the agency aims to ensure that facilities meet strict operational and ethical standards while safeguarding patient safety and trust.

The regulation of fertility clinics has become increasingly important as more Ghanaians turn to assisted reproductive services. Industry experts have raised concerns about the need for uniform standards, especially around technology use, patient confidentiality, and service quality.

HeFRA’s planned inspection tool is expected to be rolled out in phases, targeting both urban and rural health facilities.

The agency says the initiative will also support the government’s broader goal of improving healthcare quality and accountability in the country.

The Fertility Society’s annual congress brought together fertility specialists, health regulators, and policymakers to discuss best practices and strengthen collaboration within Ghana’s healthcare ecosystem.

Source: Myjoyonline

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The action, described by city officials as a necessary step to enforce compliance, signals a new, stringent phase in the capital’s sanitation campaign.

The synchronised clean-up operation, led by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy and Religious Affairs, saw the Mayor of Accra, Michael Kpakpo Allotey, the Minister Ahmed Ibrahim, and the Ga Mantse, King Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, actively participating in key zones.

Mr. Gilbert Ankrah, Public Relations Officer of the AMA, confirmed the swift legal action taken against non-compliant businesses.

“What we noticed was that there were a couple of shop owners who had opened their shops, and quickly we had sanitation and public health officers moving in to deal with them.”

He confirmed that the offenders would face the law within days:

“They were given summons and will be arraigned before court on Monday,” Ankrah said on the Channel One Newsroom.

Enforcement: The Judiciary Steps In

The decision to escalate non-compliance to judicial prosecution marks a departure from reliance on fines alone, leveraging the Accra Sanitation Bye-laws (2017) which mandate participation in communal cleaning exercises.

Officials confirmed that public health and sanitation officers moved quickly, targeting commercial hubs and central business districts where large numbers of shops remained open despite public announcements.

The expected arraignment on Monday is projected to serve as a strong deterrent against future defiance.

Despite the non-compliance issues, Mr. Ankrah praised the public response in general, estimating a 30% rise in communal turnout compared to previous exercises.

“The participation was quite impressive. If you look at how people came out to support the exercise, it was very successful,” he said.

He noted that mop-up operations were continuing in heavy waste areas like the Agbogbloshie market zone, with the AMA targeting the collection of an estimated 500 tonnes of residual debris before Monday.

The Mayor has also declared the entire month of October as “Sanitation Month,” indicating intensified clean-up operations will continue across the 13 Sub-Metropolitan Districts of the AMA area.

Minister Acknowledges Logistical Deficits

While commending the public effort, Minister Ahmed Ibrahim acknowledged significant structural hurdles still plaguing sanitation efforts nationwide. He pointed directly to a critical deficit in professional waste management equipment across the 16 regional capitals.

“Some assemblies are using tipper trucks to cart refuse. It’s unprofessional. As sector minister, I will take it up and ensure the cities get at least a few compactors,” he said.

The Minister revealed that a survey showed over 60% of Municipal and District Assemblies (MMDAs) lack the requisite compactor trucks needed for efficient waste carting, instead relying on less hygienic tipper trucks.

He pledged government support to address this infrastructure deficit, with plans to procure an initial batch of 50 new compactors for the major cities.

Additionally, Mr. Ibrahim cited poor street lighting—affecting an estimated 45% of urban streets—as a major hindrance to conducting essential early-morning and night-time sanitation work.

He stated his Ministry is collaborating with the Ministries of Energy and Roads to launch an accelerated street-lighting project to enable extended clean-up hours and improve public safety for sanitation workers.

Source: myjoyonline

They lament the hardship of having to travel long and perilous distances to access healthcare.

They told Adom News during a community tour that they usually use motorbikes, known as Okada and tricycles of ‘Aboboya’, to transport patients to nearby medical facilities due to the bad roads.

In emergencies when motorbikes are unavailable, patients are tied to wooden structures and transported to Kotokum, Nkawie or Toase to access health care.

The residents are appealing to the government, NGOs, and philanthropists for assistance in addressing their healthcare needs.

Meanwhile, the local unit committee has secured a parcel of land to construct a Community-Based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) facility, but the project has stalled over land disputes.

Kwame Ben, Vice Chairman of the Unit Committee, is calling on key stakeholders to intervene and resolve the matter.

“We need at least a CHPS compound because people die in the course of rushing them to the closest health facility,” he said.

Source: Joseph Obeng

Health officers grapple with obsolete and inadequate medical equipment negatively impacting service delivery to the hundreds of patients that throng the facilities.

During a tour to these facilities, the Administrator of Ghana Medical Trust Fund reiterated the government’s efforts to complete stalled hospital projects in the region and equipping health facilities with adequate medical tools.

The Ghana Medical Trust Fund has begun a nationwide initiative to provide essential medical equipment to hospitals in Ghana with its latest visit to the Ashanti region.

Administrator of the Fund, Obuobia Darko-Opoku, paid a working visit to the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) and the Kumasi South Hospital.

It is part of a nationwide assessment tour aimed at soliciting the concerns of health professionals and identifying pressing equipment deficits.

The Medical Director of KATH, Dr Kwadwo Sarbeng noted that despite handling referrals from other regions, the facility is severely under-equipped.

“Our biggest challenge is the lack of essential equipment. We are still relying on a single MRI machine installed in 2012, and we have not had a functioning mammogram since 2007,” he said.

The hospital, with over 1,100 doctors and house officers and more than 2,500 nurses, also faces difficulties with outdated radiology machines and other critical diagnostic tools.

At Kumasi South Hospital, the administrator was briefed on similar challenges, particularly the lack of space and equipment for effective healthcare delivery.

Medical Doctor of Kumasi South Hospital, Dr. Bashiru Abdul Majeed, appealed for the completion of the long-abandoned Sewua Regional Hospital project, situated a few kilometers away from the hospital.

“As a regional hospital that started as a health center, we are overwhelmed. The unfinished Sewua Hospital could ease our burden, but it has been left to deteriorate. We plead with the government to complete it so we can provide better services for the nation,” he noted.

Mrs. Obuobia assured both hospitals of the Trust Fund’s commitment to addressing these concerns, emphasizing that the Fund is not only focused on providing equipment but also supporting patients’ bills, training healthcare professionals, and promoting research.

“There is an urgent need to replace outdated machines and ensure our hospitals are equipped to serve the people,” she said. “Corporate Ghana and the government must come together to provide the help these hospitals desperately need.”

She added that the completion of the Sewua Hospital remains a priority, as it will ease congestion and ensure that facilities in the Ashanti Region function at full capacity.

Source: Josephine Sagoe

Residents are requesting the deployment of health professionals and technicians to bolster the efforts of the existing medical team for improved healthcare delivery.

The Chief of Bontefufuo, Nana Siaw Kesse II, commended the significant contribution of Asanko Mines in commissioning a hospital for the community.

He however says inadequate health professionals and technicians to serve patients’ needs remains a major challenge.

He is prevailing on the government to help in resourcing the hospital.

The chief raised the concern when a cohort of the KNUST MSc Health Entrepreneurship group partnered with the Bontefufuo Traditional Council to advocate against deadly diseases.

They focused on providing essential health screenings and renewing health insurance for the vulnerable populations.

Over 500 community members were reached to provide free health screenings and assist with the renewal of their National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) memberships.

Project lead, Grace Gertrude Tetteh-Boateng, stressed the importance of actively advocating for awareness of slowly progressing diseases in communities.

Harriet Asante Mensah, a public relations officer for the National Health Insurance Scheme in the Amansie West and South Districts, highlighted a significant challenge of shortage of staff.

She is urging the government to recruit additional personnel and establish a satellite office to facilitate NHIS registration for people living in remote areas of the district.

Source: David Opoku

The slide outlined the “7 Signs of a Great CEO,” highlighting traits such as prioritizing people, fostering strong cultures, and leading by example. Regrettably, the individual at the center of this article failed all seven traits.

In an ideal world, leadership inspires, nurtures, and empowers. Effective leaders prioritize their people, build strong cultures, and foster environments where individuals and collective goals thrive.

They understand that a supportive workplace boosts morale and drives results. Yet, the reality in many organizations, including this health system over the past nine to ten years, has been starkly different. When leaders resort to cruelty—through demeaning language, unreasonable demands, intimidation, threats, or obstructing promotions—the consequences are devastating, both personally and organizationally.

I have witnessed the profound impact of destructive leadership firsthand. For nearly a decade, a leader of medical services systematically dismantled the spirit of dedicated health professionals, turning a team of talented individuals into a demoralized and embittered workforce.

Upon assuming the role, this leader was met with goodwill from staff across all facilities, eager to support his vision. What followed, however, was a tenure marked by frustration and obstruction.

Qualified individuals were denied promotions or opportunities for advancement for unclear reasons. Staff were coerced into giving up one opportunity only to be denied both. Disrespect and intimidation became commonplace, eroding morale and undermining a once vibrant team.

The consequences extended beyond individuals. Innovation and enthusiasm waned, morale plummeted, and the organizational atmosphere became one of frustration and resentment. This decline affected productivity and the overall performance of all facilities under the health system.

Ultimately, the leader’s approach proved unsustainable. Many staff, particularly from satellite facilities, resigned or sought unpaid leave to pursue opportunities abroad. This leader has since left the position, a reminder that leadership based on suppression is both destructive and short-lived.

The lesson is clear: true success is built on respect, integrity, and the nurturing of talent—not on intimidation or cruelty. Poor leadership carries a heavy human cost, with repercussions that can linger long after the leader departs.

Source: Dr. Frederick Mawuli Agbemafoh (MBChB, MGCS, MWACS)

In an interview with Joy News, Dr Agyemang decried the glaring disconnect between the growing number of confirmed Mpox cases and the lack of an adequate national response.

He warned that the government’s silence, coupled with the absence of clear public health messaging, is placing countless lives at risk.

“Over 200 cases have been recorded, with one confirmed death,” he stated. “Yet, many of my constituents—and even Members of Parliament—have not been officially briefed. This hasn’t even come before the Health Committee.”

In the face of rising infections and what he calls worryingly low awareness, Dr Agyemang expressed grave concern over the lack of public awareness surrounding the disease.

Despite the rise in cases, particularly in high-density areas like Chorkor, he said public understanding remains dangerously low.

“Go to the streets and ask young people about Mpox—most don’t even know what it is. That is alarming,” he remarked. “This is a medical condition that can affect anyone. We need deliberate national communication.”

He attributed much of the confusion and complacency to ineffective health promotion and poor public education, warning that misinformation and underreporting may complicate containment efforts.

Drawing comparisons with Ghana’s COVID-19 response, Dr Agyemang said the handling of the Mpox outbreak falls far short of expectations, insisting it is a missed opportunity to apply lessons from COVID-19.

“During COVID, we saw active engagement from the presidency and daily briefings. Why is Mpox being treated differently when it also poses a serious public health risk?” he questioned.

He called for a coordinated national response, urging the government to launch a comprehensive plan that includes enhanced screening, stronger isolation protocols, expanded testing, and a well-structured public education campaign led by the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service.

Turning his attention to the media, Dr Agyemang appealed to journalists and broadcasters to treat the outbreak with the seriousness it deserves by using their platforms to educate the public.

“What protocols are you airing? What information are you sharing with the public?” he challenged. “The media must be deliberate. This is not a time to pick and choose what trends—this is about the health of the nation.”

Dr Agyemang concluded with a passionate call for immediate Cabinet-level intervention, stressing that the cost of inaction is far too high.

“The government must act now. The health of the nation is not negotiable.”

Mpox, a contagious virus spread through close contact, has historically surfaced in parts of West and Central Africa. However, its recent re-emergence in urban populations has alarmed health experts, who are urging increased vigilance as containment efforts gain momentum.

Source:myjoyonline

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Speaking on JoyNews Prime on Monday, Dr Agyemang said the Minority’s hesitation stems from questions surrounding the scheme’s funding framework. “We are not opposing the numbers. However, our point has to do with the source of funding.”

“The main statutory source of funding outlined in the report submitted to parliament is that they are going to save 20% of the National Health Insurance levy to finance non-communicable diseases. Why are you in a rush? Why do you rush to bring a bill that is already catered for under the National Health Insurance? This is something that we have to caution Ghanaians because it is an ingenious way to take from an existing provision to finance another thing that can be effectively catered for under the primary provision, which is the National Health Insurance law,” the MP argued.

Parliament passed the MahamaCare Bill into law on Monday, July 21, under a certificate of urgency, fast-tracking the legislative process to fulfil a key campaign promise by President John Dramani Mahama.

The initiative seeks to provide free healthcare for individuals suffering from chronic conditions, particularly targeting low-income and vulnerable groups who are unable to bear the costs of long-term medical care.

MahamaCare is expected to complement the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) by addressing gaps in chronic disease management, especially for ailments such as diabetes, hypertension, and sickle cell disease, which impose a heavy burden on families and the healthcare system.

Dr Agyeman emphasised that despite the expedited passage, the Minority is only calling for a more transparent financing model, cautioning that without adequate budgetary allocation or innovative funding streams, the programme’s implementation could falter.

Source: myjoyonline

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Speaking to Adom News, the women highlighted how exposure to chemicals, dust, and constant blasting from mining sites has led to widespread health issues, including respiratory diseases, malaria, anaemia, hypertension, diarrhoea, and miscarriages.

They also lamented the economic hardships women endure, pointing out that they are often relegated to low-paying jobs or forced into subsistence-level mining, with little access to credit, technical training, or decision-making platforms.

Cultural barriers and the burden of family responsibilities further hinder their ability to fully benefit from opportunities within the mining sector.

The influx of migrant workers into mining communities has also worsened social issues, with rising cases of prostitution, limited contraceptive use due to cultural stigmas, and a spike in sexually transmitted infections, including HIV/AIDS.

The women are calling on mining companies, particularly Zijin Mining, to take deliberate steps to address these challenges.

They urged the companies to empower women by providing job opportunities, skills training, and ensuring their active participation in community decision-making processes.

According to the women, such inclusive measures will not only help mitigate the negative effects of mining but also promote equitable and sustainable development in Birim North.

Source: Akwasi Dwamena

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The new amount, paid within 21 days of the month, adds to the over 1 billion cedis of the claims paid by the Authority to credentialed service providers for this year.

The payments were disbursed to public, private, mission and quasi-public health facilities across the country.

Over 112.6 million cedis, representing 43 percent of the total amount, was paid to public facilities while private service providers were paid over 104.6 million cedis – 40 percent.

Facilities under the mission category received over 40 million cedis – 15 percent – with the Quasi-public facilities taking over 2.2 million cedis, representing 1 percent.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, the NHIA said the initiative is part of its commitment to prompt payment to enhance healthcare delivery and maintain a debt-free status.

“The significant disbursement demonstrates the NHIA’s unwavering commitment to sustaining the scheme and ensuring that healthcare providers are resourced and motivated to deliver quality services to cherished members,” portions of the statement read.

The Authority says it remains focused on improving efficiency and delivering on its mandates to ensure financial access to quality healthcare for all Ghanaians.

“We thank our stakeholders for their continued support and assure the public of our dedication to transparency, accountability, and timely payments,” the statement concluded.

Margaret, who became pregnant after being raped, has faced health complications during her pregnancy and after delivery.

This has placed a heavy financial burden on the teenage mother.

“Margaret was raped and out it got pregnant. This came with a lot of complications, even when her time was due for her delivery. Margaret is still suffering, but her mother is a poor woman. Sometimes, the good nurses here have to make contributions to get her some basic needs,” narrated Joana Adom Afrifa, a social welfare worker at KATH.

Margaret’s plight came to light when EKK Charity Foundation, a Kumasi-based non-governmental organisation, made a donation to women who delivered on Mother’s Day.

CEO of the Foundation, Evans Kofi Kwafo, supported Margaret with Gh1,000 and pledged to continue reaching out to her.

Margaret’s mother thanked the organisation and called for more support as the teenager continued to battle the sicknesses.

Margaret, who has been on the sick bed for weeks, has difficulty in speaking.

Speaking on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Captain Effah Dartey revealed that he had been battling health issues and was recently discharged from the 37 Military Hospital after three weeks of medical detention.

“I’ve been going through some serious personal challenges. I just came out of 37 Military Hospital after three weeks of detention,” he told the host.

He expressed deep gratitude for his recovery, attributing his survival to divine intervention.

“By God’s grace, God has given me life, and I am so grateful. I don’t know what lies ahead tomorrow, but by His grace, we keep going,” he said.

When asked by the host to sing one of his favourite gospel songs, Captain Effah Dartey chose Matwen Ewurade Anim, a song that reflects his hope and trust in God.

EFFAH ON HEALTH ISSUES

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The move, which takes immediate effect, is aimed at safeguarding patient dignity and improving public health standards.

The directive follows growing public concern over reports that some hospitals and clinics were charging patients and visitors between GH¢0.50 and GH¢2 to access washrooms — a practice the GHS now describes as exploitative and inappropriate within a healthcare setting.

In a circular dated April 16, 2025, and signed by Acting Director-General Prof. Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, all Regional Directors have been instructed to ensure the immediate cessation of these charges. The circular warned that failure to comply would attract sanctions against the heads of non-compliant facilities.

“The washrooms must at all times be kept clean and comfortable to prevent the risk of infection, improve perception of patient care quality, and increase patient satisfaction,” the circular stated.

The GHS further directed Regional Directors to ensure full enforcement of the directive and notify all heads of facilities for strict compliance.

Beyond ethical considerations, the Service stressed that clean and accessible washrooms are essential for maintaining hygiene, preventing infections, and promoting public health.

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Dr. Senanu Kwesi Djokoto assumes the role of deputy chief executive in-charge of operations, while Mr Raphael Yelfoglo Segkpeb takes on the position of deputy chief executive responsible for administration and human resources

The Chief Executive of the NHIA, Dr. Victor Asare Bampoe, in line with directives from the President, also announced the appointment of Ms. Faustina Dery as Head of Corporate Communications.

Additionally, Dr. Anthony Ginpong has been appointed as Senior Director in-charge of Special Initiatives and Liaison to the Ministry of Health.

These seasoned professionals bring a wealth of experience and expertise to their respective roles, and are expected to play a pivotal role in driving the NHIA’s strategic objectives and advancing the country’s healthcare landscape.

The newly-appointed officials were formally introduced to the Authority, marking the beginning of their tenure in steering key operations, administration and strategic communications for the NHIA.

The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) was established under the National Health Insurance Act 2003, Act 650.

NHIA is responsible for implementing and Managing the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) which involves overseeing the registration of members, managing contributions, and ensuring that healthcare services are delivered to those in need.

The Authority is confident the new appointments will strengthen its leadership capacity and enhance its ability to deliver on its mandate to provide access to quality healthcare for all Ghanaians.

Speaking during Adom FM’s Reboot Your Life series, he highlighted the vital role health plays in every aspect of life, including work, education, and travel.

“With good health, you can do everything to get wealth,” he stated.

Dr. Boateng urged listeners to prioritize their well-being by adopting healthy habits such as regular medical checkups, detoxing at the start of each year, and getting adequate sleep.

“Sleep is crucial; at least eight hours a day is recommended,” he noted.

“We are what we eat, so it’s important to be mindful of your diet. Drink plenty of water, eat a balanced diet, cut down on calorie intake, and increase your consumption of proteins and vegetables.”

Dr. Boateng also stressed the importance of regular exercise, reminding Ghanaians that taking care of their health is the key to unlocking their potential and achieving their goals.

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Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 2nd annual convening of the Africa Health Collaborative, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation in Kumasi, she stated that collaboration among governments, communities, healthcare providers, and international stakeholders is crucial.

“The future of Africa’s healthcare system will be defined by partnerships. Together we can build resilient, equitable health systems that not only serve Africa but also contribute to global health advancement,” she said.

The annual Africa Health Collaborative convening brings together key stakeholders from Africa and beyond to collectively address shared health-sector challenges through a network approach.

The convening also seeks to engage relevant health ecosystem partners and youth in knowledge exchange and to deepen the collaborations among partner institutions within the Higher Education Health Collaborative.

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana, is hosting the 2024 annual convening of the Africa Health Collaborative from October 21 to 25, under the theme: “Nyansapo: Innovating Health Systems in Africa for Africa and the World.”

Prof. Quakyi added, “Collective path forward, Nyansapo is more than a symbol. It is a call for collaboration, innovation, and shared responsibility. Let’s commit to improving health outcomes and making a lasting impact on global health.”

She also stressed the importance of emergency preparedness in securing Africa’s healthcare system.

“The global pandemic showed us the fragility of health systems worldwide. In Africa, we learned that resilience must be built into our healthcare systems if we’re to survive future crises. Throughout my career, whether in vaccine development or immunology, I have advocated for the importance of preparedness. Nyansapo is leading the charge in building healthcare infrastructure that is capable of withstanding future pandemics and emergencies. By investing in emergency preparedness, digital health platforms, and data management systems, we can ensure Africa is equipped to respond rapidly to the challenges ahead,” she said.

The Principal Investigator of the Africa Health Collaborative, KNUST, and Chairman of the Executive Steering Committee of the Collaborative, Prof. Ellis Owusu-Dabo, urged the partnering institutions to create an enabling environment for innovation.

“This begins with leadership that encourages collaboration at all levels, learning the simple art of listening. It’s a good way to start. When we prioritize collaboration, we foster an environment where innovation thrives. No idea is too small or stupid when everyone feels empowered to contribute,” he said.

The Minister of Health, Dr. Bernard Okoe Boye, praised the Collaborative for championing initiatives aimed at tackling emerging diseases, particularly non-communicable diseases.

KNUST Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Rita Akosua Dickson urged participants to remain open to new ideas and perspectives that can enhance the Collaborative’s efforts.

“Let us leave no one behind, particularly the young people who are enriched with innovative ideas,” the Pro Vice-Chancellor, Prof. David Asamoah, said on her behalf.

In the second phase of the Sectorial Debate on Friday, former General Secretary of the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), Professor Titus K. Beyuo, and Presidential Advisor on Health at the Office of the President of Ghana, Dr. Anthony Nsiah-Asare highlighted their political parties achievements in the health sector.

 Professor Titus K. Beyuo highlighted a troubling trend, alleging that admissions to nursing training colleges have been restricted to 50% or less, with an additional 30% of available slots reserved for the Ministry of Health.

“The reduction in nursing admissions is alarming. Moreover, the Ministry of Health’s reservation of 30% of these slots for its own use creates unnecessary bureaucracy and delays.”

Dr. Anthony Nsiah-Asare, also revealed that the ruling New Patriotic Party (NPP)  completed hospital projects, which were left unfinished by the previous administration.

He emphasized that the NPP government utilized the remaining GHS 38.8 million to complete these projects, including additional accommodation facilities in Sekondi.

He also pointed out that the Bekwai Hospital, listed as completed in the NDC’s “green book,” was actually finished and commissioned by the NPP government in November 2020.

“The NDC government was not able to complete two hospitals in the Ashanti region – the 120-bed facility in Fomena, Kumawa, and Dodowa. Out of the 7 hospital projects initiated by the NDC, only one was completed.

“The remaining 38.8 million from the allocated funds was used to complete the Fomena, Kumawa, and Sekondi accommodation projects. The NDC included Bekwai Hospital as a completed project in their green book, but it wasn’t finished.

“The NPP government has constructed 17 isolation centers, some of which are already completed, in preparation for any future emergencies,”

The Ghana Registered Midwives Association ( GRMA), Manna Mission Health Service, Methodist Health Trust, Accra, Hope Christian Hospital, Feteh, Saviour Church Health Service, Urban Aid Clinic, Accra, Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association of Ghana (PMAG), Pharmaceutical Society of Ghana, Private Health Facilities Association, Ghana National Policies Crusaders Association Of Ghana and many industry players in the health sector graced the event.

He underscored the importance of paying attention to patient feedback in shaping up healthcare delivery.

“Quality healthcare improvement demands a focus on patient-experience, of which Ghanaians have a lot of stories about! Several stories on how they have been treated in our facilities. Indeed, each person who walks through the doors of our hospitals or clinics comes with unique needs, fears, and hopes,” he said.

By listening attentively to their voices, we can continue to tailor our care plans not just to be medically effective, but also compassionate and respectful of individual dignity, he added.

Dr. Offei was speaking at the opening ceremony of Quality Healthcare Improvement module 2 workshop by the Africa Higher Education Health Collaborative, KNUST in partnership with Mastercard Foundation at Moree, Cape Coast.

The twenty health professional beneficiaries have already completed module 1 of the short course in May this year.

The course, which is in partnership with the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology and the University of Toronto, is under the auspices of the Health Employment pillar of the collaborative led by Dr. Kofi Akohene Mensah.

It seeks to equip health personnel with the requisite strength and capacity to meet the growing demand for primary healthcare in the health centre.

Dr. Offei again emphasized that the current module uses an evidence-based approach in improving quality healthcare.

“This module will offer you another opportunity to learn about using a holistic approach in improving quality healthcare in your facilities. That is embracing evidence-based practices that are grounded in research and experience, ensuring that our medical decisions are not only effective but also informed by the latest advancements in science. It also means fostering a culture of continuous improvement within our healthcare institutions, where feedback loops and data-driven insights guide us towards better outcomes for patients,” he’s optimistic.

Principal Investigator of the project and Pro Vice-chancellor of KNUST, Prof. Ellis Owusu-Dabo encouraged participants to embrace ethical use of emerging technologies to advance Ghana’s healthcare delivery.

“I want to reiterate that in our pursuit of quality healthcare, improvement and health entrepreneurship, technology plays a pivotal role. From telemedicine to AI-driven diagnostics to technological interventions and advancements, the power to revolutionize is here with us and we should bring it along. However, let us remember that technology is a tool and that means to an end, and it means that it can both serve a purpose and also at the same time destroy.

“The true measure of success lies in how effectively we harness these tools to enhance the human touch that we have acquired in medicine, ensuring that our patients receive their humanity and dignity,” he said.

Pillar lead, Dr. Kofi Akohene Mensah asked the participants to tap into the facilitator’s experience to enrich their knowledge.

“We expect that you go back and make an impact and be an agent of change,” he said.

The Tamale South Member of Parliament’s comment comes on the back of the delay in the renovation of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital, due to the project committee’s inability to pay taxes on some imported materials.

Speaking on JoyNews, Mr Iddrisu attributed the stalling of most projects to government’s mismanagement of the economy.

“You have a government that has irresponsibly mismanaged the economy, resulting in a national debt of 600 billion of about 78% of our GDP or probably even more.

“The consequence of that irresponsible management of the economy is towards projects including the Komfo Anokye 155 million euro project and the modernisation of the maternity block and the long-standing uncompleted project in the history of the construction of health facilities in Ghana.

“And therefore government itself must expect some cost overruns. That is additional cost to the state, that is additional cost to the taxpayers which is a symbol of the mismanagement of the economy,” he said.

On Tuesday, April 2, the Chairman of the Heal Komfo Anokye (Teaching Hospital) project team, Sammy Adu Boakye expressed frustration over the heavy taxes slapped on solicited donations to support the health facility.

According to him, the situation is worrying since the state which has been derelict in its responsibility to ensure health facilities have the required infrastructure, equipment and supplies to run efficiently, is the one thwarting efforts by ordinary Ghanaians.

“How do we pay duty and other taxes to the government when we are doing what successive governments have ignored for seventy years by asking for money from ordinary Ghanaians? I have written to his majesty to intervene.

“It’s a pity…. 1.8 million cedis for 10 containers of tiles, not to mention electrical and plumbing materials yet to come. Letters written to the Finance Minister through the Chief Director nearly two months ago are yet to be acknowledged. Demurrage charges have already been set, which are about 1500 USD a day.

“What this posture means is that subsequent materials will still have to be paid for. I should appeal to ice water sellers, market women, shoemakers, etc. to donate towards a project for it to be taxed. Just look at that …” he said.

Backing this stance, the outspoken MP said government has lost its priorities.

“When government claims that it has turned the corner, how can you turn the corner when you don’t have a final agreement with the external creditors on how to manage your debt?

“So only God knows when that facility will be ready for work to commence for us to expect completion of work on the maternity block and the modernisation of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.

“This government has simply lost its priorities.”

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Now in its third consecutive year, this initiative seeks to express gratitude and honour Ghanaian fathers on Father’s Day by providing them with complimentary prostate screening sessions.

Recognizing the unwavering dedication and invaluable contributions of fathers to their families and communities, Adom FM aims to prioritize their well-being through comprehensive prostate health evaluations.

The screening programme, led by skilled medical officers from EndPoint, will not only assess the prostate for any potential conditions but will also examine other crucial aspects of overall health.

This year’s event invites all fathers to participate in the screening exercise, which will take place at designated venues across the country.

The venues include:

Accra: Spintex Road Shell Signboard

Tema Community 22: Ropongi Restaurant

Takoradi: Behind the Police Station in Anaji

Kumasi: Behind Angel School

Takyiman Hansua: Opposite Jusbro Filling Station

Nzema: Around Cal Bank

On Friday, 16^th June 2023, fathers are encouraged to visit any of the above locations, where Adom FM’s beloved shows, Dwaso Nsem and Work and Happiness, will conduct live broadcasts.

This festive atmosphere aims to create an engaging environment while simultaneously raising awareness about prostate health.

“Fathers play an integral role in our community, and it is essential to prioritize their well-being,” emphasized the organisers of the Adom FM Fathers’ Day Free Prostate Screening Exercise. “By offering complimentary screenings, we hope to empower fathers to take control of their health and prevent future prostate-related diseases,” Joshua Tigo, Programmes Manager of Adom FM has said.

The screening sessions will commence promptly at 6:00 am and conclude at 5:00 pm, ensuring ample time for fathers to participate.

Adom FM stands committed to providing unwavering support to the Ghanaian community and encourages everyone to seize this opportunity to join forces in promoting the health and well-being of fathers.

For more information about the Adom FM Fathers’ Day Free Prostate Screening Exercise, please contact Adom 106.3 FM or visit our website, www.adomonline.com.

Together, let us celebrate and support the fathers who have given so much to their families and communities.

The mosquito-borne disease kills more than 600,000 people each year, most of them children in Africa, and scientists have been trying for years to develop vaccines.

It is unclear when the Oxford vaccine will be rolled out in Ghana.

Childhood vaccines in Africa are typically paid for by international organisations such as Gavi and UNICEF after they have been backed by the World Health Organization (WHO), which is still assessing the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness.

However, Oxford scientist Adrian Hill said Ghana’s drug regulator has approved it for the age group at highest risk of death from malaria – children aged 5 months to 36 months. It has a deal with Serum Institute of India to produce up to 200 million doses annually.

This is the first time a major vaccine has been approved first in an African country ahead of rich nations, Hill said.

It was unusual that a regulatory authority in Africa had reviewed the data quicker than the WHO, he added.

“Particularly since COVID, African regulators have been taking a much more proactive stance, they’ve been saying…we don’t want to be last in the queue,” Hill said.

The first malaria vaccine, Mosquirix from British drugmaker GSK (GSK.L), was endorsed by the WHO last year after decades of work. But a lack of funding and commercial potential thwarted the company’s capacity to produce as many dose as needed.

GSK has committed to produce up to 15 million doses of Mosquirix every year through 2028, well under the roughly 100 million doses a year of the four-dose vaccine the WHO says is needed long-term to cover around 25 million children.

Ghana, Kenya and Malawi were all involved in the pilot programme for the roll-out of Mosquirix, and have begun rolling it out more widely in recent months.

Since it began in 2019, 1.2 million children across the three countries have received at least one dose of the vaccine, and the WHO said last month that in the areas where the vaccine has been given, all-cause child mortality has dropped by 10%, a sign of its impact.

Mid-stage data from the Oxford vaccine trial involving more than 400 young children was published in a medical journal in September.

Vaccine effectiveness was 80% in the group that received a higher dose of the immune-boosting adjuvant component of the vaccine, and 70% in the lower-dose adjuvant group, at 12 months following the fourth dose.

The doses were administered ahead of peak malaria season in Burkina Faso.

Data from an ongoing phase III clinical trial in Burkina Faso, Kenya, Mali and Tanzania that has enrolled 4,800 children is expected to be published in a medical journal in the coming months.

However, late-stage data – which suggests a similar vaccine performance as in the phase II trial – has been shared with regulatory authorities over the last six months, Hill said.

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According to studies, eating ripe papaya is harmless and does not hurt a woman during her period.

Although pawpaw is hot food, it causes no significant effect on the menstrual cycle. In fact, it is actually safe and beneficial to eat papaya during periods because your body will receive essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals which can make your menstrual cycle smooth and prevent bloating and constipation.

Pawpaw also contains phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals, carbs, and proteins. Moreover, it contains a significant amount of flavonoids, which are potent antioxidants, and monounsaturated fatty acids.

Hence, pawpaw is well known to have several health advantages. Here’s how it can help with your menstrual cycle.

• Regularize your period cycle

Eating pawpaw regularly helps in contracting the uterus muscles. Apart from producing heat in the body, the fruit contains carotene. This substance stimulates or regulates estrogen hormone levels in the body. Naturally, this induces periods or menses more frequently.

Eating pawpaw regularly aids in uterine muscle contraction. Apart from producing heat in the body, the fruit contains carotene. This substance stimulates or regulates estrogen hormone levels in the body. Naturally, this induces periods or menses more frequently.

• It improves blood flow

Pawpaw can improve blood flow to the uterus muscles. Also, pawpaw’s carotene content will help you manage pain or cramps.

• It helps to enhance gut health

By relieving digestion, pawpaw can aid women who suffer from severe cramps and irregular periods. It contains fibre and water content which regulate bowel movement and avoid constipation that is seen during menses. Pawpaw also supports the proper functioning of the uterine muscles. Hence, if you want to consume pawpaw, eat it.

A Physiotherapist with the Korle-Bu Teaching hospital, Hussein Botchway, has cautioned men against assuming certain positions during sexual intercourse, especially standing.

He said such positions can lead to health complications such as hypertension and stroke.

He acknowledged that “sex is good,” however, “we need to be mindful of the positioning.”

He made the remarks during an interaction with the co-hosts of Joy FM‘s Super Morning Show on Thursday, as part of discussions that centered on stroke and hypertension.

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“The positions that we assume during sexual intercourse can lead to conditions like hypertension and stroke. The standing position is not recommended,” he maintained.

He explained that “if you stand during intercourse the blood has to move against gravity and it has a rippling effect on the pressure on the heart.”

Sex is known to be beneficial because it lowers blood pressure, improves the immune system, improves the health of the heart, and possibly lowers the risk for heart diseases.

It also improves self-esteem, decreases depression and anxiety, increases libido, serves as an immediate or natural pain relief, and allows for better sleep.

These benefits notwithstanding, CEO of Medicas Hospital, Dr. Yaw Osafo, who was also a guest on the show could not agree less with Mr. Botchway.

Dr. Osafo explained that “during orgasm, your blood pressure can rise by 20 points, so if your starting point is not right. We’ve all heard stories where individuals have collapsed in a room. We don’t know wat happened in the room but we can guess.

“This is simply because your blood pressure can go up by as much as 20 points during orgasm, so make sure that you’re starting right. So sex is not entirely safe. You have to do it under advise,” he said.

The actor has been spotted in an ailing state, looking weak and pale.

He is reportedly undergoing treatment at Dr Power Herbal Clinic at Ashaiman Newtown junction, Tema.

One Peter Anokye, believed to have visited the actor, took to his Facebook page to post the photos amid a request for prayers for him.

This comes after the actor, months ago begged Ghanaians for support.

In an interview on Adom FM, he said the conditions of veterans who worked hard to bring smiles to the faces of Ghanaians were nothing to write home about.

Kohwe bemoaned some of his colleagues died as paupers in sorrow because there was no support for them.

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Therefore, he said, Ghanaians should support him now and not wait till he is dead and gone before they do so.

Ghana is to begin Covid-19 vaccination on March 2 as the government takes delivery of 600,000 AstraZeneca doses.

But social media users are divided over the effectiveness of the vaccine. While some claim it is apt, others claim it will go a long way to have side effects on their bodies.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Food and Drugs Authority, Mrs Delese Mimi Darko, has already given an assurance that due diligence had been done in the authorisation process, adding that what has been sent to Ghana is of the same quality, with safety and efficacy properties as being used in the United Kingdom and the rest of the world.

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Check out what people are saying on social media:

Executive Director of health policy think tank, the Africa Center for Health Policy, Research and Analysis, Dr Thomas Anaba says President Akufo-Addo may have been misled into giving a date for the commissioning newly procured ambulances.

Anaba’s comments follow a request made by the National Ambulance Service (NAS) for a postment of the commissioning of the ambulance which was scheduled for Monday, January 6, 2020.

A request he says casts a huge doubt on the country’s seriousness to strengthen its already weak emergency response system as a developing country.

President Akufo-Addo in his meet-the-press series in December, 2019, promised the commissioning and distribution of all 307 procured ambulances across the various constituencies on January 6, 2020.

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But the President’s inability to do so as promised has led to Mr Anaba questioning if President Akufo-Addo was unaware of the numerous ‘setbacks’ when he promised to launch them in January 2020.

“This issue really baffles me; were there no proper checks done by the National Ambulance Service before advising the President to have the ambulances commissioned on January 6, 2020,” he questioned.

“They [NAS] should just distribute what we have now; with the kind of ambulance service ran in Ghana, all you need is a bed and machine aside the paramedics,” Dr Anaba demanded.

He argued that government’s decision to hold onto the distribution of the 48 ambulances parked at the forecourt of the State House is a clear manifestation of its insensitivity to Ghanaians.

According to her, many health officials have become desensitised to death hence do not try their best in cases they think all hope is lost.

Leila Djansi told Lexis Bill, on ‘Behind the Fame’, that these doctors do not realise that with a little effort, they would make so much difference in the healthcare system.

“For example, when we took little Doris [a family member] to the exam ward, they put her in the condemned ward. So, when they put you there it means they’ve given up on you. You should see Doris now, she can run faster than you.

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“That’s one of the things that really irks me in Ghana. A lot of people ask me ‘are you gonna move back to Ghana?’ I cannot move back to Ghana because of healthcare, I don’t wanna die if I could be saved,” the ‘Sinking Sands’ producer stated.

She said that her mum, a nurse practitioner, once told her if a person goes to the hospital in Ghana and come back, it is grace.

The ‘A Northern Affair’ director added that the disposition of doctors’ towards their patients could also go a long way in their treatment.

“I know I have come hard on the Ghanaian doctors and said they’re not friendly but I think when you smile at your patients it goes a long way,” she added.

Leila Djansi, however, praised some doctors she said were trying their best to bring their patients some relief.

“You go to the cancer centre at Korle-Bu and it is so small. The doctors are doing everything they can in a very small space, it’s hard,” she said.

The government is being urged to stop the insensitivity and immediately distribute the 40 ambulances parked at the forecourt of Parliament House in Accra.

According to the Executive Director of Africa Center for Health Policy, Research and Analysis, Dr Thomas Anaba, in a country where many people do not have knowledge or skills in basic life support, enough ambulances are the best option for pre-hospital emergency medical care.

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He recalled the last official information about the number of ambulances in Ghana in 2018 placed the figure at 55 and up till date no ambulance has been added to the service.

“It is very worrying for a country like Ghana to struggle in distributing ambulances. Where are our leaders heading as a country? The insensitivity on the part of our leaders is bad,” he said on Adom FM’s morning show Dwaso Nsem, Tuesday.

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Dr Anaba argued that he considers the government’s decision to hold onto the distribution of the 48 ambulances as a clear manifestation of insensitivity to the very people it sworn to alleviate from predicaments.

“We live in a country where patients are conveyed in unconventional transport to hospital causing more harm to them, women giving birth on the street for lack of ambulances and most damming of them all is the report from Eastern Regional Health Directorate indicating 70 pregnant women died in the region for lack of ambulances and bad roads,” he said.

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In September 2019, President Nana Akufo-Addo announced the arrival of the first batch of ambulances for all 275 constituencies in the country.

The buses, numbering 48, have since been parked at the forecourt of the Parliament House while government awaits delivery of the remaining ones to be cleared at the port.

The health show was honoured with the enviable award at the 8^th African Health Chief Executive Officers and Legends Award Ceremony held in Accra on Thursday, November 14, 2019.

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The award, according to organisers, is to recognise the show’s effort in advocating and informing Ghanaians about necessary health and preventive care.

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Organisers of the award, urged Adom TV to continue helping medical professionals in promoting health education in Ghana.

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The show, which airs on Adom TV every Saturday at 6:30pm, discusses a wide range of health issues and has caught on with many Ghanaians.

Other awardees include Dr Adu Boateng of Endpoint Homeopathic Hospital who was adjudged Homeopathic Chief Executive Officer of the Year.

 District Chief Executive, William Asante Bediako, says through community initiative, residents have put up homes to address personnel challenges in the area which is one of the most deprived in Ashanti Region.

“You can see today that the people are so hospitable, they feel the need for them to come here and people are willing to give their accommodation for staff free of charge, and so they should try and come. The assembly too has rented a place too for the health directorate staff and so we want appeal to the health staff to accept postings to Manso Adubia,” he told JoyNews.

Teachers, health personnel and other professionals have over the years refused posting to the area citing poor road infrastructure, lack of decent accommodation and social amenities,   among other reasons.

Amansie South District which was carved out of the Amansie West District has no public hospital.

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The assembly’s quest to upgrade the health centre at the district capital, Adubia, into a hospital has received a boost, as central government commit to expand the female ward into 100-bed facility.

Construction of office complex for the District health directorate and doctor’s bungalow funded from District Development Fund and internally-generated funds has already been completed.

Attracting teachers, health personnel and other professionals have over the years has been difficult due to poor roads, accommodation and social amenities.

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Chief Executive, William Asante Bediako told JoyNews at the sidelines of the commissioning of a new medical doctor’s bungalow residents are taking up accommodation challenge.

“We are ready to do whatever it would make them comfortable to stay and work for us,” he says.

He wants the Ministry of Health to encourage personnel to take advantage of the gesture and accept to work in the area.

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“The Ministry of Health should encourage health personnel to come here. This is not a deprived area-this is a place where when you come, you will see all kinds of first class things happening around us so people should accept postings to this place.”

Upper respiratory tract infection is the number two OPD condition in Amansie South, attributed to dusty roads in the area.

Mr. Asante Bediako says work on road networks would soon commence as the contractor moves to site, next month.

Source: Nhyira FM/Ohemeng Tawiah

President of the Ghana Federation of Traditional Medicine Practitioners Association (GHAFTRAM), Kojo Odum Eduful, made the appeal to the Ministry of Health to accredit traditional medicine practitioners as service providers for the scheme.

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Mr Eduful’s call was made at the Association’s 4th national election year congress in Accra, a congress held under the theme: “Ensuring 100% inclusion of Traditional Medicine Practice into the mainstream healthcare system in Ghana.”

In a speech read on behalf of the Health Minister, Kwaku Agyemang Manu, he emphasised the need to forge effective collaboration between his ministry, its agencies and the traditional medicine practitioners.

He said such collaboration must ensure that the federation’s self-regulatory activities are geared towards quality, safe and efficacious health products and practices.

“The ministry is collaborating with its stakeholders and partners to provide the needed support in getting the essential herbal medicines to list unto the NHIS scheme towards the development of traditional medicine in these times of dwindling resources,” the minister’s statement read.

He said as a ministry, their passion of formalising the use of traditional medical practice as a viable Healthcare alternative in Ghana has led to the scale-up of 19 herbal centres to 34 herbal centres across the country.

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Congratulating the newly executives of the association, the minister urged them to be circumspect in their utterances and modus operandi as well as conduct themselves professionally in the course of providing services to their clients, devoid of any acrimony.

Also speaking at the event was Dr Dorcas Sarfo from the University of Ghana Chemistry Department who stressed the importance of herbal medicines and the need for its adoption and usage.

‘Most diseases we are battling with in recent times can also be prevented with the use of these herbal medicines,’’ he noted.

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Dr Dorcas Sarfo, however, called on government, researchers and other stakeholders to support the association and what it stands for.

“We need support in the form of funds, testimonials, public acceptance of these medicines and laboratories to run a test on the safety of these herbal medicines,” he said.

The Congress elected 22 new executives who were sworn in to steer the affairs of the federation.

Doctors in Britain will be able to legally prescribe medicinal cannabis from Nov. 1, after two highly publicized cases of young, epileptic patients dependent on marijuana-based treatments put pressure on the government to review its policy.

The change was announced on Thursday by Home Secretary Sajid Javid after he called for an urgent review of cannabis-based medicinal products over the summer, and his office said in July it had decided that “senior clinicians will be able to prescribe the medicines to patients with an exceptional clinical need.”

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Mr Javid said on Thursday, “Having been moved by heartbreaking cases involving sick children, it was important to me that we took swift action to help those who can benefit from medicinal cannabis.”

The home secretary commissioned the review after the cannabis-based medicine of Billy Caldwell, 12, who has life-threatening epileptic seizures, was confiscated at Heathrow Airport on June 11. The case was publicized in the British news media and prompted a national discussion on the legalization of medicinal cannabis products.

Earlier, the mother of 6-year-old Alfie Dingley, who also has up to 150 seizures a month, said that Prime Minister Theresa May had promised to help explore alternative treatments for the boy, but that she never followed through.

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Mr Javid later announced that the British government would allow both Alfie and Billy temporary special licenses to legally take marijuana-based treatment.

Making medicinal cannabis available on prescription will benefit the lives of ill patients currently suffering in silence. There is nothing harder than seeing your loved ones in pain – which is why I have taken this decision https://t.co/ZFmGgWdJgE

— Sajid Javid (@sajidjavid) July 26, 2018

“We have now delivered on our promise and specialist doctors will have the option to prescribe these products where there is a real need,” the home secretary said on Thursday.

General practice doctors will not be authorized to prescribe the cannabis-based medicines, the Home Office noted, and prescription decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis — “only when the patient has an unmet special clinical need that cannot be met by licensed products,” the statement read.

According to him, currently, Ghana is able to do about 15,000 to 16,000 cataract surgeries far below the set target due to many challenges.

However, the GHS has entered into agreement with the Himalayan Cataract Project of the USA to fund the National Cataract Outreach Program( NACOP ) help reduce the deficit by performing 30,000 cataract surgeries to patients annually by 2020.

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The project would be formally launched on September 17 at the Koforidua Regional Hospital where absolutely free Cataract surgeries will be performed at the Regional Hospital for persons in the region.

Addressing the media in Koforidua to announce this, Dr Addy explained that the NACOP project was aimed at eliminating blindness.

Read more: Bawumia not in hospital, lives in “small rented flat” in London” – Gabby Otchere-Darko
However speaking on Adom TV’s Morning Show ‘Badwam’ Tuesday, the NPP MP said he did not know that the Vice President had even been flown to the UK for treatment or anything of its kind until he run into the Second Lady, Hajia Samira Bawumia at Landmark hotel while having his breakfast.
“I was at the Landmark hotel and as I got down to take my breakfast I was informed by Yoofi Grant that the Veep had collapsed and has been rushed to the hospital.
Watch to KEN

“We were still sitting at the restaurant when we saw Samira who was also around and told us about Bawumia’s health but added that he is doing well to which I asked her to send my regards to him.
He explained that he wanted the Vice President to have enough rest and therefore never bothered to visit since Hajia Samira Bawumia had told him everything he needed to know.
Read more: Bawumia will return to work soon – Samira assures
He continued that “The following day we saw Samira again and she told us she has delivered my message to him and we laughed” he explained.
“I never visited the hospital. In fact, I didn’t know the route to the hospital. I only told Samira to wish him well and so I don’t understand why people are claiming I was prevented from seeing him.
Read more: Stop being insensitive about Bawumia’s health – Obiri Boahen fumes
“When I learned he was sick, I just told myself it was fatigue and therefore he needed to rest so where from that baseless report? I never went there. Even his bodyguards respects me and always bow to me and would never sack me” he quizzed.
Meanwhile, the Minister of State in charge of National Security, Bryan Acheampong has revealed that Alhaji Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia is expected to return to Ghana from the United Kingdom (UK) latest by Friday, February 2, 2018.
 
 
 

Desperate to find a match, Ray moved her message to Facebook, where her plea for a donor spread from relatives to friends and eventually to complete strangers.
Robin Ihnfeldt heard about Melinda Ray’s condition through her friend, Melinda’s sister over the summer. She told her husband, Jeff, that Ray had been unable to find a match. Without hesitating, Jeff Bramstedt, a 47-year-old former Navy SEAL from San Diego, California, said, “I’d do it.”
“He’s always been an amazing man,” Robin Ihnfeldt said. “He hears bullets and he runs into these situations.”

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Bramstedt, now a skydiving instructor and Hollywood stuntman for films like “Iron Man” and “Deepwater Horizon,” turned out to be a match for Ray and agreed to the 10-hour transplant surgery. But doctors at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital warned him this could be risky.
Chief of transplant surgery Dr. Elizabeth Pomfret said she told Bramstedt, “There’s a lot of things that can go wrong, including the risk of dying.”
“I think I probably considered it for all of half a second before I said, ‘I’m up let’s do this,'” Bramstedt told ABC News.
Three weeks ago, Bramstedt traveled over 1,000 miles from California to UCH in Aurora, Colorado, where the surgical teams successfully transplanted 60 percent of his liver to Ray — unlike other major organs, the liver can regenerate itself.

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After going through the surgery, doctors joked with Bramstedt that it would be 10 weeks before he could jump out of an airplane again, but he said he has gained something important through the experience.
“I feel that I have a little sister now. We literally share DNA at this point,” he said of new bond with Ray. “She gets extended years, she gets to raise her kids, to be the mother that she’s always wanted to be and live out life with her husband.”