A recent study has raised alarm over the increasing prevalence of silent “killer” diseases in Ghana, including hypertension, chronic illnesses, and renal conditions, which are affecting large segments of the population.
The findings, sourced from Rivia Network, highlight the urgent need for public health interventions to address these life-threatening conditions.
The research, which covered over 23,000 patients aged 27-62, found that over 80% of individuals surveyed suffer from hypertension. The prevalence is notably higher among men, with 68% of them affected.
Hypertension, often referred to as a “silent killer,” is a major risk factor for strokes, heart disease, and kidney failure, making its high incidence in Ghana a growing concern.
The study also revealed that 50% of a sample population of 80,000 suffers from undiagnosed or poorly managed diabetes. Diabetes, when left untreated, can lead to severe complications such as kidney disease, blindness, and amputations. The high number of undiagnosed cases suggests a critical gap in public awareness and healthcare access.
The research further pointed to a 23% increase in kidney-related diseases, particularly among younger populations. Experts attribute this rise to lifestyle factors, including high-salt diets, excessive alcohol consumption, and stimulant abuse. These habits are putting more Ghanaians at risk of kidney failure, requiring expensive treatments such as dialysis and transplants.
Health experts are calling for immediate action to curb the rising trend of these diseases. Public education on healthy lifestyles, early screenings, and improved healthcare access are crucial to preventing further escalation.
With these statistics painting a worrying picture, stakeholders, including the government and healthcare institutions, must take proactive steps to combat these silent but deadly diseases before they overwhelm the country’s healthcare system.
Source: Rivia Network
