Health News from Ghana

The latest health news from Ghana, curated from the country's leading newsrooms and updated through the day. Newest stories first.

KNUST Researchers Identify Potential Prostate Cancer Treatment in Local Ghanaian Medicinal Plant "Bokum"
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KNUST Researchers Identify Potential Prostate Cancer Treatment in Local Ghanaian Medicinal Plant "Bokum"

Researchers at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) have uncovered significant evidence that Croton membranaceus, a traditional Ghanaian medicinal plant popularly known as "Bokum," may inhibit the growth of prostate cancer tumors. The study, published in the journal Cancer Cell International, suggests that the plant’s root extract has the potential to "starve" tumors by blocking angiogenesis—the biological process where tumors create new blood vessels to supply themselves with oxygen and nutrients. This breakthrough offers a scientific basis for the plant's long-standing use in traditional medicine for prostate disorders. Led by Dr. Kofi Oduro Yeboah, the research team focused on the hydroethanolic root extract of the plant. Through laboratory models involving rat and chick subjects, the scientists observed that the extract significantly reduced blood vessel density within prostate cancer tissues and disrupted the development of vascular networks. Crucially, the extract was found to suppress the expression of PDGFR̢, a protein heavily associated with tumor progression. These findings indicate that the plant may provide therapeutic benefits that go beyond mere symptom management, directly interfering with the tumor's ability to survive and expand. While Croton membranaceus has been a staple in Ghanaian herbal medicine for decades, this research provides a critical mechanistic understanding of its anti-cancer properties. By demonstrating how the plant interacts with cellular proteins to inhibit blood supply to tumors, the study bridges the gap between indigenous knowledge and modern oncological science. It highlights the vast potential of Ghana’s local flora in contributing to global medical solutions for one of the most prevalent cancers among men. Despite the promising results, the research team has cautioned that the findings are currently limited to laboratory and animal models. Further clinical trials in humans are necessary to determine the safety, proper dosage, and long-term effectiveness of the extract as a formal treatment. Nevertheless, the study represents a significant milestone for Ghanaian medical research, paving the way for potential new, locally-sourced therapies in the fight against prostate cancer.

Australia Confirms First Case of H5N1 Bird Flu as Virus Now Reaches Every Continent
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Australia Confirms First Case of H5N1 Bird Flu as Virus Now Reaches Every Continent

Australia has officially confirmed its first case of the H5N1 avian influenza strain, marking a significant milestone in the global spread of the virus. Agriculture Minister Julie Collins announced the detection of the highly contagious strain in a migratory brown skua seabird found at Cape Le Grand National Park in Western Australia. Until this discovery, Australia was the only continent to remain free of this specific H5N1 variant, which has caused widespread devastation to wildlife and poultry populations across the globe since its emergence in the late 1990s. In addition to the confirmed case in the brown skua, authorities are investigating a second suspected case involving a southern petrel. While Agriculture Minister Collins noted that no mass mortalities have been reported on the Australian mainland thus far, the government remains on high alert. Officials are expected to determine within the coming days whether the virus has begun to affect other local animal populations. The detection at Cape Le Grand National Park highlights the vulnerability of migratory bird routes and the potential for the virus to establish itself within Australia’s unique ecosystem. The arrival of H5N1 on the Australian mainland follows earlier catastrophic reports from Australian external territories. On the remote Heard and McDonald Islands, the virus was previously linked to the deaths of approximately 13,000 baby seals, illustrating its lethal potential beyond bird populations. While the H5N1 strain is notoriously deadly for avian species and certain marine mammals, health experts emphasize that it rarely infects humans. However, its presence on every continent underscores the persistent challenge zoonotic diseases pose to global biodiversity and the agricultural sector. As Australia enters this new phase of wildlife disease management, environmental and agricultural authorities are ramping up monitoring efforts to mitigate potential outbreaks. The focus remains on early detection and understanding the transmission dynamics between migratory species and local wildlife. For now, the Australian government is working closely with scientific experts to ensure that both the public and the agricultural industry are informed of the risks as they continue to track the movement of the virus across the Western Australian coastline.

Tema Metropolitan Assembly Intensifies School Sanitation Education and Food Safety Monitoring to Combat Disease
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Tema Metropolitan Assembly Intensifies School Sanitation Education and Food Safety Monitoring to Combat Disease

The Tema Metropolitan Assembly (TMA) has launched an intensive sanitation education and clean-up campaign across public schools within the metropolis to combat the spread of food-borne diseases. Spearheaded by the Metropolitan Director of Public Health, Mrs. Bridget Seyram Diapim, the initiative combines environmental maintenance with behavioral education. By targeting public schools that face significant sanitation challenges, the TMA seeks to establish a higher standard of hygiene that protects students and creates a healthier learning atmosphere during the academic year. A core pillar of the program involves educating students on the fundamentals of waste disposal, personal hygiene, and the critical practice of regular handwashing. To complement this, the TMA is conducting rigorous monitoring of food vendors operating within and around school premises. Mrs. Diapim underscored that vendors must comply with strict health standards for food preparation and handling. The assembly is not only providing educational guidance but is also actively supporting physical clean-up exercises to ensure that school environments remain free of filth and potential breeding grounds for pathogens. This intensified effort is particularly vital during the rainy season, when the risk of water-borne and food-borne illnesses typically surges. Mrs. Diapim emphasized that sanitation is a shared legal responsibility and warned that the assembly will pursue legal action against those who fail to comply with sanitation directives. Moving beyond the routine monthly National Sanitation Day exercises, the TMA aims to foster lifelong hygiene habits among children, ensuring that the principles of cleanliness are carried from the classroom back into their respective communities for long-term public health benefits.

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Heal Komfo Anokye Project Leadership to Issue Comprehensive Response Following Governance and Accountability Allegations

The leadership of the Heal Komfo Anokye Project (HeKAP) has officially announced its intention to provide a detailed response to recent allegations regarding the project’s governance and financial accountability. In a statement issued by the HeKAP Chairman, Samuel Adu-Boakye, the project acknowledged the claims circulating in various publications but maintained that many of these assertions do not accurately reflect the operational realities of the initiative. This development follows reports alleging mismanagement and questioning the transparency of the project, which is a major philanthropic effort aimed at renovating and modernizing the aging infrastructure of the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi. Chairman Samuel Adu-Boakye emphasized that the project team is committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism and transparency. Rather than offering piecemeal reactions to individual claims, HeKAP intends to deliver a unified and exhaustive statement that addresses all concerns raised by stakeholders and the public. The leadership has indicated that this comprehensive response is currently being prepared in consultation with key project leaders. This measured approach is intended to ensure that the facts are presented clearly and that the integrity of the project remains untarnished by misinformation. A critical factor in the timing of the full disclosure is the return of the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, who is the principal patron and visionary behind the HeKAP initiative. The project was launched under the Asantehene’s leadership to tackle the deteriorating state of the hospital, which serves as a vital referral center for the middle and northern belts of Ghana. Because the initiative is deeply tied to the Manhyia Palace and the King's personal commitment to healthcare, the HeKAP team believes it is imperative to consult with the project's high-level leadership before finalizing and releasing the official response to the governance claims. Despite the current controversy, the Heal Komfo Anokye Project remains focused on its primary objective of transforming KATH into a world-class medical facility. The project is seen as a crucial intervention in Ghana’s healthcare sector, mobilizing private and public resources to upgrade facilities that have seen little renovation in decades. As the public awaits the detailed statement, HeKAP has reassured its donors and the Ghanaian public that it remains dedicated to its mission of infrastructure improvement while adhering to the principles of accountability that have guided the project since its inception.

Ghana Targets Free Sickle Cell Treatment and Nationwide Genotype Screening to Curb Rising Cases
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Ghana Targets Free Sickle Cell Treatment and Nationwide Genotype Screening to Curb Rising Cases

Ghana is intensifying its national response to Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) as policymakers and health advocates push for free treatment and mandatory genotype screening to address the condition's high prevalence. With approximately 18,000 to 20,000 babies born with the disease annually—representing one in every 60 births—stakeholders are calling for a fundamental shift in healthcare financing. During recent World Sickle Cell Awareness Day commemorations, leaders from the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Parliament, and academic institutions emphasized that the social and economic burden of the disease necessitates a more aggressive public health strategy to improve patient outcomes and reduce new infections. Dr. Mark Kurt Nawaane, Chairman of Parliament’s Health Committee, has expressed optimism that Ghana is moving toward fully free treatment for SCD as part of broader healthcare reforms. A critical step in this direction has been the inclusion of hydroxyurea on the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) medication list, which provides life-altering treatment to thousands. Dr. Nawaane also highlighted the 'Mahama Care' initiative, which aims to cover complications related to the disease and integrate screening into primary healthcare. He further advocated for the establishment of specialized, designated hospitals for sickle cell management to ensure continuity of care and eliminate the current high costs faced by families at private facilities. At the institutional level, the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) and the Focus on Sickle-Cell Foundation (FoSCel) are leading the charge for genotype awareness among the youth. Professor Christian Agyare, Vice-Chancellor designate of KNUST, underscored the 'profound impact' of SCD on education and economic productivity, urging young people to make informed reproductive choices. FoSCel founder Amos Andoh noted that by promoting genotype testing and responsible family planning, the foundation aims to significantly reduce new cases by 2030. They are calling for the decentralization of testing services to ensure that rural populations have equal access to screening and counseling. The Ghana Health Service (GHS) continues to prioritize early diagnosis and the eradication of stigma surrounding the disease. Dr. Akosua Gyimah Omari-Sasu of the GHS noted that while roughly 2% of babies are born with sickle cell traits, early detection allows for medical interventions that prevent severe complications and premature death. By combining public-private partnerships with bold national policies, Ghana aims to transition from mere awareness to a comprehensive healthcare model that guarantees quality care for all individuals living with sickle cell disease.

US to Phase Out HIV/AIDS Funding in South Africa Amid Deepening Diplomatic Tensions
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US to Phase Out HIV/AIDS Funding in South Africa Amid Deepening Diplomatic Tensions

The United States government has announced a significant shift in its international health partnership with South Africa, initiating a phased drawdown of financial support for HIV and AIDS programs. This move comes despite South Africa hosting the world’s largest population of people living with HIV, currently estimated at over eight million individuals. The withdrawal of aid marks a major turning point in the decades-long collaboration through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), raising urgent questions about the future of public health infrastructure in the region. The financial impact of this decision is substantial. PEPFAR allocations, which stood at approximately $456 million in 2024, are projected to plummet to roughly $213 million by 2025. According to reports from GBC Ghana Online, the U.S. State Department’s decision is rooted in South Africa’s failure to align with specific American policy demands. These tensions are multifaceted, involving disagreements over South Africa's land expropriation policies, its diplomatic relations with nations such as Iran, and its legal challenges against Israel at the international level. Some reports also link the shift to broader policy requests regarding U.S. corporate interests that South African officials have reportedly declined to meet. In response to the funding cuts, South African government officials have expressed a commitment to maintaining the country's health programs through increased self-reliance. While the sudden reduction in aid poses a risk of destabilizing progress made over the last two decades, many in the South African health sector view this as a necessary catalyst for "health sovereignty." The sentiment among several leaders is that the continent must move toward self-sustaining health systems that are no longer dependent on the shifting political priorities of foreign donors, even if the transition period presents significant logistical challenges. The withdrawal of U.S. support represents more than just a budgetary change; it signifies a broader evolution in U.S.-Africa relations. As South Africa prepares to manage its public health challenges independently, the transition will be closely watched by other African nations that also rely heavily on international aid. While the immediate focus remains on ensuring the continuity of care for the millions of patients currently receiving treatment, the long-term impact could redefine how health crises are managed across the continent, potentially ushering in a new era of indigenous health governance and financial independence.

WHO Sounds Alarm Over Rapidly Spreading Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo as Infant Deaths Mount
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WHO Sounds Alarm Over Rapidly Spreading Ebola Outbreak in DR Congo as Infant Deaths Mount

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a dire warning regarding the "fast-evolving" Ebola outbreak in the northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which continues to claim lives at an alarming rate. Since the outbreak was officially declared on May 15, the situation has grown increasingly volatile, with health officials reporting 896 confirmed cases and 232 deaths to date. Highlighting the human toll of the crisis, Red Cross workers recently buried a six-month-old girl in Bunia, the provincial capital of Ituri. This tragic loss marks the third child to die from the virus at a single orphanage in the region, underscoring the severe impact of the epidemic on the most vulnerable populations. Central to the current health crisis is the prevalence of the rare Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. Unlike more common strains for which vaccines have been developed, the Bundibugyo variant currently lacks an effective vaccine, significantly complicating containment and prevention efforts. Approximately 90% of the cases are concentrated in the Ituri province, where the virus is spreading at a rapid pace; health authorities recorded 21 new cases within a single 24-hour window. The lack of a preventative vaccine means that the primary defense remains focused on rigorous contact tracing, isolation, and clinical management of those already infected. In response to the escalating numbers, international and local health agencies have moved to establish more than 500 treatment beds and enhanced surveillance measures across the affected zones. A Chinese medical team has arrived in the DRC to bolster the response, providing much-needed technical and clinical support to local staff. However, health officials face significant cultural and logistical hurdles, most notably the tendency of affected individuals to seek treatment from traditional healers before visiting specialized healthcare facilities. These delays in seeking professional medical care often result in higher mortality rates and increased community transmission during the early stages of the disease. The regional implications of the outbreak are becoming increasingly concerning as cases have been reported in neighboring Uganda, raising fears of wider cross-border transmission in East Africa. The WHO emphasizes that timely medical intervention is the most critical factor for survival and containment. As the DRC grapples with this evolving threat, the international community's continued support and resource mobilization remain vital to preventing the current outbreak from spiraling into a repeat of previous catastrophic epidemics in the region.

National Blood Service Faces Critical Supply Gap as Ghana Struggles to Meet WHO Donation Standards
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National Blood Service Faces Critical Supply Gap as Ghana Struggles to Meet WHO Donation Standards

Ghana is grappling with a critical blood shortage that continues to threaten patient safety and emergency response across the country. Current data reveals that the nation collects only 6.6 units of blood per 1,000 people, a figure significantly below the World Health Organization’s (WHO) minimum recommendation of 10 units. This shortfall creates a precarious environment for healthcare providers, particularly in life-threatening situations where immediate access to blood is the difference between life and death. Despite the establishment of the National Blood Service under the 2020 Blood Service Act, the system remains heavily dependent on a reactive model rather than a proactive, sustainable supply chain. A primary driver of this crisis is the overreliance on family replacement donors, where relatives are forced to donate blood only when a loved one is in immediate need. This system often fails during emergencies when time is of the essence and suitable family matches are unavailable. Furthermore, the country faces significant geographical disparities in blood access; while central blood banks in major urban areas hold the majority of stocks, rural and remote regions suffer from inadequate infrastructure and logistical hurdles. Regulatory gaps also persist, making it difficult to maintain consistent safety and quality standards across the entire national supply chain. Public health experts and authorities are now calling for a paradigm shift toward voluntary non-remunerated blood donation. It is estimated that if just one percent of Ghana’s eligible population committed to regular voluntary donations, the national shortage could be significantly alleviated. While the 2020 legislative framework provided a foundation for better coordination and safety, the system’s ultimate success depends on active citizen participation. Without a robust culture of voluntary giving, the gaps in Ghana’s lifesaving system will continue to pose ongoing risks to the population, leaving the most vulnerable patients in jeopardy during medical crises.

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SWIDA-Ghana Enhances Psychosocial Support for SGBV Survivors Through EMPOWERHER Initiative in Tamale

The Savannah Women Integrated Development Agency (SWIDA-Ghana) has launched a significant capacity-building initiative in Tamale to strengthen psychosocial support services for survivors of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). This workshop, organized under the "EMPOWERHER" project, aims to bridge the gap in mental health and psychological assistance within the Northern Region. By bringing together a diverse group of frontline service providers, the program seeks to establish more robust response mechanisms for vulnerable populations, particularly women, youth, and children who have experienced trauma. The training program is a collaborative effort involving Plan International Ghana and is funded by Global Affairs Canada. It gathered health personnel, school counselors, and mental health practitioners to develop specialized skills in psychological first aid and ethical counseling practices. During the sessions, facilitators emphasized the critical need for active listening and professional empathy when dealing with SGBV cases. Miss Fatimata Abdul-Rasheed, who led the training, highlighted that improving these support systems is essential for the long-term recovery and empowerment of survivors in the region. With an ambitious target to directly benefit approximately 1,660 individuals, the project also focuses on inclusive support for persons with disabilities and youth at risk. Participants were equipped with practical tools to manage the complexities of SGBV, ensuring that survivors receive not only immediate medical attention but also the sustained mental health support required to reintegrate into society. The curriculum underscored the importance of creating "safe spaces" where survivors can speak freely without fear of stigma or further victimization. As mental health and SGBV concerns continue to rise across Ghana, participants expressed that the intervention was both timely and necessary. Frontline workers committed to applying their newly acquired knowledge to bolster community-based support structures, ensuring a more coordinated and sensitive approach to gender-based violence. By enhancing the professional capacity of local service providers, SWIDA-Ghana and its partners aim to foster a safer, more resilient environment for the most vulnerable citizens in Northern Ghana.

Adaklu District Police Commander Warns of 25-Year Jail Terms for Rape and Defilement During Community Health Forum
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Adaklu District Police Commander Warns of 25-Year Jail Terms for Rape and Defilement During Community Health Forum

Madam Esther Buakuma, the Adaklu District Police Commander, has issued a stern warning to the public regarding the severe legal consequences of sexual offenses. Speaking at a community engagement in Adaklu Waya, she disclosed that individuals convicted of rape face prison sentences ranging from five to 25 years under Section 97 of the Criminal Offences Act, 1960. Furthermore, she clarified that sexual intercourse with girls under the age of 16 constitutes defilement, a felony that carries a specific penalty of seven to 25 years in prison. This warning was issued as part of a broader campaign to curb gender-based violence (GBV) and protect the health and safety of vulnerable members of society. During the event, held at the Adaklu Waya animal market, Commander Buakuma noted that sexual offenders are not restricted to any specific social class or profession. She revealed that perpetrators often come from various backgrounds, including educators and even members of law enforcement, emphasizing that no one is immune to prosecution. The Commander identified several contributing factors to the prevalence of domestic and gender-based violence, citing alcoholism, poverty, and a lack of self-awareness or neglect as primary triggers. She urged men to treat their partners with dignity and respect, asserting that personal frustrations do not justify criminal behavior. The sensitization program was organized by the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) with a specific focus on promoting adolescent health, gender equality, and the prevention of violence. The initiative, funded by Global Affairs Canada and implemented in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), seeks to educate rural communities on reproductive rights and legal protections. By bringing these discussions to public spaces like local markets, the NCCE and its partners aim to break the silence surrounding sexual crimes and encourage victims and witnesses to report incidents to the authorities without fear of stigmatization. This outreach effort underscores the ongoing collaborative work between Ghanaian security services and civic organizations to address systemic issues affecting women and children. As the Adaklu District continues to prioritize public safety and health, the police commander's direct engagement serves as both a deterrent and an educational tool. The success of such programs relies on active community participation and the willingness of residents to reject harmful social norms, ultimately fostering a safer environment where the rights and physical well-being of all citizens are rigorously protected.

Health Advocates Call for NHIS to Cover Prescription Glasses After High Turnout at Bono Region Eye Screening
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Health Advocates Call for NHIS to Cover Prescription Glasses After High Turnout at Bono Region Eye Screening

Health advocates and medical professionals in Ghana are intensifying calls for the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to expand its coverage to include prescription glasses and low-vision aids. This demand follows a significant four-day eye care outreach in the Bono Region, which underscored the high prevalence of untreated vision conditions and the financial barriers preventing many Ghanaians from accessing corrective eyewear. The initiative, organized by the St. Ignatius Eye Centre in collaboration with the 20/20 Mission, highlighted a critical gap in the current healthcare system where basic consultations are accessible, but the final treatment—corrective lenses—remains out of reach for many. During the outreach, 867 individuals received comprehensive screenings, free eye examinations, medications, and corrective lenses. However, the event also revealed a stark disparity between the demand for vision care and available resources. Despite the best efforts of the medical teams, over 500 people were unable to receive care due to capacity limitations. Dr. Christian Ntsiful Anderson, the lead optometrist, emphasized the high treatability of common conditions such as cataracts and refractive errors, noting that early detection and a robust referral system are essential to preventing avoidable blindness. Dr. Ignatius Yeboah, CEO of St. Ignatius Eye Centre, identified the NHIS policy as a major hurdle to achieving vision health equity. While the scheme currently covers basic eye examinations, it excludes the cost of spectacles and low-vision aids. This forces patients to pay out-of-pocket for essential tools, often leading to untreated vision loss among the poor. Advocates argue that this exclusion creates a significant economic burden, as vision impairment impacts productivity and quality of life. The outreach further underscored a critical shortage of eye care professionals in rural areas, making community-based initiatives and policy reform even more urgent. By integrating corrective eyewear into the NHIS benefit package, proponents believe Ghana can make substantial progress in reducing preventable blindness. Beyond the immediate health benefits, improving vision care is seen as a strategic move for national development, as it directly influences economic productivity and educational outcomes. The success and high demand witnessed during the Bono Region outreach serves as a call to action for the government to modernize the NHIS to meet the practical needs of the population.

ICE detainees say guard ignored pleas for help in 'Speedway Slammer' detention death
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Death Toll in U.S. ICE Detention Centers Doubles Amid Trump Administration’s Deportation Push

Since January 2025, the mortality rate within U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facilities has more than doubled, according to a recent analysis by Reuters. This alarming spike in fatalities coincides with the Trump administration’s intensified efforts to accelerate deportations, which has led to a significant surge in the number of individuals being held in custody. Data indicates that at least 50 detainees have died within the first few months of the year, raising urgent concerns about the human cost of the current immigration enforcement strategy and the administrative oversight of these facilities. Investigative findings point toward a systemic failure in providing adequate healthcare and supervision for those in custody. The surge in the detainee population has reportedly overwhelmed existing medical infrastructure, resulting in critical lapses in the management of chronic health conditions and mental health services. Reports highlight several cases involving men with severe pre-existing health issues who suffered fatal complications while detained. Medical experts and human rights advocates have criticized ICE’s practice of detaining highly vulnerable individuals without ensuring they have access to the life-saving care their conditions require. Beyond direct medical neglect, the reports suggest that the rapid expansion of detention operations has outpaced the agency's ability to maintain safe oversight. The lack of rigorous supervision has been cited as a contributing factor in many of the 50 recorded deaths. Critics argue that the prioritization of deportation volume over detainee safety has created a volatile environment where preventable health crises are increasingly common. The intensified enforcement environment has effectively trapped vulnerable populations in facilities that are ill-equipped to handle complex medical needs. The doubling of the death rate has triggered calls for immediate reforms and greater transparency regarding healthcare protocols within ICE facilities. As the administration continues its aggressive immigration stance, health experts warn that without a fundamental shift in how detainees are screened and treated, the mortality rate could continue to climb. The situation underscores a burgeoning humanitarian crisis at the intersection of national policy and public health, necessitating a reassessment of the legal and ethical standards governing the treatment of those awaiting deportation.