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.

health|

World Health Organization Expands Lita Treatment Centre in DR Congo as Ebola Death Toll Surpasses 3,000

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has reached a grim milestone, with the death toll now exceeding 3,000 individuals. This escalating health crisis has prompted urgent international intervention to bolster the country's medical infrastructure. As the virus continues to impact communities, the WHO is taking a leading role in scaling up the response to ensure that those infected have access to life-saving care and that transmission rates are curtailed through better containment strategies. To address the critical shortage of medical facilities, the WHO is currently coordinating and funding a significant expansion of the Lita treatment centre located in the Ituri province. This specific initiative involves the addition of 42 new hospital beds, which will substantially increase the facility's capacity to manage the influx of patients. Beyond just increasing bed space, the project focuses on enhancing essential health and hygiene facilities. These upgrades are vital for maintaining rigorous infection prevention and control protocols, which are necessary to protect both patients and healthcare workers from further exposure to the virus. The expansion in Ituri province represents a strategic move to strengthen the regional healthcare system's resilience against the outbreak. By bolstering treatment capacity and improving sanitary conditions at the Lita centre, the WHO aims to provide a more robust defense against the spread of Ebola in one of the most affected regions of the DRC. Moving forward, the success of these interventions will depend on continued international support and the effective deployment of resources to meet the evolving needs of the population as they battle this deadly disease.

health|

ECDC Reports Surge in West Nile Virus Infections as Cases Top 1,000 Across Europe

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has reported a significant surge in West Nile virus infections, with more than 1,000 locally acquired cases recorded across Europe since the start of the current transmission season. As of September 3, 2025, a total of 1,086 infections have been confirmed across 15 countries, marking a sharp escalation from the approximately 240 cases documented just one month earlier in August. This rapid increase highlights a growing public health concern as the virus continues to spread through several Mediterranean and Southern European regions. Italy has emerged as the most heavily impacted nation, accounting for nearly half of the continent's total infections with 516 reported cases. Other countries seeing high transmission rates include Greece, which has recorded 284 cases, and Spain, with 88. The geographical reach of the virus is extensive, with 144 distinct areas across the continent now affected. Italy alone accounts for 62 of these affected zones, underscoring the intensity of the outbreak within its borders and the localized nature of the transmission hotspots. Primarily transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes that have previously fed on infected birds, the West Nile virus presents varying levels of severity in humans. Health authorities note that approximately 20% of those infected will experience flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, and body aches. However, the disease can be far more serious for a small minority; roughly 1 in 100 cases results in severe illness. For those who do experience severe disease, long-term health complications are common, making early detection and mosquito control measures critical components of the public health response. The ECDC has cautioned that the currently reported figures may not fully reflect the true scale of the transmission situation across the continent, as many cases may go undiagnosed or unreported. With the transmission season still active, health officials are urging residents and travelers in affected areas to take preventative measures against mosquito bites. This latest data serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of vector-borne diseases in Europe and the necessity for robust surveillance and integrated pest management strategies to mitigate future outbreaks.

Nigerian-British Influencer Igho Ubiribo Dies Following Cosmetic Surgery in Thailand
health|

Nigerian-British Influencer Igho Ubiribo Dies Following Cosmetic Surgery in Thailand

Igho Ubiribo, a prominent 43-year-old Nigerian-British businessman and social media influencer, has tragically passed away following a cosmetic procedure in Thailand. A United Kingdom coroner recently confirmed that the cause of death was a pulmonary embolism directly linked to a penis enlargement surgery the influencer underwent abroad. The case has sparked renewed discussions regarding the safety of medical tourism and the inherent risks associated with specialized cosmetic enhancements. Mr. Ubiribo, known for his business ventures and active presence on social media, traveled to Thailand to undergo the procedure in late 2023. However, complications arose following the surgery, leading to his untimely demise. The UK coroner's investigation into the matter aimed to provide clarity for the family and determine the physiological factors that led to the fatal outcome. The findings highlighted that the surgery triggered a blood clot that traveled to the lungs—a condition known as a pulmonary embolism—which is a recognized but severe risk of major surgical interventions. The incident underscores the growing global concern over the medical tourism industry, where individuals travel across borders to access cosmetic surgeries at lower costs or with fewer regulatory hurdles. While Thailand is a popular hub for such procedures, medical experts warn that traveling long distances shortly after surgery significantly increases the risk of deep vein thrombosis and subsequent pulmonary embolisms. The lack of standardized international follow-up care often leaves patients vulnerable when complications occur once they return to their home countries or while still in transit. This tragic outcome serves as a sobering reminder of the potential consequences of elective cosmetic surgeries. Health advocates continue to urge the public to conduct thorough research into the qualifications of medical practitioners and the safety records of facilities, both domestically and internationally. For the family and followers of Igho Ubiribo, the coroner's report provides a definitive cause for a loss that has resonated across the Nigerian-British community and the wider social media landscape.

Dr Mavis Sakyi (middle), acting Head of Public Health, Ministry of Health, interacting with Kofi Nsiah-Poku (right), President, Association of Ghana Industries, and other dignitaries at the AGI Ghana Roundtable on Low-And No-Calorie Sweeteners
health|

Ghana Health Ministry Alerts on Rising Hypertension as Global and Local Initiatives Target Cancer Awareness

The Ghana Ministry of Health has issued a stark warning regarding the country's growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), revealing that one in every five Ghanaians is currently battling elevated blood pressure. According to recent data, while hypertension cases saw a marginal decline in 2025, the overall prevalence remains a critical public health concern. Health officials noted that women are disproportionately affected by the condition, which, if poorly managed, significantly increases the risk of life-threatening complications such as strokes and heart disease. During a recent policy dialogue, stakeholders emphasized the urgent need for preventive measures, focusing on the role of nutrition and the impact of low and no-calorie sweeteners on long-term health outcomes. In response to these gender-specific health challenges, Dorothy’s Hope Foundation (DHF) is extending the advocacy for women’s health to the international stage. The foundation is set to host the "Health is Wealth Forum" in New York on September 24, 2026, coinciding with the 81st United Nations General Assembly. This high-level event aims to strengthen Africa-Diaspora engagement and empower women through leadership and global impact. Following the forum, the foundation will hold the "Brushes of Strength Fundraising Gala" on October 23 to honor breast cancer survivors and mobilize strategic partnerships to improve access to specialized care for women across the continent. Simultaneously, local health providers are intensifying efforts to address men's health through targeted screening and education. The Medi-Moses Clinic and Prostate Centre has dedicated the month of September to prostate health awareness. Under the theme "Something Exciting Is Coming This September," the clinic is providing free prostate screenings and educational sessions to encourage early detection. This initiative aims to demystify prostate conditions and provide men with the necessary tools and information to take a proactive interest in their urological health, echoing the broader national call for regular medical check-ups. These combined efforts from government bodies, non-profit organizations, and private clinics underscore a multi-faceted approach to tackling Ghana’s health crisis. As the Ministry of Health advocates for better dietary choices and local health policies tailored to the Ghanaian context, the focus remains on shifting public behavior toward prevention rather than just treatment. Whether through global advocacy in New York or community screenings in local clinics, the overarching goal is to reduce the mortality rates associated with NCDs and cancers through early intervention and sustained public education.

Grindr to Pay £26 Million Settlement Over Alleged Sharing of Users' HIV Status and Personal Data
health|

Grindr to Pay £26 Million Settlement Over Alleged Sharing of Users' HIV Status and Personal Data

Grindr, the prominent social networking platform for the LGBTQ+ community, has agreed to a £26 million settlement to resolve a class-action lawsuit centered on the alleged misuse of sensitive user data, including HIV status. The agreement, which consists of two separate payments of £13 million, addresses long-standing claims that the app shared private health information with third-party data analytics services for commercial gain. This settlement represents a major development in digital privacy litigation, particularly concerning the protection of sensitive medical and personal data within social media environments. The legal dispute originates from practices that occurred primarily before 2020, when Grindr was under the ownership of Kunlun, a Chinese technology firm. During this period, the platform was accused of exposing the private health status of its users to external entities without sufficient transparency or consent. This practice sparked significant public outcry and led to increased scrutiny from international privacy advocates. Since 2020, the app has reportedly ceased these specific data-sharing practices and has taken steps to enhance its internal privacy protocols to better safeguard user information. Despite the substantial settlement, Grindr has maintained a position of disputing the specific allegations of legal wrongdoing. However, the company’s leadership acknowledged the distress caused to its members and expressed a commitment to improving user trust. The company has a history of regulatory challenges regarding its data handling; it was previously sanctioned and fined by data protection authorities in both the United Kingdom and Norway. These past penalties highlighted systemic issues in how the platform managed consent and the transfer of personal data to third parties. The resolution of this case underscores the growing legal and financial risks for technology companies that fail to implement rigorous data protection standards, especially regarding health-related information. It serves as a critical reminder that digital platforms are increasingly being held accountable for the ethical management of user metadata. As data privacy laws continue to evolve globally, this settlement marks a significant milestone for user rights and the expectation of confidentiality in the digital age, particularly for marginalized communities who rely on these platforms for connection.

Veteran Actress Maame Gyanwaa Appeals for Urgent Financial Aid to Combat Imminent Blindness
health|

Veteran Actress Maame Gyanwaa Appeals for Urgent Financial Aid to Combat Imminent Blindness

Veteran Ghanaian actress Mavis Yeboah, popularly known as Maame Gyanwaa, has issued a heart-wrenching plea for financial assistance as she faces the looming threat of permanent blindness. Diagnosed with retinal artery occlusion, a serious eye condition that has already severely compromised her vision, the beloved screen icon is calling on the public and benevolent organizations to support her medical treatment. The urgency of her situation was made clear during a recent emotional appearance, where she expressed her deep fear of losing her sight entirely if she does not receive the necessary interventions. Appearing on Nayas’ ‘Experience in Life’ show, Maame Gyanwaa shared the harrowing details of her health journey and the significant financial obstacles she now faces. Despite a long and dedicated career in Ghana’s entertainment industry, the veteran actress revealed that the costs associated with managing retinal artery occlusion have become overwhelming. She tearfully noted that while she has worked hard throughout her life, the financial demands of specialized eye care are beyond her current means, leaving her in a vulnerable position as she fights to preserve what remains of her vision. Retinal artery occlusion, often described as a ‘stroke in the eye,’ requires prompt and often expensive medical management to prevent irreversible damage. Maame Gyanwaa’s public appeal highlights a recurring theme in the Ghanaian creative arts sector, where veteran performers frequently find themselves without adequate health insurance or financial safety nets during their later years. As the news of her condition spreads, her plea serves as both a request for immediate individual aid and a stark reminder of the need for improved welfare systems to protect the nation’s cultural icons during health crises.

FDA and CPA Seize Over 4 Million Counterfeit Baby Diapers in Nationwide Safety Operation
health|

FDA and CPA Seize Over 4 Million Counterfeit Baby Diapers in Nationwide Safety Operation

Ghana's Food and Drugs Authority (FDA), in collaboration with the Consumer Protection Agency (CPA), has confiscated more than four million pieces of counterfeit, unregistered, and non-compliant baby diapers across the country. This significant market surveillance exercise aims to eliminate unbranded and substandard products that pose potential health risks to infants. The joint operation marks a major escalation in the government's efforts to regulate the baby product market and ensure that all items sold on the Ghanaian market meet strict safety and quality standards. The massive seizure highlights the scale of the challenge in monitoring imported consumer goods meant for vulnerable populations. The enforcement actions were particularly intensive in the Western Region, where officials conducted sweeps through key business hubs in Takoradi and Tarkwa. During these raids, authorities identified large stocks of diapers that lacked proper branding, regulatory registration, or essential manufacturer information. These substandard products are often imported and sold in bulk without the necessary safety clearances, making it difficult for consumers to verify their quality or origin. By removing these millions of units from the supply chain, the FDA is addressing the proliferation of cheap, low-quality alternatives that bypass national health protocols. This initiative has been a continuous effort since the beginning of the year, reflecting a zero-tolerance policy toward unregulated consumer goods. The FDA and CPA have emphasized that the sale of unbranded diapers is a direct violation of public health laws, as these products may contain materials that cause skin irritations, infections, or other health complications for children. The authorities are prioritizing the removal of these items to prevent widespread health issues and to maintain the integrity of the formal retail sector, which is required to adhere to rigorous testing and documentation. Looking ahead, the FDA has announced that the surveillance exercise will be extended to all other regions across Ghana to ensure comprehensive coverage. Both the FDA and the CPA are urging businesses to comply with existing safety regulations and ensure that all baby products are duly registered before being offered for sale. Consumers are also advised to remain vigilant, check for proper packaging and registration marks, and report any suspicious or unbranded products to the authorities as the government continues its mission to safeguard public health and consumer rights nationwide.

health|

Bono East Regional Fire Command Trains 55 Artisan Leaders in Techiman to Enhance Grassroots Safety Protocols

The Bono East Regional Command of the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has launched a strategic fire safety initiative in Techiman, engaging 55 leaders of various artisan groups to strengthen safety protocols at the grassroots level. Held on September 8, 2026, the interactive session was designed to equip master craftsmen and their apprentices with the essential knowledge required to identify and mitigate fire risks in their workplaces. By targeting the leadership of these trade groups, the GNFS aims to create a multiplier effect where safety education is disseminated across diverse vocational sectors within the region, potentially saving lives and protecting local economic assets from fire-related destruction. Addressing the participants, ACFO I Rev. Naomi Ofori-Adubea Sarpong, the Bono East Regional Fire Officer, emphasized that fire prevention remains the most critical mandate of the Service. She underscored that while the GNFS is prepared to respond to emergencies, the primary goal is to prevent fires from occurring through proactive education and the adoption of safety best practices. The engagement focused specifically on the unique hazards found in artisan workshops, ranging from electrical issues to the improper storage of flammable materials, which often serve as catalysts for devastating industrial fires in high-density trading zones. The session was characterized by an interactive Q&A segment, allowing the 55 artisan leaders to voice specific concerns regarding fire safety in their respective trades. Participants lauded the initiative as a first-of-its-kind dialogue, expressing that such direct engagement bridges the gap between the regulatory body and the local workforce. Many leaders highlighted that the knowledge gained would be immediately integrated into their training modules for apprentices, ensuring that the next generation of artisans is well-versed in emergency preparedness and hazard management. Following the success of the workshop, the artisan leaders called for the GNFS to establish these engagements as a regular occurrence rather than a one-off event. This demand signals a growing awareness of public safety within the commercial hub of Techiman and underscores the importance of community-based partnerships in disaster risk reduction. The GNFS has indicated that this program is part of a broader commitment to regional safety, with plans to sustain the momentum through continuous monitoring and follow-up educational drives across the Bono East Region to ensure a safer environment for all residents and business owners.

health|

Upper East Regional Hospital to Establish Histopathology Lab as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month Launches

Dr. Joseph Kojo Tambil, the Medical Director of the Upper East Regional Hospital in Bolgatanga, has officially launched the facility's inaugural Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Under the theme “Demonstrating Impact: From Challenge to Change,” the initiative seeks to raise public consciousness about pediatric oncology and the critical importance of early detection. Dr. Tambil reaffirmed the hospital’s core mission to improve health outcomes and life expectancy for children facing cancer diagnoses, emphasizing that the facility is committed to shifting the narrative from the challenges of the disease to positive life-changing outcomes. To bolster diagnostic capabilities, the hospital administration announced strategic plans to establish a dedicated histopathology laboratory. This facility is expected to significantly enhance the speed and accuracy of cancer diagnoses, addressing a major hurdle in effective treatment within the region. Furthermore, the hospital has already taken steps to expand its specialized workforce by engaging an oncologist on a weekly basis. These efforts are designed to ensure that patients have more consistent access to expert care and specialized oncology services without the immediate necessity of traveling to distant national teaching hospitals. The Medical Director emphasized that while oncology services may not offer significant financial returns for the institution, the focus remains steadfastly on the hospital's social mandate to serve the vulnerable and disadvantaged. Through collaborations with the Childhood Cancer Society of Ghana and other key stakeholders, the hospital aims to dismantle the barriers families face when seeking specialized care. Dr. Tambil expressed strong optimism that these strategic developments will provide a foundation for high-quality, sustainable cancer care for the community's most vulnerable members.

Report health workers who collect illegal charges for them to be sanctioned - Akandoh
health|

Health Minister Akandoh Issues Stern Warning Against Illegal Charges in Free Primary Healthcare Program

Minister for Health Kwabena Mintah Akandoh has issued a decisive warning to health workers across the country, stating that any professional found demanding payment for services under the government’s Free Primary Healthcare (FPHC) initiative will face investigation and severe sanctions. Addressing the media at a press conference, the Minister emphasized that the program is designed to be entirely cost-free at the point of service for all Ghanaians. He underscored that "no Ghanaian should pay" for the care included in the FPHC package, reinforcing the government's commitment to removing financial barriers to basic medical services. The FPHC program is currently operational in 135 out of a targeted 150 districts, with plans to achieve full national coverage by the end of the year. A significant feature of this initiative is that it allows citizens to access healthcare services—specifically those covering common illnesses and preventive care—without the requirement of a National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) card. This approach is intended to streamline access for the most vulnerable populations who may not yet be enrolled in the national insurance scheme or whose memberships have lapsed, ensuring that basic health needs do not go unmet due to administrative or financial hurdles. To ensure compliance and protect patients from exploitation, the Ministry of Health is establishing a dedicated reporting mechanism. Minister Akandoh urged the public to be proactive in reporting any instances where health workers demand "informal charges" or illegal payments for services that are legally free. He reassured the public that every complaint would be thoroughly investigated to maintain the integrity of the healthcare system. The Minister’s call to action aims to curb corruption at the facility level and ensure that the government's investment in primary healthcare directly benefits the intended recipients. Clarifying the scope of the initiative, the Health Minister explained that the Free Primary Healthcare program is intended to complement, rather than replace, the NHIS. The focus remains on strengthening community-based healthcare and prioritizing disease prevention as a cornerstone of the national health strategy. By enhancing local health infrastructure and removing out-of-pocket expenses for basic care, the administration seeks to improve overall public health outcomes and reduce the long-term burden on tertiary medical facilities across Ghana.

The Lancet Public Health Study: Global Secondhand Smoke Exposure Persists for 2.7 Billion People
health|

The Lancet Public Health Study: Global Secondhand Smoke Exposure Persists for 2.7 Billion People

A comprehensive study published in The Lancet Public Health journal has revealed that nearly three billion people worldwide were exposed to secondhand smoke (SHS) in 2023. Despite a global decline in exposure rates since 1990, the absolute number of people affected has remained largely unchanged due to population growth. The data indicates that approximately 1.49 billion women and 767 million children under the age of 15 are currently living with the health risks associated with involuntary tobacco smoke inhalation, representing a global prevalence rate of 33.9%. The health consequences of this exposure are severe, with SHS linked to an estimated 1.66 million deaths and 44.8 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) in 2023 alone. For adults, ischemic heart disease was identified as the primary contributor to health loss. Children are particularly vulnerable, bearing over 12% of the total health burden attributed to secondhand smoke, primarily through the development of lower respiratory infections. These figures underscore the critical role that passive smoking plays in premature mortality and long-term disability on a global scale. Geographically, the burden of exposure is heavily concentrated in specific regions and nations. Southeast Asia, East Asia, and Oceania reported the highest prevalence rates, reaching as high as 48.4%. Notably, China, India, and Indonesia together account for nearly half of the world's exposed population. While many regions have seen improvements, sub-Saharan Africa presents a worrying trend, with the number of people exposed to secondhand smoke nearly doubling since 1990. North Africa and the Middle East also saw significant increases in exposure over the same period. To address this persistent public health challenge, researchers and health advocates are calling for more robust tobacco control measures. The study emphasizes that while legislative progress has been made in some jurisdictions, comprehensive tobacco control and the promotion of voluntary smoking restrictions in private spaces are essential to protect vulnerable populations. Without intensified global efforts to curb smoking and limit exposure, the absolute number of individuals suffering from the effects of secondhand smoke is unlikely to diminish significantly in the coming years.

health|

West Nile Virus Infections Surpass 1,000 Milestone Across Europe, ECDC Data Reveals

The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has reported a significant surge in West Nile virus infections, with more than 1,000 locally acquired cases documented across Europe since the start of the transmission season. As of September 3, the total number of recorded infections reached 1,086 across 15 countries, marking a sharp and concerning increase from just 240 cases reported in early August. This rapid escalation highlights the growing reach of the virus during the current transmission window. Italy has emerged as the most heavily affected nation, reporting nearly half of the continent's cases with 516 recorded infections. Other Mediterranean countries have also seen substantial outbreaks, with Greece reporting 284 cases and Spain documenting 88. Geographic data indicates that the virus is widespread, impacting 144 specific areas across Europe, with 62 of those regions located within Italy alone. Health officials note that these concentrated outbreaks underscore the regional volatility of mosquito-borne diseases. West Nile virus is primarily spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes, which typically contract the virus from wild birds. While many infections remain asymptomatic, approximately 20% of infected individuals develop flu-like symptoms. More critically, about 1 in 100 cases—roughly 1%—result in severe illness, which can lead to long-term neurological effects or other chronic health complications. The ECDC has emphasized that the reported figures may not fully capture the true extent of the transmission, as many mild cases likely go undiagnosed or unreported. The current trend has prompted warnings from health authorities regarding personal protection and vector control. Residents in affected areas are encouraged to use insect repellent and minimize exposure to mosquitoes, particularly during peak activity hours. As the transmission season continues, the ECDC and national health agencies remain on high alert, monitoring the further spread of the virus and its impact on public health across the European continent.