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.

MSF Warns Sudan’s Healthcare System Is On the Brink of Total Collapse Due to Dwindling Aid and Escalating War
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MSF Warns Sudan’s Healthcare System Is On the Brink of Total Collapse Due to Dwindling Aid and Escalating War

Sudan’s healthcare infrastructure is teetering on the edge of total collapse as the country’s brutal civil conflict continues to escalate. Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has issued an urgent warning, highlighting that millions of Sudanese citizens are being systematically cut off from essential, life-saving medical services. This humanitarian crisis is being driven by a lethal combination of dwindling international aid funding and the persistent spread of violence across various regions of the country. According to reports from MSF, the sharp decline in global financial support has left many medical facilities unable to sustain their operations. As these centers close, the remaining few are forced to handle an overwhelming influx of patients, often without the necessary staff, equipment, or medicines. This pressure is compounded by mass displacement, which has forced millions of people into overcrowded areas where medical resources were already sparse, further stretching an already fragile network. The situation is particularly dire for those in conflict-heavy regions, where escalating violence makes it nearly impossible for humanitarian organizations to deliver aid or for civilians to safely reach a doctor. MSF notes that the reduction in international attention and funding is effectively abandoning millions to a fate of untreated injuries and preventable diseases. The collapse of the system signifies not just a loss of medical care, but a profound failure of the international humanitarian response to one of the world's most severe conflicts. As the war-torn nation faces this mounting catastrophe, the call for immediate intervention has never been louder. Humanitarian experts warn that without a significant and rapid infusion of international aid, alongside guarantees for the safety of medical personnel and facilities, the healthcare system will fail completely. Such a collapse would result in an unprecedented loss of life and a long-term public health crisis that could destabilize the entire region for years to come.

WHO Calls for 5,000 Health Workers as DRC Ebola Death Toll Surpasses 3,000 Lives
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WHO Calls for 5,000 Health Workers as DRC Ebola Death Toll Surpasses 3,000 Lives

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is facing a critical escalation of its ongoing Ebola outbreak, with the death toll now surpassing 3,175 lives since mid-May. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the crisis has spread across six provinces, resulting in more than 6,600 confirmed cases. This particular outbreak is being driven by the Bundibugyo strain of the virus, a variant for which there is currently no approved vaccine or specific medical treatment, significantly complicating efforts to contain the spread and save those infected. In response to the overwhelming scale of the epidemic, the WHO has issued an urgent appeal for 5,000 additional health workers to bolster the local response. The current healthcare workforce is severely overstretched as it attempts to manage the influx of patients. Furthermore, there is a significant gap in treatment infrastructure; while the WHO has set a goal of 3,000 patient beds across various treatment centers, only 1,400 have been established so far, leaving a critical deficit of 1,600 beds needed to provide adequate isolation and care. Concrete steps are being taken to address these shortages, including the WHO-coordinated expansion of the Lita treatment centre in Ituri province. This project, which is being funded and overseen by the organization, will add 42 beds to the facility and enhance essential health and hygiene infrastructure. By increasing local treatment capacity in one of the most affected regions, health officials hope to provide better clinical management for patients and reduce the risk of community transmission. However, the path to containing the virus remains fraught with challenges beyond medical supplies. The response is hampered by the DRC's fragile health infrastructure and the presence of armed groups in the affected regions, which often creates security risks for medical teams and disrupts patient access to care. WHO officials emphasize that without the rapid deployment of the requested 5,000 personnel and the fulfillment of bed requirements, the virus could continue to outpace international and local intervention efforts.

Health Experts Re-evaluate Breakfast Habits Amid New Evidence on Weight and Metabolic Risks
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Health Experts Re-evaluate Breakfast Habits Amid New Evidence on Weight and Metabolic Risks

The long-standing dietary dogma that breakfast is the most important meal of the day is facing significant scrutiny as new research reveals a complex relationship between eating habits, weight management, and long-term health. While traditional wisdom suggests that a morning meal jumpstarts the metabolism, contemporary studies are challenging whether skipping the meal is a viable strategy for weight loss. A 2023 systematic review highlights this metabolic trade-off, finding that while those who skip breakfast may experience a slight reduction in overall body weight due to lower calorie consumption, they also frequently exhibit an increase in harmful LDL cholesterol levels. This suggests that the perceived benefits of calorie restriction may be offset by adverse effects on cardiovascular markers. Beyond the immediate impact on weight, the debate involves a broader spectrum of health outcomes. Observational studies have consistently linked the habit of skipping breakfast to a higher risk of obesity and various chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease. This contradiction between short-term weight loss and long-term health risks suggests that the timing of food intake plays a critical role in hormonal and metabolic regulation. Experts argue that the focus should shift from blanket recommendations to understanding how individual bodies respond to different fasting and feeding windows, as the impact of skipping breakfast can vary significantly from person to person. In the Ghanaian context, the importance of breakfast is particularly evident among schoolchildren, where consumption is directly associated with better nutrient intake and cognitive readiness. However, health professionals note that socioeconomic factors heavily influence these eating habits, often determining the quality and consistency of meals available to families. These findings underscore that dietary choices are not made in a vacuum but are shaped by economic realities and cultural practices. Consequently, a personalized approach to nutrition is increasingly recommended, as the decision to include or skip breakfast should depend on an individual's specific health goals, lifestyle, and medical history. Ultimately, the evolving science suggests that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the breakfast debate. While some may find success with intermittent fasting or skipping the morning meal, others may face increased risks to their heart health or nutritional status. Health experts advocate for individuals to seek professional guidance and prioritize nutrient-dense foods regardless of when they choose to eat. As research continues to unravel the complexities of human metabolism, the emphasis remains on a balanced, evidence-based approach to overall well-being rather than following generalized dietary trends.

Council of State Member Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple Backs Proposal for Cancer Research Centre in Volta Region
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Council of State Member Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple Backs Proposal for Cancer Research Centre in Volta Region

Council of State member H.E. Gabriel Tanko Kwamigah-Atokple has formally endorsed a transformative proposal to establish a specialized cancer research centre in the Volta Region. The initiative, developed in collaboration with the Council for Ewe Associations in North America (CEANA) and the University of Health and Allied Sciences (UHAS), seeks to address the significant deficit in oncological care and research facilities within the country. The proposal is set to be a primary agenda item during the upcoming 2026 CEANA Conference in Maryland, USA, where stakeholders will gather to formalize the roadmap for the project. Highlighting the urgency of the initiative, Kwamigah-Atokple pointed to the critical shortage of modern radiotherapy technology and the limited access to advanced diagnostic tools currently available to patients in Ghana. Working alongside CEANA President William Edem Kumah, the Council of State member emphasizes that the project aims to bridge the gap between existing healthcare infrastructure and the evolving needs of the population. The partnership with UHAS is intended to ensure that the centre is not only a clinical facility but also an academic hub dedicated to understanding cancer patterns specific to the West African sub-region. Beyond the physical construction of a medical facility, the proposal underscores the necessity of leveraging the expertise of the Ghanaian diaspora. Kwamigah-Atokple has called for a strategic partnership with international medical organizations and Ghanaians living abroad to enhance the institutional capacity of the healthcare system. By encouraging "brain gain," the initiative seeks to bring global best practices and innovative research methodologies to the University of Health and Allied Sciences, ultimately fostering a more resilient healthcare environment that can provide specialized care locally. As the administration under President John Mahama focuses on strengthening the national health insurance framework and improving regional health outcomes, this proposed research centre aligns with broader national goals of achieving universal health coverage. The successful implementation of this project could serve as a vital blueprint for public-private-diaspora collaborations in other medical fields. By centering this research in the Volta Region, stakeholders hope to decentralize specialized healthcare services and provide a beacon of hope for thousands of cancer patients across the country.

Old Tafo MCE Abubakar Sadiq Pledges Drainage Infrastructure Overhaul Amidst Growing Health and Flooding Concerns
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Old Tafo MCE Abubakar Sadiq Pledges Drainage Infrastructure Overhaul Amidst Growing Health and Flooding Concerns

Residents of Old Tafo in the Ashanti Region have voiced urgent concerns over poorly constructed drainage systems, which they claim pose significant health risks and threaten the community with severe flooding. During a recent national sanitation exercise, the Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Old Tafo, Abubakar Sadiq, acknowledged the structural defects and committed to taking immediate action to address the infrastructure failures. The core of the grievance lies in the stagnant water that has become a breeding ground for disease, further complicated by the imminent threat of property damage during heavy rains. The primary technical issue centers on drains that lack the necessary gradient or slope to facilitate proper water flow, leading to chronic stagnation. Residents have also criticized the hazardous and counterproductive practice of laying water pipes directly through these gutters, which further obstructs the drainage and exacerbates sanitation problems. The community warned that without a total overhaul of the current system, the upcoming rainy seasons could lead to catastrophic flooding. These infrastructure flaws have turned what should be protective measures into environmental hazards that residents say can no longer be ignored. While inspecting the affected areas, MCE Abubakar Sadiq noted that some of the existing drains were fundamentally flawed from their initial construction phase. He emphasized that the Municipal Assembly would prioritize corrective measures to ensure the drains function as intended and mitigate the risk of overflow. However, he also highlighted the critical role of the community in maintaining these systems, noting that human interference and the illegal disposal of solid waste into gutters often contribute to the blockage of even well-constructed channels. The cleanup exercise served as a reminder of the broader national sanitation initiative, though local officials expressed disappointment over the lack of participation from some community members. Moving forward, the Municipal Assembly has signaled that future sanitation exercises will be strictly enforced, with potential penalties for those who fail to comply. The long-term success of the MCE’s pledge will depend on a combination of engineering interventions and a significant shift in community attitude toward public hygiene and the protection of local infrastructure.

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Essential Safety Protocols and Prevention Tips for Managing Snake Encounters in Residential Areas

Encountering a snake within the confines of a home is an experience that can trigger immediate panic and alarm for most residents. However, experts and safety advocates emphasize that the most critical response to such a discovery is to remain calm. Snakes generally do not seek out human confrontation; instead, they are often as startled as the homeowner. By avoiding sudden movements and maintaining a steady composure, individuals can prevent the reptile from feeling cornered or threatened, which significantly reduces the risk of defensive strikes or bites. Snakes typically infiltrate human dwellings in pursuit of three fundamental needs: food, shelter, or a secure hiding place. They are remarkably adept at navigating small openings and can gain access through gaps under doors, structural cracks in walls, or the circular spaces surrounding plumbing and utility pipes. The presence of a snake often indicates that the animal has followed the scent of prey, such as rodents, or is seeking relief from extreme outdoor temperatures. Identifying these entry points is a vital first step in both resolving a current encounter and preventing future occurrences. One of the most significant challenges during an indoor encounter is the difficulty in determining whether the snake is venomous. Because many harmless species mimic the appearance of dangerous ones, residents are urged to treat every snake with extreme caution regardless of its size or color. Rather than attempting to kill or capture the animal personally—actions that often lead to injuries—it is safer to keep a respectful distance and monitor its movements from afar. If the snake is in a room that can be isolated, closing the door and blocking the gap at the bottom with a towel can help contain the animal until professional wildlife or pest control services arrive. Long-term safety relies heavily on environmental management and proactive home maintenance. To minimize the risk of future intrusions, homeowners should prioritize sealing all visible cracks in the building's foundation and installing sturdy door sweeps on all external entrances. Additionally, keeping the immediate perimeter of the house clear of tall grass, woodpiles, and debris removes the very hiding spots that attract snakes to the property in the first place. By understanding these behaviors and implementing physical barriers, residents can ensure their homes remain a safe environment for their families.

Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui, the Deputy Minister of Works, Housing and Water Resources, cutting the sod for the theatre project. Looking on are members of the Senya Legends Association
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Senya Legends Association Breaks Ground on New Theatre Project at Senya Polyclinic

The Senya Legends Association, a group of citizens from Senya Bereku living in the diaspora, has officially commenced construction on a new theatre project for the Senya Polyclinic in Ghana's Central Region. The initiative, marked by a recent sod-cutting ceremony, represents a major milestone in the community's efforts to bolster local healthcare infrastructure. By providing dedicated surgical facilities, the project aims to drastically reduce the burden on residents who currently seek specialized medical care outside the district, ensuring that life-saving interventions are more accessible to the local population. In addition to the new theatre, the association has demonstrated a sustained commitment to the polyclinic through various equipment donations. Most recently, the group presented 18 bedside cabinets to the facility, which followed an earlier contribution of two air-conditioning units designed to improve the clinical environment. Claud Asmah, the Secretary of the Senya Legends Association, expressed the group’s collective pride in supporting their roots, stating that improving health services in Senya Bereku remains a top priority for the diaspora community. Rosemond Cobbinah, the administrator of the Senya Polyclinic, welcomed the support, noting that such partnerships are vital for the facility’s operational efficiency. The project has also garnered significant support from the government, with Deputy Minister Gizella Tetteh-Agbotui attending the ceremony to endorse the initiative. Highlighting the state's commitment to improving healthcare delivery across the country, she pledged 100 bags of cement to facilitate the construction of the new theatre. This collaboration between the diaspora and government officials highlights a proactive model for rural development, where community-led projects complement national health goals. As construction progresses, the new theatre is expected to transform the polyclinic into a more comprehensive healthcare hub for the Central Region.

Some residents of Prampram undergoing the health screening process
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Prampram Polyclinic Flags Malaria and Gastroenteritis as Major Health Threats During Homowo Screening

Health officials in Prampram have identified malaria and gastroenteritis as the most pressing medical challenges currently facing the community. Speaking during a health initiative organized for the Homowo festival, Cephas Kofi Borklo, a Physician Assistant at the Prampram Polyclinic, noted that the onset of the rainy season has significantly increased malaria cases. Simultaneously, poor sanitation and water supply issues have led to a surge in gastroenteritis, prompting calls for increased public vigilance and preventive care. The health initiative, which included a community health walk and mass screening exercise, was a collaborative effort between the Prampram Traditional Council, the Prampram Polyclinic, and Asa Savings and Loans Limited. Residents who participated were provided with free medical services, including screenings for blood pressure, glucose levels, and Body Mass Index (BMI). Additionally, the event offered specialized maternal and child health services to ensure that the most vulnerable members of the community received necessary attention and education. Beyond medical testing, the program focused heavily on public health education. Mr. Borklo urged residents to prioritize personal hygiene and safe food handling practices to combat the spread of waterborne diseases. He further advised the public to seek immediate medical assistance at the polyclinic or any nearby health facility at the first sign of malaria symptoms, rather than resorting to self-medication. This proactive approach is deemed essential to reducing the severity of outbreaks exacerbated by environmental conditions. Supporting the initiative, Richard Nartey of Asa Savings and Loans Limited emphasized his organization’s commitment to corporate social responsibility through health funding. He suggested that such interventions should not be limited to festival periods but should become regular fixtures to sustain community wellness. This sentiment underscores a growing recognition that long-term health improvements in Prampram will require consistent collaboration between traditional leaders, medical professionals, and private sector stakeholders.

Breast Cancer Survivor Miriam Ablah Anani Champions Early Detection Amidst Personal Hardships
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Breast Cancer Survivor Miriam Ablah Anani Champions Early Detection Amidst Personal Hardships

Miriam Ablah Anani, a resilient fashion designer and breast cancer survivor, has come forward to share her harrowing yet inspiring journey from a 2020 diagnosis to recovery. Her story serves as a poignant reminder of the multifaceted challenges women face when battling the disease in Ghana, ranging from the physical toll of treatment to the devastating social consequences of stigma and abandonment. Anani’s narrative is not just one of medical survival but of reclaiming her identity after a period of intense emotional and financial instability. Anani’s path to recovery was initially fraught with obstacles, beginning with a decision to seek herbal treatment before eventually transitioning to professional medical care. Once she entered the clinical system, she underwent a grueling regimen of chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. These medical hurdles were compounded by personal tragedy when her partner abandoned her during her treatment, leaving her to navigate both the financial burden of her care and the profound emotional weight of isolation. This period of her life highlighted the critical need for robust support systems for women undergoing life-altering health crises. Beyond the physical battle, Anani has become a vocal advocate against the societal stigma surrounding infertility, an issue frequently linked to cancer treatments. She emphasizes that the labels and social pressures placed on women regarding their reproductive health can be as damaging as the disease itself. By breaking her silence, she aims to dismantle the myths that suggest a cancer diagnosis defines a woman’s future or her worth within her community. Her resilience stands as a testament to the strength required to overcome both a life-threatening illness and the judgmental attitudes that often follow. In her ongoing advocacy, Anani urges women across the country to prioritize early detection by consulting healthcare professionals at the first sign of unusual changes. She stresses that early medical intervention is the most effective tool in saving lives and reducing the severity of treatment. Through her story, Anani calls for a more compassionate society that supports survivors through their financial and emotional recovery, ensuring that no woman has to face the daunting prospect of cancer alone or in shame.

A section of the delegates
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Bono Health Director Urges Pharmacy Technicians to Combat Medication Errors Amid Concerns Over 4,000 Unemployed Professionals

Dr. Abdulai Abukari, the Bono Regional Director of Health Services, has called on pharmacy technicians across Ghana to exercise heightened vigilance during the dispensing of medications to safeguard patient health. Speaking at the 17th Annual General Conference of the Pharmacy Technicians Association of Ghana (PTAG), Dr. Abukari emphasized that the accuracy of these professionals is a cornerstone of effective healthcare delivery. The conference, themed "The Role of Pharmacy Technicians in Advancing SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being," served as a critical platform to address both the technical responsibilities and the professional challenges facing the sector. Highlighting the specific risks associated with medication errors, Dr. Abukari urged technicians to be particularly cautious with high-risk drugs, such as anticoagulants, and to proactively consult clinicians whenever prescriptions appear unclear. He pointed to the growing concern of polypharmacy—the simultaneous use of multiple drugs by a patient—as a significant risk factor that requires expert oversight to prevent adverse drug reactions. To further modernize the profession and improve patient engagement, the Director encouraged the adoption of digital technologies, which can provide more robust tracking and communication tools for medication management. Beyond clinical safety, the conference highlighted a significant crisis within the workforce: the unemployment of over 4,000 trained pharmacy technicians. Michael Gyamprah, President of PTAG, underscored the urgent need for government recruitment efforts to absorb these professionals into the health system. While addressing this shortage, Dr. Abukari urged the association's members to be willing to accept postings in underserved and rural areas where their expertise is most needed. The discussion also touched on systemic issues, including the lack of clear academic progression pathways for diploma holders and calls for increased transparency in pharmaceutical company tenders. Addressing these structural barriers is seen as essential for technicians to fully contribute to Ghana's pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 3.

Dr Yakubu Tobor Yusuf, Registrar of the Traditional Medicine Practice Council, briefing the media. Picture: ESTHER ADJORKOR ADJEI
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TMPC Reports Less Than 15% of Ghana's Traditional Medicine Practitioners Are Registered

The Traditional Medicine Practice Council (TMPC) has raised a significant public health alarm, revealing that less than 15% of the estimated 100,000 traditional medicine practitioners in Ghana are currently registered. Dr. Yakubu Tobor Yusuf, representing the council, emphasized that this vast regulatory gap poses potential risks to citizens who rely on herbal and traditional treatments. Without formal registration, the vast majority of the country's practitioners operate outside the direct oversight of the state, making it difficult to ensure standardized safety protocols and the quality of medicinal products. To address these concerns, the TMPC has intensified its enforcement and monitoring activities across the country. Dr. Yusuf disclosed that the council has already inspected over 500 practice premises, leading to the immediate closure of several facilities that were found to be presenting severe public health risks. The council is also working in close coordination with the Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) to ensure that traditional medicine products available on the market meet mandatory certification standards. This collaborative effort aims to sanitize the industry and protect consumers from substandard or dangerous herbal preparations. In a bid to bring more practitioners into the regulatory fold, the TMPC is decentralizing its operations by establishing new regional and district offices. This expansion is designed to make the registration process more accessible to healers in rural and underserved areas. However, the council has issued a stern warning: practitioners who continue to operate without a valid license face significant legal penalties, including the possibility of imprisonment. The public is strongly advised to verify the status of any traditional healer they visit by checking for a valid, prominently displayed TMPC license before seeking treatment. Looking ahead, the TMPC plans to bridge the gap between traditional and orthodox medicine through increased investment in research and specialized training for practitioners. By formalizing the sector, the council hopes to enhance the credibility of traditional medicine in Ghana and integrate it more effectively into the national healthcare system. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to ensuring that traditional medicine remains a safe, reliable, and well-regulated option for the millions of Ghanaians who utilize it as their primary form of healthcare.

DRC Ebola Crisis: Death Toll Surpasses 3,000 as Burial Teams Face Perilous Conditions
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DRC Ebola Crisis: Death Toll Surpasses 3,000 as Burial Teams Face Perilous Conditions

The Ebola epidemic in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has escalated into a severe humanitarian crisis, with the official death toll now exceeding 3,000 individuals. This significant loss of life underscores the persistent nature of the virus and the immense difficulty health officials face in curbing its spread across the region's volatile landscape. As the outbreak continues to claim lives, the pressure on the country's healthcare infrastructure and emergency response teams has reached a critical breaking point. A major component of the response involves the specialized burial teams who operate under exceptionally dangerous conditions. Due to the high contagion risk associated with the Ebola virus, even after a patient has passed away, these teams are required to follow rigorous and uncompromising safety protocols. Working within the confines of secured Ebola treatment centers, these frontline workers are tasked with the delicate and hazardous job of preparing victims' bodies for burial. Their work is essential in preventing the further transmission of the virus, yet it places them at the heart of the epidemic's most dangerous zones. Beyond the biological risks, these burial teams frequently encounter significant external challenges, including threats to their personal safety. The necessity of enforcing strict burial procedures often creates friction with local communities and traditional mourning customs, leading to a climate of suspicion and occasional hostility. This social resistance, coupled with the inherent dangers of the disease itself, makes the task of these workers both a medical necessity and a perilous endeavor. The bravery of these teams remains a cornerstone of the containment strategy, even as they work under constant threat. As the epidemic shows few signs of abating, the international health community and regional authorities are being urged to provide more robust support for frontline operations. The situation in the DRC serves as a stark reminder of the complexities involved in managing infectious disease outbreaks in areas with limited resources and security challenges. Moving forward, health experts emphasize that successful containment will depend not only on medical intervention but also on building trust within affected communities to ensure that vital safety protocols, including safe burials, can be conducted without hindrance.