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|

Health Expert Dr. Saiid Kwasi Adu Warns Against Ignoring Persistent Coughs Linked to Heart Disease and Asthma

Dr. Saiid Kwasi Adu, a health practitioner at the Last Homoeopathic Clinic, has issued a vital advisory to the public regarding the potential dangers of persistent coughs. He emphasizes that a chronic cough should never be dismissed as a minor ailment, as it may serve as an early warning sign for serious underlying health conditions, including heart-related disorders and severe respiratory diseases. According to Dr. Adu, seeking timely medical attention is essential for determining the root cause of the symptoms and ensuring appropriate intervention. In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Dr. Adu explained the critical distinction between different types of coughs, categorizing them as either productive or non-productive. Productive coughs are characterized by the expulsion of mucus, a process that is often necessary for clearing the respiratory tract. Conversely, non-productive or dry coughs typically cause significant irritation and inflammation in the airways. While productive coughs are a natural defense mechanism, dry coughs often require specific treatment to address the underlying inflammation causing the distress. The medical expert further detailed the relationship between persistent coughing and asthma, noting that many individuals may be suffering from undiagnosed asthmatic conditions. He highlighted that asthma attacks can be triggered by a variety of factors, including environmental pollutants, allergens, and other irritants. Dr. Adu pointed out that there are several types of asthma, most of which can be effectively managed and treated once a proper diagnosis is made through medical investigation. Concluding his advice, Dr. Adu urged the public to prioritize diagnostic investigations to rule out life-threatening conditions such as cardiac complications and chronic respiratory failure. He stressed that self-medication for a lingering cough can often mask symptoms of more dangerous health issues. By consulting healthcare professionals early, patients can receive tailored treatments that address the specific nature of their cough, ultimately safeguarding their long-term cardiovascular and respiratory health.

health|

FDA Intensifies Salt Iodisation Campaign at Ada Songor to Combat Iodine Deficiency

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has launched a renewed drive to ensure all edible salt produced in Ghana meets mandatory iodisation and safety standards. Speaking at the launch of a new salt fortification program at Ada Songor, FDA representative Mr. Benjamin Osei Tutu emphasized that the authority is enhancing its monitoring of salt production sites to protect consumers from iodine deficiency disorders. The initiative marks a significant step in the regulator's efforts to ensure that salt intended for human consumption is of the highest quality and properly fortified. A critical component of this campaign is the prevention of cross-contamination between industrial and edible salt. Mr. Osei Tutu issued a firm caution to producers against the mixing of these two products, which can compromise public health. To support local producers in meeting these requirements, the Ada Songor Lagoon Association (ASLA) has successfully secured a supply of iodine and is actively training local artisans on proper iodisation practices and precise dosage techniques. This technical support is designed to empower small-scale producers to comply with national safety regulations while maintaining efficient production. The program also seeks to address market volatility by regulating salt prices and ensuring a stable supply of fortified salt for the Ghanaian public. This effort is supported by a multi-stakeholder collaboration involving Environmental Health Officers, the Ghana Police Service, and the Judicial Service, reflecting a comprehensive approach to enforcement and compliance. By integrating market regulation with health safety, the FDA aims to create a sustainable environment for the production of iodised salt that is both affordable and safe for the end-user. Salt iodisation has been a mandatory legal requirement in Ghana since 1994, reflecting a long-standing national commitment to eliminating preventable nutritional deficiencies. Despite these decades of policy, the FDA’s intensified activities at Ada Songor highlight the ongoing need for vigilance and support for local salt producers. Through these combined efforts of monitoring, education, and multi-agency cooperation, the authority expects to see a marked improvement in the availability of iodised salt across the country, further safeguarding the health of the population.

National Blood Service Refutes "Scientifically Inaccurate" Claims Linking Ejaculation to Blood Loss
health|

National Blood Service Refutes "Scientifically Inaccurate" Claims Linking Ejaculation to Blood Loss

The National Blood Service (NBS) of Ghana has officially debunked widespread misconceptions suggesting that ejaculation during sexual activity leads to a depletion of a man’s blood volume. In a formal statement released on August 20, 2026, the NBS characterized these claims as "scientifically inaccurate" and potentially harmful to public health awareness. The intervention, signed by the NBS Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Shirley Owusu-Ofori, aims to stem the tide of misinformation that has circulated regarding the physiological relationship between reproductive health and the circulatory system. Central to the correction is the biological distinction between the fluids involved. The NBS clarified that semen and blood are entirely separate fluids produced by distinct biological systems within the human body. Specifically, the Service rejected a popular but erroneous mathematical comparison suggesting that the volume of a single ejaculation could be equated to the loss of a pint of blood. According to the NBS, ejaculation does not deplete blood supply, and there is no physiological mechanism that would cause sexual activity to diminish the body's blood reserves in the manner described by recent public commentary. The Service’s response was prompted by misleading statements made during a "Prime Morning" television discussion, as well as a subsequent article that amplified these claims. By addressing these specific instances, the NBS highlighted the dangers of health misinformation, which can create unnecessary fear or influence behaviors related to sexual and prostate health. The Service emphasized that spreading such unfounded assertions could mislead the public and create a false sense of medical crisis regarding routine biological functions. Moving forward, the National Blood Service has urged the public and media organizations to verify health-related information with qualified medical professionals before dissemination. Correcting these misconceptions is vital for maintaining public confidence in health systems and ensuring that men have accurate information regarding their reproductive well-being. The NBS reaffirmed its commitment to providing evidence-based information to safeguard the nation’s health and encouraged citizens to rely on scientific facts rather than myths.

KNUST-Led Consortium Secures €300,000 PharmaVax Grant to Develop Locally Manufactured Herbal Pain Relief Tablets
health|

KNUST-Led Consortium Secures €300,000 PharmaVax Grant to Develop Locally Manufactured Herbal Pain Relief Tablets

A consortium led by the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has secured a €300,000 grant to develop and scale up the production of a locally manufactured herbal pain relief medicine. Awarded under the PharmaVax Ghana Programme, the initiative aims to transition a promising herbal remedy into a high-quality, sustained-release tablet formulation. The announcement, made during a ceremony on August 19, 2026, involves a strategic partnership with the National Vaccine Institute and the German development agency, GIZ, marking a significant milestone for Ghana's pharmaceutical research and manufacturing sector. The project builds on nearly a decade of rigorous research conducted by the KNUST Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences. A central focus of this two-year initiative is addressing the chronic challenges of raw material availability and inconsistent dosage forms that often plague the herbal medicine industry. To overcome these hurdles, researchers will employ advanced plant tissue culture techniques to ensure a steady, standardized supply of active botanical ingredients. By optimizing the delivery system into a sustained-release format, the consortium aims to provide patients with more effective and convenient treatment options compared to traditional preparations. Success for the project hinges on a robust collaboration between academia and the private sector. The consortium includes industry leader Aspee Pharmaceuticals, which will oversee the large-scale manufacturing process, and the Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI). This synergy between KNUST’s research capabilities and Aspee’s industrial infrastructure is designed to stimulate the local pharmaceutical industry and reduce the nation's reliance on imported medicines. Experts involved in the project emphasize that beyond direct healthcare improvements, the venture is expected to create local job opportunities and strengthen Ghana's capacity for high-level pharmaceutical innovation. The PharmaVax Ghana Programme's support underscores a broader commitment to enhancing healthcare access through domestic solutions. As the project moves into its implementation phase over the next 24 months, the successful commercialization of this herbal pain reliever could serve as a blueprint for other local remedies seeking scientific validation and industrial scaling. By bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and modern pharmaceutical science, the KNUST-led consortium aims to set a new standard for medical self-sufficiency and health security in the West African region.

Africa NeuroCare and NeuroResearch Initiative Expands Global Network to Advance Neurological Health Equity
health|

Africa NeuroCare and NeuroResearch Initiative Expands Global Network to Advance Neurological Health Equity

Africa NeuroCare and NeuroResearch Initiative (ANNI) Inc., a U.S.-registered nonprofit organization, has announced a significant expansion of its international network to tackle global disparities in brain health. The initiative aims to bridge the gap in neurological health equity by fostering deeper collaboration among researchers, healthcare professionals, and community advocates. Central to this mission is the development of a robust, research-driven platform designed to address the specific needs of underserved populations who often lack access to specialized neurological care and education. The organization is focusing its efforts on three core pillars: collaborative research, professional education, and community outreach. By strengthening ties between international stakeholders, ANNI seeks to create a sustainable ecosystem for brain health innovation. Founder Christina Gaisie has emphasized that the organization’s collective mission is to dismantle barriers to care and ensure that advancements in neuroscience reach those in the most vulnerable communities. The expansion is intended to integrate diverse global perspectives into neurological research, ensuring that clinical resources and educational materials are both inclusive and culturally accessible. Looking ahead, ANNI is preparing to host its inaugural International Research Conference on Neurohealth, a landmark event scheduled for February 19, 2027, in Irvine, California. The conference is expected to serve as a high-level forum for clinicians, researchers, and patient advocates to discuss and implement innovative strategies for global neurological equity. By bringing together these diverse stakeholders, ANNI aims to catalyze new partnerships and community-driven solutions that will redefine the future of brain health on a global scale.

Zoomlion and MMDAs Launch Nationwide Disinfection Campaign to Combat Disease Outbreaks
health|

Zoomlion and MMDAs Launch Nationwide Disinfection Campaign to Combat Disease Outbreaks

Zoomlion Ghana Limited, in a strategic partnership with Metropolitan, Municipal, and District Assemblies (MMDAs) across the country, has embarked on an extensive nationwide disinfection and fumigation exercise. This initiative is designed to enhance public health by eliminating pathogens and disease-carrying pests in high-traffic public spaces. The campaign targets critical areas such as markets, schools, health facilities, public toilets, and storm drains, particularly focusing on communities recently affected by flooding and environmental contamination. By proactively addressing these sanitation challenges, the collaboration aims to mitigate the risk of waterborne and vector-borne diseases, including cholera and malaria. In the Central Region, a comprehensive eight-day exercise commenced on August 20, 2026, spanning 22 different assemblies. In coordination with the Central Regional Coordinating Council, the exercise was triggered by concerns over flood-related health risks. Central Regional Manager Noah Addo Opey and Regional Environmental Officer William Goku emphasized that the intervention is vital for neutralizing pathogens in environmental hotspots. Similarly, in the Ashanti Region, the exercise has targeted major commercial hubs including the Asafo Zion and Amakom markets. Ashanti Regional Manager Ernest Osei highlighted the importance of pest control for a healthier environment, urging residents to support the effort by maintaining cleanliness after the professional teams have completed their work. The Northern Region has also seen significant activity, specifically within the Tamale Metropolitan Assembly. Teams have focused on disinfecting the Central Market and various local hospitals to ensure a safer environment for traders and patients alike. Dr. Peter Dawuni, overseeing aspects of the health initiative, advised residents to temporarily avoid treated areas to minimize exposure to the chemicals used during the process. Public health officials noted that the exercise was particularly necessary in locations like Koblimahugu, where contaminated storm drains have posed a recurring threat to community wellness. Community members across the targeted regions have expressed optimism regarding the health benefits of the exercise, though many have called for more permanent solutions, such as the regular maintenance of storm drains. Local authorities, including assembly members, continue to urge the public to adhere to strict sanitation guidelines to complement the disinfection efforts. As the nationwide campaign progresses, the partnership between Zoomlion and the MMDAs underscores a significant commitment to maintaining environmental hygiene and protecting the health of the Ghanaian populace against preventable disease outbreaks.

President Mahama Advocates for African Healthcare Regulatory Reform at 28th AMCOA Conference
health|

President Mahama Advocates for African Healthcare Regulatory Reform at 28th AMCOA Conference

President John Dramani Mahama officially opened the 28th Annual Conference of the Association of Medical Councils of Africa (AMCOA) in Accra on August 24, 2025. Speaking under the theme "Responsive Regulation for Safer Communities towards Universal Health Coverage," the President emphasized the urgent need for a more adaptive and responsive regulatory framework to enhance patient safety and bolster public trust. He highlighted that African healthcare systems are currently facing immense pressure from rapid population growth and shifting disease patterns, necessitating a continental shift toward self-reliance and modernized regulatory standards. During his address, President Mahama outlined a comprehensive seven-point strategy to reform healthcare regulation across the continent. His recommendations include strengthening regulatory harmonization among African nations, investing in regulatory science, and establishing secure data exchange systems. He also called for protecting the integrity of health professional education and creating robust frameworks for healthcare in humanitarian and emergency settings. Notably, the President urged regulators to accelerate the oversight of digital health and Artificial Intelligence, asserting that the success of a regulator should be measured by the protection of patients rather than the volume of licenses issued. Supporting the President’s vision, Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh detailed ongoing government initiatives aimed at decentralizing specialist training and expanding healthcare access to Ghana’s underserved areas. The minister reaffirmed that robust regulation and cross-border collaboration are vital components for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Additionally, keynote speaker Dr. Anarfi-Asamoah Baah urged African nations to increase domestic health spending to ensure sustainable improvements in health outcomes and reduce reliance on external funding. The five-day conference serves as a critical platform for health regulators and stakeholders from across Africa to develop actionable frameworks for the future of medical practice. By fostering collaboration and aligning regulatory standards, delegates aim to ensure a more equitable distribution of the medical workforce and a safer environment for patients. The summit concludes with a unified call for African nations to take full ownership of their healthcare systems to better navigate the complexities of modern medicine and future public health emergencies.

health|

Dr. Saiid Kwasi Adu Urges Public to Seek Medical Attention for Persistent Coughs to Rule Out Chronic Conditions

Dr. Saiid Kwasi Adu, a health practitioner at the Last Homoeopathic Clinic, has issued a public health warning regarding the dangers of ignoring persistent coughs. Speaking in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Dr. Adu emphasized that a lingering cough is often more than a minor irritation and may serve as a vital warning sign for serious underlying health issues. He stressed the importance of early professional diagnosis to prevent complications and ensure that patients receive appropriate medical intervention rather than relying on self-medication. According to Dr. Adu, coughs are generally categorized into two distinct types: productive and non-productive. Productive coughs are considered a natural defense mechanism that helps the body expel mucus and clear the respiratory tract, which is essential for maintaining lung health. In contrast, non-productive or "dry" coughs typically cause significant irritation to the airways without result in the expulsion of phlegm. While productive coughs are necessary for clearing blockages, dry coughs often indicate underlying inflammation and require specific treatments to address the root cause of the irritation and protect the respiratory lining. The health practitioner further explained that chronic coughs must be thoroughly investigated to rule out severe conditions such as asthma or even heart-related disorders. He highlighted that asthma can be triggered by a wide range of factors, including environmental pollutants, allergens, and other respiratory irritants. Dr. Adu detailed the various types of asthma and their associated symptoms, noting that many of these respiratory disorders are highly manageable and can be effectively treated once the specific triggers and cough types are identified by a professional. In his closing advice, Dr. Adu advocated for tailored treatment plans based on the specific nature of a patient’s cough and overall health profile. He urged the public to take respiratory health seriously, noting that identifying whether a cough is a symptom of a temporary infection or a chronic condition is the first step toward recovery. By seeking timely medical advice, individuals can access the necessary care to manage their symptoms, avoid long-term damage to the lungs, and address potential cardiovascular concerns linked to chronic respiratory distress.

health|

FDA Enhances Salt Iodisation Oversight at Ada Songor to Combat Iodine Deficiency

The Food and Drugs Authority (FDA) has intensified its efforts to ensure that all salt intended for human consumption in Ghana is adequately iodised and meets stringent safety standards. Speaking at the launch of a new salt fortification program at Ada Songor, Mr. Benjamin Osei Tutu, representing the FDA, reaffirmed the authority's commitment to eliminating iodine deficiency disorders (IDD). This initiative aims to bolster the monitoring of salt production sites and markets to ensure that the salt reaching Ghanaian households contains the necessary iodine levels mandated by law. A critical component of this renewed drive is the prevention of cross-contamination between industrial salt and edible salt. Mr. Osei Tutu issued a stern warning to producers against the practice of mixing these two types of salt, which can pose significant health risks to consumers. To support local production, the Ada Songor Lagoon Association (ASLA) has taken proactive steps by securing a steady supply of iodine for local artisans. Furthermore, ASLA is conducting specialized training sessions for these artisans to ensure they adhere to proper dosage requirements and iodisation practices, thereby maintaining the quality and safety of the final product. Beyond health and safety, the program also seeks to address economic concerns within the salt industry. By regulating the market and ensuring a consistent supply of fortified salt, the FDA and ASLA aim to stabilize salt prices, protecting both producers and consumers from market volatility. This effort involves a multi-stakeholder approach, bringing together Environmental Health Officers, the Ghana Police Service, and the Judicial Service to enforce compliance. Salt iodisation has been a legal requirement in Ghana since 1994, and these latest measures represent a significant step in fulfilling the country's long-standing public health commitment to eradicating iodine-related health issues.

National Blood Service Debunks "Scientifically Inaccurate" Claims Linking Ejaculation to Blood Loss
health|

National Blood Service Debunks "Scientifically Inaccurate" Claims Linking Ejaculation to Blood Loss

The National Blood Service, Ghana (NBS), has officially refuted widespread claims suggesting that ejaculation during sexual activity leads to a significant depletion of a man’s blood volume. In a formal statement, the NBS addressed circulating misinformation that erroneously equated the release of semen to the loss of blood, labeling such assertions as "entirely false" and "scientifically inaccurate." The clarification, signed by the Chief Executive Officer of the NBS, Dr. Shirley Owusu-Ofori, seeks to protect public health by grounding sexual health discussions in biological fact rather than myth. The controversy stems from a November 2022 discussion on the "Prime Morning" program and subsequent articles which suggested that ejaculation could result in blood loss comparable to donating a pint of blood. The NBS has categorically rejected this mathematical comparison, explaining that semen and blood are distinct fluids produced by entirely different physiological systems. While blood is circulated through the cardiovascular system to transport oxygen and nutrients, semen is produced within the male reproductive system. Consequently, the NBS emphasizes that the act of ejaculation does not diminish the body's blood supply or impact the volume of blood available for circulation or donation. Beyond correcting the biological record, the National Blood Service expressed deep concern over the potential for such misinformation to generate unnecessary fear among the public. Dr. Owusu-Ofori highlighted that these myths could mislead men regarding their sexual and prostate health, potentially discouraging healthy behaviors or causing undue anxiety. By issuing this correction, the NBS aims to ensure that the public remains well-informed and that misconceptions do not interfere with the nation's blood donation culture or general medical literacy. The Service continues to urge Ghanaians to rely on verified medical professionals and scientific data when navigating health-related concerns.

KNUST Consortium Secures €300,000 Grant to Develop Locally Manufactured Herbal Pain Relief Tablets
health|

KNUST Consortium Secures €300,000 Grant to Develop Locally Manufactured Herbal Pain Relief Tablets

The Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) has taken a significant step toward revolutionizing Ghana’s pharmaceutical industry, with its Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences securing a €300,000 grant to develop a locally manufactured herbal pain relief medicine. Awarded under the PharmaVax Ghana Programme, the grant was officially announced during a ceremony on August 19, 2026, featuring stakeholders from the National Vaccine Institute and the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ). This initiative represents a milestone in the commercialization of indigenous medical research, aiming to bridge the gap between traditional herbal remedies and modern pharmaceutical standards. The two-year project is a collaborative effort involving KNUST, Aspee Pharmaceuticals, and the Biotechnology and Nuclear Agriculture Research Institute (BNARI). The consortium intends to optimize an existing herbal pain remedy, which has been the subject of nearly a decade of academic research, into a sophisticated sustained-release tablet formulation. By partnering with industry leaders like Aspee Pharmaceuticals for large-scale production, the project ensures that the transition from laboratory discovery to market-ready product is seamless and commercially viable for the Ghanaian market. One of the core innovations of this project is the integration of plant tissue culture techniques to address the chronic issue of raw material shortages that often plagues the herbal medicine sector. By utilizing advanced agricultural biotechnology provided by BNARI, the consortium can ensure a consistent and sustainable supply of the medicinal plants required for manufacturing, independent of seasonal or environmental fluctuations. This approach not only stabilizes the production chain but also showcases the potential of multidisciplinary research in solving industrial bottlenecks within the health sector. Beyond the immediate goal of providing an affordable and effective pain relief option, the project is expected to have far-reaching socio-economic impacts. Experts involved in the initiative highlighted that the successful rollout of the sustained-release tablets will create local job opportunities and significantly reduce Ghana’s reliance on imported analgesics. As the country continues to strengthen its local manufacturing capacity, this KNUST-led project serves as a blueprint for how academic-industry partnerships can enhance healthcare access and stimulate economic growth through home-grown scientific innovation.

Africa NeuroCare and NeuroResearch Initiative Expands Global Network to Drive Neurological Health Equity
health|

Africa NeuroCare and NeuroResearch Initiative Expands Global Network to Drive Neurological Health Equity

Africa NeuroCare and NeuroResearch Initiative (ANNI) Inc., a United States-registered nonprofit organization, has announced a significant expansion of its international network to bridge the gap in neurological health equity. By fostering deeper collaborations between researchers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders, the initiative aims to address the critical needs of underserved populations across the globe. ANNI is positioning itself as a central hub for neurological research and community-driven healthcare solutions, ensuring that advancements in brain health reach those who need them most. This expansion is built upon three core pillars: research, education, and community outreach. Through its research-driven platform, ANNI seeks to facilitate the exchange of innovative clinical data and ideas that lead to more effective treatments and preventive measures for brain-related conditions. Founder Christina Gaisie has emphasized that the organization’s mission is rooted in a collective responsibility to ensure that advancements in brain health are accessible to everyone, regardless of their socioeconomic status or geographic location. This collaborative approach is intended to unite diverse voices in the medical and advocacy communities to create a more equitable future. In addition to academic and clinical work, ANNI is committed to practical community engagement designed to dismantle barriers to care. The organization focuses on targeted outreach programs that educate local communities about neurological health and empower patients in regions historically lacking specialized medical resources. By integrating clinical expertise with grassroots advocacy, the initiative aims to create a more equitable landscape where high-quality neurohealth services are considered a fundamental right rather than a privilege. This grassroots focus complements the high-level research initiatives the organization continues to sponsor globally. Looking toward the future, ANNI is set to host its inaugural International Research Conference on Neurohealth on February 19, 2027, in Irvine, California. This landmark event will bring together clinicians, researchers, and advocates from across the globe to discuss innovative strategies for global neurological equity. The conference will serve as a critical milestone for the organization, providing a platform to showcase the progress of its collaborative efforts and setting a global agenda for the future of neurological care for years to come.