News
Rise in kidney cases in Ashanti Region
A staggering 13.5 per cent of the population in the Ashanti region is affected by chronic kidney disease, according to Dr Suleiman Suabil, a Physician Specialist at Obuasi AngloGold Hospital.
Speaking at the World Kidney Day event organised by AngloGold Ashanti, Obuasi mine, Dr Suabil revealed that about 17.6 per cent of patients require dialysis in the Ashanti region.
“Globally, 10-14 per cent of the population is affected by kidney disease, with 14 per cent in Sub-Saharan Africa and 13.5 per cent in Ghana,” Dr Suabil disclosed.
He noted that kidney disease was a silent killer, with many people unaware of their kidney status until it’s too late. “Most people admitted to medical wards have chronic kidney disease, but only one out of 10 people are aware of their kidney status.”
Dr Suabil identified diabetes, hypertension, unhealthy lifestyle choices, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, unhealthy diet, abuse of herbal medication, lack of exercise, and excessive weight gain as major causes of chronic kidney disease.
The World Kidney Day event, held at Obuasi-Anyinam in the Ashanti region, included free health screening and education sessions on kidney health.
Mr Emmanuel Masseh, representing Edmund Oduro Agyei, AGA-Obuasi Mine Community Relations Manager, emphasised the importance of preventive healthcare measures.
“Through our outreach programmes, we aim to bring quality healthcare to the doorsteps of our communities,” Mr Masseh said.
“Events like this mini clinic empower the public with knowledge to protect their health and seek medical assistance when needed,” he added
The event was supported by partners including Nananom, Anyinam Community, AGA Health Foundation, Otumfuo Health Foundation, Ghana Health Services, and Quantum.
As Ghana grapples with the alarming rise in kidney disease cases, events like World Kidney Day serve as a reminder of the importance of prioritising kidney health and promoting preventive healthcare measures.
From Kingsley E. Hope, Obuasi
Government has inaugurated a Technical Committee to drive the implementation of the Accra Marine Drive Tourism Investment Project, a key initiative aimed at transforming the capital’s waterfront into a world-class tourism and commercial hub.
Minister for Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, described the move as a critical step to accelerate progress, stressing the need for efficiency, collaboration, and accountability.
The Committee, chaired by Deputy Minister Yussif Issaka Jajah, will coordinate stakeholders, address bottlenecks, and ensure timely delivery of the project.
The initiative is expected to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth, reinforcing Ghana’s commitment to sustainable development.
The Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has stepped up its fire safety education efforts in Suhum Municipality and Abetifi Odwenease as part of ongoing campaigns to prevent fire outbreaks and improve emergency readiness.
In Suhum, fire officers engaged traders and customers, educating them on handling LPG leakages, proper use of fire extinguishers, and general shop safety practices. Meanwhile, the Kwahu East Command extended outreach in Abetifi Odwenease, visiting homes, drinking spots, construction sites, and stores to promote safe handling of flammable materials, proper electrical usage, and correct gas cylinder placement.
Practical demonstrations on fire extinguisher use were conducted, and residents were encouraged to adopt good housekeeping habits and proactive safety measures to reduce fire risks and protect lives and property.
