Dr. Hafiz Adams, the Acting Director at the Technical Coordination of the Ministry of Health in Ghana, highlighted the severe impact of hypertension as a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) during the National Launch of the 2024 World Heart Day in Accra. He pointed out that a staggering 34 percent of adults over the age of 18 in Ghana are diagnosed with high blood pressure, which remains a pressing public health issue. Dr. Adams emphasized that many instances of hypertension go undetected or are inadequately managed, creating a potential crisis that could lead to more serious cardiovascular events such as strokes and heart attacks. He attributed this worrying trend to unhealthy lifestyle choices, including smoking, poor dietary habits, and a lack of physical activity, all of which contribute to an increasing burden of CVDs in the country.
The theme for this year’s World Heart Day, “Use Heart for Action,” served as a rallying cry for healthcare workers, policymakers, and various stakeholders to unite in addressing the imminent threats posed by cardiovascular diseases, particularly among the youth. The event underscored the urgent need for collective action to combat CVD and promote heart health. Among the speakers, Prof. Kwabena Frimpong-Boateng, a well-regarded Ghanaian cardiothoracic surgeon, underscored that a remarkable 80 percent of premature deaths from CVDs are preventable through concerted lifestyle changes. He stressed the crucial role of a healthy diet, warning against high intakes of unhealthy fats, salt, and sugars, which have been linked to increased risks of heart disease.
In addition to dietary concerns, Prof. Frimpong-Boateng highlighted the detrimental effects of stress, often dubbed the ‘Silent Killer.’ He explained how prolonged exposure to stress can adversely affect heart health by elevating blood pressure, increasing heart rates, and causing inflammation. Moreover, the long-term consequences of stress can extend to mental health, contributing to conditions like anxiety and depression, which further complicate the landscape of health in the country. By addressing these stressors and promoting stress management strategies, it is possible to mitigate some of the risks associated with heart diseases.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Bernard Okoe-Boye, echoed these sentiments, sharing alarming statistics about the global prevalence of CVDs. He noted that CVDs account for over 17.9 million deaths annually, constituting approximately 32 percent of total mortality worldwide. Notably, three-quarters of these fatalities occur in low- and middle-income countries, including Ghana and its West African neighbors. In the Sub-region, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are responsible for about 37 percent of adult deaths, with estimates indicating that NCDs account for over 43 percent of total deaths in Ghana. Of these, CVDs alone contribute to roughly 18 percent of mortality.
Addressing the escalating crisis of cardiovascular diseases is a priority for the Ghanaian government. Dr. Okoe-Boye pledged that there would be a sustained focus on combating NCDs, particularly CVDs, within the nation’s health agenda. He assured the audience that the government would allocate the necessary financial and human resources to manage and mitigate the challenges posed by these diseases. This commitment demonstrates the government’s recognition of cardiovascular diseases as a pressing public health concern, requiring immediate and focused intervention.
In conclusion, the National Launch of the 2024 World Heart Day served as a crucial platform to raise awareness about the significant risks of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases faced by the Ghanaian population. With a considerable proportion of adults living with undiagnosed or poorly managed hypertension, there is a critical need to promote healthy lifestyle choices and stress management strategies. The collaborative efforts between healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities are essential in addressing this public health crisis. By focusing on prevention and management of CVDs, particularly through diet and mental health initiatives, Ghana can work towards reducing the prevalence and impact of these diseases, ultimately enhancing the overall health and well-being of its population.
