A study conducted by Rivia, a network of tech-driven primary care clinics, based on data collected in 2024, reveals that Ghana is facing a rise in “silent” killer diseases. According to the report, these illnesses develop gradually and are significantly impacting both individuals and the healthcare system. The findings from Rivia provide a concerning overview of the health situation in Ghana. The study revealed that over 80% of individuals aged 27 to 62, from a sample of 23,000 patients, are hypertensive, with a prevalence of 68% among men.
The research discovered that 50 percent of a sample population of 80,000 individuals have undiagnosed or poorly managed diabetes. Furthermore, lifestyle factors such as high-salt diets, excessive alcohol consumption, and stimulant misuse have contributed to an increase in kidney disease, particularly among younger populations, now affecting 23 percent of them. Among Ghanaians aged 27 to 62, the study identified the top five chronic conditions as hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, mental health issues, and cancers.
To address this public health challenge, it stated that it requires a multi-faceted approach, encompassing government policies, workplace wellness initiatives, and preventive healthcare infrastructure. The report suggested that government policies could play a significant role by offering tax incentives to encourage corporate health programmes and mandating subsidised annual health screenings promoted by companies, unions, and associations.
The text emphasizes the importance of stricter food labeling laws to help reduce salt and sugar consumption in processed foods, enabling Ghanaians to make healthier choices. Additionally, workplaces can promote healthier lifestyles by implementing regular health screenings for chronic diseases and offering programs that focus on stress management, mental health support, and physical fitness.
Employee health benefits, including partnerships with providers like RiviaCare, were emphasized as essential for improving access to preventive care. The report also recommended establishing mobile health units and expanding Community-based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compounds to better serve underserved areas. Public awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of regular checkups and disease prevention were deemed crucial for empowering individuals to take proactive steps in managing their health. Furthermore, training healthcare workers in chronic disease management will lead to improved care and outcomes for patients.
By: Prince Adu-Owusu