Category: Rokmer Health Tips

Understanding Liver Cancer in Ghana: Signs, Prevention and its Latest Treatments

The Liver Cancer Guide That Could Save Your Life: What Top Doctors Want You to Know.

Mild abdominal pain? Or yellowing of eyes? Well, these seemingly harmless signs might be signaling something far more serious liver cancer. Experts warn that these signs are actual red flags of liver cancer that shouldn’t be ignored. Liver cancer ranks as the eighth most common cancer across all types, with cases rapidly increasing in Ghana.

Experts from India warn that Ghana could soon become the “cancer capital of the world” if the trend continues. The culprits? High alcohol consumption, Hepatitis B, and a sedentary lifestyle are the major risk factors fueling this alarming trend. Today, liver cancer is becoming a silent epidemic, affecting a major portion of the population. But here’s the good news. With cutting-edge technological advancements and certain lifestyle changes we can fight back. Experts say early detection and preventive care can make all the difference.

Ghana Health Journal team spoke to multiple specialists to gain insights into the current state of liver cancer in India online, its causes and potential ways to reverse the trend for Ghanaians

Liver Cancer And Lifestyle Choices: It Starts With You

• As the saying goes “prevention is better than cure” — both the challenge and solution begin with us and our lifestyle choices. Dr Deepashree – Consultant and Clinical Lead, Interventional Radiology, Rela Institute and Medical Centre, Chennai, says, “Lifestyle choices play a huge role in liver health. Consuming contaminated food, chronic alcoholism, excessive smoking are major lifestyle culprits of the same. Balanced diet and regular exercise are the first steps towards prevention of liver cancer.”
• As per Dr Abhishek Bansal – Sr. Consultant & Chief, Interventional Radiology at Aakash Healthcare Super Specialty Hospital “We should avoid Aflatoxin-contaminated foods and high sugar and refined carbs as these contribute to obesity, insulin resistance and fatty liver disease.”
• Early signs and symptoms of liver cancer can be subtle and easily overlooked. Dr Amar Mukund – Professor and Head of the Intervention Radiology Department at the Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences, New Delhi adds, “Liver is a very robust and forgiving organ. However, those who already have liver damage, should get themselves checked in a timely manner.”
• In summary, adopting an active lifestyle to prevent obesity and related metabolic disorders, getting vaccinated for HBV, proactive screening for higher risk individuals, along with public awareness campaigns and adoption of advanced diagnostic tools in hospitals is a must towards prevention and treatment.

Cutting-Edge Tech Meets Liver Cancer: Experts Foresee The Future Scope

In addition to lifestyle changes, experts weigh the importance of leveraging modern technological advancements in liver cancer treatment. Dr Abhishek Bansal highlights that “Multi-phase MRI and CT scans provide detailed images of liver lesions, enabling earlier and more accurate diagnosis of liver cancer, even at small tumor sizes.

Moreover, minimally invasive procedures TACE (Trans-arterial chemoembolization) or TARE (Radioembolization) aids in precise and targeted delivery of chemo drug or radioactive particles directly into the tumor making them highly effective.” Adding to Dr. Bansal’s suggestions, Dr. Amar Mukund emphasized other treatment options like tumor ablation (RFA/MWA) for patients with small HCC.

Minimally invasive treatment options are revolutionizing the sphere of liver care through precise, effective and less traumatic procedures. Unlike the traditional surgeries, these techniques offer a more comprehensive and cost-effective way forward to patients. However, there might be a few hindrances.

Dr Praveen Kesav – Senior Consultant & Head of the Division of Interventional Radiology at Sree Gokulam Medical College, mentions, “high treatment costs, lack of awareness and access are the biggest roadblocks for patients. Regular screening programs, providing financial assistance or subsidies for liver cancer treatments and utilizing telemedicine and organizing outreach programs can help reach patients in remote areas are the best solutions to address these challenges.” Furthermore, Dr Deepashree suggests, “the need to bring specialized care closer to rural areas and raise awareness about liver health so people seek help sooner. Screening programs and free health camps can go a long way in bridging this gap.”

The deterioration of the human body at each stage of liver cancer is a deeply troubling aspect of the disease. Higher mortality rates are often observed in patients who have ignored the early signs and symptoms. Liver cancer might be on the rise as a silent epidemic.

However, awareness coupled with cutting-edge treatments turn out to be a boon for the same. While Cutting-edge technology can offer significant, it can only be truly effective if we are prepared to address the issue with proper knowledge and preventive measures. Adopting a healthy lifestyle along with primary awareness of various stages of this disease is essential today. The key to a healthy, cancer-free life starts with action–and that action starts with us.

<p>The post Understanding Liver Cancer in Ghana: Signs, Prevention and its Latest Treatments first appeared on Ghana Health Journal.</p>

Herbal Medicine Association advocates for greater support and integration into Ghana’s healthcare system

By: Henrietta Afful

The Herbal Medicine Association of Ghana has called for increased support for traditional medicine in the country.

During a courtesy visit to the Minister for Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Association highlighted key challenges facing the sector and underscored the need to expand the availability of traditional medicines in hospitals to reduce Ghana’s reliance on imported pharmaceuticals.

Additionally, the Association emphasized the economic potential of herbal medicine and advocated for the inclusion of more herbal units in the new hospitals being constructed under the Agenda 111 project.

RELATED

None of Agenda 111 hospitals operational – Health Minister

In response, the Minister of Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh reaffirmed his commitment to supporting traditional medicine, assuring the Association that the sector would receive the recognition it deserves.

He said President John Dramani Mahama had already incorporated provisions for the advancement of traditional medicine in his manifesto.

To further strengthen the sector, the Minister encouraged the Herbal Association to attract investors to secure funding, which would help reduce the financial burden on the government and promote sustainable growth.

The Herbal Association of Ghana includes several prominent organizations, such as:

• Ghana Christian Herbal Doctors Association (GCHDA)
• Sankofa Traditional Herbal Medicine Practitioners Association of Ghana (STHMPAG)
• Ahaban Nnouro Nkabom Kuo (ANNK)
• Ghana Association of Faith Healers & TBA (GAFH-TBA)
• Ghana Association of Women and Youth in Herbal Medicine Practice
• Ghana Association of Medical Herbalists (GAMH)

The meeting emphasized the growing role of traditional medicine in Ghana’s healthcare system and the need for collaborative efforts to enhance its development and accessibility.

READ ALSO

‘Public health crisis’: Posts about medical tests on social media ‘overwhelmingly’ misleading

President Mahama flags USAID service pause as critical threat to Ghana’s health programmes

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<p>The post Herbal Medicine Association advocates for greater support and integration into Ghana’s healthcare system first appeared on Ghana Health Journal.</p>

MoH partners with Rare Disease Ghana Initiative to launch 18th International Rare Disease Day

By: Henrietta Avollah Afful

The Ministry of Health (MOH), in collaboration with the Rare Disease Ghana Initiative (RDGI), has launched the 18th International Rare Disease Day with the aim of raising awareness, educating the public, and advocating for multi-stakeholder action to address rare diseases in Ghana.

Globally, rare diseases affect over 300 million people, including many Ghanaians. These diseases are often genetic in origin and disproportionately impact children. The Ministry and RDGI’s efforts come at a crucial time when awareness and access to proper diagnosis and treatment for rare diseases remain limited, primarily due to resource constraints.

Alhaji Hafiz Adam, who spoke on behalf of the Chief Director of the Ministry, acknowledged the significant challenges faced by individuals living with rare diseases and affirmed the Ministry’s commitment to addressing their needs under the National Health Policy.

Despite these efforts, he noted that many individuals still face difficulties in accessing adequate care and support due to the lack of awareness and resources.

“We must ensure that every Ghanaian, regardless of their medical condition, has access to dignified healthcare,” Alhaji Hafiz Adam said, highlighting the Ministry’s pledge to provide necessary resources and care for those affected by rare diseases.

An Associate Professor at the University of Ghana Medical School and paediatrician at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Professor Ebenezer Vincent Badoe, pointed out that while infectious diseases are declining, genetic disorders, along with speech and language impairments, are on the rise.

He emphasized the need for increased investment in genetic healthcare infrastructure, research, and education to enhance diagnosis and treatment capabilities for these emerging health challenges.

The Executive Director of the Rare Disease Ghana Initiative, Samuel Agyei Wiafe, made a call for the government to review and strengthen existing laws and policies related to rare diseases. He also urged the development of a national rare disease registry, an expansion of social support programs, and more training for healthcare professionals to better address the needs of individuals living with rare diseases.

In addition, various stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, policymakers, and advocacy groups such as the Scoliosis Foundation Ghana, the Paediatric Society of Ghana, the Ghana Association of Persons with Albinism, and the Hemophilia Society of Ghana, were encouraged to collaborate and work towards bridging gaps in healthcare to improve the quality of life for individuals affected by rare diseases.

This partnership signals a growing commitment to tackling rare diseases in Ghana and fostering a more inclusive and supportive healthcare system for those in need.

More Stories Here

<p>The post MoH partners with Rare Disease Ghana Initiative to launch 18th International Rare Disease Day first appeared on Ghana Health Journal.</p>

Ho Teaching Hospital inaugurates Stroke and Private Wards Unit

By Jones Anlimah

The Ho Teaching Hospital (HTH) has inaugurated a new Stroke and Private Wards Unit, a significant addition aimed at improving specialized healthcare services in the Volta Region.

The facility is expected to provide advanced care for stroke patients while also offering upgraded private ward services for individuals seeking enhanced comfort during their treatment.

Speaking at the inauguration, Professor Yaw Asante Awuku, Head of the Sub-Business Management Center at HTH, emphasized the hospital’s commitment to expanding healthcare access and improving patient outcomes.

“The early aspect of stroke management is very important—that is what our team has been equipped with. We have doctors who are well-versed in this field, and I must say the expertise is there. But the little things—very important—like positioning the patients, monitoring their swallowing, and providing overall care, our team is now well-equipped to handle,” he stated.

The Medical Director of HTH, Dr. Emmanuel Kasu, highlighted the hospital’s focus on enhancing service delivery, noting that the private wards would offer a more personalized healthcare experience. He stated that the addition of the private wards aligns with the hospital’s goal of improving patient-centered care, ensuring that those who require premium services receive the best possible treatment in a comfortable setting.

The inauguration ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including hospital management, healthcare professionals, and traditional leaders, who lauded the initiative as a major step in boosting the region’s healthcare infrastructure.

The new Stroke and Private Wards Unit forms part of HTH’s broader expansion strategy to enhance its status as a leading referral center in Ghana. Hospital authorities have assured the public that the facility is fully equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and staffed with highly trained professionals ready to deliver world-class healthcare services.

More Stories Here

<p>The post Ho Teaching Hospital inaugurates Stroke and Private Wards Unit first appeared on Ghana Health Journal.</p>

Ho Teaching Hospital inaugurates Stroke and Private Wards Unit

By Jones Anlimah

The Ho Teaching Hospital (HTH) has inaugurated a new Stroke and Private Wards Unit, a significant addition aimed at improving specialized healthcare services in the Volta Region.

The facility is expected to provide advanced care for stroke patients while also offering upgraded private ward services for individuals seeking enhanced comfort during their treatment.

Speaking at the inauguration, Professor Yaw Asante Awuku, Head of the Sub-Business Management Center at HTH, emphasized the hospital’s commitment to expanding healthcare access and improving patient outcomes.

“The early aspect of stroke management is very important—that is what our team has been equipped with. We have doctors who are well-versed in this field, and I must say the expertise is there. But the little things—very important—like positioning the patients, monitoring their swallowing, and providing overall care, our team is now well-equipped to handle,” he stated.

The Medical Director of HTH, Dr. Emmanuel Kasu, highlighted the hospital’s focus on enhancing service delivery, noting that the private wards would offer a more personalized healthcare experience. He stated that the addition of the private wards aligns with the hospital’s goal of improving patient-centered care, ensuring that those who require premium services receive the best possible treatment in a comfortable setting.

The inauguration ceremony brought together key stakeholders, including hospital management, healthcare professionals, and traditional leaders, who lauded the initiative as a major step in boosting the region’s healthcare infrastructure.

The new Stroke and Private Wards Unit forms part of HTH’s broader expansion strategy to enhance its status as a leading referral center in Ghana. Hospital authorities have assured the public that the facility is fully equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and staffed with highly trained professionals ready to deliver world-class healthcare services.

More Stories Here

<p>The post Ho Teaching Hospital inaugurates Stroke and Private Wards Unit first appeared on Ghana Health Journal.</p>

Herbal Medicine Association advocates for greater support and integration into Ghana’s healthcare system

By: Henrietta Afful

The Herbal Medicine Association of Ghana has called for increased support for traditional medicine in the country.

During a courtesy visit to the Minister for Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Association highlighted key challenges facing the sector and underscored the need to expand the availability of traditional medicines in hospitals to reduce Ghana’s reliance on imported pharmaceuticals.

Additionally, the Association emphasized the economic potential of herbal medicine and advocated for the inclusion of more herbal units in the new hospitals being constructed under the Agenda 111 project.

RELATED

None of Agenda 111 hospitals operational – Health Minister

In response, the Minister of Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh reaffirmed his commitment to supporting traditional medicine, assuring the Association that the sector would receive the recognition it deserves.

He said President John Dramani Mahama had already incorporated provisions for the advancement of traditional medicine in his manifesto.

To further strengthen the sector, the Minister encouraged the Herbal Association to attract investors to secure funding, which would help reduce the financial burden on the government and promote sustainable growth.

The Herbal Association of Ghana includes several prominent organizations, such as:

• Ghana Christian Herbal Doctors Association (GCHDA)
• Sankofa Traditional Herbal Medicine Practitioners Association of Ghana (STHMPAG)
• Ahaban Nnouro Nkabom Kuo (ANNK)
• Ghana Association of Faith Healers & TBA (GAFH-TBA)
• Ghana Association of Women and Youth in Herbal Medicine Practice
• Ghana Association of Medical Herbalists (GAMH)

The meeting emphasized the growing role of traditional medicine in Ghana’s healthcare system and the need for collaborative efforts to enhance its development and accessibility.

READ ALSO

‘Public health crisis’: Posts about medical tests on social media ‘overwhelmingly’ misleading

President Mahama flags USAID service pause as critical threat to Ghana’s health programmes

More Stories Here

<p>The post Herbal Medicine Association advocates for greater support and integration into Ghana’s healthcare system first appeared on Ghana Health Journal.</p>

GHS reassigns Regional Health Directors to boost healthcare delivery

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has announced a major reshuffling of Regional Health Directors to enhance healthcare service delivery across the country.

In a statement dated March 5, the GHS stated that the reassignment will take effect from April 14, 2025.

This move, according to the GHS, is aimed at strengthening the healthcare system and advancing the organization’s objectives.

The following directors have been reassigned:

Dr Samuel Kwabena Boakye-Boateng: Previously the Regional Director of Health Services (RDHS) for the Upper East Region, he will now serve as the Director of Policy, Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Division (PPMED) at GHS headquarters.

Dr Kennedy T.C. Brightson: Formerly the Medical Superintendent at Shai-Osudoku Municipal Hospital, he will take on the role of Acting Director of Family Health at GHS headquarters.

Dr Abdulai Abukari: Previously the RDHS for the Northern Region, he will now serve as the Director of Special Duties at GHS headquarters.

Dr Alberta Adjebeng Biritwum-Nyarko (Mrs.): Formerly the Director at GHS headquarters, PPMED, she will now serve as the RDHS for the Central Region.

Dr Marion Okoh-Owusu: Previously the Director at GHS headquarters, Family Health Division (FHD), she will now serve as the RDHS for the Bono East Region.

Dr Braimah Baba Abubakari: Formerly the RDHS for the North East Region, he will now serve as the RDHS for the Upper East Region.

Dr Damien Punguyire: Previously the RDHS for the Upper West Region, he will now serve as the RDHS for the Eastern Region.

Dr Josephat Ana-Imwine Nyuzaghi: Formerly the RDHS for the Savannah Region, he will now serve as the RDHS for the Upper West Region.

Dr Emmanuel Atsu Dodor: Previously the RDHS for the Ahafo Region, he will now serve as the RDHS for the Volta Region.

Dr Akosua A. Owusu-Sarpong (Mrs.): Formerly the RDHS for the Greater Accra Region, she will now serve as the RDHS for the Ahafo Region.

Dr Chrysantus Kubio: Previously the RDHS for the Volta Region, he will now serve as the RDHS for the Bono East Region.

Dr Paulina Clara Appiah**: Formerly the RDHS for the Bono East Region, she will now serve as the RDHS for the Western North Region.

Dr Godfred Kwabena Sarpong: Previously the RDHS for the Western North Region, he will now serve as the RDHS for the Northern Region.

Dr John Ekow Otoo: Formerly the Medical Director at the Upper West Regional Hospital, he will now serve as the RDHS for the North East Region.

Dr Robert Amesiya: Previously the RDHS for the Savannah Region, he will now serve as the Acting Regional Director for the Greater Accra Region.

The GHS emphasised that these changes are necessary to ensure that health services are delivered efficiently and effectively, and to meet the healthcare needs of the population.

More Stories Here

<p>The post GHS reassigns Regional Health Directors to boost healthcare delivery first appeared on Ghana Health Journal.</p>

Cassona Global Imaging Ltd. commits to enhancing Ghana’s healthcare

In an effort to improve healthcare delivery, Cassona Global Imaging Limited, experts in medical equipment has announced its preparedness to offer state-of-the art medical technologies to enhance healthcare facilities in the country.

Ghana, like many developing nations, faces a scarcity of advanced medical equipment. This shortage has hindered the ability of healthcare providers to deliver optional care, particularly in areas such as diagnostics and treatment.

Cassona Global Imaging Ltd. says the company seeks to bridge the existing gap in healthcare delivery by providing high quality and innovative healthcare solutions.

To further support the country’s healthcare systems, the Chief Executive of Cassona Global Imaging Ltd. Mr. John Chigbu, said the company is putting measures in place to train doctors, radiologists and medical professionals on the use of modern healthcare tools.

By:: Lindsay Abbey Mensah

More Stories Here

<p>The post Cassona Global Imaging Ltd. commits to enhancing Ghana’s healthcare first appeared on Ghana Health Journal.</p>

Health Ministry reviews Global Fund Grant implementation and RSSH initiative

By: Henrietta Afful

The Ministry of Health has organised its first-quarter review meeting to evaluate the progress of the Global Fund’s Grant (GC7) implementation and the Resilient and Sustainable Systems for Health (RSSH) initiative.

The meeting provided a platform for stakeholders to engage in discussions on improving accountability and efficiency in managing the Global Fund’s resources within Ghana’s healthcare system. Participants also addressed various challenges and explored potential strategies for overcoming them.

Minister of Health, Mr. Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, emphasized the crucial role the GC7 grant has played in supporting Ghana’s efforts to combat HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria. He said the Global Fund remains an essential partner in these ongoing efforts, while also contributing to strengthening Ghana’s broader health system resilience.

The Health Minister also pointed out several challenges faced in implementing the GC7 grant. He highlighted delays in procurements and ineligible expenditures as major challenges.

He expressed concerns about the slow absorption of funds, particularly under the Resilient and Sustainable Systems for Health (RSSH) initiative, and stressed the need for reprogramming measures to ensure that resources are effectively utilised.

Mr. Akandoh reassured stakeholders of his commitment to optimizing resource usage and fostering stronger collaboration to sustain life-saving health interventions.

The Chief Director of the Ministry, Alhaji Hafiz Adams, addressed the meeting, underscoring the importance of greater accountability, efficiency, and alignment with national health priorities to maximize the impact of Global Fund resources. While acknowledging the challenges, he reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to working with partners to enhance the country’s healthcare system.

Director-General of the Ghana Health Service, Prof. Samuel Akoriyea Kaba, also pledged to collaborate with stakeholders to improve the health system, ensure effective coordination, and ensure the optimal use of Global Fund support for the benefit of the entire population.

Representatives from key healthcare institutions, including the Ghana Health Service, National Malaria Elimination Program, National AIDS Control Program, National TB Control Program, and RSSH, made presentations on the progress of Global Fund grants, shared achievements, and discussed ways to address ongoing challenges.

The stakeholders collectively called for the Ministry to develop more sustainable financing strategies to prevent future funding gaps and ensure the continued success of health initiatives across Ghana.

More Stories Here

<p>The post Health Ministry reviews Global Fund Grant implementation and RSSH initiative first appeared on Ghana Health Journal.</p>