Graphic National Development Series (GNDS) 2024 Highlights Rising Health Concerns

Accra, May 28, 2024 – Professor Agyeman Badu Akosa, a renowned cellular pathologist and lifestyle wellness consultant, has raised alarm over the increasing prevalence of hypertension and diabetes in Ghana. Speaking at the Graphic National Development Series (GNDS) held in Accra, Prof. Akosa specifically cautioned trotro and long haul drivers against the consumption of high-calorie energy drinks, linking them to the growing health crisis.

The Dangers of High-Calorie Energy Drinks

Prof. Akosa highlighted the troubling trend of drivers consuming energy drinks with high calorific content but no nutritional value. "These energy drinks are packed with dense sugar and caffeine, providing seven calories with no nutritional benefit," he stated. "Drivers, particularly those operating trotros and long haul vehicles, often consume a pack of six each morning, unwittingly putting themselves at high risk of developing diabetes."

Alarming Diabetes Statistics

Referencing historical and recent data, Prof. Akosa illustrated the rapid increase in diabetes prevalence in Ghana. "In 1960, a study by Prof. Silas Duodu recorded a diabetes rate of 0.2%. By 2006, research by Prof. Albert George Amoah showed a rise to 6.4%. An Accra women study further increased this figure to 8.6%, and the latest population analysis of Accra civil servants recorded a 9.1% prevalence rate," he noted. "This dramatic rise from 0.2% to nearly 10% represents a 50-fold increase."

The Silent Threat of Hypertension

In addition to diabetes, Prof. Akosa pointed out the silent but deadly threat of hypertension. "Hypertension is known as the silent killer. Among adult men over the age of 50, one in two is hypertensive," he warned. The compounding effect of both hypertension and diabetes poses a significant health risk to the Ghanaian populace.

Urgent Call to Action

Prof. Akosa emphasized the urgency of addressing these health issues. "If we do not put a stop to the excessive intake of high-calorie energy drinks, we are facing an impending health crisis," he warned. He urged health authorities and policymakers to take immediate action to mitigate these risks.

GNDS Forum: Shaping Health Policy

The GNDS forum, which aims to delve into development issues and influence policy, previously focused on transforming Ghana's agriculture for food security. This year's event, under the theme "Putting Health in the Reach of the Ordinary Ghanaian – The How," underscored the importance of accessible healthcare.

Prof. Akosa's address highlighted the critical need for revising the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to sustain universal health coverage. "NHIS is a crucial intervention, but a review of its structure is necessary for its sustainability," he added.

As Ghana grapples with rising cases of diabetes and hypertension, the insights shared at GNDS 2024 serve as a pivotal call to action for both individuals and policymakers to prioritize health and well-being.

Source by Graphic Online