Adidome: Mr. Baba Awuni, the Central Tongu District Health Director, has issued a warning that hypertension and diabetes are emerging as significant causes of death and disability in the area. During the commissioning of a Health Kiosk in Adidome, Mr. Awuni highlighted the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) within the district. He specifically pointed out that complications from hypertension were the leading cause of institutional mortalities in the first half of 2025.
According to Ghana News Agency, Mr. Awuni noted an 8.16 percent rise in the incidence of Diabetes Mellitus during the same period compared to the previous year, 2024. District health records reveal that total reported NCD cases went up from 14,758 in 2023 to 15,326 in 2024. New cases of hypertension increased from 1,478 in 2023 to 1,569 in 2024, with outpatient department (OPD) attendance reaching 91,016 cases in the last reporting year.
Mr. Awuni expressed concern over the lack of awareness among adults in Central Tongu regarding their blood pressure and sugar levels. Many individuals only become aware of their conditions during emergencies or after severe complications have developed. He emphasized that these diseases are largely preventable and manageable if detected early. However, late presentation continues to hinder efforts to save lives, prompting a call for urgent and sustained public health education.
The Health Directorate plans to intensify community sensitization, screening exercises, and preventive health campaigns. Mr. Awuni welcomed initiatives such as the newly commissioned health kiosks, which aim to bring basic screening and health services closer to residents in markets, transport hubs, and rural communities. He underscored that early detection, lifestyle modification, and regular medical check-ups are crucial in reducing the growing burden of NCDs in Central Tongu.
