GHS sounds alarm over rising hypertension cases

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has raised an alarm about hypertension. Many Ghanaians with this condition are unaware of it. Statistics show that 50% of those affected do not know their status.

Low testing rates contribute to this issue, especially among men. One in five Ghanaians has never measured their blood pressure. In the Ashanti Region, new cases have increased significantly: 126,110 in 2022, 136,380 in 2023, and 140,216 in 2024.

Health professionals are urging more awareness about hypertension. They warn of serious health risks from ignorance. In response, the GHS is launching a nationwide campaign to measure blood pressure for one million people.

In the Ashanti Region alone, they aim to reach 170,000 individuals. At a news conference in Kumasi, Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng spoke on the issue. He encouraged Ghanaians to adopt healthier lifestyles and learn about their health.

He referred to hypertension as a "silent killer." Many people only discover their condition when complications arise. May is recognized globally for raising awareness about hypertension management.

Dr. Adomako-Boateng noted that half of those with hypertension are unaware of it. He emphasized that one in five people has this condition but may not know it. Additionally, at least one out of four has never checked their blood pressure.