Ghana News

Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) continue to burden some of the most vulnerable populations globally, and Ghana is no exception. Among these diseases, Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) remains a pressing public health concern, particularly in the Volta and Oti Regions. A significant number of cases were diagnosed in three districts in 2003 and the disease is still endemic in several municipalities today, underscoring the urgent need for a strengthened health response.

Africa’s ability to effectively prepare for and respond to health emergencies took a significant step forward as public health leaders, technical experts, and key stakeholders convened for a high-level regional consultation on strengthening National Public Health Agencies (NPHAs).

In 2023, Ghana faced a major disaster when the spillage of excess water from the Akosombo Dam led to devastating floods in the Eastern, Volta, and Greater Accra Regions. The increased water flow in the Volta River inundated low-lying areas along its course, severely impacting communities such as Mepe, Battor, Sogakope, Mafi, Adidome, and Ada. Entire neighborhoods were submerged, forcing thousands to flee their homes and leaving a trail of destruction to lives, livelihoods, and infrastructure.

Cholera is an acute infectious disease transmitted mainly through the consumption of food or water contaminated with cholera bacteria. Cholera poses a significant public health threat, especially in areas with inadequate sanitation and unsafe drinking water. It can cause severe dehydration and death within hours if untreated, making early detection and prompt response crucial.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have emerged as one of the most significant health and development challenges of the 21st century.

By Dr Joana Ansong,

By Dr Leveana Gyimah, WHO Ghana Mental Health Technical Officer and Abdul-Lahie Abdul-Rahim Naa, Communications Officer- WHO Ghana, on World Mental Health Day

Accra – Charity Damoah, 36, lost count of the number of times she was admitted to hospital with malaria while growing up in Sunyani, in Ghana’s Bono region. But things are different now for her two-year-old son John.

Unlike the many other Ghanaians who had lived daily with the threat of the disease, he has never had malaria.