6th National High-Level Meeting on NCDs: Health Minister stresses urgency in combating growing threat of Non-Communicable Diseases
In a keynote address at the 6th National High-Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), on the theme “Building a Coordinated Front to Bridge the NCD and Mental Health Response Gaps to Achieve Universal Health Coverage in Ghana”, Dr. Baffour Awuah, Technical Director at the Ministry of Health, delivering an address on behalf of the Minister for Health, Dr Kwaku Agyeman Manu, underscored the escalating threat of NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, to public health in Ghana.
These conditions, he noted, have become a leading cause of morbidity and mortality, imposing a significant burden on individuals, families, and the healthcare system.
Dr. Awuah highlighted the Ministry’s proactive response to this health crisis, leading the development of the Noncommunicable Disease policy and its Implementation strategy in 2022. Positioned as a pivotal element in the NCD strategy, this document aims to address the burden of NCDs in Ghana and align with the Universal Health Coverage 2030 agenda.
While acknowledging previous efforts in raising awareness and implementing preventive measures, Dr. Awuah emphasized the need for continued collective commitment and collaboration. Partnerships between the government, healthcare professionals, civil society organizations, academia, and the private sector were identified as crucial for effectively addressing the underlying causes and risk factors associated with NCDs.
The comprehensive approach advocated by Dr. Awuah includes promoting healthy lifestyles, ensuring access to quality healthcare services, and strengthening health systems. Integrating NCD care into existing healthcare systems and investing in health promotion and prevention campaigns were also highlighted by Dr Awuah as key strategies.
Notably, policies and taxes aimed at discouraging unhealthy lifestyles, such as the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages, are being targeted to reduce diet-related NCDs in Ghana.
Concluding his remarks, Dr. Awuah urged all stakeholders to actively engage in knowledge sharing, and research collaborations on NCDs. He emphasized the importance of leveraging collective expertise and resources to develop innovative solutions and interventions tailored to the unique challenges faced by Ghanaians.
Addressing NCDs, according to Dr. Awuah, demands a united front, with each stakeholder playing a vital role. The call to action is framed as an opportunity to create a healthier future for the nation, where NCDs are not only prevented and detected early but also effectively managed.
Dr Awuah on behalf of the Health Minister, expressed the Ministry’s gratitude for the commitment demonstrated by stakeholders and look forward to continued collaboration in overcoming the challenges posed by NCDs in Ghana.
