Director of Health Services on Thursday stressed the need for
Ghanaians to adopt inspiring lifestyle changes that include sound
nutrition and proper sanitation practices so as to prevent diseases.He
said the need for lifestyle change had become necessary due to
increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (diseases of
choice) and related mortality.
Dr Otchere, who was speaking at a clinical meeting by health
professionals at the Akyem Oda Government Hospital mentioned diabetes,
stroke-CVA, Cardiovascular diseases and hypertension as
non-communicable diseases that are on the increase in the district as
a result of unhealthy lifestyle.He said the hospital last year
recorded 1,376 hypertension cases as against 1,251 in 2005 while 2,591
Diabetes Mellitus cases were reported in 2006 as against 2,052 in the
preceding year.Dr Otchere also mentioned high intake of saturated
fats, alcohol consumption, smoking, lack of exercise, fast foods, poor
personal hygiene and poor environmental cleanliness as causes of
diseases of choice.
He said man could enjoy long and healthy life if attention was
paid to such key practices as the way we eat, regular exercise,
potable water, adequate rest and positive mental attitude.Ms Mary
Bawa, Principal Nursing Officer, who spoke about the importance of
water said it formed the foundation of blood and lymph, maintains
hearty muscles and young looking skin.
She said water, aside from aiding in the digestion and absorption of
food, regulated body temperature, carries nutrients and oxygen to
cells, removes toxins and other wastes, cushions joints and protects
tissues and organs.Mr Yaw Asante Ayimadu, a Principal Technical and
Nutrition Officer talked about nutrition and advised that people
should not skip breakfast.
Mss Patricia Efisah and Miss Lovia Oforiwaa both physiotherapy
assistants at the pysiotherapy unit of the Akyem Oda Government
hospital later demonstrated various kinds of exercises and
stretching.At the end of the meeting, the participants passed a
resolution that at all meetings, seminars and trainings for all health
institutions in the district, only regenerative snack-fruits and water
should be served at snack breaks.
06 April 07
