Diabetes on the Rise: Ghana Faces a Growing Health Crisis

By Jessica Ahedor 

Accra, Ghana- Joseph Boadu, 72 years -old diabetic patient has had to be intentional about what he does and eats to remedy his illness for the past eight years. “I have had to manage this condition for 8 years now. It's very tiring, after I was diagnosed with diabetes my life has not been the same again” It is a thing of self-discipline in terms of choice of food and physical activity, he asserts.   

In recent years, Ghana has witnessed an alarming increase in diabetes cases, a trend that health experts warn could have severe implications for the nation’s public health and economy. Once considered a disease predominantly affecting affluent societies, diabetes is now spreading rapidly across diverse demographics in Ghana, fueled by lifestyle changes, urbanization, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure.

It used to be a disease of the rich, but now almost everyone is at risk due to changes in lifestyle, urbanization and lack of infrastructure at some levels of care, says Joseph Boadu. 

The Rising Tide of Diabetes

Data from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) reveals that the prevalence of diabetes in Ghana has surged significantly, affecting over 3.6% of the adult population. This translates to approximately 1.3 million people living with diabetes, a stark increase from previous years. The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has also highlighted that many more cases remain undiagnosed due to limited access to medical facilities and routine health checks.

Dr. Francis Agyekum, an endocrinologist at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, noted that, "The rapid increase in diabetes cases is a major public health concern. Many Ghanaians are unaware of their condition until it progresses to severe stages, leading to complications like heart disease, kidney failure, and vision problems." 

Diabetes is a chronic, metabolic disease caused by high levels of blood glucose (or blood sugar), which can lead to the damage of the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys and nerves. The most common is type 2 diabetes, usually in adults, which occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin- a hormone responsible for sugar regulation in the blood or doesn't make enough insulin. In the past 3 decades the prevalence of type 2 diabetes has risen dramatically in countries of all income levels. Type 1 diabetes, once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin by itself. While both conditions can be managed, there are a number of factors that trigger it.

 Urbanization and Lifestyle Changes

Urbanization and changing lifestyles are significant contributors to this epidemic. As more Ghanaians move to urban areas, their diets and physical activity levels change dramatically. The consumption of processed foods high in sugars and fats, coupled with sedentary lifestyles, has led to a rise in obesity—a major risk factor for diabetes.

"Modern urban life has brought convenience but also a surge in unhealthy eating habits and reduced physical activity," explained Dr. Agyekum. "Traditional diets rich in whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins are being replaced by fast foods and sugary drinks."

 Economic and Social Impact

The economic burden of diabetes in Ghana is substantial. According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), the cost of managing diabetes and its complications is rising, straining both household finances and the national healthcare system. Many families face significant financial hardship due to the ongoing costs of medication, monitoring equipment, and hospital visits.

"The financial strain on families is immense," stated Joyce Mensah, a public health nurse in Accra. "Many patients cannot afford regular treatment, leading to higher rates of complications and hospital admissions. This creates a vicious cycle of poverty and poor health."

 Addressing the Crisis

To combat this growing crisis, a multifaceted approach is essential. Public health campaigns aimed at raising awareness about diabetes prevention and management are crucial. These should focus on promoting healthy eating habits, regular physical activity, and routine health screenings.

The Ghanaian government, in collaboration with international organizations, is working to improve access to healthcare services, especially in rural areas. The introduction of community health programs and mobile clinics aims to bridge the gap in healthcare access and provide early diagnosis and treatment for diabetes patients.

"The government's efforts to decentralize healthcare and bring services closer to the people are commendable," said Dr. Nana Yaw Osei, a healthcare policy analyst. "However, sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure and education is vital to make a significant impact."

The rise of diabetes in Ghana is a pressing issue that demands urgent attention from all sectors of society. While the challenges are significant, there is hope that through concerted efforts, effective public health strategies, and community engagement, the tide of this epidemic can be turned. Ensuring a healthier future for Ghana requires a collective commitment to embracing healthier lifestyles, improving healthcare access, and fostering a culture of regular health monitoring.