by Godson Kofi Davis
In recent years, our society has been concerned by the rise of heart disease among younger people, a trend that reflects broader global changes but has specific implications in local contexts. The intrusion of cardiovascular problems usually associated with older people into the lives of young people is a sign of a public health crisis that could jeopardize the future of the country.
Surprising statistics
According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death globally, accounting for 71% of annual deaths. These diseases are increasing in the African region, accounting for 37% of deaths in 2019, up from 24% in 2000. Cardiovascular diseases are a major contributor to this burden and are the leading cause of NCD-related deaths in Africa. The increase in these diseases may be linked to modifiable behavioral risk factors, such as unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, smoking, and harmful use of alcohol.
Lifestyle changes and stress
The 30 percent increase in heart disease cases among people under 40 over the past decade is largely due to lifestyle changes associated with urbanization, including increased consumption of fast food and a significant decrease in physical activity. Data from the Global School-Based Student Health Survey suggests that only around 20 percent of young people in Ghana are engaging in adequate levels of physical activity, a worrying statistic given the known link between lack of physical activity and cardiovascular disease.
Stress is also a key factor. The pressures of modern life, including educational demands, unemployment and societal expectations, have a major impact on the health of young people. Cardiologists have noted an increase in young patients suffering from diseases such as hypertension, which has become epidemic over the past two decades. Stress is a major factor in this trend.
Dietary factors
The eating habits of Ghanaian youth have changed dramatically, from a traditional diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains to one high in fat, sugar and salt. This change is largely due to globalization and the increasing availability of processed foods. Nutritionist Dr Kwame Mintah explains: “While the convenience of processed foods is appealing, the long-term health implications are serious, particularly for heart health.”
A personal story
John Doe (name changed to protect his privacy), a 35-year-old IT specialist living in Accra, is part of the population facing these challenges. When he was diagnosed with hypertension two years ago, John had to make major lifestyle changes. “That was a wake-up call. I had to change my diet, reduce work stress and exercise regularly,” he says. His story is becoming increasingly common, reflecting a country grappling with the impact of socio-economic development on its health.
The way forward
Tackling this growing trend requires a multi-pronged approach. Public health campaigns aimed at raising awareness of the risks of unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles are essential. Schools and workplaces can play an important role by integrating physical activity and stress management programs into daily life.
Improving access to health care and regular screening can help detect cardiovascular disease before it becomes serious, and community health programs could focus on prevention and educate the public about the importance of maintaining a healthy heart, starting from an early age.
The rise in heart disease among Ghana’s youth is a wake-up call for the nation. It highlights the need for a major shift in public health policy with an emphasis on prevention and early intervention. As Ghana continues to develop economically and socially, the biggest challenge is to ensure that these advances do not come at the expense of the health of its young population. Without concerted action now, Ghana risks a strained health system and a reduced quality of life for future generations.
Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any organization.
>>>Let me be your companion on your health journey! The author is a public health professional with a Masters degree from the University of Illinois at Springfield, USA, and works as a health care fraud analyst at the Illinois Office of the Inspector General. He founded GD Consult in Ghana to promote healthy lifestyles and has developed innovative projects such as a health risk assessment model for fracking operations. [email protected]
