Akoma+ Health and Wellness Foundation screens over 150 people on World Heart Day – Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

On World Heart Day, the Akoma+ Health & Wellness Foundation made a significant impact in the Accra Metropolitan Assembly (AMA) by organizing a large-scale cardiovascular screening initiative. Over 150 Ghanaians and international visitors participated in this event, which aimed to raise awareness about heart disease prevention and promote life-saving health checks. By combining medical screenings with educational campaigns, Akoma+ reinforced its mission to combat cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), the leading cause of global mortality. This article explores the event’s objectives, outcomes, and the broader implications for public health in Ghana.

Analysis

Event Overview

Celebrated annually on September 29, World Heart Day serves as a global platform to highlight cardiovascular health. The Akoma+ Foundation leveraged this occasion to conduct free screenings for critical health indicators, including blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol, hepatitis B/C, and malaria. These tests help identify early signs of conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and liver disease—key risk factors for heart disease. By addressing these issues holistically, the initiative underscored the importance of interdisciplinary healthcare approaches.

Screenings and Health Metrics

Participants received comprehensive cardiovascular assessments, with high-risk individuals prioritized for follow-up care at the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (GARH) and 37 Military Hospital. These referrals demonstrate the event’s focus on actionable outcomes rather than mere awareness. For instance, elevated blood pressure or cholesterol levels were flagged for immediate medical intervention, reducing the risk of severe complications down the line.

Collaborative Partnerships

The success of the event relied on strategic collaborations. Key partners included the Ghana Health Service, HealthScan Diagnostics, and the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which facilitated access to affordable healthcare. The involvement of emergency services—such as the Ghana Ambulance and Fire Services—ensured safety protocols during screenings. This model highlights how public-private partnerships can amplify healthcare accessibility in underserved regions.

Community Engagement

Interactive elements like health dramas and demonstrations made the event engaging for diverse audiences. These activities aimed to demystify heart disease prevention, emphasizing lifestyle modifications. Notably, attendees were encouraged to adopt healthier diets, quit smoking, and increase physical activity—practical steps that align with the World Heart Federation’s global targets.

Summary

The Akoma+ Health & Wellness Foundation’s World Heart Day initiative in 2025 exemplified a proactive approach to cardiovascular care in Ghana. By screening over 150 individuals and launching the “ABCDE” prevention framework, the organization addressed both immediate health risks and long-term prevention strategies. The event’s success lies in its blend of medical expertise, community participation, and strategic partnerships, offering a blueprint for similar programs across Africa.

Key Points

Practical Advice

Adopt the ABCDE Framework

Dr. Martin Tibuakuu introduced the “ABCDE” strategy during his keynote address:

• A: Awareness of CVD risks
• B: Regular Blood Pressure monitoring
• C: Cholesterol checks and reduction of saturated fats
• D: Diabetes management through diet and screening
• E: Physical Exercise and workplace wellness programs

Implementing these steps can prevent 80% of heart-related deaths, as emphasized by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Lifestyle Modifications

Simple changes can yield measurable benefits:

• Diet: Reduce sodium intake; prioritize fruits and vegetables.
• Exercise: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity weekly (e.g., walking, cycling).
• Avoid Tobacco: Quit smoking to lower heart attack risks by 50%.

Community programs like NHIS-registered health screenings make these interventions more accessible and affordable.

Points of Caution

Self-Diagnosis Risks

While the event provided critical data, participants should avoid self-diagnosis based on screening results alone. For example, elevated blood sugar levels may indicate prediabetes but require confirmation through HbA1c tests. Always consult a certified medical professional for follow-up actions.

Healthcare Access Barriers

Despite the event’s success, many Ghanaians still face financial and geographic barriers to sustained care. The NHIS plays a vital role in mitigating these challenges, but awareness campaigns must continue to educate citizens about their rights to subsidized care.

Comparison

Global vs. Local Healthcare Models

Compared to high-income countries with mandatory insurance schemes, Ghana’s reliance on NHIS and NGO initiatives highlights the need for systemic reforms. However, Akoma+’s model demonstrates how grassroots efforts can complement national policies. For instance, the UK’s NHS and Rwanda’s Community-Based Health Insurance both prioritize accessibility—a principle Akoma+ mirrors through volunteer-driven screenings and partnerships.

Legal Implications

The collaboration between Akoma+ and NHIS underscores the importance of adhering to Ghana’s National Health Insurance Scheme guidelines. Compliance with tax-deductible donation rules and medical ethics standards ensures transparency and builds public trust. Legal frameworks must continue evolving to address gaps in private-sector healthcare delivery.

Conclusion

The Akoma+ Health & Wellness Foundation’s World Heart Day screenings in 2025 were a testament to the power of community-driven healthcare. By combining early detection with lifestyle education, the event not only saved lives but also set a precedent for scalable public health interventions in Africa. As heart disease remains a global killer, initiatives like Akoma+ offer hope for a future where prevention surpasses treatment in priority.

FAQ

Sources

• Ghana Health Service
• Greater Accra Regional Hospital
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS)
• Akoma+ Health & Wellness Foundation Official Communications
• Parliamentary Select Committee on Health, Ghana

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