Ucc Credit Union Sensitizes Members on Hypertension

The University of Cape Coast Cooperative Credit Union Limited (UCCCCUL) has held a health talk and screening for its members.

 The event, themed “Wealth and Happiness, Happy Healthy Family,” focused on the current management of hypertension in Ghana and worldwide.

 According to the Director of UCC Health Services, Dr. James Kojo Prah, who led discussions at the event, changes in lifestyles, including poor eating habits, are contributing immensely to growing cases of hypertension in Ghana.

 He added that behaviours such as high sodium intake, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol use, tobacco smoking, chronic stress, and unhealthy diet were the primary factors resulting in the condition.

 Reported among the five major causes of death in Ghana, he indicated that hypertension is also a major cause of cardiovascular diseases.

 Dr. Prah further mentioned that a WHO report showed an overall prevalence rate of 25-48 percent, with the rate higher among urban population than  rural population.

 He indicated that over 70 percent of persons with hypertension were not on any treatment.

 The Head of the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Prof Georgina Yaa Oduro, who chaired the event appealed to participants to make healthier choices. to reduce the burden of hypertension on families and in the wider community.

 The health screening measured blood sugar, blood pressure, body mass index, and prostate assessment.

 In attendance were the Chairman of the UCC Credit Union Board, Mr. Theophilus Nartey, as well as other members.

 Source: Documentation and Information Section