Professor Martin Tamatey, heart surgeon and Acting Director of the National Cardiothoracic Center at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, has issued a public warning against lifestyle choices that can lead to heart-related diseases. With an increasing number of Ghanaians over 40 reporting cases of acquired heart disease in addition to congenital cases, Professor Tamatey emphasized the importance of adopting heart-healthy habits to curb the rising prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the country.
This warning was delivered at a donation event held by the Ghana Airports Company Limited in Accra to support heart surgery for underprivileged patients.
Heart Disease in Ghana: Rising Numbers and Concerning Trends
Data from the National Cardiothoracic Center highlights that CVD now affects approximately 16 to 17 percent of Ghanaians, a significant portion of the population. Heart disease has become one of the leading causes of death among adults in Ghana, accounting for a staggering 60 percent of adult fatalities. Additional insights revealed that 19 percent of these deaths are related to hypertension, while 6.5 percent are linked to diabetes.
Professor Tamatey pointed out that heart diseases fall into two main categories: congenital heart disease, which is present from birth, and acquired heart disease, which develops later in life. While congenital conditions are often the result of birth defects affecting heart function, acquired heart disease typically stems from lifestyle factors, infections, or added strain on the heart. A particularly serious condition, complete heart block, can occur when the electrical signals that regulate heartbeat become compromised, leading to an irregular and slow heartbeat.
Major Risk Factors and Symptoms of Acquired Heart Disease
To better manage cardiovascular health, Professor Tamatey listed key risk factors for acquired heart disease:
- High cholesterol
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Diabetes
Symptoms to watch for include:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Swelling in the ankles, feet, legs, and abdomen
- Palpitations
- Nostril-flaring
- Fatigue
For those already diagnosed with heart conditions, he underscored the importance of continuing medications for blood pressure and diabetes while routinely monitoring cholesterol levels.
Steps for Prevention and Healthier Living
In his message, Professor Tamatey recommended several lifestyle adjustments to help prevent heart issues:
- Regular exercise – Physical activity strengthens the heart and helps control weight.
- Healthy eating – A balanced diet low in unhealthy fats and high in vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins supports heart health.
- Maintaining a healthy weight – Excess weight can strain the heart, increasing the risk of CVD.
- Managing stress – Chronic stress can lead to high blood pressure, impacting the heart.
- Quitting smoking – Smoking is a significant contributor to heart disease.
- Limiting alcohol consumption – Excessive drinking can raise blood pressure and increase the risk of heart problems.
- Regular health screenings – Monitoring blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels helps with early detection and management.
- Ensuring adequate sleep – Quality sleep aids in heart health and reduces overall stress.
Conclusion
Professor Tamatey’s call to action aims to encourage Ghanaians to be proactive about their cardiovascular health, especially as heart disease becomes more prevalent in the country. With timely interventions, healthy lifestyle choices, and routine medical check-ups, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing heart-related complications and improve their overall well-being. The message is clear: by investing in their health today, Ghanaians can help build a healthier tomorrow.
