By Godson Kofi DAVIES
In recent years, our society has seen a worrying rise in heart disease among its younger population, a trend that reflects broader global shifts but has unique implications in the local context. Typically associated with older adults, the encroachment of cardiovascular issues into the lives of the young signals a public health crisis that could undermine the future of the nation.
The alarming statistics
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death globally, responsible for 71 percent of all deaths annually. In the African region, these diseases are on the rise and were responsible for 37 percent of deaths in 2019, up from 24 percent in 2000. Cardiovascular diseases are a significant contributor to this burden, being the most frequent cause of NCD-related deaths in Africa. The increase in these diseases can be linked to modifiable behavioural risk factors such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use and the harmful use of alcohol.
Lifestyle changes and stress
The notable 30 percent rise in heart disease cases among individuals under 40 over the last decade is largely attributed to lifestyle changes associated with urbanisation. This includes an increased consumption of fast food and a significant decrease in physical activity. Data from the Global School-based Student Health Survey reveal that only about 20 percent of Ghanaian youth engage in adequate levels of physical activity, a statistic that raises concerns given the known link between physical inactivity and cardiovascular diseases.
Stress is another critical factor. The pressures of modern life, including educational demands, unemployment and social expectations, contribute significantly to the health of young adults. A cardiologist noted seeing an increase in young patients with conditions like hypertension, which has become rampant for the past two decades. Stress is a significant contributor to this trend.
Dietary factors
The dietary habits of young Ghanaians have shifted dramatically from traditional diets rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains to those high in fats, sugars and salts. This shift is largely due to globalisation and the increasing availability of processed foods. Nutritionist Dr. Kwame Minta explains: “The convenience of processed foods is appealing, but the long-term health consequences are severe, particularly concerning heart health”.
Personal stories
John Doe (name changed for privacy), a 35-year-old IT specialist in Accra, represents a growing segment of the population facing these issues. Diagnosed with hypertension two years ago, John had to overhaul his lifestyle drastically. “It was a wake-up call. I had to change my diet, reduce work stress and start exercising regularly,” he shares. His story is becoming increasingly common, reflecting a nation grappling with the health impacts of its socio-economic evolution.
The way forward
Addressing this rising trend requires a multi-pronged approach. Public health campaigns aimed at increasing awareness of the risks of unhealthy diets and sedentary lifestyles are crucial. Schools and workplaces can play a significant role by integrating physical activities and stress management programmes into their daily routines.
Improving access to healthcare services and regular screenings can help catch cardiovascular issues before they become severe. Community health programmes could focus more on prevention, working to educate the public about the importance of maintaining a healthy heart from a young age.
The rising trend of heart disease among Ghanaian youths is a clarion call to the nation. It highlights the need for significant shifts in public health policy, emphasising prevention and early intervention. As Ghana continues to develop economically and socially, its greatest challenge will be ensuring these advancements do not come at the expense of the health of its younger citizens. Without concerted action now, the nation risks facing a burdened healthcare system and a diminished quality of life for its 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 organisation.
>>>I’ll be your wingman on your health journey! The writer is a public health professional with a Master’s degree from the University of Illinois at Springfield, USA and works as a Medical Fraud Analyst at the Illinois Office of Inspector-General. He founded GD Consult in Ghana to promote healthy lifestyles and developed innovative projects, such as a Health Risk Assessment Model for hydraulic fracking operations. He can be reached via [email protected]
