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AMIC to offer free pre-screening for knee and hip
African Medical Information Center (AMIC), working through AMIC Medicare Diagnostic Centre is to offer free pre-screening for knee and hip, which would also serve as a significant step forward in enhancing healthcare in Ghana.
The comprehensive free pre-screening camp, scheduled for June, July, and final surgeries in August, aims to revolutionise healthcare in Ghana.
“Early detection and treatment can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems, and screening can identify risk factors and enable preventative measures. This will position Ghana as a medical tourism hub,” Mr. Jignesh Viradia, Chief Executive Officer of the African Medical Information Center (AMIC-www.amicafrica.com), revealed at the weekend.
Mr. Viradia said the ground-breaking health project seeks to offer affordable and discounted premium Total Knee Replacement (TKR) and Total Hip Replacement (THR) surgeries to those in need.
“The surgeries will not only transform the lives of those suffering from knee and hip conditions but also provide local medical professionals with the opportunity to receive training and enhance their skills,” he said.
“Knees and hips are the foundation of one’s mobility and wellbeing, but unfortunately, many take them for granted until problems arise. Knee and hip issues can lead to chronic pain, limited movement, and a reduced quality of life,” the AMIC CEO stated.
He noted that World Health Organisation (WHO) data indicates that approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide suffer from chronic musculoskeletal disorders, with knee and hip problems being among the most common.
In Ghana, he noted that the prevalence of knee and hip problems is significant, with a recent study indicating that over 20 per cent of adults experience chronic knee pain.
Mr. Viradia therefore stressed the need for proper management and screening, which would help individuals prevent or manage these problems.
“Knee and hip health are crucial for our overall wellbeing. Regular screening and management can make a significant difference in preventing and treating problems,” he stated, stressing effective pain management.
“These camps were organized on various verticals, like transplants for kidney, liver, and pancreas-cochlear implants for the deaf; neurosurgeons for tumours and brains; Onco-surgery for cancer; orthopaedics for bones; and complex surgery,” he noted.
He said AMIC, along with AMIC Medicare Diagnostic Centre is collaborating with AIMS Hospital, Wisconsin University, with support from the Dental Medical Council and other public health directorates, along with strategic stakeholders in the health sector, to offer free prescreening for knee and hip. The camp emphasizes only TKR-THR (knee and hip).
The camp will begin with free prescreening camps in June and July until the first week of August, followed by the surgical camp at the end of August. A team of experienced surgeons from India and local doctors will perform the surgeries, along with hands-on training and CPD, while also providing live training sessions for local medical professionals.
He said, “We are committed to providing quality medical care and empowering local doctors with the latest techniques and expertise,” he said, stressing that “this initiative is a game-changer for Ghana’s healthcare landscape, and we are proud to be a part of it.”
He said that for over a decade, AMIC-Africa Medical Information Centre has been a leading healthcare information provider in Ghana, dedicated to providing quality and affordable healthcare.
He recommended regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, proper footwear, and ergonomic furniture to help prevent strain on these joints.
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Oguaa indigenes urged to unite to develop area
Photo Credit: myjoyonline.com
Rich Akan traditions of Fantes and Asantes were the highlights of the celebrations of this year’s Fetu Afahye of the chiefs and people of Oguaa Traditional Area (Cape Coast) which was climaxed last Saturday with a durbar.
Beyond the glitz and splendour was the showcasing of different forms of traditional regalia amidst rich cultural displays of unique Fante and Asante ensembles, both demonstrating distinct Ghanaian identities in unanimity.
Tekua, a Fante traditional hairstyle won by a generation of Fante women caught the attention of a number of the celebrants.
The attendance of Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, took the joy and excitement a notch higher with frenzied atmosphere to welcome him.
The Asantehene who attended the programme by a special invitation from the Omanhen of the Oguaa Traditional Area was accompanied by a large retinue of chiefs from Asanteman.
The Fetu Afahye is a cultural celebration by the people of Oguaa, drawing both locals and visitors from across the country and beyond.
It was held to mark a bumper harvest season and to thank the 77 deities of the Oguaa Traditional Area.
This year’s edition marks the 60th to be held after its suspension.
It also marked the 25th anniversary commemoration of the enthronement of Osabarimba Kwesi Atta II as the Omanhen of the Oguaa Traditional Area.
There was display of rich traditional dances by the various Asafo companies from the Mfantsipim School junction to the Jubilee Park for the durbar.
This year’s event attracted political figures such as Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who doubles as the Presidential Candidate of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and his running mate, Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh and other leading figures of the party.
The Vice Presidential Candidate of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), Prof Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang and other leading members of the NDC also attended the event.
From David O. Yarboi-Tetteh, Cape Coast
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Suicide cases high among JHS/SHS students: MHA calls for immediate action to curb menace
The Mental Health Authority (MHA) is calling for immediate solutions to address the alarming prevalence of suicide cases among Junior and Senior High School students.
According to the Authority, it was crucial to pay attention to such children as studies in Ghana are showing a high prevalence of suicidal behaviours among students.
This came to light at a symposium in Accra on Tuesday to mark the World Suicide Prevention Day (WSPD).
It was held on the theme “Changing the narrative on suicide with a call to action; start the conversation.”
Speaking at the symposium, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Authority, Professor Pinaman Appau said alarmingly, the prevalence has been reported to be higher among Junior High School students compared to those in the Senior High School.
She said various studies including a 2023 edition conducted by Azazu and Joe found that there was prevalence of 20.4 per cent of suicidal thoughts, 23.4 per cent for suicidal planning, and 28.4 per cent for actual suicide attempts among these groups of school children.
She mentioned bullying, abuse especially physical and sexual, neglect, substance use, family poverty, adolescent conflict with parents, corporal punishment and poor academic performance as causes leading to suicidal thoughts.
Again, factors including previous attempts, mental illness, gambling, financial and job crisis, chronic illness and pain, criminal or legal and impulsive behaviour can also lead to suicide.
Prof Appau said the challenges faced with addressing suicide issues were multifaceted and complex, adding that people grapple with stigma surrounding mental health issues, limited access to mental health services and a lack of general awareness of suicide prevention strategies.
She said the challenges were further compounded by deepening socio-economic challenges in societies such as the harsh reality of economic hardship, unemployment and social instability.
Dr Appau mentioned that the rippling effect of suicide leaves behind a trail of grief, guilt, and unanswered questions, saying, the economic cost of suicide attempts in terms of health care expenses and loss of productivity places additional burden on the country’s strained resources.
She said a total of 81 persons have committed suicide in 2024 with 543 attempts across the country, adding that the figure indicates an alarming increase compared to the 594 attempts and 48 completed cases recorded in 2023.
Regionally, Greater Accra, Eastern and Central regions recorded the highest numbers of suicide attempts for the first half of the year 2024, with most completed suicides occurring in the Greater Accra region.
Prof Appau has therefore called for a concerted effort to resolve and change the narrative by engaging stakeholders including security and media personnel, to create nationwide awareness and education through various media platforms.
By Jemima Esinam Kuatsinu
