Nutrition

Media must be passionate about NCDs , mental health issues – Dr Mavis Sakyi

Dr Mavis Sakyi, the Acting Head of Public Health and Health Promotion of the Ministry of Health, has urged the media to be passionate on issues of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and mental health to create platforms for financial support for awareness creation.

She said NCD rates such as cancers, respiratory disease, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, eye diseases, among others, and mental health were becoming alarming and could lead to the next pandemic in the country.

She stated that about 54 per cent of deaths were caused by NCDs and there was the need for agenda setting on the issue by the media in the print, online, social media, television, and radio for financial dialogue to support awareness creation.

Dr Sakyi advised at a day’s capacity-building seminar for media professionals and members of civil society organisations on NCD and Universal Health Coverage (UHC) on the theme: “Accelerating UHC through the 2 Global Financial Dialogue on NCDs and Mental Health”.

Mr Labram Musah, the National Coordinator of the Ghana NCD Alliance in a presentation called on the government to earmark a percentage of the excise tax revenue for NCDs and mental healthcare.

He said more than 60 per cent of people living with NCDs face a financial burden, which results from out-of-pocket payment costs of medicine, outpatient visits, and hospitalisation, among others.

“This had led persons, families and communities into poverty,” he stated.

Mr Musah entreated the government to remove subsidies on harmful products such as tobacco, alcohol, sugar-sweetened beverages, trans-fats, and the rest to prevent diseases.

He said; “It is estimated that 3.1 million Ghanaians are living with mental health issues, and globally, it is estimated that 15 million lives a year will be ended prematurely because of NCD and mental health.

“Treatment costs also increase exponentially in the case of multi-morbidities, which is becoming more of a norm rather than an exception,” he stated, saying; “NCD is cross-cutting and has dire consequences on many communicable diseases.

He said the catastrophic spending on the diseases had contributed to many households adopting negative coping mechanisms that included reduced spending on other health costs, food, education, and the rest. – GNA

Nutrition

Benefits of fresh cow milk

COW milk is a nutrient-rich milk produced by cows that has been a dietary staple for
humans for centuries. It is known for its rich source of essential nutrients such as calcium, protein, vitamins (B12 and D), and minerals. Cow milk is considered healthy for many individuals, providing benefits for bone health, muscle repair, and overall growth.

– Promotes strong bones

Cow milk is an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D, both of which are essential for maintaining bone density and strength. Regular consumption of milk helps prevent bone disorders like osteoporosis, especially in older adults, as it supports healthy bone development and repair.

– Boosts muscle growth and repair

Cow milk is rich in high-quality protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. This makes it an ideal post-exercise drink to help with muscle repair and growth. The protein in milk also helps sustain muscle mass, which is important as we age.

– Supports heart health

Cow milk contains potassium, a mineral that helps maintain healthy blood pressure by balancing sodium levels in the body. Drinking milk may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by promoting optimal heart function and regulating blood pressure.

-Aids in weight management

The protein and fat content in cow milk can promote satiety and reduce overall calorie intake by keeping you full for longer. Additionally, studies have shown that the conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) found in milk may help reduce body fat in some individuals.

– Improves hydration

Cow milk is composed of approximately 90 per cent water, making it a hydrating beverage. Along with providing essential nutrients, milk helps to maintain fluid balance in the body, which is important for overall cellular functions and metabolism.

Source: www.ndtv.com/ health