May 27, 2026, marked a significant moment for residents of Bongo as a native of the area, Professor Joseph Atiah Akamah, led a free health screening exercise as part of activities marking Hypertension Month, observed every May.
The programme, held at the Bongo main lorry station, offered free blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol screening for residents. Prof. Akamah, a cardiologist based in the United States, organized the exercise under the theme “Controlling Hypertension Together in Bongo.”
A health walk from the District Hospital to Anafobiisi preceded the screening exercise. Residents from different parts of the district, mostly older adults, took part in the screening, while others received free medical consultations.
Medications were provided to participants diagnosed with health conditions, while others received prescriptions to access required drugs.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Akamah outlined key risk factors associated with hypertension, including diet, lifestyle, age, genetics and psychological stress. He noted that hypertension contributes significantly to adult hospital admissions.
He stressed that many people living with the condition are unaware of their status, exposing them to serious complications such as stroke and heart attacks.
“It is no fluke that hypertension is referred to as the ‘silent killer,’” he said, urging regular health checkups and strict adherence to prescribed treatment.
The Medical Superintendent of the Bongo District Hospital, Dr. Kofi Asare Ansah, encouraged participants to seek early medical attention and undergo routine screening to maintain good health.
In interviews, some beneficiaries described the exercise as timely, saying many people often delay or avoid routine medical checkups.
The screening exercise was organized in collaboration with the Bongo District Hospital and the District Health Directorate, with support from Maltaaba Community Bank, Denk Pharmacy, Yaaba Medical Services and MDS Lanset.
A1 Radio | 101.1 MHz | Jonathan Abugbilla | Bongo
