The Ghana National Association of Teachers (GNAT) has highlighted hypertension and related diseases as significant contributors to recent deaths among teachers in the Central Region. According to GNAT officials, the demanding working conditions and economic pressures faced by teachers have led to deteriorating health and untimely deaths.
Mr. Isaac Asante Frimpong, the Cape Coast Metro Chairman of GNAT, addressed these concerns during the GNAT Wesley Local Meeting in Cape Coast. He emphasized the detrimental effects of financial strain, high dependency ratios, and soaring inflation on teachers' health, leading to increased blood pressure and other health complications.
Acknowledging the importance of adopting healthy lifestyles, Mr. Frimpong urged teachers to prioritize regular exercise, medical check-ups, and proper hydration to mitigate the risk of hypertension and related ailments. He stressed the need for early detection and treatment of diseases to prevent adverse health outcomes.
Highlighting the dangers of kidney disease, Mr Albert Kusi Tawiah, a Senior Staff Nurse at the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, explained the detrimental effects of kidney damage on overall health. He outlined risk factors such as tobacco use, excessive salt intake, obesity, and unhealthy diets, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures and timely diagnosis.
Mr Thomas Cann, the Founder of the ‘Yes We Cann Foundation,' expressed concern over the reliance on prayer camps for healthcare instead of seeking professional medical attention. While acknowledging the role of spirituality in healing, Mr Cann emphasized the importance of prioritizing medical care for health conditions to prevent unnecessary deaths.
Overall, GNAT's advocacy for improved healthcare access and awareness among teachers underscores the urgent need to address the root causes of hypertension-related deaths and promote healthier lifestyles in the education sector.