Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have emerged as one of the most significant health and development challenges of the 21st century. These diseases, which include cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes, are responsible for 41 million deaths each year, with 85% of premature deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that NCDs are a leading cause of mortality, accounting for 40% of global deaths. In Ghana, the situation is equally concerning, with NCDs accounting for approximately 45% of all deaths. This rising NCD burden is fueled by lifestyle changes, urbanization, and limited healthcare access, making it essential for the country to develop targeted interventions.
To address this critical health threat, the Ministry of Health, in partnership with the Ghana Health Service and with the support of WHO, has developed the Ghana STEPS Report 2023. This report, launched on Thursday, 31 October 2024, is a comprehensive nationwide assessment of NCD risk factors using WHO’s STEPwise approach. Supported by funding from UK in Ghana and the Norwegian government, this survey offers vital data to inform policy, enhance NCD surveillance, and facilitate evidence-based interventions that can save lives. The Ghana STEPS Report 2023 represents the country’s first nationwide NCD risk factor survey, setting a baseline for future efforts to monitor and combat the rising NCD burden.
Speaking at the launch event, Officer-In-Charge of WHO Ghana, Dr Frank Lule, highlighted WHO’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s use of data-driven strategies in NCD prevention. He stated, “WHO will continue supporting Ghana to use data in designing targeted interventions. With NCDs causing 40% of global deaths, this STEPS report is essential for reducing Ghana’s NCD burden.”
Representing the Minister of Health, Dr. Darius Kofi Osei echoed these sentiments, noting that “The survey findings highlight serious health concerns but also offer an opportunity for action, providing vital evidence for policy responses & baseline data to track progress.”
Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe, Director of Public Health at the Ghana Health Service, also emphasized the need for targeted prevention and intervention efforts. “NCDs are a major concern but largely preventable. This report gives us insight into risk factors, affected groups and paves the way for targeted interventions”, he said.
Mr. Dominic Farrell, Health Advisor at UK in Ghana, expressed hope that the report will guide actionable, cost-effective solutions: “It is our hope that this report serves as a foundation for targeted, cost-effective actions that empower Ghanaians to take charge of their health and reduce the burden of NCDs.”
The report presents a detailed look at several NCD risk factors in Ghana, including tobacco use, alcohol consumption, diet, salt intake, and physical activity. Findings reveal that 4.8% of adults aged 18 to 69 currently smoke tobacco, with a stark difference in prevalence between men and women. Additionally, 43.9% of adults have never consumed alcohol, while 22.6% are current drinkers, with a higher rate among men (30.6%) than women (14.5%). The survey further found low fruit and vegetable intake, with most Ghanaians consuming fewer than the recommended five servings per day, contributing to poor dietary habits that increase NCD risk.
Physical inactivity, another major NCD risk factor, is also widespread. Nearly 10% of adults do not meet the recommended level of physical activity, with more women than men falling short. The report shows a concerning trend in sedentary lifestyles, particularly among women, with 45.4% reporting no work-related physical activity.
WHO’s STEPwise approach utilized in the survey provides a robust framework for monitoring NCDs and their risk factors. A multi-stage sampling method was used to reach 5,438 participants across all regions of Ghana, with data collection carried out through computer-assisted interviews and health assessments using reliable devices. The results have been disaggregated by age, gender, and residence, providing a clear, representative picture of the NCD landscape in Ghana.
The Ghana STEPS Report 2023 stands as a foundational document for public health policy and action, providing timely data to inform interventions, track progress, and empower communities to engage in healthier lifestyle practices. It sets the stage for long-term efforts to reduce NCD prevalence and promote healthier living across Ghana.
For Additional Information or to Request Interviews, Please contact:Abdul-Lahie Abdul-Rahim NaaCommunications OfficerWHO Ghana Country OfficeEmail: abdullahiea [at] who.int (abdullahiea[at]who[dot]int)Tel: +233 20 196 2393
