The First Lady of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. Mrs. Lordina Dramani Mahama, underscored the critical importance of early disease detection and proactive health management during a comprehensive free health screening exercise organised for vulnerable and underserved populations. The event, held on Friday, was a collaborative initiative between the Office of the First Lady and the Ghana AIDS Commission.
Addressing a diverse group of beneficiaries—including market women, head-porters (kayayei), hairdressers, and tailors—Mrs. Mahama emphasised that early testing remains one of the most effective tools in improving health outcomes, particularly for women, youth, and marginalised groups.
“We are here for a very important reason: the health of our people,” she stated. “This initiative seeks to raise awareness, provide free medical screening, offer professional counselling, and empower individuals to make informed decisions about their well-being.”
Mrs. Mahama highlighted that many individuals unknowingly live with life-threatening conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, HIV, and certain cancers, which often go undiagnosed due to financial, social, or geographic barriers to care. She stressed that early screening not only enables timely medical intervention but also helps prevent severe complications and reduces the long-term burden on the healthcare system.
“Early testing saves lives,” the First Lady affirmed. “When people know their health status, they can begin treatment early, manage their conditions effectively, and protect their loved ones. In the case of HIV, early diagnosis facilitates access to antiretroviral therapy, enabling individuals to live long and healthy lives.”
The outreach programme offered a wide array of essential services, including HIV and syphilis testing, breast cancer screening, blood pressure and blood glucose monitoring, body mass index assessments, and nutritional counselling. Participants also received health education on maternal health, antenatal care, and HIV/AIDS prevention strategies, including ways to prevent mother-to-child transmission.
In her address, Mrs. Mahama made a direct appeal to the younger generation, urging them to adopt a culture of preventive health. “You are the future of our country,” she said. “But many young people today face health challenges due to lack of access to accurate information and essential services. We must change that narrative—starting with regular medical check-ups and open dialogue with health professionals.”
The First Lady encouraged participants to take full advantage of the free services made available on-site and to engage actively with the medical teams. “This is a safe space. Ask your questions, get screened, and take charge of your health. We are here for you.”
Mrs. Mahama also used the platform to highlight broader healthcare initiatives spearheaded under the current administration. She cited the launch of the Ghana Medical Trust Fund—popularly referred to as Mahama Cares—which aims to provide critical support for the diagnosis and treatment of non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease, kidney failure, and cancer.
In addition, she referenced the forthcoming Free Primary Healthcare Programme, which is expected to improve early disease detection and enhance health literacy among the population. “This programme will increase awareness of personal health status and contribute significantly to prevention and early intervention,” she stated.
The outreach initiative aligns with national efforts to reduce health disparities and improve equitable access to quality healthcare, especially among those most at risk.
Story: Lawal Mohammed
