Symptoms Of Heart Attack And Heartburn: What's The Difference?

Because of the similarities they share, people are often confused as to whether what they are going through is a heart attack or a mere case of heartburn. Suddenly, there is a gripping and painful sensation on the chest region and it feels like one would collapse at any moment. The experience comes with a certain amount of panic for those suffering from high blood pressure and heart disease, which are the major causes of heart attack. But before we look deeper into the similarities and differences between the symptoms of heart disease and heartburn, let’s take a little peep into the prevalence of high blood pressure and heart disease in Africa.

The Prevalence Of High Blood Pressure In Africa

High blood pressure (hypertension) and cardiovascular disease are major, rapidly growing health crises in Africa, with the continent experiencing the world's

highest prevalence of hypertension at roughly 46% of adults aged 25+. Cardiovascular diseases are the second leading cause of death, with over 1.6 million

deaths annually. Estimates generally range between 20–46% of the adult population, with some studies showing up to 50% in certain populations (e.g., South Africa). Urban areas report higher prevalence (approximately . 32.9%) compared to rural areas (26.3%), largely driven by lifestyle changes. Roughly 48% of women and 34% of men in Africa are affected by hypertension, with the disease shifting to younger populations in recent times.

What Is Heart Attack?

A heart attack (myocardial infarction) is a life-threatening medical emergency occurring when blood flow—carrying essential oxygen—is suddenly blocked to a part of the heart muscle, usually by a clot in a narrowed coronary artery. Without immediate treatment to restore flow, this causes the muscle tissue to begin to die. Common symptoms include chest pain or discomfort (squeezing, pressure), shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, and pain in the arm, neck, or jaw. 

Heart attacks are primarily caused by high blood pressure or heart disease. Heart disease describes a variety of issues that can affect your heart. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type. CAD, also known as coronary heart disease, can make your arteries narrow and lead to a heart attack. Heart disease can also affect your heart muscle, valves or electrical system. The symptoms you have and the treatments you get depend on the type of heart disease you have.

When your heart isn’t working well, it has trouble sending enough blood, oxygen and nutrients to your body. In a way, your heart delivers the fuel that keeps your body running. If your heart can’t deliver that fuel, it affects everything your body’s systems do.

Lifestyle changes and consumption of natural foods like nuts, fruits and vegetables can keep your heart healthy and lower your chances of getting heart disease.

What Is Heartburn?

Heartburn is a painful, burning sensation in the chest behind the breastbone, often accompanied by a bitter taste in the throat, caused by stomach acid flowing back up into the esophagus (acid reflux). It is typically triggered by eating, lying down, or bending over. While common, frequent, or severe symptoms may indicate a more serious condition like GERD. 

There is usually a burning pain on the chest (often after eating or at night), a sour or acidic taste, and sometimes difficulty swallowing or a hoarse voice.

Heartburn is often caused by a weakened lower esophageal sphincter allowing acid to rise

. Common triggers include eating large meals, fatty/fried foods, caffeine, chocolate, citrus, tomato sauce, mint, alcohol, and smoking

Similarities And Differences Between Heart Disease And Heartburn

Heartburn and heart disease (including heart attacks) both cause chest discomfort, making them difficult to distinguish. Heartburn feels like a burning sensation behind the breastbone, often after eating or lying down. Heart disease/attack, however, typically feels like pressure, squeezing, tightness, or pain that may spread to the arms, neck, or jaw. 

The similarities between these two health conditions include: both can cause pain in the chest area; both are often felt behind the breastbone even though heartburn sometimes is felt more in the middle of the chest than on the breastbones; both can be accompanied by nausea or dizziness. 

The differences are as follow: heartburn is a sharp, burning sensation while  heart attack is pressure, tightness, squeezing, or heaviness; heartburn often occurs after eating, or when lying down/bending over while  heart attack pain often occurs during physical exertion or stress; heartburn may cause a sour or bitter taste in the mouth while  heart attack may cause shortness of breath, cold sweats, or pain radiating to the jaw, neck, back, or left arm.

  

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Zimbabwean Children Facing Silent Health Crisis From The Consumption Of Instant Noodles And Zapnax Snacks

Article By Michael Gwarisa

While they may be convenient and easy to prepare for your little ones, flavoured snacks, foods and beverages contain high sugar, salt and or unhealthy fats that can increase the risk of becoming overweight or obese, and of related chronic diseases later in life.

Data from the 2024 Zimbabwe Livelihoods Assessment Committee (ZimLAC) show that Zimbabwe recorded obesity levels of 5.2% in Infants and Young Children (IYC) owing to consumption of unhealthy foods.

 According to the study, unhealthy snack food and beverage consumption in Zimbabwe has been associated with a higher risk of nutrient inadequacy, and lower length-for-age among one-year-olds. Food preferences that begin early in life track into later childhood and adolescence and such practices, if continued throughout adolescence and adulthood, can increase the risk of becoming overweight or obese, and of related chronic diseases later in life.

Speaking in an interview with HealthTimes of Zimbabwe , Chj Chikanda, a Nutritionist with the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) said though it is trendy to feed children flavoured foods, it was unhealthy.

“No, these foods are not safe. Though very convenient and time saving, they pose significant health risks. Some of the food colouring and flavouring have been associated with hyperactivity in children. Some have been found to trigger allergies and worsening of asthma. Some lead to stomach irritation and cramps,” said Chikanda.

She added that there is increased risk of chronic diseases like hypertension, type-2 diabetes and cancer when these flavoured foods are frequently consumed over a long period of time.

“These are responsible for about 74% of global deaths and disability, not to mention increased healthcare costs and reduced quality of life. In addition, when mostly consumed without proper meals, these foods can also result in gastric problems including peptic ulcers (sores that develop in the lining of stomach or upper part of small intestine). If sub-optimally treated these can result in internal bleeding as slow blood loss resulting in anaemia, or as severe blood loss that requires blood transfusion and hospitalization.”

In Zimbabwe, a wide variety of artificially flavoured foods being consumed. These include relish or gravy mixes added to sauces usually labelled beef or chicken flavoured. Instant or two-minute noodles, flavoured snacks/chips, candy, sugar sweetened beverages including soft drinks, flavoured milks and cordials have become preferred quick fix solutions to hunger or cravings. Some processed meats such as sausages and hot dogs being sold at formal and informal food outlets with chips/French fries are not healthy.

“Let me try to simplify as much as possible. So some of these flavours, let me give an example of beef meat flavoured corn snacks. Whilst chewing and savoring the yummy beefy taste, signals are sent to the stomach that one has consumed meat, resulting in gastric acids being secreted to digest the meat. But alas!! It’s not meat but a lightweight snack yet acid will still be released, what happens now? The acids with nothing else to digest will pass away time by going for your stomach linings “the collateral damage,” said Chikanda.

The 2025 Zimbabwe Livelihoods Assessment Committee (ZimLAC) survey highlights the urgency of tackling unhealthy diets among children. Although Zimbabwe has set targets to reduce childhood overweight, the survey warns that  dietary shifts toward ultra processed foods threaten these gains. ZimLAC categorises overweight prevalence as very low when it is below 2.5 percent, low between 2.5 and below 5 percent, medium between 5 and below 10 percent

, high between 10 and below 15 percent, and very high at 15 percent or above. Public health analysts say sustained consumption of high salt, high fat and low nutrient snacks could push more communities into the higher risk categories.

“In my experience, pre-school and younger school aged children enjoy consuming flavoured snacks, sherbet, and candy that paint the tongue and mouth (Peer pressure greatly involved). If you want to see what I am talking about give a 4 year old a dollar pocket money and observe what they will buy (they will most likely consume it where their counterparts are playing.)

However, in Zimbabwe it seems consuming flavoured foods and snacks is not only an infant problem as other older groups also prefer the foods owing to their convenience.

School going children (day-scholars) have these food packed in their lunch boxes by caregivers and when they get pocket money they almost always purchase these snacks from vendors or tuck-shops within their school vicinities. On the other hand, boarders carry cartons of these snacks to school as tuck. University students renting outside campus residence also largely consume these snacks to avoid cooking, whilst their campus residing counterparts snack on the same in between meals. Some grown-ups staying alone also consume some of these foods for convenience purposes.

Culled from HealthTimes  HealthTimes  

 

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Protecting Tanzanians From The Adverse Health Effects Of Using Charcoal As Cooking Fuel

The Use Of Charcoal As Cooking Fuel In Tanzania

The use of charcoal as a cooking fuel is extremely widespread and deeply entrenched in Tanzania, particularly in urban areas. Approximately 90% of all Tanzanian households rely on solid biomass (firewood and charcoal) for their daily cooking needs. While firewood is dominant in rural areas, charcoal is the primary energy source for urban households, with usage rates in cities like Dar es Salaam exceeding 60% as a main fuel, and approaching 90% when including those who use it as part of a fuel mix. 

Charcoal is the mainstay of energy for urban households because it is more affordable and easier to transport and store than other fuels, despite government efforts to promote LPG.

The Adverse Health Effects Of Cooking With Charcoal

Cooking with charcoal has significant adverse health effects, primarily due to the emission of harmful pollutants and the formation of carcinogens in food

cooked at high temperatures. The risks are particularly high when cooking in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces.

According to the WHO, the deaths of millions of people around the world every year are caused by air pollution and of that number, more than 60% corresponds to pollution in residential environments. This means that at least 4.3 million people die from burning solid fuels with inefficient ventilation and this is the main source of indoor pollution across the globe.

Most of these deaths occur due to heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung cancer precipitated by long-term use of these dirty fuels. Also, a significant number of acute respiratory diseases also occur in children who are exposed to such environments.

An NGO’s Passionate Appeal To Tanzanians Using Charcoal As Cooking Fuel

It was at the backdrop of these grim realities that a foundation recently urged Tanzanians to abandon cooking with charcoal and firewood and adopt clean, alternative energy sources to safeguard their health and protect the environment from rapid climate change impacts.

The call was made in Mpwapwa District by the Executive Director of the Foundation for Disabilities Hope (FDH), Mr Maiko Salali, during an awareness campaign on Rafiki Briquettes, an ecofriendly charcoal alternative produced by the State Mining Corporation (STAMICO).

Mr Salali noted that the continued reliance on traditional cooking fuels such as firewood and charcoal is among the leading causes of environmental degradation, particularly rampant deforestation.

“The use of dirty energy, especially charcoal and firewood, brings serious health, social, economic, and environmental challenges. We are encouraging communities to embrace alternative charcoal solutions like Rafiki Briquettes to conserve the environment and safeguard people’s health,” he said.

He added that Tanzania, together with the global community, has set ambitious strategies to curb the use of polluting cooking fuels in order to protect current and future generations.

Explaining further, Mr Salali said the alternative charcoal not only safeguards the environment and human health but also offers economic opportunities, allowing people to engage in distribution and sales.

“As an organisation supporting persons with disabilities, we have been granted dealership rights by STAMICO to distribute this product. This initiative economically empowers people with disabilities and reduces dependency,” he said.

He further highlighted that ecofriendly charcoal is particularly beneficial for persons with albinism, as deforestation increases exposure to harmful ultraviolet rays, which can cause skin cancer.

The widespread deforestation is accelerating climate change and threatening the country’s ecological balance.

Mr Salali emphasised that adopting clean cooking solutions like Rafiki Briquettes is key to protecting forests, improving public health, and promoting sustainable development.

  

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Zambian Government Braces Up For An Imminent Outbreak Of Polio

African countries have continued to battle the scourge of polio. Zambia has now come to the spotlight as the country is currently responding to a declared poliovirus outbreak following the detection of the virus in wastewater in Lusaka in February 2026, despite

being declared free of indigenous wild poliovirus in 2005. While no clinical cases of paralysis have been reported in this recent outbreak, the detection

confirms virus shedding within communities.

Protecting Children Under Five Years

The country confirmed the detection of poliovirus in environmental samples collected in Zambia, specifically in the capital city, Lusaka. Although no confirmed cases of paralytic polio have been reported, the presence of the virus in wastewater signals possible silent transmission within communities, particularly among unvaccinated children. Polio is a highly infectious viral disease that primarily affects children under five years of age. It spreads through contaminated water, poor sanitation, and close person-to-person contact. In severe cases, it can cause irreversible paralysis and even death. While Zambia had previously achieved polio-free status, this recent detection highlights how easily the virus can re-emerge if population immunity declines.Globally, the fight against polio has been led by initiatives supported by the World Health Organization and international partners, resulting in dramatic reductions in cases over the past decades. However, outbreaks continue to occur in areas where immunization coverage is incomplete, reinforcing the need for sustained vaccination efforts and strong surveillance systems. In response, Zambian health authorities have activated emergency response measures, including intensified surveillance and targeted immunization campaigns aimed at protecting all eligible children. These efforts are critical to preventing further spread and safeguarding public health. The recent outbreak serves as an important reminder: polio eradication requires constant vigilance, community participation, and full vaccination coverage. Protecting every child through immunization remains the most effective way to stop the virus and keep Zambia polio-free.

Zambian Government And Response To The New Threat

Acting Minister of Health Cornelius Mweetwa said the virus was detected through the country's environmental surveillance system, noting that no confirmed clinical cases of polio-related paralysis have been reported.

"The detection through the environmental wastewater surveillance system confirms that the virus is being shed in our communities," he said in a ministerial statement delivered in the parliament.

Mweetwa said that circulating poliovirus has also been detected in some neighboring countries, pointing to a broader regional outbreak.

He said the government has established a national poliovirus response management system to coordinate containment efforts. A risk assessment and detailed field investigations are currently underway to determine the extent of possible community transmission.

The government will work with the World Health Organization to conduct vaccination campaigns targeting all children under the age of five in identified high-risk areas, he added.

While Zambia last recorded an indigenous wild poliovirus case in 1995, Mweetwa said the country has since periodically detected cases of circulating poliovirus, with the most recent case reported in December 2023.

  

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Fibrox: The Effective Herbal Cure For Fibroid

Before we take a look at what has made Fibrox the most effective treatment for Fibroid in Africa, it is note-worthy to consider briefly what Fibroid itself really is.

What Is Fibroid?

The word "Fibroid" sounds like a death knell in the ears of most women. But this should not be so. Every woman has Fibroid because it is a natural growth on the walls of the uterus. However, it is when this growth becomes abnormal that Fibroid becomes an issue, and in some cases, can become a very big issue if the right steps are not taken to correct it.

Orthodox medicine does not have any remedy for Fibroid other than surgery. However, this is a very risky approach because in most cases, surgery scars the uterus, making normal ovarian functions like normal menstruation, ovulation and conception difficult if not impossible.

Surgery And Its Complications

Surgery brings a whole lot of complications that end up damaging the womb. Some women have had their womb completely removed because of complications due to Fibroid surgery.

Why Fibrox Has Been Recording Success Testimonials In The Fight Against Fibroid

It then becomes obvious that the actual cure for Fibroid lies in natural, herbal therapy. And this is where Fibrox comes to play a vital roll.

Ever since its formulation, Fibrox has been recording success after success in the management, treatment and cure of Fibroid cases and several testimonies have been pouring in from across Africa. (You can read two of these amazing testimonies here).

So, what is Fibrox? Fibrox is a 100% natural medicine, made from Nigerian local herbs, packaged by a Nigerian company based in Lagos, and most important of all, recognised, approved and registered by NAFDAC ( National Agency for Food  and Drug Administration and Control), the agency vested with the power and authority to regulate food and drugs in Nigeria.

Fibrox is a powerful natural anti-fibroid formula. It is a potent and high quality formulation for female health and wellness and for hormone balancing. It is a nice product for reduction and control of Fibroid and abnormal swellings in the uterus.

Who Needs Fibroid?

Fibrox is good supplement for women with heavily menses, internal swelling, frequent miscarriages, abnormal growth.

Fibrox works naturally by helping the body to prevent the growth of abnormal swellings in the uterus, by reducing the swelling or assisting the body to dissolve the Fibroid, through the powerful natural ingredients which activates and boost the internal cleaning system in the womb. It shrinks the size of fibroids back to the uterine level, where conception and implantation of fetus is assured.  

Fibrox works by reducing swellings, inflammation, congestion and is also a restorative for good health.

 

So, do you have fibroid or is someone close you suffering from it? has the doctor told you that you cannot conceive unless you undergo surgery? you don't need to worry. With Fibrox, your fibroid can be cured within a space of 2 - 3 months.

To get the results proven NAFDAC approved herbal medicines for fibroid, contact +2347031040178 (WhatsApp only) 

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Ugandan Natural Health Firm Calls For Stronger Government Regulation And Standardization Of Sector

A Ugandan natural health product supplier is rewarding its most dedicated customers with an all-expenses-paid trip to Dubai while simultaneously urging significant reforms within the country’s herbal and natural remedy market. BeNatural Uganda announced that the new campaign will select a winner through public voting on social media based on customer testimonials.

Founder Angela Aguda Kobusingye explained the initiative was born from recognizing that the company’s growth over the past seven years has been built largely on customer referrals and trust, rather than traditional advertising. She stated the Dubai trip is a gesture of appreciation to the community that has supported the business since its inception.

Alongside the celebration, Kobusingye issued a strong call for greater regulation and standardization in Uganda’s burgeoning natural health sector. She highlighted critical challenges, including the adulteration of traditional herbs with modern pharmaceuticals and a lack of laws ensuring fair competition. These gaps, she argued, undermine consumer trust, product efficacy, and leave the public vulnerable to misleading information.

To address these issues, Kobusingye urged the government to implement comprehensive policies, stringent quality controls, and improved supply chain infrastructure. She also emphasized the need for consumer education to promote the safe use of natural remedies and combat misinformation.

The COVID-19 pandemic served as a pivotal moment for BeNatural, as heightened health consciousness and overwhelmed hospitals led many Ugandans to seek out natural alternatives. Kobusingye also noted the impact of the digital age, where increasingly informed customers often arrive with specific product requests based on their own research.

Uganda’s natural health market is experiencing significant growth, driven by rising interest in plant-based and preventive healthcare. The sector now includes a wide range of products from herbal teas to skincare formulations. BeNatural, founded seven years ago, specializes in organic, locally-sourced remedies.

  

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Japan Boosts Food And Nutrition For Rwandan Refugees With Over USD 666,000

The World Food Programme (WFP) has received a contribution of over USD 666,000 (approximately Rwf 920 million) from the government of Japan to provide lifesaving food and nutrition assistance to refugees, asylum seekers and returnees in Rwanda.

The funding was announced at a ceremony in Kigali attended by Japan’s Ambassador to Rwanda, Kazuya Nakajo; Ngoga Aristarque, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry in charge of Emergency Management (MINEMA); and Andrea Bagnoli, WFP’s Representative and Country Director in Rwanda.

“We are deeply grateful to the Government and people of Japan for their generous contribution. This support will help WFP in collaboration with the Government to deliver lifesaving assistance to refugees, asylum seekers, and returnees, ensuring that the most vulnerable people can rebuild their lives with dignity and hope,” said Bagnoli.

A statement from WFP noted that the contribution will enable the organisation to provide food and nutrition assistance to more than 21,000 refugees, asylum seekers, and returnees. This includes supplementary nutrition for over 10,000 vulnerable people, including infants and young children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and those living with HIV or tuberculosis to manage and prevent malnutrition.

WFP supports about 130,000 refugees and asylum seekers, mainly from the Democratic Republic of Congo and Burundi, with in-kind food and cash assistance.

“Renewed fighting in eastern DRC in December forced more than 1,000 asylum seekers to seek safety in Rwanda. WFP responded by providing 6,000 hot meals for the new arrivals and specialised nutritious foods for prevention of malnutrition following nutrition screening. Although many of them have returned home, the situation in DRC remains unpredictable and volatile. Japan’s contribution will help WFP respond swiftly and effectively to evolving needs,” the statement read.

The government of Japan has been a major contributor to WFP, providing over USD 9 million (approximately RWF 13,122,000,000) for humanitarian operations in Rwanda since 2020.

Ambassador Nakajo said that at a time when the humanitarian sector is facing challenges, Japan remains firmly committed to the philosophy of human security to ensure that individuals can live with dignity, free from fear and want.

The government of Japan has been a major contributor to WFP, providing over USD 9 million (approximately RWF 13,122,000,000) for humanitarian operations in Rwanda since 2020.

  

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WHO Calls On Liberian Government To Take Decisive Action On Neglected Tropical Diseases

The World Health Organization (WHO) has renewed its call on the government of Liberia to scale up action against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), warning that without sustained investment and stronger domestic leadership, the diseases will continue to exact a heavy toll on the country’s poorest and most marginalized communities.

The call was made by WHO Resident Representative to Liberia, Dr. Olushayo Olu, during his keynote address at the observance of World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day, organized by the Ministry of Health in Monrovia. The event was held under the global theme “Unite, Act and Eliminate.”

According to the Liberian Observer, neglected Tropical Diseases—such as lymphatic filariasis, onchocerciasis (river blindness), schistosomiasis, soil-transmitted helminths, and leprosy—have long posed a serious public health and socio-economic challenge in Liberia and across West Africa. These diseases thrive in conditions of poverty, poor sanitation, limited access to clean water, and weak health systems, disproportionately affecting rural populations.

The paper noted that inn Liberia, NTDs have contributed to chronic illness, disability, stigma, lost productivity, and entrenched poverty, particularly in hard-to-reach counties. Health experts note that while these diseases rarely dominate headlines, their cumulative impact has undermined livelihoods, reduced school attendance among children, and strained fragile healthcare services.

Across West Africa, the burden of NTDs has similarly slowed development, reinforcing cycles of poverty in communities already grappling with the effects of conflict, climate shocks, and underinvestment in health infrastructure.

Despite the challenges, Liberia has made notable progress. Dr. Olu commended the country for what he described as a global milestone—becoming the first country in the world to develop a five-year strategic plan dedicated specifically to combating NTDs among vulnerable populations.

“This is a major step forward and a clear demonstration of Liberia’s commitment to addressing diseases that continue to affect the poorest and most marginalized,” Dr. Olu said.

The plan provides a coordinated framework for prevention, treatment, surveillance, and community engagement, aligning national efforts with global elimination targets. The country’s progress has also been supported by years of mass drug administration campaigns, improved disease mapping, and partnerships with international donors and non-governmental organizations.

Dr. Olu reaffirmed WHO’s continued technical and financial support to the Ministry of Health, including assistance with the supply and distribution of medicines targeting endemic counties.

“We will continue to provide medicines and support efforts to reach at least two million people in epidemic-prone counties,” he said.

However, he cautioned that external support alone will not be sufficient to eliminate NTDs.

“There is a need to scale up domestic resource mobilization to sustain prevention and control efforts and further reduce the spread of neglected tropical diseases,” Dr. Olu emphasized.

Health experts say this call reflects a broader shift in global health policy—urging countries to move from donor-dependence toward national ownership and long-term financing of disease control programs.

Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Health, Assistant Minister for Preventive Services, Dr. Cuallau Howe, reaffirmed the government’s determination to minimize and ultimately eliminate NTDs nationwide.

“The Government remains fully committed to strengthening prevention, treatment, and surveillance programs, especially in hard-to-reach communities,” Dr. Howe said.

He praised development partners for their sustained contributions, describing them as essential to Liberia’s progress so far.

“The support of our partners has been instrumental in reducing the burden of these diseases, and we remain grateful for their continued cooperation,” he added.

If Liberia heeds WHO’s call for intensified action, public health experts say the benefits could be transformative. Strengthened domestic financing, expanded community outreach, and improved surveillance could accelerate the elimination of several NTDs, reduce long-term healthcare costs, and improve productivity in rural areas.

Eliminating NTDs would also contribute directly to poverty reduction, improved educational outcomes for children, and progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those related to health, equality, and economic growth.

Conversely, failure to sustain momentum could risk resurgence, especially in remote communities where access to health services remains limited.

The World NTD Day program brought together officials from the Ministry of Health, representatives of international non-governmental organizations, students, and members of the Network of People Affected by Neglected Tropical Diseases, highlighting the importance of community voices in shaping effective responses.

Observed annually, World Neglected Tropical Diseases Day serves as a reminder that diseases affecting the poorest must no longer remain invisible.

As Dr. Olu’s call underscores, the fight against NTDs in Liberia is no longer only about treatment—it is about equity, resilience, and national development. With sustained political will, domestic investment, and continued partnership, Liberia has an opportunity not only to control these diseases, but to eliminate them as a barrier to human dignity and progress.

  

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CBG Rolls Out Free Health Screening On Blood Pressure, Diabetes And Cholesterol In Ghana

The prevalence of high blood pressure (hypertension) in Ghana is high and rapidly increasing, with recent estimates suggesting that between 28% and 50%

of adults are affected. Hypertension is a major public health issue in the country, often under-diagnosed and linked to rapid urbanization, with higher

rates observed in urban areas (up to 54%) compared to rural areas.

It is at the backdrop of this that the Consolidated Bank Ghana Limited (CBG) rolled out a free health screening programme, targeting about 1,000 residents in the Baatsona and Spintex communities in the Greater Accra Region. 

The exercise was focused on helping residents know their blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol levels.

It was also used to encourage them to take responsibility for their health and give medical advice where necessary.

Lack of awareness has always been a major obstacle in the fight against blood pressure in Ghana. A major concern is the high rate of undiagnosed cases. Studies indicate that up to 66% of people with high blood pressure are unaware of their condition.

Obesity and overweight rates are high and rising in Ghana, particularly in urban areas and among women. A recent health survey found that 50.2% of women aged 15-49 were overweight or obese, with nearly 43% of the total adult population affected, driven by dietary shifts and sedentary urban lifestyles.

High cholesterol and related lipid disorders are also a significant and growing public health concern in Ghana

. While historically considered lower in African populations, dyslipidaemia—abnormal levels of lipids—is now highly prevalent, particularly

in urban areas.

The CBG health screening formed part of the bank’s effort to promote preventive health care and support Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) three on good health and well-being.

Another area of focus in its free health screening is diabetes. Diabetes prevalence in Ghana is rising rapidly, with estimates ranging from 4.0% to 8.3percent. It is a major non-communicable disease (NCD) threat, particularly affecting urban areas and older adults, while also emerging in younger populations.

According to CBG, the Health Train is a flagship health outreach initiative aimed at improving preventive healthcare and promoting health awareness in the communities where the bank operates.

The inaugural exercise, which held at the Power of Worship International Ministries (POWI) in Baatsonaa, provided hundreds of congregants and community members with free health screenings, including blood pressure, blood sugar (diabetes), and cholesterol checks.

Speaking on behalf of the Managing Director, Dr Naomi Wolali Kwetey, Mavis Frempong, Head of Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Brands at CBG, reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to improving community health outcomes.

“Consolidated Bank Ghana is a wholly Ghanaian-owned bank, and as part of our CSR policy, we focus on education, health, and community development. This first quarter, we are deliberately prioritising health, and that is why we are here today,” she said.

CBG Health Train targets about 1,000 beneficiaries across three locations, with the Baatsonaa outreach serving as the first stop.

She noted that the 2026 health campaign is themed “Know Your Numbers,” underscoring the importance of understanding one’s health status as a foundation for long-term well-being.

Mrs Frempong further disclosed that, in addition to the screenings, CBG will roll out additional health initiatives throughout the year to strengthen community healthcare delivery.

“As we always say, a healthy mind resides in a healthy body. Health is central to productivity and prosperity,” she noted.

The Founder and General Overseer of Power of Worship International Ministries, Prophet Daniel Amoateng, expressed profound appreciation to CBG for selecting the church as the first host community.

“We are grateful to CBG for bringing this important health intervention to our congregation and community. This initiative speaks to the bank’s genuine concern for the well-being of the people, and we are honoured to partner with CBG on this impactful programme,” he said.

According to the bank, the CBG Health Train will continue its journey to additional selected communities to empower Ghanaians to live healthier, more informed lives.

It further added that the initiative aligns with CBG’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) agenda and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3—Good Health and Well-Being.

  

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South African Sanitary Pads And Pantyliners Contain Hormone-disrupting Chemicals - New Study

A new research from the University of the Free State (UFS) has revealed  that menstrual products used by millions of South Africans contain hormone-disrupting chemicals, even when marketed as “free from harmful chemicals”.

The study, published in Science of the Total Environment, found that every sanitary pad and pantyliner tested contained at least two endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), raising serious questions about consumer safety, chemical disclosure and long-term health risks.

Researchers analysed 16 brands of sanitary pads and eight types of pantyliners sold at popular South African retailers, spanning a range of prices and including products marketed as “organic”, “plant-based” or “free from harmful chemicals”. The findings showed widespread contamination across all the tested products. 

The authors screened for three major classes of EDCs — phthalates, bisphenols (including bisphenol A, or BPA) and parabens. Every pad and liner contained at least two of the target chemicals. 

“EDCs, such as phthalates, bisphenols and parabens, are widely used in consumer products and have been associated with reproductive toxicity, hormonal imbalance and cancer,” the study noted.

“Menstrual products represent a potential but under-recognised source of exposure. In South Africa, several brands advertise as being free from harmful chemicals, yet limited research has verified these as potential EDC sources.”

The study highlighted a concerning reality regarding the safety of menstrual products, head of the university’s department of chemistry Deon Visser said. “Many sanitary pads and liners contain hormone-disrupting chemicals, even when they are marketed as being ‘free from harmful chemicals’.”

Bisphenols were detected in 100% of sanitary pads and 75% of pantyliners, while parabens were found in more than 81% of pads and 75% of liners. Phthalates, commonly used as plasticisers, were present in all pantyliners tested and in half of sanitary pads.

The researchers emphasised that the chemicals were not necessarily added intentionally. Instead, they could migrate into products during manufacturing from plastics, adhesives, packaging materials and even contaminated water used in production.

“The heat-pressing process can cause these chemicals to move into the top layer that touches your skin,” Visser said.

While the amounts detected in individual products might appear small, the study warns that the real concern lies in cumulative exposure over time.

Menstrual products are worn directly against highly permeable genital and mucosal tissue, which absorbs chemicals more readily than the skin on other parts of the body. Most users rely on pads and liners for several days every month over decades.

The results reveal that menstrual products such as sanitary pads and liners in South Africa are a “significant but overlooked source of toxic exposure”. Although daily doses might seem low, the long-term, repeated contact with sensitive tissues poses cumulative health risks, including reproductive toxicity and cancer.

EDCs, such as phthalates, bisphenols and parabens, are known female endocrine disruptors because they can mimic or interfere with natural hormones in the body. BPA, in particular, has a chemical structure similar to oestrogen, allowing it to bind to oestrogen receptors. Because oestrogen drives the growth of some breast cancers, this raises concern about long-term risk.

Heightened phthalate exposures have also been linked to fertility issues among men and women, premature puberty onset, endometriosis and ovulation disorders. Cases of contact dermatitis, thyroid hormone disruption, elevated sex steroid hormone levels and the induction of reactive oxygen species in the body have been reported too. 

“These issues, its transplacental transfer ability, its bio-cumulative nature and the serious damage chronic poisoning can cause to the reproductive system and the liver have raised concerns about its safety, especially in PCPs … There is increasing evidence that dermal contact is a relevant route of exposure,” the study said.

Using standard exposure calculations, the researchers found that daily exposure to BPA from pads and liners exceeded the European Food Safety Authority’s tolerable daily intake by dozens of times. When higher absorption rates — more realistic for vulvar skin — were considered, exposure levels increased dramatically.

“Although individual daily doses may look low, the group and cumulative exposure becomes significant,” the authors note, particularly given that menstrual products are only one of many daily sources of EDC exposure, alongside food, cosmetics, dust and water.

The findings highlight gaps in the country’s regulatory framework. While the South African Bureau of Standards sets requirements for aspects such as absorbency, size and microbiological safety, there are no standards governing chemical content in menstrual products.

“Manufacturers are not required to disclose the full chemical composition of menstrual products,” Visser said. “We believe they should disclose all chemicals, even if levels fall below daily limits.”

Globally, only a handful of regulators provide guidance on chemicals permitted in sanitary products, including the Food and Drug Administration in the US and Japan’s Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency. In South Africa, the only BPA-specific regulation applies to baby feeding bottles, not menstrual products.

The researchers warn that environmental contamination and weak regulation might continue to shape the chemical profiles of pads and liners sold locally. The study cautions that insufficient regulation and safety oversight of menstrual products compounds period poverty and increases the risk of harmful exposure among marginalised groups.

Disposable pads and liners are also mass-produced and widely discarded, where they can leach chemicals into soil and water systems, creating additional exposure pathways through food, drinking water and dust.

Unlike food or cosmetics, the chemical composition of menstrual products is rarely communicated to users, leaving little opportunity for informed choice.

While calling for stronger regulation, clearer labelling and routine monitoring of menstrual products, the researchers also offer practical advice. Visser recommends choosing products certified under the OEKO-TEX Standard 100, which restricts hazardous substances, or considering reusable menstrual products.

The research forms part of a broader UFS initiative on menstrual health and access. The interdisciplinary team is developing a reusable sanitary pad with antimicrobial properties.

“This study serves as a wake-up call,” Visser said. “Current regulations and ‘clean’ labels in South Africa may not be providing the protection consumers expect.”

The authors said further research was urgently needed to better understand long-term, low-dose exposure through menstrual products and to inform evidence-based policies that protect consumer health.

  

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