Colorectal Cancer in Ghana: A Growing Health Concern

Professor Jonathan Dakubo reports that nearly 2,000 Ghanaians die from colorectal cancer each year, with 3,000 to 4,000 new cases annually. Key risk factors include poor diets, lack of exercise, and substance abuse. He advocates for healthier lifestyles to combat this preventable disease, which remains a leading global health concern.

Colorectal cancer presents a critical health challenge in Ghana, with nearly 2,000 deaths reported annually, according to Professor Jonathan Dakubo, a prominent figure in the country’s medical community. During an interview on Joy News, he stated that Ghana sees between 3,000 and 4,000 new cases of this cancer each year. Given the treatable and preventable nature of colorectal cancer, such losses are deemed unacceptable.

Professor Dakubo emphasized the gravity of the situation by illustrating that each year, the number of deaths from this disease dwarfs the population of his hometown, a small village with around 300 residents. He pointed out that the mortality rate equates to losing five times the population of his village yearly.

The professor identified several significant risk factors contributing to colorectal cancer, chief among them being diet, lack of exercise, and substance abuse. He elaborated that unhealthy dietary choices, sedentary lifestyles, and the misuse of substances such as alcohol and tobacco are major contributors, alongside hereditary factors and environmental influences like pesticides and chemicals.

To combat the rising incidences of colorectal cancer, Professor Dakubo urged Ghanaians to adopt healthier lifestyle practices. He noted the importance of proactive measures in reducing the overall burden of the disease.

Globally, colorectal cancer ranks as the third most prevalent cancer type, constituting around 10% of all cancer cases, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). It remains the second leading cause of cancer-related fatalities, with the majority of cases affecting individuals aged 50 and older.

In conclusion, colorectal cancer poses a significant health issue in Ghana, resulting in substantial mortality rates and a notable number of new cases annually. Professor Jonathan Dakubo’s insights shed light on crucial risk factors and emphasize the need for lifestyle changes to mitigate this preventable disease. Addressing dietary habits, physical activity, and substance use can potentially reduce the disease’s prevalence and improve public health outcomes.

Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com