Dansoman: Dr. Angel Abena Tiwaa, a Medical Officer, has emphasized the importance of families understanding their medical history and engaging in regular health checks for the early detection of diseases.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Tiwaa highlighted that being aware of one's family health history can help individuals identify their risks for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and sickle cell disease, allowing for preventive actions. She made these remarks during a 'Health Sunday' event hosted by Resurrection Power and Living Bread Ministries International, Dansoman-My Father's House, under the theme: 'Stewarding the Family's Health.'
Dr. Tiwaa advised against waiting for symptoms or critical conditions to prompt medical consultations, instead urging regular health screenings and immediate responses to detected abnormalities. She stressed the necessity of understanding one's body to identify potential health risks and make informed health decisions.
She also called on parents to monitor their children's health and development closely, particularly during the first 1,000 days of life, which she identified as crucial for long-term health outcomes. Dr. Tiwaa encouraged patients to engage actively with healthcare providers by asking questions about their conditions and treatments, rather than solely depending on information given during consultations.
Highlighting the importance of adherence to medical advice, Dr. Tiwaa advised timely medical consultations upon noticing unusual symptoms and encouraged financial planning for unexpected health needs, including utilizing health insurance. She also emphasized the need for men to prioritize regular health check-ups and early disease detection, noting that they generally seek medical care less frequently than women.
Dr. Tiwaa advocated for a comprehensive approach to family health, involving healthy living practices such as regular exercise, stress management, adequate sleep, and avoiding harmful habits. She warned against excessive sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and suggested incorporating physical activities like walking into daily routines.
Addressing the role of faith in health, Dr. Tiwaa urged Christians to integrate prayer with healthy living and professional medical care, emphasizing that faith should not replace seeking medical advice. She highlighted the importance of obtaining accurate health information from credible sources, including healthcare professionals, rather than relying solely on social media.
Dr. Tiwaa concluded by encouraging families to openly discuss health issues and support each other in making healthier choices, reinforcing that a healthy family contributes to a thriving church and society. She advocated for a proactive health approach through knowledge acquisition, prevention, and early health-seeking behaviors.