First Lady, Mrs Lordina Dramani Mahama, has called on the youth to take greater responsibility for their health, urging them to have medical check-ups at least once a year to prevent serious health complications.
Speaking at a free health screening event in Accra on Friday, Mrs Mahama directly addressed the younger generation, emphasizing their importance to the country’s future.
“I want to address the young people here directly. You are the future of this country. Your energy, your dreams and your well-being matter,” she told the gathering.
The First Lady expressed concern about the increasing number of youth falling ill, attributing this to a lack of access to proper health information, services, and support.
“Many young people today are falling ill, sometimes due to a lack of access to the right information, services, or support they need. That must change,” she stated.
Mrs Mahama stressed that addressing youth health challenges begins with open communication and regular health monitoring.
“It starts with talking openly to people who can help you, and by having a medical check at least once a year,” she advised.
The First Lady encouraged the youth at the event to take advantage of the free health services being offered, which included HIV and syphilis screening, blood pressure checks, sugar level tests, and breast cancer screening.
“Today, you can check your HIV status, your blood pressure and sugar levels, and even be screened for breast cancer, right here at this event, all for free,” she said. “I therefore encourage you all to take advantage of these services.”
The health screening event was a collaboration between the Office of the First Lady and the Ghana AIDS Commission, targeting vulnerable groups including hairdressers, tailors, head-porters, and market women.
Mrs Mahama emphasized the life-saving potential of early detection, stating that “Early testing saves lives. Knowing your health status early enables you to start treatment early and prevent serious complications.”
She also referenced upcoming government healthcare initiatives, including the Free Primary Healthcare Programme, which she said will “enhance awareness of the health status of our citizens and contribute to disease prevention.”
The First Lady encouraged attendees to ask questions and seek help, assuring them that support was available. “Feel free to ask any questions that come to mind. We are here for you,” she concluded.