Pateli Health Aid Mission (PAHAM) recently partnered with Elizabeth Sey and Kwapong Halls to support their Hall Week celebrations by promoting healthy lifestyles and conducting vital health screenings for students. The initiative focused on raising awareness about Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), which are increasingly prevalent among university students, and emphasized the importance of early detection and prevention.
During the event, PAHAM provided free screenings for hypertension, diabetes, body mass index (BMI), and sickle cell disease. The organization used the opportunity to educate students on the critical role of early diagnosis in saving lives and managing chronic conditions effectively.
Speaking at the event, PAHAM’s Executive Director, Patience Edziah, expressed concern over the sedentary lifestyles common among university students. She highlighted the excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages and lack of physical activity as key contributors to the rising incidence of NCDs in this demographic.
“Many students rely heavily on sugary drinks and often skip meals or eat unhealthy foods, which predisposes them to conditions like diabetes and hypertension,” Edziah explained. “Our team took this opportunity to educate them on the benefits of an active lifestyle and regular exercise.”
Edziah further emphasized that the health screenings were designed to help students understand their current health status. “Knowing your health indicators early allows you to take proactive steps to maintain your well-being and prevent complications,” she added.
The public health nurse also urged students to seek prompt medical attention if any abnormalities were detected during the screening. She encouraged them to incorporate regular physical activity into their daily routines to improve overall health outcomes.
Students who participated in the screening expressed appreciation for the initiative, affirming the adage that “health is wealth.” Many welcomed the chance to learn more about their health and to take preventive measures against potential illnesses.
Pateli Health Aid Mission (PAHAM) is a Ghana-based health organization committed to enhancing healthcare delivery and education. The organization has a strong track record of conducting health education programs and screenings across various communities and educational institutions, aiming to reduce the burden of preventable diseases and promote healthier lifestyles.
