By Mavis Paintsil, Accra
Ghana has rolled out a new school-based prevention project to tackle the surge in lifestyle diseases among pupils, with health officials warning that diabetes, hypertension, and obesity are no longer just “adult problems.”
The Ghana News Agency reports the NCD Prevention Project was launched in May 2026 to educate children on healthy eating, physical activity, and the dangers of sugary drinks and processed foods.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Ignatius Awinibuno, Director of Allied Health and NCD Lead at the Ministry of Health, said the initiative is a direct response to rising cases of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes in Ghanaian children and teenagers.
“Traditionally, diabetes was seen as a condition mostly affecting adults.
However, we are now witnessing a concerning rise in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes among children and teenagers. This demands a bold, coordinated response, and that is exactly why we are here today,” Dr. Awinibuno stated.
The program will use interactive lessons, school health clubs, and teacher training to make prevention part of daily school life.
Materials have been adapted to reflect Ghanaian diets and cultural practices. 9e25
Health experts at the event stressed that early education is cheaper and more effective than treating complications later.
Dr. Etienne Krug, WHO Director for Social Determinants of Health, has previously told GNA that every dollar invested in NCD prevention yields about seven times the return compared to treatment.
The project also aligns with broader government efforts. Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang recently reaffirmed commitment to expanding NCD interventions under MahamaCares, noting that treatment costs are high and prevention is critical.
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