Self-medication, energy drinks driving hypertension cases – Doctors warn

Medical doctors at St. Martin’s Catholic Hospital in the Amansie South District have raised concerns over a steady increase in hypertension cases, warning that self-medication and excessive consumption of energy drinks are contributing significantly to the trend.

The concerns were highlighted during this year’s Hypertension Month celebration at the hospital, where health professionals educated residents on the dangers of uncontrolled high blood pressure and the importance of adopting healthier lifestyles.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Owusu Berkoma, Medical Director of the hospital, linked the growing number of hypertension cases partly to the stressful nature of mining activities in the district.

“A significant number of residents frequently resort to self-medication by purchasing drugs from pharmacies and chemical shops without proper medical consultation or prescription,” he said, warning that the practice could worsen hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions.

Dr. Berkoma also expressed concern about the widespread use of energy drinks, particularly among young people and miners. He noted that many of the products contain high levels of caffeine and other stimulants that can raise heart rates and blood pressure when consumed excessively.

He said the combination of work-related stress, poor dietary habits, self-medication and excessive intake of energy drinks was increasing the risk of hypertension among residents, often without early diagnosis.

“Many people are living with hypertension without knowing their status. Regular checkups, proper diet, and lifestyle modification are very important in preventing avoidable deaths,” Dr. Berkoma emphasized.

The medical director urged residents to undergo regular blood pressure checks and medical screenings, stressing that early detection remains critical in preventing severe complications such as stroke, heart disease and sudden death.

Also addressing the gathering, Paul Ralph Odum, Health Service Administrator at the hospital, cautioned against the excessive consumption of processed and packaged foods.

According to him, products such as instant noodles, biscuits, canned beverages and other processed foods often contain high levels of salt, sugar and preservatives that can contribute to hypertension when consumed frequently.

Mr. Odum encouraged residents to adopt healthier eating habits by consuming more natural and locally grown foods, fruits and vegetables, while also engaging in regular physical exercise and managing stress effectively.

Health experts have consistently identified hypertension as one of Ghana’s leading public health challenges, with many cases remaining undiagnosed until serious complications develop. The awareness campaign formed part of efforts to promote early detection and healthier lifestyle choices among residents in the mining district.

Source: Citi News