The Dormaa West District Health Directorate has expressed concern over the growing number of hypertension cases among women and traders in the district following a recent health screening exercise.The District Director of Health Services, Mr. Daniel Owusu Amponsah, disclosed that 160 out of 1,600 people screened during this year’s Hypertension Month activities in Nkrankwanta and nearby communities were diagnosed with high blood pressure, representing 10% of all those tested.
According to him, women accounted for the majority of the confirmed cases, with 108 diagnoses, while 52 men also tested positive. Traders were the most affected occupational group, making up 38% of all hypertension cases identified.
Mr. Amponsah attributed the high number of cases among traders to their demanding work schedules, which often leave little time for regular physical activity.
He added that government workers accounted for 28% of the cases, farmers made up 19%, while 10% of those diagnosed were unemployed.
He said all individuals who tested positive during the screening exercise have been referred to the Nkrankwanta Government Hospital for further assessment, treatment and continued medical care.
Mr. Amponsah also revealed that the Dormaa West District Health Directorate has partnered with security agencies in the district to provide their personnel with free quarterly health screenings.
The initiative is intended to monitor their health status, promote early detection of medical conditions and ensure timely medical intervention where necessary.