According to the latest statistical report released by the Births and Deaths Registry in Ghana, a staggering total of 18,689 deaths were attributed to the top 11 causes of mortality in the country in the year 2022. This accounted for 36.7% of all registered deaths, which amounted to 50,992.
Topping the list of killers was hypertension, claiming the lives of 2,573 individuals. Following closely were pneumonia (2,457), heart failure (2,225), acute respiratory failure (2,203), stroke (1,679), diabetes (1,578), severe sepsis (1,558), septic shock (1,401), chronic liver disease (1,103), cancer (1,036), and cerebrovascular diseases (876).
The report shed light on notable trends and patterns regarding the vulnerability of different demographics to these disease. Among adults and the elderly, pneumonia, severe sepsis, cerebrovascular diseases, heart failure, and cancer were identified as the most dominant associated causes of death, with percentages ranging from 49.0% to 59.0%. Additionally, males were found to be more susceptible to most of these diseases, except for cancer.
YOU CAN’T MISS: Agribusiness Boom in Ghana: What You Should Know
Public health experts emphasize the urgent need for targeted interventions to address these prevalent diseases and reduce mortality rates, especially among vulnerable populations such as the elderly and individuals with chronic conditions. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and access to quality healthcare, Ghana can work towards improving health outcomes and saving lives.
In summary, the top 11 diseases causing the most deaths in Ghana in 2022 are:
- Hypertension: 2,573
- Pneumonia: 2,457
- Heart Failure: 2,225
- Acute Respiratory Failure: 2,203
- Stroke: 1,679
- Diabetes: 1,578
- Severe Sepsis: 1,558
- Septic Shock: 1,401
- Chronic Liver Disease: 1,103
- Cancer: 1,036
- Cerebrovascular Diseases: 876