Lower Manya NCCE Educates Agormanya Market Queen Mothers on Hypertension Prevention and Management

The Lower Manya Krobo Municipal Office of the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE), in collaboration with St. Martin de Porres Hospital, Agormanya, has organised a public health education programme for Market Queen Mothers at the Agormanya Market Square.

The programme, held on Thursday, 4th June 2026, formed part of the Commission’s second-quarter public education activities and sought to raise awareness about hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, and the importance of adopting healthy lifestyles.

Speaking at the event, Mr Moses Tetteh Narh of St. Martin de Porres Hospital explained that blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of the arteries and is measured using two readings. He noted that hypertension can result from hereditary factors as well as lifestyle choices such as excessive consumption of salt, sugar, fatty foods, alcohol, and tobacco products.

Mr Narh further identified obesity, physical inactivity, and prolonged stress as major risk factors associated with high blood pressure. He cautioned that unmanaged hypertension could lead to serious health complications, including stroke, heart failure, kidney disease, heart attack, and other life-threatening conditions.

The participants were educated on some common symptoms associated with high blood pressure, including severe headaches, rapid heartbeat, blurred vision, and swollen feet. However, he noted that many people may not experience obvious symptoms, making regular health screening essential.

To prevent and manage hypertension, Mr Narh encouraged participants to adopt healthy eating habits by reducing their intake of salt, sugar, cholesterol, and highly processed foods while increasing the consumption of fruits and vegetables. He also advised them to engage in regular physical exercise, maintain healthy body weight, avoid alcohol and smoking, manage stress effectively, and undergo periodic medical check-ups.

He further urged persons diagnosed with hypertension to adhere strictly to prescribed medication and regularly monitor their blood pressure at recognised health facilities.

Addressing participants, Ms Josephine Akpabli, Civic Education Officer of the Lower Manya Municipal NCCE Office, highlighted the importance of preventive healthcare and encouraged community members to take proactive steps to safeguard their health and well-being.

On behalf of the Municipal Office, Ms Doris K. Sackitey, Assistant Director, expressed appreciation to the participants for their active involvement and thanked St. Martin de Porres Hospital for supporting the initiative.

The programme forms part of NCCE’s efforts to promote civic responsibility through public education on issues that contribute to the well-being and development of communities.