Chronic Non-communicable Diseases in Ghana

Book excerpt: Chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, stroke, diabetes and cancers, are major causes of disability and death in Ghana. NCDs are not only public health problems. They are also developmental problems, because the rising prevalence of long-term chronic conditions has major social and financial implications for affected individuals, families, healthcare providers and the government. This University of Ghana Readers volume from the Regional Institute for Population Studies presents social and medical science research on Ghanas NCD burden. The body of multidisciplinary research spans the last fifty years and offers important insights on NCD prevalence and experience as well as cultural, health systems and policy responses. This volume will be an essential resource for researchers and students in the health sciences, healthcare providers, health policymakers, and lay individuals with an interest in Ghanas contemporary public health challenges.