LaNM Health Leads Men’s Wellness Initiative

Launch of the Men4Health Campaign in La Nkwantanang-Madina

The Men4Health Campaign has been launched in the La Nkwantanang-Madina Municipal area, aiming to encourage men to take charge of their health and wellbeing. The initiative was held at the Madina Social Welfare School Park, with support from the local Member of Parliament’s office. The campaign seeks to raise awareness about critical men’s health issues such as hypertension, diabetes, prostate cancer, and mental health.

Dr Efua Commeh, the Municipal Director of Health for La Nkwantanang-Madina, described the campaign as a groundbreaking effort in the country. She highlighted that the activities would not be limited to the launch event but would extend to various locations, including polyclinics, the Oyarifa Health Centre, Madina Market, Police Station, Fire Service, Chief’s Palace, schools, and other community hubs.

Mr Blaise Ackom, a nurse at the Madina Polyclinic, pointed out that many men only seek medical attention when their conditions have become severe. He urged them to change this pattern, emphasizing that late detection, stigma, and poor health-seeking behavior were significant challenges affecting men’s health.

At the launch, Mr. Ackom said, “This is not just another gathering. It is a movement—a movement to break the silence and raise awareness.” He encouraged men to adopt a proactive approach to their health, stating, “Let’s all embrace this movement. Let’s all encourage ourselves today and realize that health is not just about avoiding disease—it’s an investment in your future.”

He added, “Don’t wait for a stroke or a heart attack to remind you that blood pressure is a silent killer; Real men get checked not because they are weak but because they are wise; Your future self will thank you for every healthy choice you make today; and Strong men speak out. Silent battles kill.”

Sheikh Salman Mohammed Alhassan, the Chief Imam of Madina Zongo, pledged to mobilize men in his community to seek regular medical care, noting that cultural expectations often discouraged men from expressing vulnerability. Mr Ali Abdoulai Dagadu, Chief of Madina Zongo, urged men to prioritize their health to fulfill their roles as breadwinners, while Alhaji Iddris Dick Holison, General Secretary for Madina Chiefs, stressed, “Health is life.”

Ms Vida Agoriwo, the Municipal Health Promotion Officer, encouraged men to cultivate healthy relationships and manage stress, anger, and fear. Prof Patrick Maison, a urologist at the University of Cape Coast, advised men not to panic about prostate cancer but to undergo regular checkups, stating that early detection made treatment possible.

Mr Precious Agbenorwu, District Commander at Madina District Police Headquarters, emphasized the link between health and security, saying, “You can have health alright, but if you do not have security, your health can be truncated by people who do not respect security.”

Dr Patrick Asare, speaking on behalf of the Member of Parliament for Madina, pledged continued support for the campaign, while Alhaji Adams Yurusah, Bissa Chief of Madina, noted, “Healthy people build a healthy nation.”

The Men4Health Campaign represents a significant step towards addressing the unique health challenges faced by men. By promoting awareness, encouraging regular checkups, and fostering a culture of proactive health management, the initiative aims to improve the overall wellbeing of the community. Through collaboration between healthcare professionals, community leaders, and local organizations, the campaign hopes to create lasting change and empower men to take control of their health.