Drug adverts affects OPD attendance

Gbegru (UW), June 20, GNA- Dr Kofi Issah, Deputy Upper West Regional Director of Health noted on Friday that drugs advertisement in the media is leading to self medication among Ghanaians and reducing out-patient Department attendance in health facilities. He said due to the advertisements, some patients were no longer seeking medical attention, including laboratory tests, thereby worsening their health conditions.

Dr Issah made the observation when he inaugurated a GHC20,000 Community- based Health Planning and Services (CHPS) compound at Gbegru in the Wa Municipality. He said taking of drugs could not resolve all health problems, adding that self medication was dangerous since dispensers could give out wrong drugs for ailments.

The compound would among other things provide primary health care, assist the community to keep their environment clean, prevent diseases among the people and provide door-to-door health services. "It is very dangerous to watch or listen to advertisements and go and buy drugs because some of the drugs are not even certified by the Food and Drugs Board and Ghana Standards Board."

Dr. Issah said it was beneficial for patients to seek medical attention at certified health facilities and undergo diagnosis, laboratory test and abide by the recommendations.

Mrs. Beatrice Kunfah, Municipal Director of Health, admonished the people against alcoholism since it could impede their orderly progress. She said the rate at which people were drinking alcoholic beverages was disturbing, saying persons as young as 15 years and below are dropping out of school as a result of alcoholism. The Municipal Director urged parents to invest heavily in the education of their children in order to reap the benefits in future.