By: Emmanuel Amoah
On Friday, 21st September, a groundbreaking health outreach took place at Agbogbloshie, one of Accra’s busiest markets. Organized by Babychildandco in collaboration with the Accra Harmony Lions Club, Ghana Thoracic Society, and Lung Cancer Awareness Initiative, the event provided free spirometry tests to adults in honor of #WorldLungDay. This marked Ghana’s first large-scale spirometry campaign aimed at raising lung health awareness.
The day kicked off with a flurry of activity as the healthcare team set up at the heart of the market, inviting vendors, shoppers, and passersby to participate in free lung function tests. Spirometry, a powerful tool for assessing lung capacity and detecting respiratory issues, was conducted by skilled professionals from Babychildandco and partner organizations. For many, this was the first opportunity to check their lung health and learn about potential respiratory conditions.
Beyond the testing, the team engaged the public in conversations about lung health. Healthcare experts walked through the market, offering tips on reducing exposure to harmful pollutants, dust, and smoke, common in bustling environments like Agbogbloshie. The outreach emphasized preventive measures to safeguard lung health, encouraging early medical intervention for symptoms such as chronic coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath.
Dr. Wordui, a pediatric pulmonologist from Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and CEO of Babychildandco, was delighted with the community’s response. “It’s inspiring to see so many people taking their lung health seriously,” she said. “In urban areas like Accra, where air pollution is high, it’s crucial for Ghanaians to be mindful of their environment and take steps to protect their lungs. Poor air quality can have long-term consequences, so early action is essential. I’m incredibly grateful to the European Lung Foundation and #HealthyLungsforLife for making this event possible. I hope other organizations join us in championing lung health because it’s truly a matter of life.”
The campaign didn’t stop there. On Monday, 25th September, the team expanded their outreach to Ayalolo 1 and 2 Junior High Schools, conducting lung function tests for students and staff. This school visit, also in celebration of #WorldLungDay, focused on educating students about the risks of smoking, vaping, and secondhand smoke. Clean living environments and early detection of respiratory issues were also key topics discussed. Teachers were encouraged to monitor their students’ respiratory health and foster a lifestyle of wellness inside and outside the classroom.
During her address to the school, Dr. Wordui stressed the importance of cultivating good lung health from a young age. “Healthy lungs are essential to every aspect of our lives, and we must start protecting them early,” she told the students. “I’m encouraged by the enthusiasm I see here today. By equipping young people with this knowledge, we’re empowering them to make informed decisions about their health.”
The World Lung Day events in Accra were a resounding success, blending healthcare services with education and community engagement. Sponsored by the European Lung Foundation through the Healthy Lungs for Life initiative, the outreach raised critical awareness about lung health in Ghana. It reminded many that it’s never too early or too late to prioritize healthy lungs, ensuring a longer, healthier life.
