Ghana has less than 15 Neurosurgeons
Despite a growing population, currently estimated to be around 26 million, Ghana has only 15 specialists in the medical field of neurosurgery.
Neurosurgeons specialize in surgeries for disorders affecting the brain and spinal cord.
Speaking at a public lecture today October 26, 2016, to mark the 10th Anniversary of the Editors’ Forum Ghana (EFG), a peer review organization of editors, senior journalists and media educators affiliated to the Ghana Journalists Association, Dr. Kafui Tamakloe, a Neurosurgeon and Senior Medical Manager at the Cocoa Clinic in Accra, noted that there are less than 15 Neurosurgeons in Ghana serving the entire population.
“There are few institutions for neurosurgery and they are poorly equipped,” he said.
He spoke about the importance of the brain and spinal cord, and how sitting postures especially, and lifestyle affect the health of the spine and the overall health of the individual.
“The spine is probably the second most important structure in the body after the brain,” he said.
He talked about the structure of the spine, and its importance to health.
He also noted that there are degenerative factors affecting the spine, as well as other diseases.
He explained some of the possible causes of neck and back pains, which include bad sitting as well as sleeping postures.
Indicating that the operation is expensive, he cautioned that neurosurgeries do not reverse damages to the spine, he therefore urged the public to seek medical attention when they have the signs and symptoms.
“Have you ever had neck or low back pain? Has this pain moved to any of your limbs? Is this pain associated with: numbness; burning and a tingling sensation?” he asked.
Ms. Ajoa Yeboah-Afari, the Chairperson of the EFG, in her address noted that the health was important because journalists whose work routines require that they sit for a long time needed the information, as well as the general public.
Ghana currently has seven medical schools, including one private institution.
By Emmanuel K. Dogbevi
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