The President of the Society of Family Physicians of Ghana (SOFPOG), Dr. Baaba Damoah, has issued a warning to the youth in Tarkwa and surrounding areas regarding the improper use of painkillers.
She cautioned that the excessive or unsupervised consumption of pain-relief medications can lead to severe kidney damage and other detrimental health effects.
During a free medical outreach event held on Saturday at the Tarkwa main lorry station, Dr. Damoah addressed journalists, stating that the physical demands of labour in the region, coupled with the widespread illegal mining activities, have led to an increase in the misuse of Tramadol and other potent analgesics among the youth.
This outreach was collaboratively organised by AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine and SOFPOG as part of the celebrations for World Family Doctor Day, coinciding with the society’s Annual General and Scientific Meeting in Tarkwa.
Despite the heavy rainfall, a significant number of residents attended, with the medical team anticipating to serve approximately 1,000 individuals by the conclusion of the event.
The services provided included blood sugar and blood pressure assessments, malaria testing, hepatitis B and C screenings, HIV testing, as well as consultations for dental, eye, and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) issues.
Dr. Damoah noted that the screenings revealed both acute and chronic health conditions in some patients, while others were found to be in good health, thus allowing for extensive education on preventive healthcare.
She characterised the initiative as a means of giving back to the community and expressed her appreciation to AngloGold Ashanti Iduapriem Mine for their support.
Dr. Damoah added that SOFPOG has been active in Ghana for nearly two decades, uniting medical professionals who return for specialised training after serving in various roles, to deliver comprehensive care to patients of all ages.
