The Cardiothoracic Unit of the 37 Military Hospital marked World Heart Day on Tuesday, 29 September 2026, with a symposium under the theme “Use Heart for Action” at the 37 Methodist Presbyterian Church. As part of the commemoration, a health screening exercise is scheduled to take place from 30 September to 1 October 2026 at the forecourt of the Cardiothoracic Unit.
The Commanding Officer (CO), 37 Military Hospital, Colonel (Col) Alex Abiti, served as the Special Guest of Honour. In his speech, Col Abiti underscored the importance of prioritizing cardiovascular health, noting that regular medical checks, early detection and healthy lifestyle choices are essential to preventing heart-related conditions. He encouraged personnel and members of the public to take proactive steps to maintain healthy hearts and seek medical attention when necessary.
Physician Specialist in Cardiology, Wing Commander (Wg Cdr) Benjamin Toboh, delivered a health talk on the prevalence, prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases. His presentation highlighted the various types of cardiovascular diseases and the symptoms and notable signs associated with them. He stressed that early detection, regular medical check-ups, appropriate treatment and healthy lifestyles are essential to reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Speaking on this year’s theme ‘’Hepatitis, let’s break it down’’, the Commander of the 37 Military Hospital Brig Gen Richard Lassey Mensah stated that the celebration of the Global World Hepatitis day is a call to break down the barriers of ignorance, stigma, the chains of transmission, the burden of liver diseases among personnel, their families and the nation at large.
Mr Obed Mensah, a Dietitian at the 37 Military Hospital, also emphasized the importance of heart-friendly diets, highlighting the role of healthy nutrition in protecting the heart and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. He entreated participants to eat balanced meals rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes, while limiting salt, added sugars, unhealthy fats and highly processed foods. He further advised participants to control portion sizes, exercise regularly and manage risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and obesity.
The awareness programme also featured an engaging interactive session, providing participants with practical and relatable guidance they could incorporate into their daily lives.
The World Heart Day 2026 Symposium was attended by the Commanding Officer, 37 Military Hospital, Colonel Alex Abiti; Chief Nursing Officer, 37 Military Hospital, Col Vivian Adjah; Chief Nursing Officers and Nursing Officers-in-Charge of various wards and departments; Officers-in-Charge of various departments; as well as Officers, Men, Women and Defence Civilian Staff of the Cardiothoracic Unit and the 37 Military Hospital.
