Civil society organisations working in public health have cautioned Ghanaians to be mindful of their eating habits and lifestyle choices during the festive season, warning that poor diets and physical inactivity significantly increase the risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
In a joint statement issued by the NCD Alliance Ghana and Vision for Accelerated Sustainable Development, Ghana and copied to the GNA, the groups noted that while Christmas and New Year celebrations bring joy, family reunions, and social connection, also heighten exposure to health risks linked to unhealthy lifestyles.
The organisations revealed that NCDs account for about 45% of all deaths recorded annually in Ghana. They explained that preventable factors such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, excessive alcohol intake, tobacco use, and air pollution are major drivers of the growing disease burden.
According to the statement, the festive period significantly alters food environments across the country, with street foods, fast foods, sugary drinks, and ultra-processed foods dominating social gatherings, markets, and travel routes. These options, often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats, displace nutritious meals and can quickly raise blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and cardiovascular risk.
“The public should prioritise home-cooked meals with fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, and plenty of water while engaging in physical activities for good health,” they urged.
The groups further cited global evidence showing that diets high in ultra-processed foods are associated with more than a 20% increased risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes compared to diets based on fresh, whole foods. In Ghana’s urban areas, such foods reportedly make up over 30% of processed items sold in retail outlets, contributing to rising obesity, malnutrition, and NCDs.
Beyond diet, the statement highlighted prolonged sitting and reduced physical activity during the holidays as additional risk factors, encouraging the public to incorporate movement into their daily routines, including walking for at least 30 minutes a day, taking short breaks from sitting, and engaging in physical activities such as dancing.
“Tobacco kills more than half of its users and contributes to heart disease, stroke, cancer, and chronic lung disease,” it stated.
Addressing substance use, the statement advised young people to avoid tobacco, shisha, vapes, and other nicotine products, stressing that these substances are addictive and linked to serious health conditions. The groups reiterated that the sale and use of shisha and vaping products are illegal in Ghana.
Mental health was also identified as a key concern, with the organisations noting that financial pressures, family tensions, and grief during the festive season can trigger anxiety and depression. They encouraged individuals to set realistic expectations, seek support when overwhelmed, and prioritise mental wellbeing alongside physical health.