By Jessica Korkor Oman
As the world prepares to mark World Physiotherapy Day on September 8, 2026, physiotherapist at Lekmah Hospital, Elizabeth Duah, has urged Ghanaians to make physical activity part of their daily routines to help prevent cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
World Physiotherapy Day provides an opportunity to highlight the important role physiotherapists play in helping people recover from injury, illness and disability, while promoting healthier and more active lifestyles. This year’s celebration focuses on cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
Speaking on the health segment of the GTV Breakfast Show on Thursday, September 3, 2026, Ms Duah expressed concern about the sedentary lifestyles of many people, particularly those who spend long hours sitting at work.
She explained that while people remain focused on their jobs, they often neglect their physical health, which can contribute to the growing prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
“Most of our activities demand that we sit for long hours and stay at our workplaces for long hours, and that is why these cardiovascular diseases and strokes are becoming rampant.”
Ms Duah encouraged the public to consciously incorporate physical activity into their everyday routines. She also referred to the World Health Organization’s widely cited physical activity guidance, noting that walking 10,000 steps a day can be an indicator of an active lifestyle.
According to her, walking 10,000 steps could take approximately 30 minutes, although the time may vary depending on an individual’s pace.
She stressed that the importance of physical activity extends to children, as some risk factors for cardiovascular diseases can begin in childhood. She therefore encouraged parents and caregivers to introduce active lifestyles to children from an early age.
“We’re encouraging everyone, even children, to be physically active because some of these cardiovascular diseases start from childhood.”
She noted that the way children are raised and encouraged to live can influence their health habits, making it important for physical activity to form part of their upbringing.
Beyond physical activity, Ms Duah urged Ghanaians to visit health facilities regularly for medical check-ups rather than waiting until they become ill.
She explained that regular medical examinations can help health professionals detect potential health problems early and address them before they become more serious.
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