Seek medical advice from trained professionals -Dr Issah

 A Former Director at the Ghana Health Ser­vice and seasoned Public Health Physician, Dr Kofi Issah, has advised the public, particular­ly the elderly to exercise caution in how they seek medical advice, especially from non-professional sources such as the internet or unverified individuals within their communities.

According to him, while many people, including neigh­bours and relatives, may offer advice out of concern, or some medications or remedies that have been helpful to them, such recommendations could sometimes do more harm than good, especially when they delay individuals from seeking proper medical attention from trained professionals.

“As we age, we become more vulnerable to various health con­ditions, and everyone wants to live a healthy life. But relying solely on suggestions from well-mean­ing friends or misleading online information often makes matters worse,” he cautioned.

Speaking at the monthly meeting of the Navrongo Senior High School (NAVASCO) Old Students Union (NABIA) Accra Branch on Sunday, Dr Issah who is also an old student underscored the importance of early detection and prompt medical consultation, emphasising that when symptoms arise, individuals should seek care from health professionals who were qualified and authorised to provide sound medical advice.

“There is so much mislead­ing information on the internet these days. People google their symptoms and apply treatments without understanding the root cause. Health is not one-size-fits-all. What works for one person may be harmful to another,” Dr Issah said.

He acknowledged the value of traditional remedies but such approaches should be comple­mentary to professional healthcare and not replace it entirely.

“We are not saying people should abandon what is culturally known to work, but there must be integration. Good health involves the mind, body, and soul,” he noted.

Touching on the growing trend of self-diagnosis and treatment via internet searches, he advised the public to rely only on credible health platforms and not gener­alised or sensational information, which could lead to self-medica­tion or unnecessary panic.

He encouraged the public to engage with their local health authorities and professionals when in doubt, and to resist the temp­tation of treating serious health issues with unverified methods.

“Even in reputable health institutions, mistakes may occur, but at least there are avenues for accountability and redress. If you follow advice from the internet and things go wrong, there is no one to hold accountable,” he pointed out.

Dr Issah concluded by remind­ing the public that good health practices begin at home and at the workplace.

He stressed the importance of healthy lifestyles, routine check-ups, and preventive health behaviours, noting that the well-being of citizens is crucial to national development.

The NABIA eulogised Issah Yahaya Yabre, popularly known as Issah Y.Y., a retired Chief Direc­tor of Ministry of Communica­tions, an old student who passed on few days ago.

The President of the Accra Branch, Mr Ibrahim-Tanko Ami­du who is the Executive Direc­tor, STAR –Ghana Foundation, expressed profound appreciation to Dr Issah for delivering an insightful and thought-provoking lecture on healthcare.

In light of the valuable infor­mation shared during the session, he encouraged other members of the Union to make it a priority to attend the monthly meetings, as they present an excellent oppor­tunity to gain knowledge, stay informed on critical issues, and benefit from expert insights that could improve their personal and professional lives.

 BY CECILIA YADA LAGBA

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