Microsoft Word 02Preface doc

4.2.1
 
Diseases Structure   
The epidemiological situation in Ghana is similar to other sub-Saharan countries.    The 
predominant diseases are communicable diseases such as malaria, respiratory diseases, 
diarrhoea, and parasites, with malnutrition and anaemia also prevailing.  Malignant 
neoplasm, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases that are often observed in the disease 
patterns of developed countries are also increasing rapidly   
Among infectious diseases, malaria is the most important cause of mortality and 
morbidity.  It is reported by the MOH that 40% of outpatients in public health 
facilities are infected with malaria, and almost 20% of child deaths are caused by 
malaria.  In addition, less than 50% of the population in rural areas have access to safe 
water.    As a result, diarrhoeal diseases are still a major cause of mortality and chlorella 
often re-emerges in the rainy season.   
TB accounts for 250,000 new cases each year in combination with HIV/AIDS, and the 
MOH has reported that almost half of the adult population have experience of being 
infected.    The sentinel survey in 2003 indicates an average national HIV prevalence of 
3.6%.    Under these circumstances, the priority targets for Ghana are malaria, TB and 
HIV/AIDS. 
On the other hand, there are outbreaks of yellow fever and cerebral meningitis in the 
northern regions.  Guinea Worm Disease is a target for elimination among parasitic 
diseases.    Water borne infectious diseases such as leishmaniasis, schistosomiasis and 
onchocerciasis are also problems.