Dr. Wordui Champions Lung Health in Ghana with Free Testing Event at Ayalolo J.H.S

On Friday, 21st September, a collaborative health initiative took place at the heart of the bustling Agbogbloshie market in Accra. This initiative led by Babychildandco, brought together their team, Accra Harmony Lions Club, the Ghana Thoracic Society, and the Lung Cancer Awareness Initiative, to provide free spirometry testing for adults. The event, marking #WorldLungDay, was the first of its kind in Ghana. It aimed at raising awareness about lung health.

The day began with a vibrant atmosphere as the team set up at Agbogbloshie, one of the largest markets in the city. Vendors, shoppers, and passersby were encouraged to take advantage of the free lung testing. Spirometry, an effective tool used to measure lung function, was administered by a group of healthcare professionals from Babychildandco, Ghana Thoracic Society and the Lung Cancer Awareness Initiative. It provided an opportunity for individuals, many of whom might not otherwise have access to such tests, to understand their lung capacity and assess any potential respiratory issues.

The outreach didn’t stop at testing. The team walked through the market, engaging with the public on the importance of lung health. Experts shared critical insights on how to protect the lungs from pollutants, dust, and smoke—factors that are particularly prevalent in bustling market environments like Agbogbloshie. The goal was to not only raise awareness but to educate the community on preventive measures they can take to ensure long-term lung health. This included tips on reducing exposure to harmful substances and the importance of seeking medical attention early when symptoms like persistent coughing, shortness of breath, or wheezing appear.

Speaking on the importance of the event, Dr. Wordui, a paediatric pulmonologist at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and CEO of Babychildandco, expressed her excitement about the turnout and the public’s responsiveness. “I’m thrilled to see so many people taking the initiative to check their lung health,” she said. “Our surroundings play a major role in the state of our lungs, especially in urban areas like Accra, where pollution levels can be high. I encourage all Ghanaians to be mindful of their environment and take steps to protect their lungs, as poor air quality can have long-term detrimental effects. I am very thankful to the European Lung Foundation and #HealthyLungsforLife for the sponsorship that made this event possible. I wish other groups will partner with us for such initiatives, as lung health is life”.

In a continuation of the lung health awareness campaign, the team also visited Ayalolo 1 and 2 Junior High Schools on Monday, 25th September, to mark #WorldLungDay with students and teachers. The visit featured free lung function testing for both students and staff. At Ayalolo JHS, the emphasis was placed on educating the younger generation about lung health, particularly the dangers of smoking, vaping, secondhand smoking, and the importance of living in clean environments. Teachers were also encouraged to be vigilant in observing any respiratory health issues in their students and to promote a healthy lifestyle in and outside of school.

Dr. Wordui, during her speech at the school, reiterated the significance of lung health in youth. “Good lung health starts from an early age,” she said. “The lungs are vital to every aspect of our lives, and we must protect them. I am so pleased to see the eagerness of the students and teachers alike to learn about lung health. Our children are the future, and equipping them with this knowledge ensures they can make informed choices about their health.”

The World Lung Day events in Accra were a monumental success, combining health services, education, and community outreach. This collaborative effort, funded by the European Lung Foundation through Healthy Lungs for Life, brought critical attention to the importance of lung health in Ghana, sparking meaningful conversations about how to protect this vital organ in our everyday lives. Through these efforts, many were reminded of the fact that healthy lungs are essential for a healthy life, and that it’s never too early or too late to start taking care of them.