In a groundbreaking move to address the growing concern of uterine fibroids in Ghana, Fibroid Foundation Africa recently held a meeting with the Ghana Health Service Health Promotion Division on October 4th and 5th, 2023. The primary objective of this collaboration was to lay the foundation for producing the first training flipchart and manual aimed at creating widespread awareness about fibroids in the country.

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are noncancerous growths that develop in the uterus. These growths can vary in size, from tiny peas to large grapefruits, and can cause a range of symptoms, including heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure on the bladder or rectum. Despite their prevalence, affecting up to 80% of women before menopause, many women remain unaware of the condition and its potential impact on their health and quality of life.

The meeting between Fibroid Foundation Africa and the Ghana Health Service Health Promotion Division marks a significant step towards addressing this knowledge gap. By collaborating with the Ghana Health Service, Fibroid Foundation Africa aims to leverage the expertise of the health promotion to disseminate vital information about fibroids to communities across Ghana.

The training flipchart and manual, which will be the first of its kind in Ghana, will serve as a comprehensive resource for health promotion to educate women about the causes, symptoms, and available treatment options for uterine fibroids. This initiative is particularly timely, as a recent study conducted in Ghana revealed that the incidence of uterine fibroids is on the rise, with an increasing trend observed from 2018 to 2021.

The study, published in PLOS ONE, also highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and intervention in managing uterine fibroids. By creating awareness and providing educational resources, Fibroid Foundation Africa and the Ghana Health Service hope to empower women to seek medical attention at the earliest signs of fibroids, leading to better health outcomes and improved quality of life.

As the collaboration continues to unfold, Fibroid Foundation Africa and the Ghana Health Service remain committed to working together to address the challenges posed by uterine fibroids in Ghana. Through this partnership, they aim to raise awareness, promote early detection, and ensure that women have access to the information and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health.

Citations:
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

journals.plos.org

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

journals.plos.org

euracarehealth.com