Healthy Lifestyle Key to Reducing Pancreatic Cancer Risk
By: Solomon Nartey Tetteh
Medical Doctor at Family Health Hospital, Dr. Thompson Quaye has urged Ghanaians to adopt healthier lifestyles to reduce their risk of developing pancreatic cancer and other serious illnesses linked to poor dietary habits and inactivity.
Speaking on Business Breakfast on Zed 101.9 FM, Dr. Quaye warned that the growing consumption of processed and fatty foods is contributing to rising health risks across the country, noting that research shows strong links not only to pancreatic cancer but to several other health conditions.
“Eating a lot of processed or fatty food can predispose individuals to this,” he said.
He explained that inadequate physical activity further increases susceptibility to such diseases.
“The lack of exercise can predispose individuals to these conditions. We need to encourage people to avoid harmful habits like smoking and instead embrace healthier choices,” he stated.
Dr. Quaye advised the public to prioritise fruits, vegetables and balanced meals while maintaining an active lifestyle. He stressed that staying active does not necessarily require a gym membership.
“Sometimes it’s not just going to the gym. A simple walk in your neighborhood can help. Be active around your home, it makes a big difference,” he noted.
He also called on the public to maintain a healthy weight and reduce alcohol consumption to lower their risk.
“If we limit alcohol intake and keep our bodies active, these risks can be reduced to a maximum extent,” he said.
Dr. Quaye also stressed the importance of targeted screening for individuals most at risk of pancreatic disease, urging Ghanaians in high-risk groups to undergo regular medical checks.
He said that while people with the financial means are welcome to undergo full medical assessments, healthcare professionals avoid “over-medicalising” conditions by focusing primarily on those most vulnerable.
“We have people at risk, those who smoke, those who drink a lot of alcohol, individuals with new-onset diabetes, and those with a family history of pancreatic conditions. These are the people we initially target,” he explained.
He noted that educating and encouraging these high-risk groups to seek medical reviews is essential for early detection and intervention.
Dr. Quaye said routine check-ups, sometimes done yearly, allow doctors to review symptoms, assess overall health and determine whether further diagnostic tests are necessary.
The medical Doctor further emphasised that targeted screening, ongoing monitoring and early reporting of symptoms remain crucial in reducing late-stage diagnoses and improving survival outcomes for pancreatic diseases.
