Hypertension, Acute Asthma Contribute to Maternal Deaths in Ghana - Expert Warns

Key Takeaways

• Hypertension-related conditions and acute asthma are among the leading causes of maternal deaths in Ghana.
• According to Prof. Ossei-Sampene, lack of education and harmful traditions contribute to maternal mortality.
• Caesarean sections can be associated with complications, including thrombosis and embolism.
• The Deputy Minister of Health is working to address the challenges and ensure safe childbirth practices.

Ghana has witnessed a significant rise in maternal mortality, with 965 deaths recorded in 2025. Consultant forensic pathologist Professor Paul Ossei-Sampene has shed light on the underlying causes of this trend, attributing it to a complex interplay of medical conditions and societal factors.

Speaking on the JoyNews Desk, Prof. Ossei-Sampene highlighted the importance of hypertension-related conditions, which account for approximately 40.7% of maternal deaths. He emphasized the need to address these underlying medical conditions to reduce the risk of maternal mortality.

Background & Context

The issue of maternal mortality is a pressing concern in Ghana, with far-reaching implications for the country's healthcare system and the well-being of its citizens. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that countries strive to achieve a maternal mortality ratio of less than 70 deaths per 100,000 live births. However, Ghana's current ratio is significantly higher, at 965 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2025.

The rise in maternal mortality can be attributed to various factors, including poor access to quality healthcare services, lack of education, and harmful traditions. Prof. Ossei-Sampene's comments underscore the need for a comprehensive approach to address these challenges and ensure safe childbirth practices.

Key Findings

Prof. Ossei-Sampene's research highlights the significance of hypertension-related conditions in contributing to maternal deaths. According to a recent study published in 2025, these conditions account for approximately 40.7% of maternal deaths. He also noted that acute asthma is another critical factor contributing to maternal mortality.

The consultant forensic pathologist emphasized the need to address these underlying medical conditions to reduce the risk of maternal mortality. He recommended that healthcare providers take a holistic approach, considering the physical and emotional well-being of pregnant women.

Broader Implications

The findings of Prof. Ossei-Sampene's research have far-reaching implications for the healthcare system in Ghana. The country's healthcare providers must prioritize the prevention and management of hypertension-related conditions and acute asthma to reduce the risk of maternal mortality.

The Deputy Minister of Health's efforts to address the challenges and ensure safe childbirth practices are commendable. However, a more comprehensive approach is required to address the underlying causes of maternal mortality and ensure that all pregnant women have access to quality healthcare services.

Looking Ahead

As Ghana continues to grapple with the issue of maternal mortality, it is essential to prioritize the prevention and management of hypertension-related conditions and acute asthma. The Deputy Minister of Health's efforts to address the challenges and ensure safe childbirth practices are a step in the right direction.

The healthcare system in Ghana must take a holistic approach, considering the physical and emotional well-being of pregnant women. By working together, it is possible to reduce the risk of maternal mortality and ensure that all pregnant women have access to quality healthcare services.