The Upper East Regional Director of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr. Braimah Baba Abubakari, has expressed deep concern over the rising trend of substance abuse, not only among the youth but also within the health profession.
Speaking with Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen of Apexnewsgh in a documentary titled “Swallowed by Drugs”, Dr. Abubakari revealed that the situation has “escalated beyond imagination” and now affects even health professionals who are expected to safeguard public health.
“The issue of substance abuse is not a new thing, but what is frightening now is the age range of those involved,” he said. “We have people as young as 13 or 14 years already engaged in it. Some don’t even complete secondary school before getting hooked.”
He warned that the implications for the future are dire, as early exposure often leads to lifelong dependency and social dysfunction.
Equally disturbing, according to Dr. Abubakari, is the creeping trend among trainee professionals.
“We now have some of our professionals who get engaged in substance use during their stay in training institutions such as nursing and teacher training colleges,” he lamented. “They eventually graduate and are assigned to work, but their addiction affects how they treat clients. This is why complaints about staff attitudes in health facilities are on the rise.”
Dr. Abubakari also highlighted the alarming proliferation of drinking spots in the region, which he described as a major contributor to the crisis.
“In some communities, every 50 to 100 meters, you find a drinking spot. Alcohol has become too accessible and too cheap, with as little as two cedis, you can buy a drink that gets you high,” he said.
On the abuse of drugs like tramadol, Dr. Abubakari criticized the infiltration of unregulated products into the country through unapproved routes along Ghana’s borders.
“Most of these drugs come from outside Africa and find their way into the Upper East through unapproved routes. That is destroying our youth,” he warned. “The Food and Drugs Authority and the security agencies must be on high alert to save the lives of the young ones.”
In his final words, Dr. Abubakari appealed directly to young people, urging them to resist the lure of substances and instead focus on building their future.
“The future is more enjoyable than what you think you’re experiencing now,” he said. “Addiction is not something you can save yourself from. Be courageous, be honest, and seek help. In a short time, you can get your life back on track and build a future for yourself, your children, and for Ghana.”
Source: Apexnewsgh.com
