Professor Sampson Antwi, a nephrologist at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) in Kumasi, Ghana, has advised the public to be cautious about street foods due to potential health risks, including hypertension and kidney disease. In an interview with the Ghana News Agency on April 28, 2026, he highlighted that many street foods contain high levels of salt, unhealthy fats, and additives that can strain the kidneys over time.
Antwi explained that excessive sodium intake from processed and street foods can elevate blood pressure, a leading cause of chronic kidney disease. He urged consumers to choose freshly prepared meals with minimal seasoning and to avoid foods with visible excess salt or oil. The nephrologist also recommended drinking plenty of water and maintaining a balanced diet to support kidney health.
The warning comes amid rising cases of hypertension and kidney disease in Ghana, where street food consumption is widespread. According to the World Health Organization, noncommunicable diseases like hypertension account for a growing burden on healthcare systems in sub-Saharan Africa. Antwi's advice aligns with public health campaigns promoting healthier eating habits.
