Assin Kushea (C/R), May 21, GNA - The Omanhene of Owrirenkyiman Traditional Area, Nana Prah Agyensem VI, says superstitious beliefs are main contributors to challenges facing health care delivery in the country.

Nana Agyensem pointed out that due to superstition and related beliefs, some people preferred to report diseases which needed clinical attention, to prayer camp operators. He made these remarks when inaugurating the Omanhene Branch of the Ghana Society for Prevention of Tuberculosis (GSPT) at Assin Kushea in the Central Region.

The objective of the GSPT was to involve traditional rulers in the campaign against tuberculosis.

Nana Agyensem suggested that the Ghana Health Service should conduct random checks on prayer camps to sanction operators who keep patients suspected to be suffering from TB and mental diseases. "Freedom of worship must not be abused for the sake of money", he stressed.

"I am not condemning prayers in health care delivery but it must be backed by medicine," the Omanhene said.

Nana Ataapim Kweenu VIII, Mankrado of Nkusukum traditional Area, who inaugurated the branch, appealed to the members to find means to generate funds to support the volunteers. He cautioned against stigmatization and added that no one must be branded as a TB patient unless medical test proved so. "Mere coughing must not make one to be suffering from the disease", Nana Kweenu said.

Nana Owese Kobena Arkorful II, Mankrado of Gomoa Abrekum, said excessive smoking and drinking of alcohol reduced immunity in the human body and allow the disease to spread faster. Mr Joe Hagan, Secretary-General of GSPT cautioned Ghanaians against indiscriminate spitting, and urged building inspectors to ensure that buildings were well-ventilated.