For many parents, the idea of having “the talk” with their kids may be daunting, making them feel embarrassed or squeamish. But many parents are conflating the classic growing-up talk about sex with another crucial conversation they should be having, new research suggests.

The talk in question should happen earlier than one may think, and it’s not necessarily about sex. It’s about puberty.

About 41% of parents reported they approached talking with their child about puberty only when prompted by the child, according to a new C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital National Poll on Children’s Health released on Monday.

Using marijuana during pregnancy is linked to poor fetal development, low infant birth weight, dangerously early deliveries and even death, according to a new meta-analysis of research.

Ingredients that can cause cancer were found in 10 synthetic hair products used in braids, extensions and other hairstyles popular with Black women, including artificial hair from popular brands such as Magic Fingers, Sensationnel and Shake-N-Go, according to a Consumer Reports study.

An implantable, non-hormonal male contraceptive has been shown in trials to last for at least two years.

On March 1, Alice Mamaga Akosua Amoako turned 33. To mark her birthday, she took to Facebook to share a part of her life known to only family and a few close friends.

On April 4, 2025, the University of Ghana held its 2023/2024 Vice-Chancellor’s Academic Awards. One standout achiever was Dr (Dent) Victoria Dovi Akpene Wosornu of the Dental School, who walked away with six prestigious prizes.

Mrs Joana Bunte was born in Accra when pounds and shillings were the official currency in Ghana.

Kwahu ooo Kwahu: Easter Sunday night on the Obomeng street

The Founding Father of the St Peter’s School, Nkwatia- Kwahu, Rev. Father Clement Hotze of blessed memory, was an American priest who left his home country to set up the school in Ghana.

With no water or electricity in the town, Fr Hotze sacrificed everything to build the St Peter's School, which is undoubtedly a leading school in Ghana.

African arts, culture and cuisine will take centre stage at the picturesque Gaylord National Resort & Convention Centre, National Harbor, Maryland, USA, when the inaugural Kente Ball is held on Saturday, April 26, 2025.

This story was first published by The Mirror newspaper as a mini series from July 16, 2005 to August 6, 2005. The publication used the pen name for the publication at the request of the author

The Path Travelled

By Sika Akoto

Ever found yourself staring at the ceiling, counting sheep or thinking about your to-do list? Yeah, we’ve all been there. But did you know that the secret to better sleep could be sitting right in your kitchen?

Some foods have natural compounds that help calm your mind and body. That’s right—certain foods can work wonders in helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Twenty-nine-year-old Janet Akutey has yet to develop breasts or go through menstruation. Growing up, she spent most of her adolescence wondering why she had not developed breasts or menstruated like other girls her age.

In the Ghanaian context, the term “slay queen” typically refers to women who use their physical appearance to charm men into granting them favours.

The Awudome Cemetery, one of the public cemeteries in the Greater Accra Region, is set to undergo redevelopment to achieve a modern appearance.

Renowned Ghanaian-born plastic surgeon, Dr Michael K. Obeng, has revealed that his path to billionaire status lies not just in cosmetic excellence but in building a pharmaceutical empire in Ghana, with diversification as the cornerstone of his strategy.

Water helps get important nutrients to the kidneys and moves waste to the bladder in the form of urine.

If you do not drink enough water, the tiny filters inside your kidneys can get clogged up and lead to kidney stones and infections. 

In the Bible, the story is told of how Potiphar’s wife did everything possible to lure young Joseph into her bed.

After several failed attempts, she finally got hold of his shirt as the lad fled from the clutches of her seduction. 

Out of shame and pain, she concocted the story that he had wanted to rape her!

World Kidney Day (WKD) 2025 was commemorated on March 13. It is a global campaign aimed at raising awareness of the importance of our kidneys. World Kidney Day returns every year.

The year-long campaign on the theme: "Are Your Kidneys OK? Detect Early, Protect Kidney Health", highlights the potentially life-changing impact of early detection and intervention in preventing and managing kidney disease.

The Ghana Kidney Association marked the day with a range of activities, including a webinar on March 13, chaired by Prof. Sampson Antwi.