The Ashanti Regional Directorate of Health Services has raised concern over chronic hepatitis B in the region, warning that an estimated 500,000 people are living with the infection.
Briefing the media to celebrate World Hepatitis B Day at Fomena Hospital in the Adansi North District of the Ashanti Region, the Regional Director, Dr Fred Adomako Boateng described Hepatitis B as a silent killer.
“We are dealing with a disease that is one of the leading causes of cancer in the country, specifically liver cancer. The main concern is that most people living with the infection do not even know their status,” he stressed.
The event, held under the theme “Elimination for Everyone, Everywhere, Right Now,” brought together health professionals, students, and community leaders to explore how to curb Hepatitis B.
Dr. Adomako Boateng noted that the disease can remain without symptoms for one to four months or even longer, making early detection through screening critical.
He called for an end to the stigma surrounding Hepatitis B, saying fear of discrimination prevents many infected people from seeking testing and treatment.
“Let’s break the barriers of stigma. Let’s also bridge the gap in access to diagnosis, treatment and vaccination,” he said.
According to him, screening remains the most effective way to stop transmission, especially among pregnant women who are routinely tested under the Ghana Health Service’s maternal healthcare programme to prevent mother to child transmission.
The Regional Health Director also warned that Hepatitis B can spread through contaminated blood, infected needles, and blood-contaminated including razors and toothbrushes. He then urged the public to avoid sharing sharp objects and to seek screening regularly.
“We want to pick everyone living with the disease and link them to care. It is not enough to diagnose people without ensuring they receive treatment,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, the District Chief Executive for Adansi North, Charles Kofi Ogbeh, encouraged residents to voluntarily test for Hepatitis B, warning that the disease places a heavy burden on families, the health system and the local economy.
He assured the Ghana Health Service of the district’s commitment to supporting public health campaigns aimed at increasing awareness, promoting early detection and reducing the burden of Hepatitis B across the district.
By Kwaku Acheampong
