By Ashiadey Dotse
The Ministry of Health (MoH) says an estimated three million Ghanaians are living with Hepatitis B, while about 500,000 others may be infected with Hepatitis C, with many unaware of their status.
The Ministry has therefore renewed its call for intensified national efforts to eliminate viral hepatitis by encouraging regular testing, vaccination and early treatment.
The appeal was made during the commemoration of World Hepatitis Day and the inauguration of the National Viral Hepatitis Technical Working Group in Accra. The group is expected to strengthen Ghana’s response to viral hepatitis through improved policy implementation, prevention measures and increased access to treatment.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Health, Desmond Boateng, said viral hepatitis remains a major public health challenge that requires a coordinated national response.
He noted that many infected people are unaware of their condition because the disease often develops silently over several years before symptoms appear.
Mr Boateng explained that delayed diagnosis can lead to serious complications, including liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, making routine screening and early detection critical.
He disclosed that chronic Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C infections are among the leading causes of liver disease in Ghana.
According to him, liver cancer is currently the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in the country and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths.
Mr Boateng said Hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination and effectively managed with treatment, while Hepatitis C can be cured with highly effective medicines.
He urged Ghanaians to take advantage of available testing and vaccination services, stressing that early diagnosis and treatment remain the most effective ways to reduce the impact of the disease and save lives.
The Ministry said the newly inaugurated National Viral Hepatitis Technical Working Group will coordinate national efforts aimed at reducing new infections and improving care for people living with viral hepatitis.
