Ghana is currently not on track to meet the WHO’s 2030 elimination target for viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B. With critical targets such as testing and treating infected individuals not being met, experts emphasize the need for greater vaccination initiatives for newborns and improved treatment accessibility. Funding and policy implementation are essential for addressing these public health challenges and preventing future health crises related to hepatitis.
Ghana is currently falling behind in its efforts to combat viral hepatitis, according to Dr. Kafui Senya, the Technical Lead for Hepatitis at the World Health Organization (WHO) country office. As the 2030 elimination target approaches, Dr. Senya expressed concerns that the country would be unable to meet this crucial deadline. Hepatitis B is a serious viral infection that affects the liver and is transmitted through blood and bodily fluids. Symptoms of the disease can include fever, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, dark urine, and loss of appetite. In an interview with the Ghana News Agency, Dr. Senya outlined critical steps necessary for Ghana to achieve the elimination of viral hepatitis by 2030. He indicated that at least 90 percent of individuals infected with viral hepatitis must be screened and informed of their condition, while 65 percent of those diagnosed need to receive treatment. Although there are effective treatments available for hepatitis C, hepatitis B, which isn’t curable, can still be managed through antiviral medications to prevent the progression to liver cancer. A key aspect of the strategy suggested by Dr. Senya is vaccinating every newborn in Ghana against hepatitis B, which could significantly decrease the incidence of the disease. However, he lamented the absence of a national policy to facilitate the administration of this vaccine to newborns, emphasizing, “If every baby born receives the vaccine, they are unlikely to get infected with hepatitis B. Over time, we would have no new cases of hepatitis B infection among children.” Dr. Senya cautioned that without the implementation of essential prevention strategies such as pediatric vaccination, the likelihood of meeting the 2030 elimination target is slim. He detailed the severe implications of hepatitis B infections in childhood, including a heightened risk of developing liver cancer in adulthood. Furthermore, Theobald Owusu-Ansah, the President of the Hepatitis Foundation of Ghana, pointed out the concerning trend of focusing predominantly on hepatitis C while neglecting the equally significant issue of hepatitis B. He criticized the reactive approach of treating the disease only after infection occurs, labeling it as excessively costly. Owusu-Ansah urged for proactive vaccination initiatives and highlighted the pressing need for dedicated funding to combat hepatitis B, in contrast to the more robust financial structure backing HIV programs. He proposed starting with vaccinations at birth to prevent mother-to-child transmission and connecting existing patients to affordable care. He called upon the government to act swiftly and decisively to address hepatitis B and recommended that treatment be made accessible through the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) to alleviate the financial burdens faced by patients, which deter their diagnosis and care-seeking behaviors. Overall, Ghana’s progress in managing hepatitis B remains inadequate, emphasizing an urgent need for strategic intervention.
Hepatitis B is a viral infection that poses significant health risks, including liver inflammation and potential liver cancer development. As part of global health goals, the World Health Organization has set a target for the elimination of viral hepatitis by 2030, which highlights the urgency for countries like Ghana to adopt comprehensive strategies to combat this public health challenge. Unfortunately, Ghana has been identified as off track in meeting these vital objectives, underscoring the need for enhanced screening, vaccination, and treatment frameworks to improve public health outcomes regarding hepatitis. The current situation in Ghana reveals a concerning trend of underfunding and lack of strategic initiatives that could reduce new infections and improve care for those already affected. The emphasis on a reactive rather than proactive approach has the potential to exacerbate the impact of hepatitis infections, necessitating immediate government intervention and support specifically aimed at increasing awareness and resource allocation for hepatitis B.
In conclusion, Ghana’s battle against viral hepatitis, particularly hepatitis B, faces significant hurdles as indicated by health authorities. To meet the 2030 elimination target, it is essential for Ghana to prioritize vaccination programs for newborns, ensure widespread testing and treatment access, and address the financial barriers to care for patients. As highlighted by health experts and advocates, a shift from reactive to proactive measures is crucial to eradicate hepatitis and safeguard the health of future generations in Ghana.
Original Source: www.ghanaweb.com
