The Ministry of Health has called for increased public participation in the fight against viral hepatitis, urging Ghanaians to undergo regular testing, receive vaccination and seek early treatment to reduce the impact of the disease. The appeal was made during the commemoration of World Hepatitis Day and the inauguration of the National Viral Hepatitis Technical Working Group in Accra.
Representing the Minister for Health, Kwabena Mintah Akandoh, the Chief Director of the Ministry of Health, Desmond Boateng, stressed the need for stronger national action to identify and support people living with hepatitis infections. He explained that many individuals remain unaware of their condition because the disease can exist without visible symptoms for extended periods.
The Chief Director noted that delayed detection increases the possibility of serious health complications, making early screening an important part of Ghana’s prevention strategy. He added that access to vaccination and effective treatment remains essential in reducing transmission and improving health outcomes.
“Every person living silently with the disease deserves attention, support and access to the care they need,” Desmond Boateng said, highlighting the importance of reaching communities where health services remain limited.
According to the Ministry, the establishment of the National Viral Hepatitis Technical Working Group is expected to improve coordination among stakeholders involved in prevention, diagnosis and treatment. The platform will provide a structured approach for monitoring progress and developing interventions aimed at reducing the impact of hepatitis across the country.
The initiative forms part of Ghana’s efforts to strengthen disease control systems and improve public awareness about viral hepatitis. Health officials believe increased education will encourage more people to know their status and seek medical support before complications occur.
Desmond Boateng explained that hepatitis control requires cooperation between government institutions, healthcare providers, communities and individuals. He encouraged citizens to take advantage of available health services and make prevention a priority.
The Ministry further outlined the importance of vaccination against hepatitis B, particularly among vulnerable groups who face a higher risk of infection. It also highlighted the availability of medicines that can effectively manage hepatitis B and cure hepatitis C when detected early.
Viral Hepatitis Burden Triggers Call For Stronger National Action
The fight against viral hepatitis in Ghana has received renewed attention following warnings that millions of people may be living with the infection without knowing their status. Health authorities have described the condition as a major public health challenge requiring sustained prevention measures and coordinated national action.
The Ministry of Health estimates that about 3 million Ghanaians are living with hepatitis B while approximately 500,000 people may be affected by hepatitis C. Many infected persons remain undiagnosed because the diseases can progress quietly while causing gradual damage to the liver.
Addressing the situation during the World Hepatitis Day commemoration, Desmond Boateng emphasised that the burden of viral hepatitis extends beyond infection control. He explained that untreated cases can develop into severe conditions including liver cirrhosis and liver cancer.
“Viral hepatitis remains a major public health challenge in Ghana. About 3 million Ghanaians are estimated to be living with hepatitis B while roughly half a million may be living with hepatitis C.”
Desmond Boateng
The Chief Director revealed that liver cancer has become one of the country’s leading cancer-related health challenges, with the disease ranking among the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Ghana. He added that liver cancer remains a major cause of cancer deaths among men.
Furthermore, health officials stressed that much of the impact caused by viral hepatitis can be prevented through early intervention. Hepatitis B vaccination, proper treatment and improved access to healthcare services were identified as important measures in reducing infections and preventing complications.
The Ministry also explained that viral hepatitis connects communicable diseases with non communicable conditions because an infection can later develop into chronic illnesses if it remains untreated. This situation has strengthened calls for prevention to remain central to Ghana’s healthcare planning.
“Chronic hepatitis B and hepatitis C are major causes of liver cirrhosis and liver cancers. Hepatitis B can be prevented through vaccination and effectively managed with treatment, while hepatitis C can be cured with highly effective medicines.”
Desmond Boateng
Ghana has already taken steps to improve its response through the National Viral Hepatitis Control Programme, strategic health frameworks and partnerships supporting prevention and treatment. The inauguration of the technical working group is expected to provide further direction for implementing measurable interventions.
The Ministry reiterated that eliminating viral hepatitis will require continuous public education, increased testing and improved healthcare access across all communities. Officials believe a coordinated national response can reduce infections and protect more people from preventable liver related diseases.
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