The Ghana Aids Commission recently revealed a concerning statistic – more than 100,000 individuals in the country are carriers of HIV, but they are unaware of their status. Dr. Kyeremeh Atuahene, the Director General of the Commission, brought attention to this issue during an interview with JoyNews, where he presented the HIV statistics at a news conference in Accra.
Approximately 28% of people living with HIV in Ghana are unaware of their condition because they have not undergone testing. This group of 100,000 individuals unknowingly continues to spread the virus. To address this situation and improve treatment success rates, Dr. Atuahene stressed the importance of everyone knowing their HIV status.
Waiting until the onset of AIDS before seeking medical assistance can significantly delay recovery and weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to combat the infection. Therefore, knowing one’s HIV status early on is critical for timely and effective medical intervention.
In response to the alarming number of individuals unaware of their HIV status, the Ghana Aids Commission has launched an extensive search and treatment campaign. They are proactively reaching out to the more than 100,000 individuals living with HIV to provide them with proper care and support.
To facilitate this effort, the Commission has initiated an HIV self-test campaign, specifically targeting underserved populations and individuals who may be difficult to access. By bringing testing services to their doorstep, the campaign aims to encourage those who fear knowing their status to take the first step and get tested. This approach will play a crucial role in curbing the spread of HIV in the country and ensuring that those affected can access the necessary medical care and support.
