Hepatitis Threat Spurs Testing Drive

The Ghana Health Service has stepped up public education on hepatitis, urging Ghanaians to undergo regular screening and take preventive measures to curb the spread of the disease as the country marks World Hepatitis Day 2026 on July 28.

The awareness campaign highlights the importance of early diagnosis in reducing the devastating impact of hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver that can lead to life-threatening complications such as liver cirrhosis, liver failure and liver cancer if left untreated.

According to the health experts, Hepatitis B remains the most common form of the disease in Ghana, while Hepatitis C also accounts for a significant share of hepatitis-related illnesses, making the condition a major public health concern.

Medical professionals explained that the viruses responsible for hepatitis are commonly transmitted through contact with infected blood. Infection can occur from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth, through unprotected sexual intercourse, blood transfusions involving infected blood, and by sharing contaminated needles, razors and other sharp objects.

They noted that many people living with hepatitis show no symptoms for years, allowing the disease to silently damage the liver before it is detected. This, they said, underscores the need for routine testing, particularly among individuals who may have been exposed to any of the known risk factors.

Health authorities, however, stressed that hepatitis can be effectively prevented and managed. They emphasized that Hepatitis B is preventable through vaccination, one of the most effective public health interventions available, while Hepatitis C can now be cured with highly effective medicines, especially when treatment begins early.

As part of the World Hepatitis Day campaign, the public is being encouraged to visit the nearest health facility for a simple blood test to determine their hepatitis status instead of mere guesses. Officials say early diagnosis enables timely medical care, reduces the risk of severe liver disease and helps prevent further transmission of the virus.

The campaign also encourages Ghanaians to adopt healthy practices, including avoiding the sharing of needles, razors and other sharp objects, practising safe sex, ensuring all donated blood is properly screened before transfusion, and ensuring babies receive the recommended Hepatitis B vaccine shortly after birth.

It is widely believed that increased public awareness, widespread testing, vaccination and access to treatment will play a crucial role in reducing the burden of hepatitis in Ghana and preventing avoidable deaths caused by the disease.

With the message “Don’t guess your status—get tested today,” health officials are urging every Ghanaian to take proactive steps to protect themselves, their families and their communities from hepatitis. Walk into the nearest health facility today and get tested to know your status and protect your liver.

By: Joyce Owusu

##World Hepatitis Day, #Hepatitis B, #Hepatitis C, #Ghana Health Service, ##Don’t Guess Your Status, ##Get Checked Today, #Safe Sex, #You Only Live Once