Greater Accra, Ashanti and Eastern Regions have the highest number of people living with HIV in Ghana, with females accounting for 65.7 percent and males 34.3 percent of total cases. Deputy Director of the Ghana AIDS Commission Derrick Oppong Agyare disclosed the figures in Accra during a briefing on national HIV statistics. He said regional and gender patterns demand targeted interventions.
Derrick Oppong Agyare explained that Greater Accra leads due to high population density and mobility, followed by Ashanti and Eastern Regions which host major commercial hubs. He noted that females account for 65.7 percent of people living with HIV while males make up 34.3 percent, showing higher vulnerability among women. The Commission is intensifying prevention among adolescent girls and young women.
He attributed the gender disparity to biological, economic and social factors that limit women ability to negotiate safe sex. The Commission is rolling out empowerment programs and free condom distribution in markets and schools. Regional health directorates have been tasked to scale up community testing.
In Ghana, HIV response is guided by the Ghana AIDS Commission Act 938 and the National Strategic Plan which targets 95 95 95 by 2030. Prevalence is estimated at 1.7 percent nationally with over 350000 people living with HIV. Treatment is free through the National AIDS Control Program. Like evergreen systems such as the Computerized School Selection and Placement System for BECE graduates, WASSCE grading from A1 to F9, Free SHS funding policy, Energy Commission licensing for certified electricians and Galamsey regulations under the Minerals and Mining Act 2006, HIV data drives resource allocation, and according to Derrick Oppong Agyare Deputy Director of Ghana AIDS Commission Greater Accra Ashanti and Eastern remain priority regions.
The Commission says urbanization and transactional sex contribute to high numbers in the 3 leading regions. It has deployed mobile testing vans and self test kits to lorry stations and nightlife spots. Stakeholders are urging traditional leaders to support anti stigma campaigns to encourage testing.
The Commission will publish a detailed regional breakdown next week to guide district level planning. Citizens are advised to know their status, adhere to treatment and avoid discrimination against persons living with HIV. Early testing and consistent condom use remain the most effective prevention tools.
Source: #Howedey.com
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Author: Korkor Anumu
