Sunyani: The Hepatitis Alliance of Ghana (HAG) has called for the inclusion of hepatitis care under the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, commonly referred to as 'Mahama Cares.' This initiative, launched by the government, aims to provide financial aid for individuals suffering from chronic diseases such as cancer, kidney failure, and heart conditions.
According to Ghana News Agency, the Trust Fund was introduced by President John Dramani Mahama to alleviate the financial burden of medical treatment and enhance healthcare access for those affected. A statement signed by Professor Charles Ampong Adjei, the Executive Director of HAG, highlighted the ongoing public health concern posed by viral hepatitis 'B' and 'C' in the country.
The statement, issued in Sunyani to mark the 2025 World Hepatitis Day themed 'Let's Break It Down,' emphasized the need to dismantle barriers that hinder access to necessary care. It cited empirical data showing that approximately 8.5 percent of Ghanaians live with hepatitis 'B' and three percent with hepatitis 'C.' Notably, the Northern regions of Ghana bear the highest burden of these diseases.
The Savanna Region records a prevalence rate of 22.7 percent for hepatitis 'B,' while the Upper East Region sees a 14.4 percent prevalence rate for hepatitis 'C.' The statement also highlighted that most liver cancer cases in Ghana stem from chronic hepatitis 'B' and 'C,' with an average survival rate of only three months post-diagnosis.
Despite progress in addressing hepatitis 'B' and 'C' in Ghana, the statement stressed that continued efforts and financial commitments are essential to meet the 2030 United Nations hepatitis elimination goals. The HAG appeals to President Mahama to prioritize hepatitis care within the Ghana Medical Trust Fund's scope.
