The Director General of the Ghana Health Service, Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, (GHS) has shared positive news regarding HIV treatment in Ghana.
According to him, the use of antiretrovirals (ARVs) alongside prevention strategies has improved the health and longevity of Ghanaians living with HIV.
During the media launch of 20 years of HIV anti-retroviral treatment (ART) therapy in Ghana held in Accra on Wednesday, Dr. Kuma Aboagye emphasized that these achievements have also decreased new infections and related mortality rates.
The recent milestone of 20 years of HIV anti-retroviral treatment (ART) in Ghana shows significant progress made by the Ghana Health Service in managing the virus.
Dr. Aboagye however noted that despite these advancements, challenges remain, including persistent stigma, limited access to testing and treatment, and uneven ART distribution.
“ARVs have transformed the lives of people living with HIV (PLHIV), offering hope, health and longevity… adding that ‘we must also strengthen our healthcare infrastructure, ensuring that healthcare professionals are trained and equipped to effectively manage HIV and provide continuous care”
Dr. Patrick Kuma Aboagye therefore emphasized the need for intense efforts to educate communities, combat misconceptions, strengthen healthcare infrastructure, and promote local production of ARVs.
These according to him will help to improve HIV management nationwide.
On his part, the Director of Public Health Division of GHS, Dr. Franklin Asiedu-Bekoe expressed that Ghana cannot rest “until every person, regardless of the socio-economic status or geographical location, has access to life-saving anti-retroviral therapy.”
He added that the challenges aforementioned by the Director General must continue to be tackled while also ensuring that the benefit of innovation reaches those who need it most.
Notably, he said the triumphs Ghana has achieved are the results of collaboration with governments, organisations, healthcare providers and communities to prioritize a comprehensive approach to HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention.
The media launch of 20 years of HIV anti-retroviral treatment (ART) therapy in Ghana was celebrated around the theme: “20 years of HIV anti-retroviral treatment in Ghana: commemorating progress, halting the epidemic”.
Read also: Chief State Attorney expelled from the bar for accepting GH¢400,000 from Woyome
