Significant Gap in HIV Treatment Leaves Over 45% of Ashanti Region Residents untreated
Kumasi, Ashanti Region – A concerning number of individuals living with HIV in the Ashanti Region are not receiving the life-saving antiretroviral therapy they need, according to Dr. Fred adomako-Boateng, the Regional Director of Health Services. Speaking at a World AIDS Day media briefing, Dr. Adomako-Boateng revealed that over 45% of the estimated 63,159 people living with HIV in the region are currently not on treatment.
Currently, 33,199 individuals, representing approximately 52.9% of those who should be receiving care, are accessing antiretroviral therapy. This leaves roughly 29,960 people either unaware of their HIV status or not engaged in treatment. Dr. Adomako-Boateng emphasized the public health risk posed by this significant treatment gap, highlighting the need for increased testing, awareness, and accessible prevention services.
While the region has seen positive developments, including a 28.2% increase in the number of clients on treatment and new enrolments, these gains are threatened by continued reluctance towards testing and treatment.Dr. Adomako-Boateng stressed that HIV is a preventable condition and that free testing and treatment are readily available at health facilities throughout the Ashanti Region.
“Knowing your status is the first and most powerful step in protecting yourself and those you love,” he stated, specifically urging men and young people to prioritize HIV testing.
The Health Director also highlighted the availability of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a daily medication proven to reduce the risk of HIV acquisition by over 90%.He underscored the critical importance of addressing stigma and discrimination, identifying them as major obstacles to both testing and treatment adherence.
“Stigma prevents people from testing and forces others to hide. HIV is a health condition, not a moral judgment. People living with HIV deserve love, respect, and dignity,” Dr. Adomako-Boateng asserted.
The Ashanti regional Health Directorate has pledged to expand access to HIV services through strengthened partnerships with traditional leaders, schools, and media outlets. Ultimately, Dr. Adomako-Boateng urged all residents to take personal responsibility for their health by practicing safe behaviors and seeking regular testing.
