Bia West Leads Hepatitis Cases in 2025 in Western North Region

Bia West Leads Hepatitis Cases in 2025 in Western North Region

BIA WEST has recorded the highest number of viral Hepatitis cases in the Western North Region in 2025, according to surveillance data released by the Ghana Health Service.

The Western North Regional Director of Health Services, Dr. Paulina Clara Appiah, disclosed this during the Regional celebration of World Hepatitis Day, held in Bibiani under the global theme: "Elimination for Everyone, Everywhere, Right Now."

According to Dr. Appiah, the region recorded 693 viral Hepatitis cases in 2025, with the highest numbers reported in Bia West, Aowin, Juaboso, Bibiani-Anhwiaso-Bekwai, and Sefwi Wiawso Municipalities.

She stressed that the statistics are not just numbers but represent mothers, fathers, children, and productive members of society whose lives can be protected through early detection, prevention, and timely treatment.

Dr. Appiah therefore appealed to the public to avoid stigmatizing people living with Hepatitis, explaining that stigma discourages individuals from seeking testing and treatment, ultimately worsening the spread of the disease.

She emphasized that everyone is at risk of contracting viral Hepatitis and encouraged residents to know their status through regular screening while adopting healthy lifestyles and preventive measures.

The Regional Director also highlighted the government's Free Primary Health Care Policy, describing it as a major intervention that places prevention and health promotion at the centre of healthcare delivery. She explained that the policy seeks to ensure every individual, family, and community has equitable access to essential health services, thereby strengthening efforts to eliminate Hepatitis and other preventable diseases.

Dr. Appiah called on traditional leaders, religious bodies, civil society organizations, the media, and community members to join hands with the Ghana Health Service in intensifying public education and encouraging voluntary testing.

The World Hepatitis Day celebration in Bibiani brought together health professionals, traditional authorities, students, and residents to raise awareness about the dangers of viral Hepatitis, promote early diagnosis, and reinforce the collective commitment to eliminating the disease in the region and across Ghana.

Source:Bibianinews.com