Kumasi, April 17, – More than 63,000 people are currently living with HIV/AIDS in the Ashanti Region, with health experts also reporting about 300 new infections annually among children aged zero to 14.
An HIV/AIDS specialist, Dr Thomas Agyarko-Poku, disclosed this in an interview with the Ghana News Agency in Kumasi, describing the situation as a continuing public health concern that requires sustained attention.
He cautioned that despite years of awareness campaigns and improved treatment options, new infections are still being recorded, particularly among young people, underscoring the need for stronger preventive measures.
Dr Agyarko-Poku urged individuals to prioritise personal responsibility in preventing infection, stressing abstinence, faithfulness in relationships, consistent condom use and regular HIV testing as key preventive tools.
He also encouraged persons living with HIV to strictly adhere to antiretroviral therapy, noting that proper treatment improves quality of life and significantly reduces the risk of transmission.
According to him, the fight against HIV cannot be left to health professionals alone, but requires collective action from families, communities, and institutions.
He called on the media to step up public education efforts to help correct misinformation and promote behavioural change among the population.
Dr Agyarko-Poku further appealed for an end to stigma and discrimination against persons living with HIV, describing such attitudes as counterproductive to public health efforts.
He noted that ignorance and complacency remain key drivers of new infections and stressed the importance of continuous community engagement, especially among young people.
He also urged parents, teachers and opinion leaders to actively support education on HIV prevention at the community level.
Dr Agyarko-Poku called on government and health authorities to sustain investment in testing services, public education and access to antiretroviral drugs, particularly in underserved areas.
He emphasised that early testing remains critical in controlling the spread of the virus, as it enables early treatment and reduces transmission.
He added that advances in treatment have made it possible for people living with HIV to lead healthy and productive lives when they adhere to medical guidance.
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