As Ghana joins the global community to commemorate World Hepatitis Day 2025 on July 28, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) is intensifying public education efforts on Hepatitis B, especially in the Upper East Region, where the disease remains a growing health concern.
Dr. Bedu Tetteh, a physician specialist at the Upper East Regional Hospital, has emphasized the urgent need for awareness and early intervention. According to him, although there are five main types of hepatitis—A through E—the regional health focus this year is on Hepatitis B due to its prevalence and public health risk in northern Ghana.
Speaking on A1 Radio in Bolgatanga, Dr. Tetteh explained that Hepatitis B is a viral infection that primarily affects the liver, but if left untreated, it can impact other vital organs and result in life-threatening complications.
“Hepatitis B infection occurs in two phases: acute and chronic. During the acute phase, which typically lasts up to six months, individuals may experience symptoms like yellowing of the eyes, abdominal discomfort, and joint pain. In many cases, the body can clear the virus naturally,” he explained.
However, he warned that if the infection persists beyond six months, it transitions into a chronic condition, often without early symptoms—making it particularly dangerous.
“If not cleared by the body, it becomes what we call chronic Hepatitis B. And if not managed well, it can lead to liver cirrhosis or liver cancer,” he added.
In advanced cases, patients may develop fatigue, swollen feet, and abdominal swelling.
“Our goal is to ensure early detection and intervention. With proper treatment, patients can maintain a fairly normal lifestyle,” Dr. Tetteh said.
Dr. Tetteh highlighted that in the Upper East Region and across Ghana, the most common mode of Hepatitis B transmission is vertical transmission—from mother to child during childbirth. While sexual transmission exists, it is less prevalent.
“In our environment, more than 90 percent of Hepatitis B cases result from vertical transmission. Sexual transmission is relatively low. That’s why we are focusing on early interventions to reduce mother-to-child infections.”
To address this, Ghana’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI) includes Hepatitis B vaccination for infants, beginning at six weeks old. However, there remains a gap in preventive care for pregnant women who are already infected, calling for more robust policies and testing during antenatal care.
“The vaccine schedule helps reduce infection in babies, but for mothers who already have Hepatitis B, we need stronger preventive strategies,” he urged.
Hepatitis B Is Treatable but Not Curable
While Hepatitis B is not curable, Dr. Tetteh noted that it is manageable with appropriate medical care. He stressed the importance of routine screening to determine an individual’s Hepatitis B profile, which helps guide treatment decisions.
“It can be treated, but it cannot be cured. That’s why early screening is crucial. The earlier you’re screened, the better your chances of managing the disease effectively.”
The campaign in the Upper East Region forms part of broader national efforts to raise awareness about viral hepatitis under the World Hepatitis Day 2025 theme: “Hepatitis: Let’s Break It Down.”
Health officials are calling on the public to take proactive steps through screening, vaccination, and safe practices to reduce the spread of Hepatitis B in Ghana.
Source: A1RadioOnline.com | 101.1 MHz | Gifty Eyram Kudiabor | Bolgatanga
