The Eastern Region recorded 28 leprosy cases in 2025, prompting health authorities to intensify public education to dispel myths and encourage early reporting of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs).
The Eastern Regional NTD Coordinator, Simon Adu Opoku, disclosed this during activities to mark World NTD Day at Adarkwa, a community near Suhum. He said the region is scaling up awareness campaigns and partnerships to tackle misconceptions that continue to delay treatment and worsen outcomes.
This year’s World NTD Day celebration, themed “Unite, Act and Eliminate NTDs,” aligns with Ghana’s renewed push to end neglected tropical diseases nationwide.
Mr. Adu Opoku explained that although about 21 NTDs exist globally, 14 are recorded in Ghana, several of which remain prevalent in the Eastern Region. He identified late health-seeking behaviour, driven largely by myths and misinformation, as a major challenge, noting that many patients only report to health facilities when conditions have reached advanced stages.
Meanwhile, Kwaning David, Project Coordinator for ARK Development Organisation, revealed that the organisation is implementing a skin-related NTD project in West Akim, Upper Manya Krobo, and Suhum Municipality. Through the project, about 128 cases of skin-related NTDs, including Buruli ulcer and lymphatic filariasis, have been identified across the three districts.
The event brought together officials from the Ghana Health Service, Ghana Education Service, traditional leaders, and community members, all calling for collective action, early reporting, and sustained education to eliminate NTDs in the region.
By paqmediagh/Kojo Ansah
