Stakeholders in Ghana’s healthcare sector have called for intensified public education to address the prevalence of Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
They also stressed the need for the provision of adequate HPV facilities to ensure effective diagnosis and treatment of the disease which has a devastating link with cervical cancer.
The stakeholders made the call at a workshop in Accra last Friday. It was under the theme, “Enhancing Healthcare: Strengthening HPV Awareness, Screening, and Prevention.”
HPV disease
HPV is a common viral infection that primarily spreads through skin-to-skin contact, often during sexual activity. It is a leading cause of cervical cancer and can also result in other health complications, including genital warts and cancers of the throat, anus, and genitals.
Organised by Sansure Biotech in collaboration with Health Community of West Africa Association (HCOWA), the workshop brought together representatives from institutions such as the Ghana Health Service, Ghana Pharmacy Council, Ministry of Health, Federation of Africa Medical Equipment, International Diabetes Federation of Africa, HCOWA and Essence Medical Laboratory.
Discussions centered on the role of HPV in cervical cancer, screening challenges, and strategies for improving public education and healthcare systems.
While many HPV infections clear on their own, persistent infections can lead to serious health issues. Prevention through vaccination, regular screenings, and public awareness are critical in reducing HPV-related diseases and promoting overall health, especially among women.
Stakeholders committed to advancing advocacy efforts, fostering innovative solutions, and building strong partnerships to address the HPV burden and mitigate its impact on women's health in Ghana and across the region.
Stigmatisation, public education
A Palliative Medicine Specialist, Dr. Selina Leeward, emphasised that stigmatisation and a lack of awareness are major barriers to the adoption of HPV screening.
She underscored the crucial need for government agencies and media partners to increase their commitment to educating the public about HPV and its prevention.
Dr. Leeward also highlighted the significant burden of HPV-related cancers in Ghana, stressing that early detection and intervention can save countless lives.
The Chief Executive Officer of the Federation of Africa Medical Equipment, Mr Anthony Ameka, stressed the need for more attention to be given to January as HPV Awareness Month as compared to the well-known Breast Cancer Awareness campaigns in October.
He encouraged individuals to seek early treatment, noting that HPV, which can be transmitted through sexual contact, is preventable with safe practices such as vaccination, routine screenings, and education on safe sexual behaviours.
Diagnostic tools
Dr. Joshua Billy of the Ghana Health Service stressed the need for healthcare facilities across the country to be equipped with modern diagnostic tools to support comprehensive screening programmes. He argued that effective screening is a critical step toward reducing late-stage cervical cancer cases and saving lives.
Miss Elizabeth Denyo of the International Diabetes Federation of Africa highlighted the importance of regulating medications in pharmacies, stressing that some HPV-related complications require specialised diagnosis and treatment that can only be provided by adequately equipped hospitals.
She warned against self-medication, stressing that proper testing and professional oversight are essential for effective management.
The Chief Executive Officer of HCOWA, Anna Jiang, reaffirmed the Association's unwavering commitment to supporting efforts in the fight against HPV.
She emphasised the association's dedication to collaborate with stakeholders and champion initiatives aimed at prevention, education, and improving access to screening and treatment.
Event
The event concluded with a commitment to foster collaboration among key stakeholders, including Sansure Biotech and Essence Medical Laboratory, to bolster the fight against HPV.
The organisers of the workshop highlighted its significance as a pivotal step toward empowering healthcare professionals with the necessary tools and expertise to improve HPV screening and prevention.
