Over 45% of people living with HIV in Ashanti are not on treatment, posing a significant public health risk, according to Dr. Fred Adomako-Boateng, the Ashanti Regional Director of Health Services. This alarming statistic highlights a critical issue that demands immediate attention and action. Despite notable progress in HIV testing and treatment uptake, a large treatment gap continues to undermine efforts to control the spread of the virus. Out of an estimated 63,159 people living with HIV in the region who should be on treatment, only 33,199, representing 52.9 per cent, are currently receiving antiretroviral therapy. This means approximately 29,960 individuals either do not know their HIV status or are not on medication, which poses a significant public health risk. The Regional Director emphasizes that the only way to bridge this gap is by improving testing, increasing awareness, and making prevention services easily accessible everywhere. He also notes that although the region has recorded progress, such as a 28.2 per cent increase in clients on treatment and thousands of new enrolments, the gains would be undermined if people continued to shy away from testing and treatment. HIV is preventable, and free testing and treatment are available at health facilities across the region. Knowing your status is the first and most powerful step in protecting yourself and those you love, especially men and young people, who are urged to take testing seriously. The Regional Health Director further highlights the availability of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a daily medication that reduces the risk of acquiring HIV by more than 90 per cent. Dr. Adomako-Boateng also emphasizes the urgent need to end stigma and discrimination, which he describes as major barriers to testing and treatment. He stresses that HIV is a health condition, not a moral judgment, and people living with HIV deserve love, respect, and dignity. The Ashanti Regional Health Directorate remains committed to expanding access to HIV services through stronger collaboration with traditional leaders, schools, and the media, urging the public to take personal responsibility for protection and testing.
