This stakeholder engagement brought together clinicians, civil society actors, and policymakers
Dr Robert Gish, a globally recognized hepatologist and one of the foremost experts in hepatitis B and liver disease, has called for nationwide testing and vaccination against the infection.
According to Dr Gish, who also leads the Hepatitis Foundation, early detection is critical in preventing the escalation of the disease and ensuring proper treatment.
Speaking at a stakeholder engagement with health professionals during his three-day tour of the country on April 19, 2025, at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital Dr Gish emphasized the urgent need for comprehensive action.
The tour includes inspections of facilities treating hepatitis B, visits to health workers, and the dissemination of information on effective treatment strategies.
“One out of four people with hepatitis B will die of complications,” he stated.
“We need to test people and treat them to avoid stigma and discrimination. Every family, in some way, is connected to hepatitis B. So many individuals are living with the infection.”
He further stressed the low testing and treatment rates in the country.
“When it comes to treatment, we are only at the beginning. Only a small fraction of infected individuals have been tested, and even fewer have received treatment. It is time for a nationwide campaign for testing and treatment. We need simple testing procedures, linkage to care, and, very importantly, instant vaccination,” he added.
Highlighting the link between hepatitis B and liver cancer, Dr Gish noted, “Liver cancer rates in Ghana are among the highest in the world. Very few patients have been treated, and this is partly due to food contamination by fungi. We need to ensure that our foodstuffs are properly cleaned.”
This stakeholder engagement brought together clinicians, civil society actors, and policymakers to strengthen multi-sectoral collaboration, share insights, and advance coordinated efforts in the national and regional response to hepatitis B and liver cancer.
Dr Asare Offei, a liver surgeon at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital and leader of the Liver Cancer Foundation in Ghana, also spoke at the event.
“For early detection purposes, we’ve been reaching out to communities to provide education,” he said.
“I want to encourage everyone to go and get tested for hepatitis B. Even if you already know your status, don’t be deceived into thinking the virus is inactive. You need to check at least every six months. Currently, 8 to 13 percent of Ghanaians are living with hepatitis B,” Dr Asare Offei added.
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