The Ark Development Organisation (ADO), in collaboration with the Ghana Health Service and other stakeholders, has marked this year’s World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTD) Day in the Eastern Region, amid revelations that 28 leprosy cases were recorded in the region in 2025.
The event was held at Adakwa, a community in Subum municiplity of Eastern Region as part of activities to create awareness and reduce stigma surrounding skin-related neglected tropical diseases.
Speaking at the programme, the Eastern Regional NTD Coordinator, Mr. Simon Adu Opoku, said the region was fortunate to receive support from Ark Development Organisation to commemorate the global event, which is observed annually on January 30.
He explained that this year’s global theme, “Unite, Act and Eliminate NTDs,” aligns with Ghana’s national focus on advancing efforts to end neglected tropical diseases.
“Globally, there are about 21 neglected tropical diseases, but in Ghana we have 14 of them. In the Eastern Region, we commonly see leprosy, elephantiasis, scabies, schistosomiasis, onchocerciasis and Buruli ulcer,” he stated.
Mr. Opoku disclosed that aside the 28 confirmed leprosy cases recorded in 2025, several ulcer cases were investigated and samples sent to the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research. Although the tests ruled out Buruli ulcer, the patients are currently receiving wound care and treatment.
He also raised concern about delays in seeking medical care, noting that many patients report to health facilities only when the disease has advanced.
“These diseases are not caused by spirits. They are caused by organisms and vectors, and they are preventable and treatable. Early reporting is key,” he stressed.
He called for stronger partnerships with traditional leaders, religious leaders, prayer camps, the media and other stakeholders to help refer suspected cases promptly to health facilities.
Meanwhile, the Project Coordinator for Ark Development Organisation (ADO), Mr. Kwaning David, said the organization is implementing a skin-related NTD project in three districts — West Akim, Upper Manya Krobo and Suhum Municipality.
According to him, the organisation chose Adakwa in Suhum Municipality to mark the World NTD Day due to the prevalence of skin-related cases in the area.
“Since the inception of this project, we have identified about 128 cases across the three districts, including Buruli ulcer and lymphatic filariasis,” he revealed.
Mr. David Kwanin said the programme focuses not only on medical treatment but also on addressing stigmatisation, which often leads to social isolation of affected persons, especially at the family and community levels.
“These diseases affect not just the individual, but their families, income, work and social life. We are encouraging communities to give social support and see affected persons as part of them,” he said.
He emphasized that neglected tropical diseases are medical conditions, not spiritual afflictions, and urged community members to report early symptoms to health facilities to prevent complications.
The event brought together officials from the Ghana Health Service, Ghana Education Service, community leaders and residents.
Intensify education and awareness were created on NTDs by various health experts.
Source :Mybrytfmonline.com
