Stakeholders are urgently calling for the prompt testing of suspected cases of Skin Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) as nearly 891 new cases have been identified in the Eastern Region.
The suspected cases comprising of 321 yaws, 177 Buruli ulcer,58 leprosy, 35 lymphatic feliarises , and 301 other skin diseases such as warts and rashes.
358 (41%) of the total cases were recorded in Suhum, 207 in West Akim, 204 in the Fanteakwa North, and 122 in the upper Manya Krobo district,” said Emmanuel Kwarfo Mintah.
Two persons with suspected cases Skin-NTDs unfortunately died while awaiting confirmation results of their symptoms.
It takes Noguchi two to three months to release results of Skin-NTDs samples which affects case management
Stakeholders in the health sector expressed this concern of delay in test results at a Regional Health Forum, spearheaded by Ark Development Organization (ADO) and Anesvad Foundation in collaboration with Ghana Health Service (GHS) and other partners, aimed to address challenges in combating Skin NTDs through Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) initiatives.
The forum served as a platform to discuss practical measures and the holistic approach implemented by the “Partnership for the Eradication of Skin NTDs Project,” a two-year initiative focusing on four Skin-NTDs: Buruli Ulcer, Leprosy, Yaws, and Lymphatic Filariasis in specific municipalities.
Emmanuel Kwarfo Mintah, Executive Director of Ark Development Organization, implementing the project said a total of 891 new suspected cases have been identified through community surveillance, with Suhum recording the highest cases.
“This activity has raised awareness of skin NTDs in the intervention communities and beyond. Through community surveillance by our volunteers, 891 suspected cases comprising of 321 yaws, 177 BU, 58 leprosy, 35 lf, and 301 other skin diseases such as warts and rashes were recorded as at the end of the third quarter. 358 (41%) of the total cases were recorded in Suhum, 207 in West Akim, 204 in the Fanteakwa North, and 122 in the upper Manya Krobo district,” said Emmanuel Kwarfo Mintah
Mr. Christian Fiador, Eastern Regional NTDs Coordinator, highlighted that the region is awaiting confirmation results for precision medical intervention, emphasizing that many more affected persons may yet to be identified.
He urged the public to help identify such persons in communities for treatment.
Stakeholders expressed concerns over challenges faced during the project, including the inadequate capacity of health facilities, poor road networks, and delays in test confirmations from Nuguchi. The National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) was urged to secure inclusive health insurance services to alleviate the financial burden on affected households.
Within the WASH component of the project, 725 teachers and pupils received education on personal hygiene and sanitation, while plans for mechanized boreholes in each district aim to enhance access to clean water.
The forum concluded with a shared commitment among stakeholders to overcome challenges and continue collaborative efforts in the fight against Skin NTDs.
Dr. Samuel Boateng, West Akyem Municipal Director of Health, commended the initiative for its positive impact.
He said due to lack of funds the health directorate did not have capacity to embark regrous campaign to identify patients with Skin-NTDs for intervention.
Globally affecting an estimated 1 billion people, with 25 million individuals impacted in Ghana, Skin NTDs disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, leading to stigmatization, neglect, and economic hardships.
Source: Mybrytfmonline.com/Obed Ansah
