Dr. Frederick Adomako Boateng, the Ashanti Regional Director of Ghana Health Services (GHS), has stated that about 98% of Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) are not spiritual, as perceived by the general public, but are curable. The primary goal is to eliminate these diseases by 2030 with appropriate treatment.
According to Dr. Adomako Boateng, health education is crucial, along with Mass Drug Administration and morbidity control management, to eliminate NTDs. He disclosed this at the launch of a program organized by Women’s Hope Foundation at the Regional Health Directorate, titled “Combating Skin NTDs through Gender Equality Perspective in Ghana.”
Dr. Adomako Boateng commended Women’s Hope Foundation for their initiative to address discrimination against people affected by NTDs. He explained that NTDs are a group of 20 infectious and parasitic diseases that affect over a billion people worldwide, particularly those in extreme poverty. These diseases are often neglected due to economic situations, lack of political voice, and low visibility.
Some of the Neglected Tropical Diseases mentioned include Leprosy, Buruli Ulcer, Rabies, Soil Transmitted Helminths, Trachoma, Schistosomiasis, and Yaws.
The Executive Director of Women’s Hope Foundation, Mr. Alex Adusi, emphasized the need for basic social determinants of health to eliminate NTDs. The foundation provides clean water, employment, toilet facilities, NTD education, and care and support for people with skin NTDs.
Nana Kofi Oppong III, Atimatim Dikro, and Chairman for the occasion, lauded the foundation for their initiative to create awareness and sensitization against discrimination and stigmatization of people with NTDs. He urged stakeholders and policymakers to prioritize the fight against NTDs and support the foundation in various ways to help eliminate these diseases.
