The Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) has revealed that nearly 107,000 people living with HIV in Ghana are unaware of their status, raising concerns about late diagnosis and the continued spread of the virus.
According to the Commission, while significant progress has been made in HIV prevention, testing and treatment, a large number of people remain undiagnosed and are therefore unable to access life-saving antiretroviral therapy.
The GAC said identifying these individuals remains a major priority in the national HIV response, as early testing and treatment are critical to reducing new infections and preventing HIV-related deaths.
Officials explained that some people avoid testing due to fear of stigma, discrimination and misconceptions surrounding HIV, making community education and awareness campaigns essential.
“The challenge is not only treating those who know their status but also reaching those who do not know. Until everyone knows their status, we cannot end AIDS as a public health threat,” the Commission said.
The Commission is therefore urging Ghanaians, especially those considered at higher risk, to take advantage of HIV testing services available across the country.
It also called on communities to support people living with HIV and discourage stigmatisation, stressing that stigma remains one of the biggest barriers preventing individuals from seeking testing and treatment.