The Upper East Regional Health Director, Dr. Braima Baba Abubakari, has highlighted a pressing public health concern in the region during the launch of the “Integrated Actions Towards Combating Skin NTDs in Ghana (NTDs Plus Project)” by Development Research and Advocacy Centre (DRAC). Apexnewsgh reports Leprosy and Yaws continue to affect many lives, with alarming statistics revealing the severity of the issue. A speech by the Regional Health Director indicates that between 2020 and 2024, the region detected 137 cases of Leprosy, with over 80% of patients reporting with advanced stages of disability. This indicates a significant delay in seeking medical attention, which can lead to long-term consequences. In the same period, approximately 1190 cases of Yaws were suspected and treated in the region. Dr. Abubakari expressed enthusiasm about the NTDs Plus Project, designed to address the challenges faced by individuals with Skin NTDs. The project leverages existing community structures to deliver health services, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling these diseases. The partnership between the health department and DRAC, supported by the Anesvad Foundation, is crucial to the project’s success. With the launch of the NTDs Plus Project, the Upper East region takes a significant step towards reducing the burden of Skin NTDs. By working together, stakeholders aim to improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for those affected by these diseases. The project’s success will depend on the collaborative efforts of all parties involved, and Dr. Abubakari expressed optimism about the positive impact it will have on the region. The Director of Programmes at DRAC, Mr. Aberinga Milton, announced that the NTDs Plus Project marks a significant milestone as the second phase of DRAC’s skin NTDs programming. The initial project, which targeted five districts in the Upper East Region – Binduri, Builsa South, Bongo, Nabdam, and Talensi – laid the groundwork for the new initiative. According to Mr. Aberinga, the NTDs Plus Project brings numerous improvements and benefits designed to support victims of skin NTDs and their communities. Mr. Aberinga highlighted the prevalence of specific health issues in certain areas of the region. Leprosy, he noted, is a significant concern in Bongo, while Yaws and other skin diseases are particularly prevalent in the Bolgatanga East area. These findings emphasize the need for targeted interventions to address these health challenges and improve the well-being of residents in these communities. With the NTDs Plus Project, DRAC is poised to build on its previous successes and make a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by skin NTDs. The project’s improvements and benefits aim to provide comprehensive support to victims and their communities, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more resilient Upper East Region. The Bolgatanga Municipal Chief Executive’s representative, Presiding Member Mr. Stephen Akugre, officially launched the NTDs Plus Project on behalf of the MCE. At the launch, Mr. Akugre acknowledged the project’s potential impact and importance in Bolgatanga and the region as a whole. He expressed his support for the project, assuring DRAC that the MCE would work to ensure its success in the region. With a declaration, Mr. Akugre marked the official start of the NTDs Plus Project, paving the way for its implementation and anticipated positive outcomes. The Project launch saw the presence of Stakeholders from all the affected district and communities. Source: Apexnewsgh.com/ Ngamegbulam Chidozie Stephen
