The Ghana AIDS Commission has raised concerns over the increasing rate of HIV infections among young people, particularly those between the ages of 15 and 24.
According to the Commission, recent data shows a worrying trend in which many young people are prioritising the prevention of pregnancy over protection against sexually transmitted infections, including HIV.
Director-General of the Commission, Dr. Prosper Akanbong, on Tuesday, July 22, attributed the surge in infections to the growing preference for emergency contraceptives over condoms.
“We are seeing high infection rates among young and adolescent groups. The 15 to 24 age group is experiencing a progressively rising trend in HIV cases, and that is very worrisome,” Dr. Akanbong said.
He noted that many young people view pregnancy as a greater threat than HIV, leading to a surge in the use of emergency contraceptive pills while neglecting condoms, which offer dual protection.
“They tend to think more about the fear of pregnancy rather than the fear of infections. So, you see the use of emergency contraceptives on the rise, but not enough condom use,” he lamented.
Dr. Akanbong emphasised the urgent need for intensified public education and awareness campaigns to promote safe sex practices and correct misconceptions about HIV and reproductive health.
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