Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in Ghana

Lore & Background

Cervical cancer, driven by HPV, is a leading cause of cancer death among Ghanaian women. At the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, 57.8% of women with gynecological cancer had cervical cancer. Late diagnosis and limited implementation of a 2015 cancer control strategy contribute to high mortality. The cost of the HPV vaccine, between GH¢250 and GH¢500 per dose for a three-dose regimen, poses a barrier.

Reader's Guide

HPV in Ghana represents a preventable yet deadly health crisis. The high mortality rate of 26 per 100,000 women contrasts sharply with developed countries. Ghana piloted HPV vaccination among 10–14-year-old girls in selected regions from 2013 to 2015 but has not yet administered it nationwide. In February 2022, Yemaachi launched a home-based HPV molecular test in Accra and Kumasi, allowing women to self-screen and receive results within 72 hours. Limited pathologists, concentrated in major cities, and low awareness among healthcare providers and the public hinder screening and prevention efforts.

Did You Know?

• About 2,000 of the 3,000 Ghanaian women diagnosed with cervical cancer each year die from it.
• Almost 60% of 348 women diagnosed with cervical cancer tested positive for HPV types 16 and 18.
• 13.9% of pregnant women sampled in the Western Region were at high risk for HPV.
• The HPV vaccine costs between GH¢250 and GH¢500 per dose, with three doses recommended.