A routine free health screening exercise at Dormaa Akwamu in the Bono Region has uncovered a deeply concerning situation involving children’s health, drawing attention to hidden medical conditions within the community.
The screening, which targeted children between the ages of 8 and 16, revealed that 16 of them tested positive for HIV, with nine of those cases being newly diagnosed while seven were already known by the children or their guardians.In addition to this, eight children were diagnosed with diabetes, and a significant number 64 were found to be suffering from severe malaria.
The exercise was organized by Obeyeyie Care, a non-governmental organization, in collaboration with the Dormaa East Health Directorate.
Although the primary focus of the program was to raise awareness about diabetes among young people, the outcome exposed broader underlying health challenges that may have otherwise gone undetected. Health officials involved in the screening expressed concern over the number of new HIV cases, especially among children, emphasizing the need for increased awareness, early testing, and stronger preventive measures within families and communities.The discovery has sparked conversations around the possible causes of HIV infections among children, with experts pointing to factors such as mother-to-child transmission and gaps in early diagnosis and treatment.
It also highlights the importance of routine health screenings, particularly in underserved communities where access to healthcare services may be limited and many conditions remain undiagnosed until they become severe. Medical personnel ensured that all affected children were referred to appropriate health facilities for further evaluation and treatment. Those diagnosed with HIV are expected to begin antiretroviral therapy to manage their condition, while the children with diabetes and malaria will also receive the necessary medical care.
Health authorities have stressed the importance of avoiding stigma and discrimination, urging families and community members to support affected children as they begin treatment.This incident serves as a strong reminder of the need to prioritize child health, promote regular medical check-ups, and intensify public education on diseases such as HIV and diabetes.It also underscores the critical role community-based health interventions play in identifying silent health threats and ensuring early intervention to save lives.
