Ghana AIDS Commission warns of declining condom use among adults

The Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC) has raised an alarm over a sharp decline in condom usage during high-risk sexual encounters, warning that the trend threatens the national target of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030. Despite historical progress in managing new infections, recent survey data reveals a worrying shift in behavioral patterns among adults aged 15 to 49. The Commission noted that this trend is particularly concerning given the goal of eliminating AIDS as a public health threat within the next decade.

Detailed findings from a 2022 survey highlight a stark disparity in protective measures during higher-risk sexual activity. According to the GAC, less than 30% of men and approximately 10% of women reported using a condom during their last high-risk encounter. This significant drop in usage coincides with an observed increase in reported high-risk sexual activity across the country, creating a precarious environment for the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

Beyond behavioral shifts, the Commission emphasized that persistent discrimination and stigma against people living with HIV remain significant barriers to prevention and treatment. These social challenges often discourage individuals from seeking testing or adhering to antiretroviral therapy, further complicating efforts to stabilize and reduce infection rates. The GAC noted that without addressing these underlying social issues and the cultural barriers to condom use, medical interventions alone may fall short of the country's long-term health objectives.

As Ghana continues its efforts toward the 2030 milestone, the Commission is calling for a renewed focus on public education and prevention initiatives. Officials stressed that reversing the current trend requires a multi-faceted approach that combines improved access to condoms with aggressive national campaigns to dismantle the stigma surrounding the virus. The GAC remains committed to revitalizing its advocacy to ensure that the progress made over the past decades is not eroded by declining prevention practices.