Health authorities have raised concern over a surge in genital warts cases in parts of Ghana, attributing the trend to increasing infections of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and calling for intensified public education, vaccination and safer sex practices.
Madam Roberta A. Amoquandoh, HIV Coordinator for the Ashaiman Municipal Health Directorate, said many Ghanaians mistakenly identified genital warts as piles, leading to delayed treatment and increased transmission.
Madam Amoquandoh disclosed this in an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Ashaiman.
According to her, the condition was more prevalent among individuals engaging in high-risk sexual behaviours, particularly having unprotected sex.
She explained that genital warts are primarily caused by HPV types six and 11, which are transmitted through sexual contact.
She described genital warts as flesh-coloured, cauliflower-like growths that are usually painless but may cause itching, grow in clusters and spread if left untreated.
She clarified that genital warts differ from skin tags, noting that while warts appear clustered and irregular, skin tags are soft, narrow growths with balloon-like ends.
Madam Amoquandoh stated that treatment options such as podophyllin solution could be used to manage genital warts, although recurrence was possible due to treatment failure or reinfection.
She cautioned that podophyllin was not recommended for use during pregnancy, adding that surgical removal was often preferred for pregnant women.
The HIV coordinator stressed the importance of preventive measures, including abstinence, faithful partnerships, and consistent use of protection during sexual activity.
She also highlighted vaccination against HPV as a critical step in reducing infections and preventing complications.
Madam Amoquandoh urged the public to seek early medical attention for any unusual growth or symptoms, noting that prompt diagnosis and treatment were essential in controlling the spread of the infection.
Source: GNA
