Abstain From Risky Sexual Behaviour to Curb Rising HIV Cases – Medical Lab Scientist Urges Youth
Mamponteng, A/R – A Medical Laboratory Scientist, Dr. Nabil Emmanuel, has called on young people, especially the youth of St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, Mamponteng, to desist from risky and unprotected sexual practices as a key measure to prevent the spread of HIV.
Dr. Emmanuel made the call while addressing members of the Church’s Youth Council as part of activities marking their 2026 Youth Week Celebration on Sunday, September 7, 2026.
Speaking on the theme of HIV prevention, he described the rising number of people living with HIV in Ghana as a major public health concern that demands collective action from individuals, families, religious bodies, health professionals, government and other stakeholders.
He disclosed that available statistics indicate that the number of people living with HIV in Ghana increased from approximately 334,000 in 2024 to about 337,000 in 2025.
Dr. Emmanuel attributed the upward trend to factors including unprotected sexual activities and the abuse of alcohol and illicit drugs, which he said often expose young people to risky situations.
“When you are carried away by the use of illegal drugs or excessive alcohol, people can take advantage of you and engage you in sexual activities. If such a person is infected with HIV, your risk of contracting the virus becomes very high,” he cautioned.
He therefore advised the youth to be mindful of the company they keep and to avoid situations that could compromise their safety and well-being.
Dr. Emmanuel further encouraged young people and the general public to make regular HIV testing a routine part of their healthcare, noting that knowing one’s status enables informed health decisions and early initiation of treatment for those who test positive.
He stressed that although there is currently no cure for HIV, the virus can be effectively managed with Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), allowing people living with HIV to live healthy and productive lives.
He added that with proper adherence to treatment, mothers living with HIV can significantly reduce the risk of mother-to-child transmission.
He urged the public to desist from stigmatizing and discriminating against persons living with HIV and rather encourage them to seek care and adhere to treatment.
Dr. Emmanuel also called on churches, schools, youth groups, traditional authorities, health institutions and other stakeholders to intensify public education and sensitization on HIV prevention.
He said while government and health authorities are making efforts to control the virus, success depends on individual responsibility.
He cautioned that deliberate transmission of HIV has serious legal consequences and urged persons who suspect exposure to seek prompt medical attention, get tested, and follow professional advice.
The health talk formed part of a series of activities lined up for the 2026 Youth Week Celebration of the St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church, Mamponteng.
The week-long celebration commenced on Saturday, September 5, 2026, with a general clean-up exercise to promote environmental cleanliness and community responsibility, in line with the adage “cleanliness is next to godliness.”
The Youth Week is expected to continue with spiritual, educational, social and community development activities aimed at empowering the youth and strengthening their commitment to the Church and society.
Credit:Okesieba ( Noble News Correspondent)
