According to recent findings from the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), a significant portion of pregnant women in Ghana experience anaemia, surpassing 50% and on HIV 2% of women aged 15-49 had sex with more than one partner in the 12 months before the Survey.
The report underscores a critical health concern among expectant mothers in the country, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and healthcare initiatives to address this pervasive issue.
In terms of HIV knowledge and sexual behaviour, the survey discloses nuanced insights into risky sexual practices among women aged 15–49. Notably, a small percentage of women reported engaging in sexual activity with multiple partners within the preceding year, with an even smaller fraction employing condom usage during their last sexual encounter. Similarly, a portion of men in the same age group acknowledged having multiple sexual partners, indicating potential challenges in HIV prevention and sexual health education.
A notable revelation from the survey pertains to childbirth trends and maternal health outcomes. It indicates that a considerable proportion of live births in the two years leading up to the survey were delivered via caesarean section, with the procedure accounting for over one-fifth of all births. This trend sheds light on evolving childbirth practices and healthcare accessibility for expectant mothers across different regions of Ghana.
Furthermore, the report underscores regional disparities in anaemia prevalence among children aged 6–59 months, with the Northern Region exhibiting the highest rates. Conversely, the Ahafo Region demonstrates comparatively lower prevalence rates, indicating varying healthcare needs and resource allocation requirements across different geographic areas within the country.
The survey’s longitudinal perspective reveals a declining trend in anaemia prevalence among children since 2008, reflecting potential advancements in healthcare interventions and public health initiatives aimed at mitigating nutritional deficiencies and improving overall child health outcomes. Such positive developments underscore the effectiveness of sustained efforts in combating anaemia and promoting child well-being in Ghana.
Additionally, the survey highlights urban-rural differentials in childbirth practices, with a higher prevalence of caesarean deliveries observed in urban areas compared to rural counterparts. This disparity underscores the complex interplay between healthcare access, maternal health services, and geographical factors, necessitating targeted interventions to ensure equitable access to safe childbirth practices and obstetric care across diverse settings in Ghana. As stakeholders continue to analyze and act upon the survey findings, collaborative efforts are essential to address the multifaceted challenges associated with maternal health, anaemia prevalence, and reproductive health outcomes in Ghanaian communities.
