The Director-General of the Narcotics Control Commission, Major General Maxwell Obuba Mantey, has raised concerns about HIV among drug users in the Ashanti Region. He stated that 6.6% of people who use drugs in the region have HIV.
This rate is significantly higher than the national average. The national HIV prevalence among the general population is 1.4%.
Major General Mantey highlighted this statistic during a recent address. He did not specify the exact number of people affected.
The commission is working to address drug use and its associated health risks. Efforts include awareness campaigns and support services.
The high prevalence in the Ashanti Region suggests a need for targeted health interventions. These interventions would focus on harm reduction and access to treatment for drug users.
The Narcotics Control Commission continues to monitor drug trends and health outcomes across the country.