Liver Cancer Hits Hard in Ghana: 90% Mortality Rate Recorded in 2022

Cancer claimed the lives of 17,944 Ghanaians in 2022, with an estimated 27,385 new cases diagnosed, according to the latest report from the Ghana Health Service (GHS).

The figures were revealed by Professor Samuel Kaba Akoriyea, the Acting Director-General of GHS, during a press briefing held on Tuesday to mark the observance of World Cancer Day 2025.

The statistics have sparked concern, as cancer continues to be a leading cause of death in Ghana.

Professor Akoriyea highlighted that among the most worrying statistics was liver cancer, which recorded a staggering 90% mortality rate in 2022.

Of the 2,656 cases reported, 2,390 individuals succumbed to the disease. Prostate cancer also raised alarm, with a 52% mortality rate, causing 1,233 deaths out of 2,395 cases.

A significant portion of the global cancer burden falls on low- and middle-income countries like Ghana, where access to early detection and treatment is often limited.

Professor Akoriyea emphasized the need for a concerted effort toward cancer prevention, early detection, and life-saving interventions, noting that more than 70% of cancer-related deaths occur in such nations.

He said, urging media and other stakeholders to intensify public education campaigns on the importance of healthy diets, physical activity, and vaccination for diseases such as hepatitis A and B, which have been proven to reduce cancer risks.

In addition to prevention efforts, he also stressed the need for stronger social support systems for cancer patients and their families.

“Cancer affects people regardless of age, gender, or location,” he added. As part of its ongoing efforts, GHS plans to set up a national cancer registry to improve surveillance and enhance cancer care across the country.

In a heartfelt moment, Ms. Hannah Tetteh, a cancer survivor and nurse at Sunshine Healthcare, shared her personal experience with cancer.

She urged cancer patients not to lose hope, and advised against self-medication. Tetteh also appealed for government support to alleviate the financial burdens of cancer treatment on families.