The Paediatric Society of Ghana (PSG) has kicked off its annual Yellow Month campaign, focusing this year on combating newborn jaundice through grassroots education and early detection efforts.
At the campaign’s launch in the Eastern Region, Professor Alexander Manu, Chairman of the event, emphasised the need to reach parents and caregivers directly in their communities, rather than relying solely on large public events.
“We need to move beyond floats and rallies,” Prof. Manu said. “Our churches, markets, and community spaces are where the real impact happens. This is where we must raise awareness about newborn jaundice.”
The 2025 campaign, themed “From Awareness to Action: Promoting Timely Diagnosis and Treatment for All Jaundiced Newborns Across Ghana,” aims to tackle the high prevalence of neonatal jaundice, a leading cause of preventable infant morbidity and mortality in Ghana.
Prof. Manu highlighted the long-term consequences of untreated jaundice, pointing to studies showing alarmingly high prevalence rates in some regions, with severe cases occurring in 66 out of every 1,000 live births in Africa.
“This isn’t just about survival,” he stressed. “It’s about ensuring every child can thrive and reach their full potential.”
Dr. Emmanuel Oppong, Vice-President of the PSG, echoed these concerns, calling neonatal jaundice a “preventable tragedy” that requires collective action.
“We have the knowledge, the network, and the voice to change this story,” Dr. Oppong said, encouraging healthcare workers and volunteers to prioritise public education. “Let’s be present in every corner of Ghana this month – in markets, in churches, in WhatsApp groups – so no family is left in the dark.”
The PSG is advocating for increased investment in phototherapy units, bilirubin testing tools, and early discharge education to close the treatment gap for newborns at risk of jaundice.
The campaign is part of a broader effort to improve newborn care nationwide, with a focus on reducing disparities in healthcare access and ensuring that no child is left behind.
