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Surge in HIV/AIDS Cases, Tramadol Abuse Worrying – Mahama

Former President, John Dramani Mahama has expressed his dismay over the rise of Tramadol abuse and HIV/AIDS cases in the country.

In a Facebook post to wish Muslims well during Ramadan which kicks off on Wednesday, the former President used the opportunity to call for counselling for young people about their life choices and also provide treatment support for all who may be in need.

“Just as Ramadan epitomises endurance, discipline and moral uprightness, let us as adults, opinion leaders and religious leaders, take the responsibility to inculcate these values in our youth.

“Reports of HIV & AIDS infection cases and the recent, not unconnected, surge of Tramadol abuse – what some have termed the ‘silent ebola,’ – among the youth should be a matter of concern to all.

“Therefore, as we pray, let us also commit to working harder on counselling our young people about their life choices and also provide treatment support for all who may be in need,” the former president said.

The 2017 HIV Sentinel Survey (HSS) and Estimates Report, jointly released by the National AIDS and STI Control Programme (NACP), revealed a surge in HIV cases in the country.

The report said about 19,101 new HIV infections were recorded in 2017. Recent surveys have also shown that Tramadol – a pain relief drug, which functions like heroin and can cause psychotic problems as well as damage vital organs in the human body – is being abused by most young people in the country.

Source: Starrfmonline

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