Medical experts in Ghana have raised concerns that neonatal jaundice remains one of the leading causes of hospital admissions among newborns, despite being largely preventable with early detection and proper care.
A persistent health challenge
Doctors say the condition continues to place a significant burden on neonatal units across the country, with many cases being referred late due to limited awareness and misconceptions among caregivers.
Neonatal jaundice, which causes a yellowing of a baby’s skin and eyes, occurs when there is a build-up of bilirubin in the blood—often because a newborn’s liver is not yet fully developed to process it effectively.
Health specialists warn that although mild cases are common, untreated or severe jaundice can lead to serious complications, including brain damage or even death.
Common but dangerous
Studies and medical reports indicate that neonatal jaundice is extremely widespread in Ghana and globally, affecting up to 60% of full-term babies and about 80% of preterm infants.
In Ghana, earlier data from the Ghana Health Service shows that thousands of cases are recorded annually, underscoring the scale of the issue.
Researchers also note that the condition is a major contributor to neonatal mortality and long-term disability, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where early treatment may be delayed.
Why babies are still being admitted
Doctors attribute the high number of hospital admissions to several factors:
- Delayed detection: Many parents mistake early symptoms for normal newborn changes
- Low awareness: Some caregivers are unfamiliar with danger signs such as yellowing of the eyes, poor feeding, and weakness
- Cultural beliefs: Misconceptions, including attributing symptoms to spiritual causes, can delay medical care
- Limited access to care: Barriers such as cost and distance can prevent early treatment
Medical professionals stress that early diagnosis is critical, as treatment is highly effective when started promptly.
Call for increased education
Health authorities are intensifying efforts to educate parents, particularly mothers, on recognising early symptoms and seeking immediate care.
They also emphasise the importance of antenatal care, proper breastfeeding, and routine monitoring of newborns as key preventive measures.
“Awareness and early action are essential to saving newborn lives,” health experts say, urging caregivers to report any signs of jaundice to medical professionals without delay.
Looking ahead
While neonatal jaundice remains a common medical condition, experts insist that no child should suffer severe complications or death from it, given the availability of effective treatment options.
They are calling for stronger collaboration between health workers, government agencies, and communities to reduce admissions and improve outcomes for newborns across Ghana.
