Demand for DNA Testing surges in Ghana, report reveals

The Blueprint DNA Organisation has revealed a rising demand for paternity testing in Ghana, with more people relying on scientific analysis to verify biological ties.

This insight is detailed in a new report, “Understanding Paternity Testing in Ghana: Findings from a Nationwide Laboratory Dataset,” which was presented during a stakeholder and media briefing at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons in Accra on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.

Addressing participants at the event, Blueprint DNA’s Medical Director, Dr. Abeiku Ghansah, explained that the report draws on anonymised laboratory data and highlights patterns among individuals seeking clarity about biological relationships.

He noted that approximately 42.3 percent of paternity tests conducted in 2025 ruled out the tested man as the biological father.

The report also indicates that nearly 59 percent of the children involved in these tests are below six years old, suggesting that many families pursue confirmation early in a child’s life.

Additionally, it found a strong connection between when a test is conducted and its outcome. Tests carried out more than a decade after birth recorded the highest exclusion rates, ranging between 53 and 59 percent.

Dr. Ghansah stressed that the majority of tests—about 87 percent—are done for personal reassurance rather than for legal or immigration reasons, underscoring the private nature of such concerns in Ghana. He further called for responsible use of DNA testing, along with improved regulation and increased public awareness to address its broader social impact.

Also speaking at the briefing, Dr. Emmanuel Gyimah-Amankwah observed that the report comes amid growing national conversations about biological parentage and child identification, including discussions around potential legislation.

The findings further point to regional imbalances, with more than 80 percent of tests conducted in the Greater Accra and Ashanti regions, while higher exclusion rates were recorded in the Western, Upper East, and Volta regions.

The event also introduced Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), an advanced screening method capable of detecting genetic conditions such as Down syndrome and Edwards syndrome as early as eight weeks into pregnancy.

According to Blueprint DNA, the report is part of its ongoing efforts to offer data-driven insights into DNA testing and its evolving role within Ghana’s healthcare system and society, as demand continues to grow.