Renowned dermatologist Dr. Alberta Brifo has called for greater collaboration between cultural practitioners and medical professionals to bridge the gap between traditional beliefs and dermatological science in addressing skin health issues across Ghana.

Speaking at the Annual National Dermatology Conference in Accra, Dr. Brifo emphasized that many Ghanaians still rely heavily on cultural interpretations of skin conditions, which often leads to delayed treatment, stigmatization, or the use of harmful remedies.

“There is a critical disconnect between what science tells us about skin health and what many people in our communities believe,” she said. “Rather than dismissing these cultural beliefs, we must engage with them constructively and provide education that respects tradition while promoting evidence-based care.”

Dr. Brifo noted that conditions such as eczema, vitiligo, and fungal infections are sometimes attributed to spiritual causes or curses, prompting patients to seek help from spiritual healers rather than dermatologists. This, she warned, can worsen conditions and lead to permanent damage or social exclusion.

She urged health authorities, traditional leaders, and faith-based organizations to collaborate on public education campaigns that demystify skin diseases and promote early intervention. “If we want to improve outcomes, we must build trust by integrating culturally sensitive messaging with scientific knowledge,” she added.

The conference, which brought together dermatologists, public health experts, and traditional medicine practitioners, focused on strategies to improve awareness, access, and acceptance of dermatological care in both urban and rural settings.

Participants echoed Dr. Brifo’s call, highlighting the need for inclusive training programs for community health workers and a national policy that encourages cross-sector dialogue.

In closing, Dr. Brifo stressed that bridging the gap between belief and science is not about discrediting culture but about harmonizing it with modern medicine to protect and empower patients.

Her remarks have sparked renewed conversations on how Ghana’s health system can be made more culturally responsive while maintaining medical integrity and safety.