A new national insights report by Blueprint DNA has revealed that about 42 per cent of paternity tests conducted in Ghana exclude the tested man as the biological father, highlighting growing reliance on scientific verification in resolving questions of parentage.
The report, titled Understanding Paternity Testing in Ghana: Findings from a Nationwide Laboratory Dataset, was presented at a stakeholder and media briefing at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons on March 25, 2026.
It draws on anonymised laboratory data to provide one of the most detailed analyses yet of paternity testing trends in the country, examining testing behaviour, timing, and outcomes across a nationwide DNA laboratory network.
According to the findings, the 42 per cent exclusion rate reflects a specific group of individuals who sought testing due to existing uncertainty, rather than the general population.
Beyond the headline figure, the report highlights clear behavioural patterns in how Ghanaians approach DNA testing. Nearly 58 per cent of children involved in the tests were under six years old, suggesting that many families seek confirmation of biological parentage early in a child’s life.
However, the analysis also found that older individuals tend to delay testing, often presenting after prolonged uncertainty. These cases recorded higher exclusion rates, indicating that doubts about paternity may intensify over time before testing is pursued.
Speaking at the event, the Medical Director of Blueprint DNA, Abeiku Ghansah, emphasised the need for careful interpretation of the data.
“The report is based on anonymised laboratory data and is intended to contribute to public understanding of DNA testing trends in Ghana. It is important to interpret these findings within the context of individuals who actively sought testing, rather than as a reflection of the general population,” he said.
Also addressing the briefing, Emmanuel Gyimah Amankwa noted that the findings come at a time when national conversations around biological parentage and child identification are gaining prominence, including discussions on possible legislation related to paternity issues.
The event brought together representatives from key professional bodies, including the Ghana Medical Association, Ghana Bar Association, Ghana Registered Nurses and Midwives Association, and the Ghana Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists.
As part of the engagement, participants were also introduced to Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), a diagnostic screening method capable of detecting genetic conditions such as Down syndrome and Edwards syndrome from as early as eight weeks of pregnancy.
Blueprint DNA said the report forms part of its broader effort to provide data-driven insights into the role of DNA testing in Ghana’s healthcare system and society, as demand for such services continues to rise.
