KOFORIDUA, E/R- Stakeholders have called for intensified public education and awareness campaigns on breast cancer to address rising cases and reduce deaths resulting from late detection and treatment.
The call was made at a breast cancer education programme organised by the Judith Awuah-Dankwah Foundation in collaboration with the Eastern Regional Hospital in Koforidua.
A founding member of the foundation, Fani Amos, expressed concern over the lack of adequate knowledge about breast cancer among some Ghanaians, noting that misconceptions, including the belief that the disease is caused by spiritual forces, continue to discourage some patients from seeking timely medical care.
She said the treatment journey of the foundation’s founder following her breast cancer diagnosis inspired years of advocacy to raise awareness and support efforts to combat the disease.
Madam Amos emphasised the need for sustained public education to dispel misconceptions and encourage early detection and treatment. She urged women to undergo regular breast examinations and promptly report unusual changes to health professionals for proper assessment.
She also encouraged men to participate in breast cancer awareness programmes, stressing that they, too, can develop the disease.
The Clinical Director of the Eastern Regional Hospital, Dr. Foster Amponsah Manu, acknowledged the important role of breast cancer survivors in educating the public and supporting awareness campaigns.
He disclosed that the hospital records between five and six breast cancer-related deaths every month, attributing the situation largely to patients seeking medical attention when the disease has reached advanced stages.
Dr. Amponsah Manu commended non-governmental organisations and corporate institutions for partnering with the hospital to intensify awareness campaigns and promote early detection and treatment.
He urged the public to seek medical attention promptly whenever they notice unusual changes in their breasts, emphasising that early intervention can improve treatment outcomes.
Meanwhile, a male breast cancer survivor has shared his experience with the media, recounting his journey from diagnosis through treatment and underscoring the importance of seeking medical attention early.
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