Every year in October, the world is reminded of the fact that there is a disease that is lurking in the corner in homes and communities, causing harm and pain.
Breast cancer is the disease. With breast cancer accounting for 31 per cent of all female cancers in the country, and eight out of 10 cases detected at advanced stages, the need for collective action has never been more pressing.
The Ministry of Health's launch of the 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Month on the theme "No One Should Face Breast Cancer Alone" is a timely reminder of the importance of early detection, proper treatment and support for those affected.
The government's commitment to financing cancer treatment through the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, also known as
"MahamaCare," is a step in the right direction.
The country recorded 5,025 new breast cancer cases in 2022, representing 18.4 per cent of all cancers diagnosed in the country.
Tragically, 2,369 women died from the disease, accounting for 13.2 per cent of all cancer deaths.
Globally, breast cancer affects women of all ages after puberty, with rates rising with age.
In 2022, 2.3 million women were diagnosed, and 670,000 women died from the disease.
This year’s global theme - "Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters" resonates deeply. Breast cancer is a disease that affects individuals from all walks of life, each with their own distinct experience.
The journey of a breast cancer patient is shaped by their unique circumstances, background and resilience.
Sharing stories and experiences can be a powerful tool in raising awareness and supporting those affected by breast cancer.
By listening to and learning from others, we can gain a deeper understanding of the disease and its impact on individuals and families.
This shared understanding could bring about empathy, promote early detection and encourage support for those undergoing treatment.
More importantly (and this is a key message that the paper believes cannot be overemphasised) – early detection saves lives.
We need to encourage women and men to prioritise breast cancer screening and educate them on the importance of self-examination and regular check-ups.
Awareness and education are key, and by promoting these, we can work together to combat breast cancer.
The healthcare system plays a critical role in the fight against breast cancer.
There is also the need to improve and strengthen healthcare systems to provide comprehensive breast cancer care, including diagnosis, treatment and palliative care.
Ghana needs to invest in improving access to breast cancer screening services, diagnostic facilities and treatment options.
Our hospitals and healthcare facilities must be equipped with the necessary resources and expertise to provide quality care to breast cancer patients.
Dealing with all kinds of cancers can be financially draining, one aspect that the Daily Graphic appeals to government, non-governmental organisations and all stakeholders to find ways of providing financial support to families affected by breast cancer.
In uniting to support those affected by the disease, we can make a difference by donating to reputable organisations to support those affected as well as ongoing research.
We have to work towards a future where everyone has access to quality care and support.
We must all work together to create a society that supports breast cancer patients, survivors and their families.
Let us prioritise breast cancer awareness, education and research to ensure that no one faces this disease alone.
