Fair Wages Commission partners GAEC to promote early breast cancer detection

The Fair Wages and Salaries Commission (FWSC) has held a breast cancer awareness seminar for its staff, as part of its wellness programme and commitment to promoting a healthy workforce.

The seminar, held at the Commission's headquarters, brought together health experts from the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) and the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital to educate staff on the importance of early detection, prevention and management of breast cancer.

Seminar

The seminar included a question-and-answer session, during which staff asked insightful questions and shared personal experiences.

To further demonstrate its commitment, the medical team later offered breast screenings and counselling services for staff.

The breast cancer awareness seminar was well-received by staff, who expressed gratitude for the Commission's investment in their health and well-being.

Staff well-being

In her opening remarks, the Director of Performance Management of the FWSC, Dr Baaba Anquandah, emphasised the Commission's dedication to the well-being of its staff.

"We recognise that a healthy workforce is essential to our productivity and effectiveness. Today's seminar is a testament to our commitment to promoting health awareness and supporting our staff in their overall wellness journey,” she said.

A Principal Scientist at GAEC, Dr Adolf Kofi Awua, delivered a comprehensive presentation on breast cancer, highlighting risk factors, symptoms and treatment options.

The Resident Radiologist at the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Dr Afua Amoa-Mensah, stressed the importance of regular breast self-examination, clinical breast examination and screening.

"Early detection is key to surviving breast cancer," Dr Amoa-Mensah emphasised, adding, "We urge all women, particularly those aged 40 and above, to undergo annual mammography screening and clinical breast examinations”.

Speaking on prostate cancer, a Senior Medical Physicist at GAEC, Dr Issahaku Shirazu, emphasised the importance of regular prostate cancer screening, citing the alarming statistics in cases among Ghanaian men.

“Early detection is crucial for effective treatment," he said. 

Experience sharing

Esther Odei Opong from the Procurement Unit of FWSC said she learnt about the importance of lifestyle choices.

"It is important to take control of our health by limiting alcohol consumption, eating wholesome foods, exercising regularly, and knowing our family history to reduce breast cancer risk and enhance overall well-being," she advised.

Another officer in the accounts department of FWSC, Isaac Entsua Mensah, said he was happy the medical experts debunked common myths about prostate cancer, noting that frequent sex did not prevent prostate cancer.

“Instead, the focus must be on proven prevention methods such as healthy diets, exercise and regular check-ups," he said.