Accra: The Breast Society of Ghana, a foundation dedicated to empowering and supporting individuals diagnosed with breast cancer, has launched ‘Pinktomber 2025,’ a breast cancer awareness campaign. The Pinktomber 2025 initiative is a collaborative effort by all stakeholders under the theme: ‘Catch It Early, Treat It Right and Survive It.’ It aims to mobilize health professionals, survivors, media, and the public to break the silence, reduce stigma, and promote awareness.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Mary-Ann Dadzie, Senior Specialist in Oncology and Radiotherapy at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate treatment as the most effective strategies to combat breast cancer. Dr. Dadzie explained that breast cancer progresses in stages, from stage zero to four, and highlighted that patients diagnosed at stage one have a better chance of survival with the right treatment, whereas those at stage four face lower survival rates. She noted that a significant challenge is that approximately 70 percent of women present themselves at stages three and four, resulting in poor outcomes.
Dr. Dadzie identified several barriers to effective breast cancer management, including public fear and ignorance, preference for alternative medicines, cumbersome referral systems, negative attitudes of health workers, infrastructure gaps, cost, stigma, and lack of social support. She stressed the target of diagnosing at least 60 percent of breast cancer patients in stages one and two, with early detection and treatment within 60 days. Additionally, she emphasized the need for comprehensive treatment for 80 percent of diagnosed patients.
Educating the public, especially women, about breast cancer symptoms is crucial, according to Dr. Dadzie. She noted that most lumps are not painful, and other symptoms may include nipple retraction, changes in breast size, swelling in the breast or armpit, and skin changes. Dr. Dadzie also called for the education of health professionals on misdiagnosis and mismanagement, and for collaboration with spiritual, religious leaders, and alternative medicine providers.
Mrs. Louisa Yayra Shaibu, a breast cancer survivor for over three years, shared her experience and the support she received from her family. She urged husbands and the public to be supportive to help eradicate the stigma associated with breast cancer.
Dr. Josephine Nsaful of the Breast Society of Ghana, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, stated that breast cancer can be cured when detected early and treated effectively, with many survivors serving as testimonies. She advocated for early detection through regular breast screening, encouraging women to conduct monthly self-examinations and undergo annual clinical breast examinations, which are affordable.