Professor Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang, who serves as the Vice Presidential Candidate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in Ghana, has made a commitment that a future NDC government will cover the costs of breast cancer screening. She emphasizes the importance of early detection and treatment for both women and men, proposing a system that allows individuals to access screening year-round rather than only during the month of October, which is recognized for breast cancer awareness. Opoku-Agyemang questioned the existing practice of limiting free screening to one month a year and advocated for governmental support to increase accessibility, stating that regular screenings throughout the year could save lives by preventing late diagnoses.
During a recent forum organized by the Valarie Mills Memorial Breast Cancer Foundation to promote awareness about breast cancer, she expressed her gratitude for the efforts made during October, while simultaneously challenging others to consider the availability of screenings on an ongoing basis. This gathering was part of the larger pink October initiative and featured activities like health walks geared toward educating the public on the vital theme of “Early Detection Saves Lives.” As part of her commitment to the cause, Opoku-Agyemang made a financial contribution of GHS 10,000 to aid the Foundation’s initiatives, encouraging individuals, especially women, to seek regular screenings without succumbing to fear.
Dr. Florence Dedey, a breast surgeon and lecturer, stressed the importance of awareness in detecting breast cancer early. She indicated that all women, regardless of age, should regularly monitor their breast health as this can lead to earlier identification of potential issues. Dr. Dedey advised that women aged 40 and above should undergo annual mammography exams to catch any changes promptly, which is crucial for effective treatment. The urgency to transition from alternative treatments, like those at prayer camps, to empirical medical care was underscored by several health professionals at the forum.
Dr. Mary-Anne Dadzie, a senior specialist in oncology, echoed the call for comprehensive health coverage, highlighting that financial barriers prevent many diagnosed patients from returning for necessary treatment. She lamented that some patients only seek help when it is too late, with young women often tragically returning at advanced stages of the disease. Dr. Dadzie urged attendees to advocate for broader health coverage, recognizing this as a critical step in improving outcomes for cancer patients across Ghana.
Additionally, Dr. Octavia Otoo, founder of the Valarie Mills Memorial Breast Cancer Foundation, acknowledged the multifaceted impact of breast cancer on an individual’s life. She shared that her organization is committed to alleviating some of the burdens faced by breast cancer patients, including financial difficulties associated with medical treatment. Through initiatives like reconstructive surgery, covered prosthetics, and psychological support, her Foundation aims to bridge the gap for those in need, reinforcing the social responsibility of community support in the fight against breast cancer.
To illuminate the gravity of the situation, data from GLOBOCAN revealed that Ghana reported an alarming 5,026 breast cancer cases and 2,369 related deaths in 2022, reflecting an increase over previous years. As breast cancer remains the most common cancer and a significant public health concern — affecting approximately 2.3 million women globally each year — the sentiments expressed by Opoku-Agyemang and the medical professionals serve as a clarion call for systemic changes in healthcare focused on prevention, treatment, and ongoing support for affected individuals.
