Every October, social media timelines in Ghana turn pink as people share messages and flyers about Breast Cancer Awareness Month. However, a closer look at these awareness efforts reveals a troubling trend: many of those who create and share these messages have never been screened for breast cancer themselves. According to Anyorikeya Victor Akenbona, a Research Assistant at WACCBIP, this lack of personal experience undermines the effectiveness of awareness campaigns.
Akenbona emphasizes that awareness is meant to be a starting point, not an end in itself. He argues that if people are merely sharing flyers without taking action, then the goal of awareness – to encourage people to get screened and treated – is not being met. In fact, breast cancer is far more treatable when detected early, and screening exists precisely because the disease can develop silently, with no pain or obvious warning signs in its early stages.
The importance of early detection cannot be overstated. When breast cancer is found early, treatment is simpler, outcomes are better, and the chances of survival are greater. Conversely, when people wait until a lump is large, painful, or visibly changing the breast, the disease is often at an advanced stage, making treatment harder, more costly, and less likely to succeed. Akenbona's background in Medical Laboratory Sciences at the University of Ghana informs his understanding of the critical role early screening plays in the chain of care.
Breast cancer affects not only women but also men, and everyone should take unusual breast changes seriously. These changes can include a lump, swelling, skin changes, nipple discharge, or persistent pain. Akenbona encourages those eligible to book an appointment with a healthcare professional and get screened, and to share their experiences with others to help remove fear and stigma.
The issue of accessibility is also a concern, as mammography services are currently only available in five regions in Ghana. This limited availability makes it difficult for many people to get screened, highlighting the need for increased investment in healthcare infrastructure. The government has announced plans to equip health facilities with mammography and radiotherapy machines, which could help address this issue.
Akenbona's call to action is clear: pink ribbons and posters have their place, but they are not the destination. The real measure of a successful awareness campaign is not how many people saw the flyer, but how many people got screened, how many cancers were caught early, and how many lives were saved. By moving from awareness to action, Ghanaians can make a meaningful difference in the fight against breast cancer.
As the country looks to the future, it is essential that awareness efforts are translated into tangible results. By getting screened and encouraging others to do the same, Ghanaians can help reduce the burden of breast cancer and improve health outcomes.
Key points
- Early detection of breast cancer significantly improves treatment outcomes and chances of survival.
- Many people who share breast cancer awareness messages have not been screened themselves.
- Limited availability of mammography services in Ghana hinders breast cancer screening efforts.
