A free breast cancer screening exercise was held at the Techiman Divisional Police Command in Ghana's Bono East region, targeting nearly 100 female police officers. The initiative aimed to reach officers whose demanding work schedules rarely allow for hospital visits. Organized by the Ellen White Sustainable Foundation, in partnership with the Awat Foundation and the Police Ladies Association, the event was held under the theme "Investing in Women's Health, Investing in Stronger Communities."
The screening exercise was conceived to bring services directly to police officers who are unable to attend health facilities due to their busy schedules. Mrs. Ellen White Opoku, founder of the Ellen White Sustainable Foundation and a recipient of the 2023 Joy Impact Makers Award, led the program. She emphasized the importance of providing screening services at the officers' workplace, given their limited time for personal health appointments.
Members of the Police Ladies Association, including ASP Beatrice Okrah, Crime Officer for the Jema District Police Command, commended the organizers and encouraged women to take charge of their health by getting screened. ASP Okrah noted that early diagnosis allows for timely treatment and praised the accompanying awareness talk for helping officers understand the condition better.
The screening exercise allowed for early detection of breast cancer, which health experts agree improves treatment chances. For police officers with demanding shift patterns and operational duties, bringing screening directly to their command offers a practical solution to access healthcare. The initiative reflects a broader push to extend healthcare access to women whose public service duties often come at the expense of their wellbeing.
ASP Okrah disclosed that any officer found to have breast cancer through the screening would receive support and care from the Police Service, emphasizing that officer welfare remains a priority. The Ellen White Sustainable Foundation plans to continue such outreach, extending the screening initiative to more districts within the Bono East Region and beyond.
Breast cancer remains one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers among women, and screening exercises like this one aim to catch the disease early when treatment options are more effective. The effort to reach security personnel highlights the need for accessible healthcare services for women in uniform, who often face challenges in prioritizing their health.
The free breast cancer screening exercise is part of a larger effort to promote women's health and wellbeing in Ghana. By providing accessible screening services, organizers hope to encourage more women to prioritize their health and seek medical attention when needed. The initiative also underscores the importance of partnerships between organizations and the police service in promoting public health.
Key points
- The Ellen White Sustainable Foundation plans to extend the screening initiative to more districts within the Bono East Region and beyond.
- Early detection of breast cancer through screening improves treatment chances.
- The initiative aims to promote women's health and wellbeing in Ghana, particularly among police officers with demanding work schedules.
