Dr. Freda Prempeh, the founder of the Ultimate Women Foundation (UWF), has urged women to self-examine their breasts frequently as the nation marks the Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The UWF is a women-inclined Non-governmental Organisation established by Dr. Prempeh, also a former Member of Parliament (MP) for the Tano North Constituency in the Ahafo Region.
In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Sunyani, Dr. Prempeh explained that the foundation worked to empower indigenous women to contribute meaningfully in the upkeep of the family and the larger society. Describing breast cancer as a ‘worst woman enemy’, the former outspoken legislator advised women to report for medical care whenever they experienced abnormalities in their breasts and in their chest area.
Observed every October, the breast cancer awareness campaign seeks to intensify public education and promote early detection and support people affected by the disease. Dr. Prempeh noted that medicine had proven that with early detection, breast cancer could either be treated or managed. This highlights the importance of regular self-examinations and medical check-ups.
Dr. Kwaku Boateng, a pharmacist, noted that the risk of breast cancer could be influenced by several factors. He added that mostly women between the ages of 65 years and 75 years had the higher risk of the cancers. This age group is particularly vulnerable, and awareness of the risks can help in early detection.
Dr. Boateng mentioned usual pains or abnormalities in the breast, frequent discharge from the nipple, as well as feeling an unusual lump or thickening in the breast as some of the immediate signs and symptoms of breast cancer. He stated that breast cancer could also affect men and encouraged men to also seek early medical attention whenever they experienced unusual pains around their chest area.
Dr. Thomas Kyere, a health consultant at the Sunyani-based 21st Clinic, specialized in sciatica, also expressed concern that breast cancers were becoming alarming in the country. He called on everybody to join the breast cancer campaign, highlighting the relevance of the breast cancer month towards the fight of the disease. Public participation is crucial in the fight against breast cancer.
The breast cancer awareness campaign is crucial in Ghana, as it educates the public about the disease and encourages early detection. Dr. Prempeh's Ultimate Women Foundation is at the forefront of this campaign, empowering women to take charge of their health. By working together, the fight against breast cancer can be more effective.
Key points
- Dr. Freda Prempeh urges women to self-examine their breasts regularly to detect breast cancer early.
- Breast cancer awareness campaigns are crucial for early detection and support for those affected by the disease.
- The risk of breast cancer is higher in women between 65 and 75 years old, and awareness of symptoms can aid in early detection.
