As Ghana marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October 2026, the Breast Society of Ghana is emphasizing the importance of breast screening for early detection and treatment. According to the Society, breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer and cancer deaths among women in Ghana. The Society's President, Prof. Josephine Nsaful, and General Secretary, Ms Enam Setsoafia, signed a statement highlighting the need for early action.
The Breast Society of Ghana reported that many women still seek medical attention when breast cancer is advanced and no longer curable. However, early breast cancer is curable in Ghana, with a survival rate of over 90 percent, comparable to outcomes in developed countries. This is evident in the presence of survivors in communities across the country, demonstrating that successful treatment is possible with early detection.
Despite available capacity for treatment, late diagnosis remains a significant challenge in Ghana. When diagnosed at an advanced stage, treatment becomes limited, prolonged, and more expensive, with poor survival outcomes. The Society identified limited awareness, fear, stigma, misinformation, financial constraints, geographical barriers, and delays within the healthcare system as factors contributing to delayed diagnosis.
The Breast Society of Ghana stressed that early action begins with recognizing that breast cancer can affect anyone, mostly women but also some men. Symptoms such as a lump, nipple discharge, changes in breast shape or size, skin changes, or any persistent abnormality should never be ignored. The Society urged women to take advantage of free primary healthcare and present themselves for screening before symptoms develop.
The Society also called for confronting myths surrounding breast cancer, encouraging women not to delay care due to fear of losing their breast, fear of chemotherapy, or reliance on unproven remedies. Families and communities should support rather than stigmatize patients, while the media, religious and traditional leaders, civil society, and community leaders should promote accurate information.
The Breast Society of Ghana urged healthcare professionals to assess, investigate, and refer clients with breast symptoms promptly. Every diagnosed person should have access to evidence-based, patient-centered care. The Society emphasized that early action can lead to earlier diagnosis, expanding treatment options, and achieving a cure and improved survival outcomes.
The Society's message, themed “Early Action, Better Outcomes,” aims to promote awareness and encourage women to prioritize breast screening. By working together, Ghana can reduce the number of breast cancer-related deaths and improve treatment outcomes. The Society's efforts are crucial in raising awareness and promoting early detection and treatment of breast cancer in Ghana.
Key points
- Early breast cancer is curable in Ghana with a survival rate of over 90 percent.
- Late diagnosis remains a major challenge due to limited awareness, fear, stigma, and other factors.
- The Breast Society of Ghana urges women to prioritize breast screening and take advantage of free primary healthcare.
