Dr. Magdalene Bakari, Lead Specialist for Health Services at Gold Fields Ghana, has called on the public to refrain from labeling menopausal women as witches. This appeal was made during a breast health and menopause awareness forum organized by the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation in Akoon, Western Region. The forum aimed to educate the community on breast cancer and menopause, with Dr. Bakari emphasizing the need for support and care for women going through this phase.
According to Dr. Bakari, menopause is a normal part of a woman's life, characterized by emotional and physical changes. However, societal taboos and lack of preparation often lead to women being shunned and isolated during this period. Instead, Dr. Bakari stressed the importance of supporting and standing with these women, providing them with the care and understanding they need.
The forum, themed "Beyond the Pink: The Full Picture," was part of the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation's activities to celebrate Breast Cancer Awareness Week. Dr. Bakari highlighted the significance of early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer, which claims the lives of many women. She emphasized that more sensitization programs are needed to educate people on breast cancer and ensure that women live long and productive lives.
The forum provided an opportunity for attendees to interact with specialists in various fields, including gynecology, surgery, and psychology. Dr. Bakari explained that the goal was not only to address the diseases but also to support affected persons in living healthy lives. The choice of topics was deliberate, as breast cancer and menopause are common conditions in their environment.
Participants who spoke to the media after the forum praised the Gold Fields Ghana Foundation for the educative program and encouraged them to organize more events in the future. The foundation's efforts to raise awareness and provide support for women's health were commended, with attendees expressing their appreciation for the initiative.
Dr. Bakari's appeal to the public to stop tagging menopausal women as witches resonated with many attendees. She emphasized that this practice subjects women to emotional abuse, isolation, and discrimination, which can have severe consequences on their mental and physical well-being. By changing this narrative, Dr. Bakari hopes to promote a more supportive and caring environment for women going through menopause.
The Gold Fields Ghana Foundation's breast health and menopause awareness forum is a significant step towards promoting women's health in the community. By providing education and support, the foundation aims to empower women to take control of their health and well-being. As Dr. Bakari noted, every woman will go through menopause, and it is essential that we prepare our minds for it and provide the necessary support.
Key points
- Dr. Magdalene Bakari urges the public to stop labeling menopausal women as witches.
- Menopause is a normal part of a woman's life, characterized by emotional and physical changes.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can save many lives.
