A gender expert in Ghana has cautioned that financial difficulties, caregiving responsibilities, and inadequate social support could delay women from seeking timely breast cancer care. Ms Maribel Akuorkor Okine, Gender Director for the Department of Gender in the Western Region, noted that these challenges are particularly significant for women in the informal sector. They often struggle with transportation, diagnosis, and treatment costs while caring for their families.
Ms Okine emphasized that breast cancer awareness efforts should go beyond screening to address the social and economic circumstances that influence women's access to healthcare. Some women may postpone seeking care due to concerns about treatment costs, loss of income, childcare responsibilities, and becoming financially dependent on family members. She stressed the need for stronger support from families, workplaces, communities, and the health system.
The gender expert also urged the public to reject misconceptions that could discourage early detection and appropriate treatment. Breast cancer is not exclusively a women's disease; men can also develop the condition and should seek medical attention when they notice unusual changes. Ms Okine cautioned against the misconception that a partner can conduct a breast cancer examination at home.
Ms Okine discouraged attributing breast cancer to spiritual causes and urged people to seek appropriate medical care when they notice suspicious symptoms. She called for continuous public education and increased access to screening services beyond October. This would help reduce the stigma associated with the disease and encourage early treatment.
Workplaces can support women by allowing them time to attend screening, while chiefs, religious leaders, and community groups can help reduce stigma and encourage early treatment. At the family level, practical assistance with transportation, treatment expenses, childcare, and household responsibilities can ease the burden on patients.
Ms Okine emphasized that early detection can improve treatment outcomes while reducing the financial and social burden associated with late presentation. She encouraged the public to protect dignity while protecting lives through early detection.
The gender expert concluded by calling for collaborative efforts to support women in accessing breast cancer care. With the right support, women can seek timely care and reduce the risks associated with late detection. Key stakeholders must work together to address the social and economic challenges that hinder access to healthcare.
Key points
- Financial difficulties and caregiving responsibilities may delay women from seeking breast cancer care in Ghana.
- Breast cancer awareness efforts should address the social and economic circumstances that influence women's access to healthcare.
- Early detection can improve treatment outcomes and reduce the financial and social burden associated with late presentation.
