Ghana's Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has called for enhanced social protection measures and increased community support for individuals affected by breast cancer and their families. Breast cancer remains a significant public health concern in Ghana, necessitating comprehensive interventions that address not only patients' medical needs but also the social, emotional, and economic challenges associated with the disease.
Dr. Lartey's call was made during a breast cancer and HIV screening outreach event organised by the Lordina Foundation in partnership with the Ghana AIDS Commission for residents of Nungua in the Greater Accra Region. As the Member of Parliament for Nungua, she emphasised the need for greater attention to the challenges patients and their families face throughout the treatment process.
The Minister urged families, employers, traditional and religious leaders, as well as public and private institutions, to help eliminate discrimination against people affected by breast cancer and provide them with practical support. Collective responsibility and community solidarity are essential to ensuring that patients receive the care, understanding, and assistance they need during treatment.
Dr. Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong, Director-General of the Ghana AIDS Commission, also emphasised the importance of increased awareness of breast cancer and HIV. He urged the public to prioritise early screening and seek timely medical attention, stressing that breast cancer awareness should go beyond simply recognising the disease to taking proactive steps, including regular screening and prompt medical consultation.
Dr. Akanbong encouraged the public to undergo HIV testing to know their status and make informed decisions about their health. The outreach event formed part of efforts to promote early detection, encourage HIV testing, and improve residents' access to essential health screening services.
The event provided a platform for residents to access breast cancer and HIV screening services, promoting early detection and treatment. Dr. Lartey's call for stronger support for breast cancer patients and their families resonated with attendees, who acknowledged the significance of community support in addressing the challenges associated with the disease.
The collaboration between the Lordina Foundation and the Ghana AIDS Commission demonstrates the importance of partnerships in promoting public health initiatives. By working together, organisations can leverage resources and expertise to enhance access to essential health services, ultimately improving health outcomes for individuals and communities.
Key points
- Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey calls for stronger social protection measures for breast cancer patients and their families.
- Dr. Kharmacelle Prosper Akanbong emphasises the importance of increased awareness of breast cancer and HIV.
- The outreach event promoted early detection, encouraged HIV testing, and improved residents' access to essential health screening services.
