Ghana's Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, has called on Ghanaians to prioritize regular breast cancer screening. During the national launch of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Ho, the Volta Regional capital, Dr. Lartey stressed that a breast cancer diagnosis should not be seen as a death sentence. She encouraged individuals to seek prompt medical attention if they suspect they have breast cancer.
Dr. Lartey emphasized the importance of early detection and accessing medical care without delay. She advised against relying solely on traditional, spiritual, or religious interventions, instead urging individuals to seek professional medical help. According to the Minister, prayer and other forms of support can complement medical treatment but should not replace clinical care. This approach can significantly impact recovery and survival prospects.
The Minister noted that some patients delay seeking medical attention due to misinformation and misconceptions. This delay can undermine efforts to detect breast cancer at an early stage, when treatment can improve recovery and survival prospects. Dr. Lartey called for stronger public education campaigns to address these misconceptions and encourage participation in screening programs.
Breast cancer has significant social, economic, and cultural consequences for women, families, and communities, according to Dr. Lartey. She stressed that public awareness campaigns should move beyond statistics and general messages to recognize the experiences of individuals diagnosed with and those who have survived breast cancer. This approach can help reduce stigma and encourage more people to seek screening and treatment.
Dr. Lartey also called for greater support for breast cancer patients and survivors. She urged society to reject stigma and create conditions that enable survivors to return fully to their families, workplaces, and communities. Reducing stigma is essential to encouraging more people to seek screening and treatment without fear of discrimination or social exclusion.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to improving access to cancer treatment, particularly for those who cannot afford quality medical care. The Ghana Medical Trust Fund, known as Mahama Care, provides financial assistance to people facing healthcare challenges. Dr. Lartey expressed appreciation to stakeholders involved in the initiative and assured that the government remains committed to ensuring financial difficulties do not prevent people from obtaining timely medical attention.
Volta Regional Minister James Gunu also highlighted the consequences of breast cancer, noting that families can experience emotional strain, financial difficulties, and disruptions to their livelihoods. He emphasized that the fight against breast cancer requires cooperation among healthcare professionals, traditional authorities, religious leaders, and the community.
Key points
- Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey launches Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Ho, emphasizing early detection and medical care.
- The Minister urges Ghanaians to prioritize regular breast cancer screening and seek prompt medical attention if they suspect they have breast cancer.
- The government reaffirms its commitment to improving access to cancer treatment, particularly for those who cannot afford quality medical care.
