Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai, Founder and President of Breast Care International (BCI), has called on the Ghanaian Government to consider adopting rapid cancer diagnostic technology. This technology, known as Core View, can produce breast biopsy images within five minutes, potentially reducing delays in diagnosis and treatment. The technology could address the shortage of pathologists and limited diagnostic facilities in Ghana and other low- and middle-income countries.
The Core View instrument is part of a project supported by the United States Government through an NCI Alliance initiative. The initiative involves Peace and Love Hospital in Ghana, the University of California, Davis, and the University of Washington in Seattle. The project aims to evaluate the potential of the technology to accelerate diagnosis. According to Dr. Wiafe Addai, the equipment produces images of biopsy samples that pathologists can examine remotely and communicate findings electronically.
The adoption of this technology could significantly reduce waiting times and the need for patients in remote communities to travel long distances for specialised diagnostic services. Dr. Wiafe Addai urged the Government to engage with the collaborating institutions and explore acquiring the equipment for public hospitals. She suggested that doctors and physician assistants in district hospitals and clinics could be trained to collect biopsy samples and operate the equipment.
Dr. Wiafe Addai emphasised the importance of sustained screening and routine medical examinations to reduce late cancer presentation and other non-communicable diseases. She encouraged employers, public institutions, and private organisations to prioritise regular medical examinations for workers. Additionally, she urged women aged 40 and above to discuss mammography with qualified healthcare professionals and access cervical cancer screening.
Dr. Wiafe Addai also advised women to seek prompt medical assessment whenever they notice unusual breast changes. She cautioned against delaying hospital visits in favour of non-medical interventions, such as relying solely on prayer camps. Instead, she encouraged religious leaders to promote professional medical care. According to her, early assessment can improve treatment outcomes.
Dr. Emmanuel Kafui Ayodeji, a Specialist Surgeon at the Urology Department of the 37 Military Hospital, discussed prostate cancer diagnosis and treatment. He explained that early detection is critical to effective treatment and improved patient outcomes. Dr. Ayodeji urged men, particularly older men and those with a family history of prostate cancer, to discuss screening with health professionals.
The event, organised by the National Commission on Small Arms and Light Weapons (NACSA), aimed to raise awareness about breast and prostate cancer. Dr. Adam A.A. Bonaa, Executive Secretary of NACSA, encouraged the public to prioritise regular medical screening for breast and prostate cancers to promote early detection and save lives. The event included free screening for breast cancer, prostate cancer, and other health checks.
Key points
- Dr. Beatrice Wiafe Addai urges Ghana to adopt rapid cancer diagnostic technology to reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment.
- The technology can produce breast biopsy images within five minutes, potentially reducing delays in diagnosis and treatment.
- Sustained screening and routine medical examinations are essential to reduce late cancer presentation and other non-communicable diseases.
