The Ghanaian medical community is sounding the alarm on the importance of breast cancer awareness, emphasizing that painless lumps in the breast should not be ignored. According to Dr. Mary Ann Dadzie, a Specialist Radiation Oncologist at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, the absence of pain does not necessarily indicate a lump is harmless. She made this statement at the 2026 national launch of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Accra, themed "early action, better outcomes."
Dr. Dadzie expressed concern about the high number of breast cancer patients who fail to complete their treatment. She stated that approximately 45 percent of patients at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital stop attending appointments after starting treatment. Factors contributing to this issue include fear of death, financial difficulties, long distances to health facilities, lack of time, and stigma associated with the disease.
To combat breast cancer effectively, Dr. Dadzie advised women to familiarize themselves with their breasts and seek medical attention within two weeks of noticing any abnormalities. Warning signs may include a lump or thickening in the breast or armpit, changes in breast size, an inverted nipple, nipple discharge, and changes in the skin, such as redness, sores, or an orange-peel appearance.
Dr. Dadzie also emphasized that women should not assume they are safe simply because they have no family history of breast cancer. She noted that only about 5 to 10 percent of women with breast cancer have a familial or genetic mutation. As such, regular clinical breast examinations and discussions with health professionals about appropriate screening options, including mammography and ultrasound, are crucial.
The Deputy Minister of Health, Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah, highlighted the significance of breast cancer as a major health concern among Ghanaian women. She reported that approximately 4,650 new cases and 2,060 deaths are recorded annually. The country's response to breast cancer focuses on prevention, early detection, equitable access to treatment, and compassionate care.
Dr. Joana Ansong, the World Health Organisation (WHO) representative, stressed that too many women in Ghana continue to present with advanced breast cancer, resulting in avoidable suffering and deaths. She called for stronger health education, timely diagnosis, rapid referral, and equitable access to comprehensive treatment and support.
The national launch of Breast Cancer Awareness Month aims to promote sustained action against the disease, involving government, communities, health professionals, civil society organisations, the private sector, and families. Key stakeholders are pushing for increased access to mammography, ultrasound, and biopsy services, as well as the training of more health professionals to improve breast cancer outcomes in Ghana.
Key points
- Dr. Mary Ann Dadzie urges women to seek medical attention promptly if they notice any unusual changes in their breasts.
- Approximately 45 percent of breast cancer patients at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital fail to complete their treatment due to various challenges.
- Ghana records approximately 4,650 new breast cancer cases and 2,060 deaths annually.
