A midwife at the Manhyia Government Hospital in Kumasi, has appealed to women to undertake regular examination of their breast to enable them to detect early any abnormality.
Madam Memuna Ezzedin said early detection and diagnosis were the surest ways to treat and curb the spread of breast cancer disease, which was becoming a national health burden.
Addressing about 200 women during a free breast screening exercise organised by the Prudential Bank for residents of Aboabo in the Asokore-Mampong Municipality, she asked the women to disregard the myths and misconception and seek early treatment for breast cancer.
Madam Ezzedin explained that, though the cause of breast cancer was not medically known, it was not caused by any witchcraft as were being portrayed by some people.
She mentioned some of the risk factors of the disease as the use of skin-lightening agents, hair relaxers, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption and advised women engaged in these acts to control themselves.
Mr. Bennet Frimpong, Head of Public Relations at Prudential Bank, said the exercise was part of activities marking breast cancer month, which is observed in October every year.
This year’s theme: “Every Story is Unique, Every Journey Matters” is dedicated to raising awareness, honouring the millions of lives impacted by breast cancer, and reaffirming a global commitment to equitable access to care and enhanced survival for all.
Mr Frimpong said the exercise was also aimed at underscoring the significance of health promotion, early detection, and timely diagnosis linked to comprehensive treatment, while fostering multi-sectoral partnerships by engaging stakeholders to co-create and amplify impact.
He said the screening formed part of the bank’s annual corporate social responsibility initiative focused on health, ensuring that individuals who might not afford hospital visits received the necessary screenings.
Breast cancer is characterised by the uncontrolled multiplication of abnormal cells within the breast, leading to tumor formation.
It typically originates in the cells of the ducts or lobules and can either remain localised to other regions of the body.
While mostly affecting women, men can also be susceptible.
Mr Frimpong, said the bank was dedicated to fostering early detection, raising awareness, and promoting health and wellness within the communities it served.
The bank he said was aimed at enhancing healthcare accessibility and convenience for women in the Aboabo catchment area, due to the significant number of women unable to afford hospital visits.
He mentioned that this year’s awareness initiative aimed to screen two hundred women in Kumasi to facilitate early detection.
He emphasised that early detection of breast cancer could prevent the progression to advanced stages that often resulted to death.
Through educational sessions, health screenings, and sponsorships, the bank aspires to deepen understanding breast cancer and encourage proactive health practices, he added.
GNA
