Mrs Maame Efua Houadjeto, Chief Executive Officer, Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), has appealed to women across the country to prioritize their health by undergoing regular medical check-ups, especially for cancer.
Speaking at a breast cancer awareness and screening exercise organized by the GTA, in Accra, Mrs Houadjeto emphasized the critical importance of early screening, for early detection.
“Some people don’t even get the urgency to come and check. Time is so important, because the earlier it is noticed, the better it is for you. When it is noticed early, something can be done to save you. But when it gets to stage three or four, then you are a goner.”
The event, which featured free medical screening for breast cancer, blood pressure, diabetes, and other vital checks, was well-attended by staff, survivors, tourism stakeholders and medical professionals from the Ablade Medical Center.
The CEO stressed that the causes of breast cancer remained uncertain, even though some unverified theories had attributed some causes to be the use of deodorants, as well as microwaving food.
“We do not even know the exact cause, so please, live your life, but keep checking.”
Mrs Houadjeto also acknowledged the pivotal roles women play in their families and communities, not only as financial contributors, but also as managers of the home.
She called on women to take advantage of the free screenings provided and to extend the invitation to others, to come check their breast, blood pressure, diabetes, among other.
“Call a friend, a sister, a mother, let them come. It is not just our breasts. We get tired as women. Check your blood pressure. Sometimes we do not even know when we have diabetes.”
“We cannot afford to lose more women to cancer, so this initiative is just the beginning and the GTA will continue to support public health initiatives that protect and empower women, recognizing that a healthy nation starts with healthy homes.”
Madam Comfort Owusu, Former Staff of GTA, and a breast cancer survivor, sharing her journey through breast cancer, urged all women to prioritize their health, especially the breast.
She said that early detection saved her life, even though she had to take one breast off, she had lived a normal life for the past 15 years.
She said she was now engaged in advocacy and counselling for women in various conditions to share her experiences and pleaded for support from well meaning Ghanaians.
Mrs Houadjeto committed to supporting her campaign efforts and women affected by cancer.
“Originally, we were going to make a donation to Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. But since you have committed the rest of your life to helping others, the GTA will support your journey and whatever plans you have.”
Madam Owusu expressed appreciation to the GTA for the unexpected support. “Sometimes I do not even have food, but I have to give out the little I have to help others. I am so grateful. I never expected this.”
GNA
