News
Breast Cancer Narrative Not Exaggerated: Over 4,800 Diagnosed Annually
A lecturer at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Ghana, Legon — Dr. Merri Iddrisu — has dismissed claims that the narrative surrounding breast cancer has been exaggerated. She insists the disease remains one of the most pressing public health challenges in Ghana and across the world.
Speaking in an interview with The Spectator in Accra, Dr. Iddrisu explained that far from being overstated, breast cancer is an evidence-based medical crisis backed by alarming global and national statistics.
“Some people think every discussion about women revolves around their breasts, and that breast cancer campaigns are used to attract sympathy or funding — but that’s false; the statistics are real and frightening,” she said.
She cited data showing that breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally, and its incidence continues to rise, particularly in developing countries.
“In Ghana, over 4,800 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, yet this figure is incomplete because we do not have a national cancer registry. Even more worrying is that more than half of these women die from the disease,” she disclosed.
Dr. Iddrisu argued that breast cancer awareness must continue throughout the year and not be limited to the month of October.
“Awareness shouldn’t end with the pink ribbons in October. We must continue education, screening, and advocacy throughout the year to save lives,” she emphasised.
According to her, breast cancer deserves widespread attention because women form about 60 percent of Ghana’s population and play crucial roles in family life, the economy, and community development.
“Women are at the heart of society — they raise families, contribute to the economy, and stabilise homes. When breast cancer affects a woman, it affects the entire community,” she added.
Furthermore, she called for continuous media advocacy, early detection campaigns, and public education in local languages to demystify the disease.
“We haven’t even done enough yet. We must do more, not less. Breast cancer is real, and every life we save through awareness makes a difference,” she concluded.
By Jemima Esinam Kuatsinu & Theresa Dzifa Tsetse
Join our WhatsApp Channel now!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBElzjInlqHhl1aTU27
FOR patrons at a special thanksgiving concert held in honour of parishioners, benefactors and friends at the St. Monica Catholic Rectory at Fan Milk, Accra, Rev. Fr Bonaventure Kweku Quaidoo will continue to be seen as a man of many parts.
Usually seen dressed resplendently in his cassock, Rev. Fr. Bonaventure is known by the faithful as a preacher of the word despite his background in music.
But on this auspicious occasion, the Rector, Rev. Fr Bonaventure Kweku Quaidoo, assumed the role of a conductor of the Central Ceremonial Band of the Ghana Police Service.
In front of the band wielding the conductor’s baton, Rev. Fr Bonaventure conducted the band as they gave a rendition of some of the spiritual hymns of the faithful, thrilling the audience in the event under the theme “An Evening of the Performing Arts in Thanksgiving to Beloved Parishioners, Benefactors and Friends.”
It was attended by the clergy, parishioners and invited guests for an evening that blended sacred reflection with artistic performance.
The Chaplain-General of the Ghana Police Service, DCOP Very Rev. Fr George Arthur, opened the programme with prayer, while the closing benediction was given by Very Rev. Fr. Isaac Ebo Blay, National Director of the Pontifical Mission Society.
A highlight of the evening was a classical performance by Dr Kyoung Ok Kim of the University of Ghana’s School of Performing Arts, who reinterpreted Ghanaian melodies to the delight of the audience.
Ordained in 1990, Rev. Fr Quaidoo is a trained musician and former member of the National Symphony Orchestra. Over the past 35 years, he has served in the dioceses of Tamale, Damongo and Accra, integrating music into his pastoral ministry.
Join our WhatsApp Channel now!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBElzjInlqHhl1aTU27
THE 41st Farmers’ Day was held last Friday in the Volta Region, honouring outstanding farmers that contributed immensely in the sustenance of the country’s food basket.
This year’s celebration was themed “Feed Ghana, Eat Ghana, Secure the Future”, reflecting the government’s emphasis on strengthening food systems, promoting local consumption, and building long-term resilience in the agricultural sector.
It was attended by the President, John Dramani Mahama, Minister of Agriculture, Mr Ernest Opoku, Regional Ministers and Paramount Chief of Asogli State, Togbe Afede XIV.
The week-long observance began on December 1, at the Ho Sports Stadium with the official opening of the 2025 National Agricultural Fair.
An 82 year-old farmer, Mr Opanin Abraham Kwaku Adusei from Kwawu Odumase in the Afram Plains District of the Eastern Region, was adjudged the 2025 National Best Farmer.
President Mahama commended the farmers for their dedication and pivotal role in advancing the country’s agricultural sector.
The Minister of Agriculture, Mr Eric Opoku, also attributed the current food glut to innovation and resilience of farmers.
Established in 1985, Farmers’ Day has grown into one of Ghana’s most significant national events—celebrating the enduring contributions of farmers and fishers to the nation’s development and economic stability.
Join our WhatsApp Channel now!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBElzjInlqHhl1aTU27
