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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
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THE Accra Technical University (ATU) on Tuesday officially launched its Strategic Plan for 2026–2030 in Accra, aimed at driving innovation and strengthening institutional capacity across key operational areas.
Speaking at the launch, Mr Humphrey Awuletey Williams, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Oswal Investments Limited, explained that the strategic plan seeks to respond to emerging challenges while positioning the institution as a forward-thinking leader in development.
He urged the university’s leadership to leverage their expertise to train students to be innovative and produce competitive products for both African and international markets.
According to him, employers increasingly demand competence-based human capital beyond academic certificates to drive development.
Mr Williams commended the Governing Council, Academic Board, Management, and other stakeholders for developing what he described as a ‘formative tool,’ and encouraged them to ensure its full implementation.
The Vice Chancellor of ATU, Mr Amevi Acapkvovi, emphasised that the strategic plan focuses on enhancing operational efficiency and strengthening stakeholder engagement.
“The strategic plan is not just a document, but a commitment to excellence, accountability and progress,” he said, adding that inclusivity is also central to the institution’s operations.
He outlined seven key focus areas of the plan: industry-based education; digital transformation and modernised infrastructure; quality assurance and institutional excellence; industry-driven research, innovation and entrepreneurship; staff development, motivation and welfare; strategic partnerships and increased visibility; and sustainable and green technologies.
Prof. Ernest Abotsi, stressed that the plan must not ‘gather dust’ but should be actively implemented to achieve success.
“Currently, ATU is adopting measures to assess the cost of running the institution, and this plan will serve as a guide to promote the university at every level,” he said.
Stakeholders present lauded the initiative, noting that its clear framework and measurable targets would help track progress and ensure transparency in the institution’s operations.
The university expressed confidence that, with support from partners and staff, the plan would significantly contribute to national development and set a benchmark for excellence in the sector.
The ceremony brought together stakeholders from government, traditional leadership, academia, industry, and civil society.
By Linda Abrefi Wadie
It was an exciting moment as hundreds of revellers from various parts of Accra trooped to the Independence Square beach in Osu to celebrate Easter.
Dressed in all kinds of beach costumes, parents were seen with their children having fun and enjoying the moment.
Others made the best of their outing by engaging in other fun activities.
The revellers engaged in games such as football, ampe, athletics while others just sat, relaxed to release stress amidst music provided by some revellers.
By Lizzy Okai
