Every Woman Matters in the Battle Against Breast Cancer

October is marked as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, a global campaign to increase attention and support for the early diagnosis, treatment, and palliative care of breast cancer.

The campaign aims to raise awareness about the disease’s warning signs, promote regular screenings like mammograms, and provide support for patients and survivors. The pink ribbon serves as a global symbol of hope and support during this time.

So far, organisations have already started reminding women about the importance of breast self-examinations. Free breast cancer screenings are being organised for women, and survivors have also been sharing their experiences to encourage others to know their status.

According to health experts, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in most countries. The majority of women who die from breast cancer live in low- and middle-income countries, where most cases are diagnosed at late stages due to a variety of factors.

Reports indicate that in low- and middle-income countries, the incidence of breast cancer has been rising steadily due to increased life expectancy, changing reproductive patterns, and the adoption of Western lifestyles.

Although breast cancer can often be cured when detected early and when adequate diagnosis and treatment are available, many cases are detected late, making curative treatment no longer an option.

Last weekend, thousands of Ghanaians joined Breast Care International (BCI), a leading breast cancer advocacy organisation, and its partners in a walk through the streets of Kumasi, echoing a resounding message: “No woman should die from breast cancer because she is poor.”

Painting a picture of the ceremony, our reporter indicated that the city — right from the Post Office at Adum to the revered grounds of Manhyia Palace — was covered in pink and white, the colours of breast cancer, as participants marched under the theme, “A Cure Worth Fighting For.”

The Spectator gives a thumbs up to the Founder and President of BCI, Dr. Mrs. Beatrice Wiafi Addai, who joined the procession with a sobering message: “Breast cancer can be conquered, but we must fight together and save lives, especially those of young women who die needlessly and prematurely.”

She speaks against the stigma and myths that still surround breast cancer and is particularly vocal about the dangers of misinformation and the belief that the disease is caused by witchcraft.

Another message she shares is that men must stand by their wives during diagnosis and treatment rather than abandon them. She added that although over 2,300 women in Ghana die from breast cancer every year, early detection and prompt treatment save lives.

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