Editorial
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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Dear Editor,
THE Ghana Education Service (GES) has announced that most Senior High Schools (SHSs) will return to the single-track system by this month.
For many students and parents, this feels like a relief. But before we move on, we must take a moment to reflect.
The double-track system helped thousands of students get into schools. It gave hope to families who couldn’t afford private education. But it also came with challenges.
Some students had shorter terms, others had longer breaks. Teachers were stretched, and learning felt rushed. Many students felt left behind not because they didn’t try, but because the system didn’t give them enough time.
Now that we’re returning to single-track, let’s make sure we don’t repeat the mistakes of the past. We need more classrooms, better planning, and support for teachers.
Education is not just about getting into school. It’s about feeling safe and supported. Let’s build a system that gives every child a real chance.
Beatrice Princess Kpeglah,
Dansoman
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Dear Editor
As it is critical for preserving our surroundings, there is the urgent need for increased awareness and action to protect Ghana’s environment and resources.
Ghana’s forest reserves, vast savannas and scenic coastlines serve as homes and habitats to a wide range of flora and fauna, including several endangered species.
Our vegetation and rich soil deposits provide the nation with food, plants and animal resources, which ensures food availability and accessibility for the population.
However, the country’s environment is facing numerous threats including deforestation, overexploitation, pollution, etc.
The importance of environmental conservation cannot be overstated; our natural resources are the backbone of our economy, playing a vital role in driving the country’s economic growth and development.
It is therefore critical that we take actions to protect them for our future generations.
There is the need for collective action to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.
Environmentalists, various organizations and private individuals must come on board to promote environmental conservation, through tree planting exercises, clean-up campaigns, and resource conservation practices.
These efforts, when carried out effectively, would create a long-lasting impact in protecting and conserving the country’s environment.
The Ghanaian government should also implement policies and conduct regular programmes aimed at promoting environmental conservation.
By Theresa Tsetse Dzifa,
Bubiashie
