Editorial
Let’s Fight Discrimination, Stigma Against Breast Cancer Patients, Survivors
Nobody is at fault for receiving a breast cancer diagnosis, but the psychological scars caused by the stigma and discrimination survivors face are worsening their circumstances more than the disease itself.
The Executive Secretary of the Breast Cancer Society of Ghana (BCSG), Mrs. Georgina Kumah-Dzagah, told our reporter in an exclusive interview that the psychological scars from prejudice and shame are frequently worse than the physical anguish of the cancer.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) reports that over 2.1 million women are affected by breast cancer each year, making it the most frequent cancer in women.
Mrs. Kumah-Dzagah, a survivor, disclosed that although the surgeries, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments were difficult for her, the reactions of others caused more severe scarring on her heart than the sickness did on her body.
It is unfortunate that rather than showing survivors love, care, and genuine concern, some families and friends have moved away as if cancer were contagious, leaving survivors with greater wounds.
Even more heartbreaking is the fact that many survivors feel alone and rejected during social events when they most need support and care.
For years, medical professionals have been raising public awareness and educating people, particularly during the month of October, about fear, false information, and the importance of realising that breast cancer is not deadly and not communicable. However, it appears that the message has not penetrated deeply.
In addition to educating the public about the disease, The Spectator is urging medical professionals to pay more attention to the stigma associated with patients and survivors so that they can be treated with respect, love, and compassion rather than avoidance.
Breast cancer patients and survivors need encouragement, not judgment. As such, society must address the problem of stigma, which isolates them and takes away their hope, dignity, and the strength they need to hold on to.
We applaud survivors who are proud of their scars and believe that every scar is proof of survival, not a mark of shame — describing them as symbols of courage and endurance.
Since early detection greatly improves the chances of survival, The Spectator encourages survivors to keep sharing their stories so that women prioritise self-breast examinations (SBE) and routine medical checks.
In addition, we encourage friends, family, and the general public to provide emotional support to those with breast cancer and those who have survived the disease. Even simple acts of kindness can help restore their hope and confidence.
Reminding patients or survivors that they are still complete, worthwhile, and able to live life to the fullest is important.
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Dear Editor,
I write to express concern about the increasing rate of road accidents on the Kumasi–Accra highway, which has become a source of fear for many commuters.
It is one of the busiest roads in Ghana, connecting two major cities and serving thousands of passengers daily. Sadly, almost every week, we hear reports of fatal crashes, injuries, and loss of property along the stretch. Many families have lost loved ones, and several survivors are left with lifelong injuries.
The causes of these accidents are not far-fetched. Over-speeding, reckless overtaking, driver fatigue, poor vehicle maintenance, and disregard for road traffic regulations are major contributors.
In some sections, bad road conditions, faded road markings, and inadequate street lighting also increase the risk, especially at night and during rainy weather.
It is worrying that despite repeated accidents, little seems to change. Drivers continue to overspeed, some commercial drivers drive under pressure to meet unrealistic travel times, and enforcement of traffic laws appears weak in certain areas.
I, therefore appeal to the relevant authorities, including the Motor Traffic and Transport Department (MTTD) and the Ministry of Roads and Highways, to intensify road safety education, enforce traffic laws strictly, and ensure regular patrols on this highway.
Road signs should be improved, damaged portions of the road fixed promptly, and speed limits clearly enforced.
Drivers must also take personal responsibility by obeying traffic rules, avoiding unnecessary overtaking, and ensuring their vehicles are roadworthy. Passengers should speak up when drivers drive recklessly, because silence can cost lives.
Road accidents are preventable. Let us act now to make the Kumasi–Accra Highway safer for all users before more innocent lives are lost.
By Eugene Ampiaw, Takoradi
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Dear Editor,
THE incident of baby theft at the Mamprobi Polyclinic on Tuesday was quite unfortunate.
It is very sad that a woman that has endured nine challenging months of pregnancy and gone through a Caesarian Section to deliver would go through such an unfortunate situation.
We should be grateful to God that the baby was found and reunited with mother a day after the disappearance.
This is not the first occurrence and I believe may not be the last and is the reason why I welcome the calls for improved security protocols at the various health facilities across the country.
Several speculative narratives are flying all over with calls for a harsher punishment.
As unfortunate as the action of the suspect was, it is important that she is also checked mentally and psychologically. A number of factors may have contributed to this action including an inability to conceive and the ensuing societal pressure and stigma of barrenness.
A lot of women are facing such challenges but have not mustered the courage to attempt such a heinous crime. This should occupy the minds of agencies responsible for women issues to increase awareness on situations like this.
A woman whose marriage is collapsing under the weight of barrenness can be affected psychologically and, in that situation, could arrive at any decision.
Naa Torshie,
Dansoman
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