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 raise urgent concern about ongoing construction activities that are dangerously narrowing a lane near Darkuman Circle Station. This lane has already suffered years of encroachment, and the latest developments could block access for fire tenders, cesspit trucks, ambulances, and other emergency responders.
There is an orange storey building on the right side of the lane. Nearly two decades ago, a structure that completely closed off this lane was demolished following pressure from residents and extensive media coverage. However, workers have returned and erected another structure, leaving part of the lane open but still encroaching.
On the left side of the lane, stores are also being constructed. While the owners are respecting the ground boundary, the buildings extend over the wall, further narrowing the passage. If this continues unchecked, the lane could become impassable for large vehicles. In an emergency, lives could be lost simply because help cannot get through. This is not just a planning issue; it is a serious public safety risk.
I have drafted a petition and will be gathering signatures from neighbors by the close of day. We intend to address it to the Accra Director of Fire Service, the Ablekuma North Municipal Chief Executive, and our Assemblyman. We hope the relevant authorities will act swiftly to prevent further encroachment and restore safe access to the lane.
Mama Moli, Darkuman
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Every child, including those with disabilities, has the fundamental right to elementary education and training, enabling them to develop their maximum potential and become self-reliant.
Unfortunately, despite provisions in the Persons with Disability Act 2006 (Act 715), children with limb deformities are often denied admission to schools due to their physical conditions, even when they show eagerness and capability to learn.
Limb deformities refer to abnormalities related to the growth and development of the arms or legs. As a result, parents of affected children are advocating for an increase in trained teachers and the provision of facilities in schools to accommodate these learners.
A parent shared with The Spectator that his daughter is highly talented but is being denied admission due to her disability. He also noted the difficulties in accessing health care for children with limb deformities. Another parent highlighted the emotional toll, stating that children are often teased or mocked by peers, leading to psychological issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
According to statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, over 90% of children with disabilities in low-income countries do not attend school.
The concerns of parents are backed by Ghanaian law, including the 1992 Constitution, the Children’s Act of 1998 (Act 560), and the Persons with Disability Act 2006 (Act 715). These laws guarantee children with disabilities the right to education, non-discrimination, dignity, social participation, special care, and protection from exploitation and abuse.
Despite these legal protections, implementation gaps due to inadequate monitoring and enforcement continue to deny many children access to education.
Many children can benefit from simple accommodations and modifications in schools, while others may require specialized, individualized support from special education professionals to help them learn and thrive.
Parents play a pivotal role as primary caregivers and advocates, supporting their children’s independence, encouraging mobility, and assisting with practical tasks.
It is also crucial for the government to provide social support by establishing more specialized orthopedic hospitals across the country to ease the burden on parents.
Addressing these barriers ensures that children with disabilities can participate in education and develop holistically, fulfilling their potential while contributing meaningfully to society.
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