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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