News
Women with Breast Cancer Refuse Surgery …for Fear of Losing Romantic Relationship
A lecturer at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Ghana, Dr Merri Iddrisu, has revealed that many women hesitate to undergo surgery for breast cancer because of the fear that the removal of one or both breasts may alter their romantic relationships and affect how their partners perceive them.
However, she said the condition, though a difficult one, must not end one’s romantic relationship and urged men to support women in this regard.
“Love does not end when the breast is gone. With understanding and support, couples can build an even stronger bond,” she emphasised.
She made the disclosure in an interview with The Spectator on the sidelines of the 25th anniversary annual symposium of the College of Health Sciences (CHS), held at the West African Genetic Medicine Centre (WAGMC), University of Ghana, Legon.
It was organised on the theme: “From Genes to Generations: Family Heredity and Breast Cancer Risk.”
Dr Iddrisu explained that the breast is not just a biological feature but a symbol of femininity, intimacy, and confidence — elements that shape a woman’s sense of self within her marriage.
“When a woman loses her breast, she is not only fighting cancer but also dealing with the emotional pain of feeling incomplete or undesirable. Many fear their husbands will no longer see them attractive,” she elaborated.
She noted that some women struggle with self-image and intimacy after mastectomy, leading to strained relationships and emotional withdrawal.
“If the husband still finds his wife beautiful, even with scars, and continues to show affection, the woman becomes stronger emotionally. But when the husband distances himself, it deepens her pain,” she added.
On that note, the expert stressed the need for men to be actively involved in their wives’ treatment journey, as emotional and psychological support from partners significantly impacts recovery.
“When a woman is diagnosed, we must treat not just the woman but the entire family, which includes the husband, children, and even colleagues. The husband especially needs guidance to understand the physical and emotional effects of treatment,” she explained.
Moreover, she encouraged couples to explore breast reconstruction or prosthetic options if needed, saying such steps can help restore confidence and intimacy.
According to her, open communication, acceptance, and counselling can help couples overcome the emotional hurdles that come with breast cancer treatment.
By Jemima Esinam Kuatsinu & Theresa Dzifa Tsetse
Join our WhatsApp Channel now!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBElzjInlqHhl1aTU27
![Mrs Georgina Quaittoo [third from right] pose with some members of the Association Photos Okai Elizabeth.](https://spectator.com.gh/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Mrs-Georgina-Quaittoo-third-from-right-pose-with-some-members-of-the-Association-Photos-Okai-Elizabeth-400x240.jpg)
![Mrs Georgina Quaittoo [third from right] pose with some members of the Association Photos Okai Elizabeth.](https://spectator.com.gh/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Mrs-Georgina-Quaittoo-third-from-right-pose-with-some-members-of-the-Association-Photos-Okai-Elizabeth-80x80.jpg)
![Mrs Georgina Quaittoo [third from right] pose with some members of the Association Photos Okai Elizabeth.](https://spectator.com.gh/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Mrs-Georgina-Quaittoo-third-from-right-pose-with-some-members-of-the-Association-Photos-Okai-Elizabeth.jpg)
THE Times Ladies Association, a group consisting of female staff of the New Times Corporation (NTC), on Monday commemorated this year’s International Women’s Day with a call on women to empower themselves through education, unity and healthy living to contribute meaningfully to national development.
The event, held at the NTC’s boardroom, was attended by management members and staff of the corporation and was to celebrate the achievements of women and reflect on their role in society.
In her address, the President of the association, Mrs Georgina N.M Quaittoo, said the global celebration, marked annually on March 8, recognised the economic, political and social achievements of women while raising awareness about gender equality.
Although the international celebration fell on Sunday, she explained that the association decided to mark the occasion on March 9 to enable members to participate fully and commemorate the day in their own way.
Speaking on this year’s theme: ‘Rights. Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls,’ and the global campaign theme: ‘Give to Gain,’ she the association had over the years worked tirelessly to support the growth and progress of the corporation despite the challenges they faced.
Urged members to commit themselves to deeper service to humanity and the advancement of women. She said women were unique, resilient and invaluable to society, stating that they deserved respect, appreciation, kindness and love for the vital roles they played in families, workplaces and communities.
According to her, members of the President, who is also the Editor of The Spectator newspaper, encouraged members to empower themselves academically and take advantage of opportunities to improve their lives and careers.
She also urged them to maintain healthy lifestyles by going for regular medical check-ups, exercise regularly, get enough rest and support one another.
Moreover, she advised members to accept leadership positions when given the opportunity and to exhibit qualities such as hard work, confidence, patience, compassion and responsibility in both their homes and workplaces.
Contributing, the Chanel Marketing and Circulation Manager, Mr Alfred Koomson, said women played critical roles in society and deserved to be supported and appreciated.
He urged men to recognise that they were often vulnerable species without the care, support and contributions of women in their lives.
He, therefore, commended women for the invaluable roles they play as mothers, caregivers, professionals and leaders, stressing that society would be incomplete without them.
By Esinam Jemima Kuatsinu
Join our WhatsApp Channel now!
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbBElzjInlqHhl1aTU27
GHANA celebrated her 69th Independence Anniversary last Friday with colourful parades across all 16 regions of the country.
This year’s theme: ‘Reflect, Review, Reset,’ emphasised the importance of reflecting on the nation’s journey, assessing its current state, and planning for a brighter future.
At the Jubilee House, dignitaries present were President John Mahama, Vice President Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang, former Presidents, Akufo-Addo and John Agyekum Kufuor, behalf of the President, former President of Tanzania, and other distinguished guests.
The President, John Dramani Mahama, addressed the nation at the seat of government whiles Metropolitan, Municipal and District Chief Executives addressed their various assemblies on.
As part of the celebrations, school children paraded and displayed their marching skills whiles others performed cultural and other social activities to mark the day across the regions.
