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
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The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has announced a series of reforms aimed at improving transparency, efficiency, and youth development in Ghana’s sports sector.
Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament today, Mr. Adams said the Ministry had set up a Fixed Asset Coordinating Unit within the National Sports Authority (NSA) to properly assess and manage the value of national sports infrastructure.
The move, he explained, is meant to boost revenue generation and ensure accountability in the management of state-owned sports facilities.
The Minister revealed plans to introduce an e-ticketing system across all stadiums and sporting events in the country.
According to him, this initiative will make event management more transparent, efficient, and secure.
Mr. Adams further disclosed that the Ministry is in the final stages of completing a new National Sports Policy, which for the first time will fully integrate recreation into Ghana’s national development agenda.
The policy, he said, is expected to be ready by the first quarter of 2026.
Another key announcement was the creation of a School Sports Agency, which he described as a “critical structure to drive talent discovery, youth engagement, and athlete development from the ground up.”
He said the agency will serve as the foundation for grooming Ghana’s future champions.
Mr. Adams assured Parliament that the Ministry remains committed to building a modern, inclusive, and accountable sports and recreation ecosystem that delivers value, opportunity, and national pride.
By: Jacob Aggrey
The Office of the Special Prosecutor (OSP) has defended the ongoing prosecution of former Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Dr Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, stressing that the case is backed by solid evidence and involves serious offences.
The office explained that Dr Abdul-Hamid, who is facing trial before the Criminal High Court in Accra, is charged with conspiracy to commit extortion, extortion by a public officer, using public office for profit, and money laundering.
It indicated that he and two NPA officials allegedly plotted to extort about GH¢291 million and US$332,000 from bulk oil transporters and oil marketing companies between December 2022 and December 2024.
The OSP said he is also accused of unlawfully receiving GH¢24 million and GH¢230,000 from oil transporters under the guise of performing official duties, and of using his position for personal gain.
According to the office, investigations showed that he possessed GH¢15.3 million, an amount far beyond his legitimate income and suspected to be proceeds of crime.
It revealed that assets worth over GH¢100 million and US$100,000 have been seized and frozen, with additional properties still under tracing.
The OSP maintained that the prosecution is a major step toward protecting public funds and promoting accountability in the petroleum sector, adding that no public official is above the law.
The case continues on Thursday, 13 November 2025.
By: Jacob Aggrey
