The Young Urban Women’s Movement (YUWM) has commemorated this year’s breast cancer awareness month with a sensitization and free screening exercise for women in the Tamale Metropolis.
The sensitization formed part of the global breast cancer awareness month, which is observed every October to highlight the importance of early detection, treatment and support for those affected by breast cancer.
The exercise, supported by ActionAid Ghana, was held in two communities, Yong Dakpemyili and Vitting Dabogushei where about 160 women were sensitised and screened for breast cancer as part of efforts to raise awareness about the disease and enhance the health and well-being of women.
Madam Sulemana Sumaya, Northern Regional Chairperson, YUWM, speaking during the event, said it formed part of the organization’s contribution to the global efforts aimed at increasing awareness about breast cancer.
She said: “We are organizing this campaign to add our voice to the global awareness creation on breast cancer. We chose these particular communities because most women and girls here are not fully aware of the causes, effects, and treatment for breast cancer.”

Madam Sumaya said although men are also prone to breast cancer, the YUWM’s focus was currently on women considering their higher vulnerability and limited access to health information.
She encouraged the participants to make good use of the screening opportunity to know their health status and to seek early medical care where necessary.
Madam Nasiba Ahmed, a midwife and member of YUWM, took participants through practical demonstrations on how to perform self-breast examinations at home and explained the importance of early detection.
She said: “You can do periodic breast examination at home, and whenever you observe any lumps or unusual changes in your breast, do not hesitate to seek medical care. Breast cancer is treatable when detected early. Don’t wait until it becomes severe.”
Madam Salimah Inusah, a resident of Yong Dakpemyili, said the sensitization had helped clear several misconceptions about breast cancer.
She said: “I didn’t know that breast cancer has medical solutions. Most of the time, we resort to herbal treatment but with this education, we now understand the importance of seeking medical care.”