The Public Relations Coordinating Division, (PRCD) of the Information Services Department (ISD) has featured a talk on Breast Cancer by Babykaafo, a social enterprise, during its 12th Public Relations Officers’ Virtual Info Sessions.
The event, which comes ahead of Breast Cancer Awareness month in October, was to help create awareness of Breast Cancer.
A statement issued by the PRCD of ISD, said Reverend Charlotte Hanson, Head of PRCD, in her remarks, referred to the importance of creating this awareness to enlighten the public on this serious matter.
She had championed this initiative as part of her efforts to promote this campaign. This session, beginning with the Breast Cancer Awareness talk, also forms part of her broader initiative to bring on board individuals and experts from diverse backgrounds and industries to engage with PROs.
The statement said the aim was to enrich their professional practice while also addressing their personal well-being and development, giving them access to knowledge and experiences that positively impact both their work and their lives.
In his presentation Mr Joseph Narnor, Chief Executive Officer of Babykaafo, stated that, breast cancer was still one of the leading health threats in the country even though a lot of campaigns have been launched, people tend to ignore the early signs due to irregular breast examinations.
He said: “If early detection saves lives, then why are men who are closest to the women they love, often left out of the solution? That is a thought you should hold in your mind”.
Referring to data from the Ghana Health Service, Mr Narnor said breast cancer remains one of the leading cancers among women in the country.
“Many cases are detected late, reducing survival rates. Fear, stigma, and lack of information also often prevent women from seeking early medical help,” he said.
According to him, women ignore the warning signs until in their later stages where they have to undergo chemotherapy and other treatments.
“Most survivors have become advocates sharing their stories in schools, churches, and women’s groups, encouraging others not to wait,” he said.
He added: “This message is echoed by health experts who stress that monthly self-examinations, regular screenings, and prompt medical attention can make the difference between life and death.”
He, therefore, emphasised the need for regular breast inspection and checkup especially with the help of the spouses and partners of women through the MIAA the Breast (Men In Arms Against Breast Cancer), Initiative.
The talk was followed by an interactive question and answer session with the Public Relations Officers of the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies, Regional Coordinating Councils and Missions Abroad.