Dr Beatrice Wiafe-Addai, the Chief Executive Officer of Breast Care International, has called on the government and stakeholders in health to implement sustainable and targeted interventions to curb the increasing incidence of breast cancer in Ghana.

In an interview with the Ghana News Agency (GNA) in Kumasi, Dr Wiafe-Addai emphasised that breast cancer remains a significant public health concern, with approximately 4,482 new cases diagnosed in the country annually.

She said globally, over 2.3 million cases were recorded each year, a figure that could double by 2035 if immediate action was not taken.

She stressed the need for policies that promoted behaviour change and positive health practices, particularly around early detection and regular screening.

Dr Wiafe-Addai said although awareness of Breast Self-Examination (BSE) had increased, actual practice remained alarmingly low, with only about 10 per cent of women performing it.

In addition, many women in Ghana did not seek clinical breast examinations, leading to late-stage diagnosis and limited treatment options.

Dr Wiafe-Addai attributed the late detection of most cases to inadequate access to healthcare services and limited awareness, especially in rural and underserved communities.

To address these challenges, Breast Care International has intensified efforts through community outreach programmes, clinical screening initiatives, oncology training for healthcare professionals, and support services for vulnerable patients.

The organisation has also collaborated with other stakeholders to provide essential medications to patients in need.

She appealed to the government to enhance support for breast cancer patients, improve access to healthcare, and invest in training for health professionals to promote early detection and timely treatment.

“We must invest in our healthcare professionals for them to give off their best in the health facilities,” she stated.

Dr Wiafe-Addai urged all women, especially those family history of breast cancer to undergo regular breast checks as a preventive measure.