Ghana records 5,000 breast cancer cases annually

Ghana reports over 5,000 breast cancer cases each year, with 2,695 resulting in death, according to Dr Mary-Ann Dadzie, a Radiation Oncologist at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital. Speaking at the national launch of Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Accra, Dr Dadzie emphasized that 70% of patients presenting to health facilities had advanced-stage cancer, which hinders effective treatment and reduces survival chances.

The average age of diagnosis is 49 years, highlighting the importance of women seeking medical attention promptly when they notice changes in their breasts. Dr Dadzie stressed that delayed presentation can make treatment more challenging and costly, lower the possibility of breast-conserving surgery, and impact survival outcomes.

The launch, organized by the Ghana Health Service alongside the Ministry of Health and partners, aimed to recommit to reducing breast cancer deaths. She urged women not to wait until a breast lump becomes painful before seeking care, as pain is not necessarily indicative of breast cancer. Warning signs include a lump or thickening in the breast or armpit, changes in breast size or shape, inverted nipple, abnormal nipple discharge, and changes in breast skin.

Dr Dadzie advised women to become familiar with their normal breast appearance and report any unusual changes to a healthcare professional within two weeks. She identified fear, stigma, financial constraints, and distance to healthcare facilities as factors contributing to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Dr Dadzie called for bringing screening and diagnostic services closer to communities and reducing the cost of treatment.

She also urged support from families, community organizations, employers, and healthcare facilities to help women undergoing diagnosis and treatment.