Women have been encouraged to report early to a hospital when they suspect any lump in their breast after self-examination.
“Self-examination, early screening and seeking medical attention as soon as you detect the symptoms of breast cancer – lump in the breast and armpit, change in colour of the breast skin, and bloody nipple-discharge – are key to early treatment,” Dr. Magdalene Bakari, Health Service Manager at Gold Fields, has advised.
According to her, the best time for breast examination is every month after menstruation when the breasts’ weight is lower; because after two weeks the breasts becomes heavy.
She debunked assertions that male adults sucking women’s breasts will prevent breast cancer. “It is rather breast-feeding that will help prevent women from contracting the disease.”
Dr. Bakari was speaking at the 2022 Breast Cancer Awareness programme organised by Abosso Gold Fields Limited (AGL) Damang Mine through Gold Fields Ghana Foundation (GFGF) at Huni Valley in the Western Region.
The programme involved free consultation and screening and treatment for cancerous lumps.
She explained that breast cancer operations should be done depending on the stage of infection, and that chemotherapy can be performed on patients to control the spread.
“Do not think about cost and move from prayer-camp to prayer-camp thinking your problem can be solved through prayers. By the time you realise, the disease has gotten to an advanced stage and nothing can be done about it,” she advised.
Joseph Kwame Sampson, Prestea Huni Valley Municipal Health Director, pointed out that statistics available indicate that 16,000 new breast cancer cases are reported annually in Ghana.
He said the figure is so alarming, and stressed the need for women to report to a health facility if they suspect any symptom of breast cancer.
“Most people who die from breast cancer report late at the hospital; this can be avoided,” he advised.
Mrs. Catherine Kuupol Kuutor, Acting General Manager of AGL (Damang Mine), said the awareness creation is held together with the company’s Women in Mining (WiM) to share experience and knowledge on breast cancer-related diseases.
“It is important for every woman to know the signs and symptoms of breast cancer, and understand the significance of early detection for treatment,” she said.
Two out of 67 women screened were suspected to have developed lumps, and were referred to the Tarkwa Municipal Hospital.
