Breast cancer remains a significant public health challenge in Ghana. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), over 4,000 new cases are diagnosed annually, and more than 2,000 lives are lost to the disease each year in the country.
Unfortunately, more than 70% of these cases are detected at an advanced stage, making early screening and awareness critical in the fight against breast cancer.
It is for this reason that the efforts of corporate entities are considered crucial in increasing awareness among the population to reduce cancer and related health risks globally.
In Ghana, Newmont continues to reinforce its commitment to employee health and well-being through its Women’s Health Awareness Programme, a critical part of the Africa operation’s year-long Employee Well-being Programme.
This comprehensive initiative focuses on different well-being areas throughout the year, with September and October dedicated to women’s health. This year’s Women’s Health Awareness theme, ‘Embracing a Better, Stronger You’, is aimed at empowering women to prioritise their health, with a particular focus on sexually transmitted infections (STIs), dysmenorrhea, and breast cancer.
As part of Pinktober (Breast Cancer Awareness Month), Newmont offered free breast cancer screenings for employees and their female dependents. These screenings are complemented by health talks aimed at educating participants on early detection and the importance of proactive health checks.
By empowering women to take charge of their health, the company seeks to foster a culture of well-being that extends beyond physical health to psychological resilience.
In addition to supporting its workforce, Newmont prioritizes community outreach. Through radio talks, Newmont’s Ahafo South and Akyem mines as well as Ahafo North project are educating host communities on breast health and the importance of regular check-ups.
In previous years, Newmont facilitated free screenings for women within its host communities, and in 2023 alone, 1,340 people were screened, with 16 individuals referred for further medical care.
Newmont employees in Accra have also consistently supported breast cancer initiatives, participating in the annual 5K Run/Walk for a Cure. This event brings together people from all walks of life to raise awareness and funds to help eliminate breast cancer in Africa.
Newmont’s Employee Well-being Programme reflects the company’s commitment to the holistic well-being of its workforce, as well as the company’s safety and inclusion values. By dedicating specific months of the year to women’s health, the company ensures that employees are equipped with the necessary knowledge and resources to safeguard their health.
Have you been screened for breast cancer? Visit a health facility near you today and get screened, because early detection and treatment can be the gamechanger.
