The Breast Society of Ghana has urged women across the country to prioritise breast screening as Ghana joins the global community to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, popularly known as Pinktober.
Under the theme “Early Action, Better Outcomes,” the Society says early detection remains one of the most important factors in improving breast cancer survival, with early-stage cases treated in Ghana recording survival rates of more than 90 per cent.
In its Pinktober 2026 message, signed by Prof. Josephine Nsaful, President of the Breast Society of Ghana, and Ms Enam Setsoafia, General Secretary, the Society described breast cancer as a major health challenge in Ghana and said it remains the leading cause of cancer and cancer-related deaths among women.
The Society, however, stressed that breast cancer detected at an early stage can be cured and that Ghana has the necessary medical expertise and treatment options to manage the disease.
Ghana has capacity to treat breast cancer
The Society said there is no automatic need for patients to travel outside the country for breast cancer treatment, pointing to Ghana’s growing reputation as a centre for specialist healthcare in the subregion.
It noted that patients from other West African countries seek specialist treatment in Ghana, while the survival rate for early breast cancer treated in the country exceeds 90 per cent.
According to the Society, the presence of breast cancer survivors in communities across Ghana demonstrates that successful treatment is possible when the disease is identified and treated early.
Late diagnosis remains a major challenge
Despite the availability of treatment, the Society said too many women continue to report to health facilities when the disease has already reached an advanced stage.
Late diagnosis, it noted, can limit treatment options, make treatment longer and more expensive, and significantly worsen survival outcomes.
The Society attributed delays to several factors, including limited awareness, fear, stigma, misinformation, financial difficulties, geographical barriers and delays within the healthcare system.
It therefore called for a change in attitudes towards breast cancer and urged women not to ignore abnormalities involving their breasts.
Symptoms such as a breast lump, nipple discharge, changes in breast shape or size, skin changes or any persistent abnormality should prompt timely medical attention, the Society advised.
However, it stressed that the most effective way to detect breast cancer early is through screening before symptoms develop.
The Society therefore encouraged women to take advantage of available free primary healthcare services and report to health facilities for breast screening.
Society warns against myths and stigma
The Breast Society of Ghana also used the awareness campaign to challenge myths and misconceptions surrounding breast cancer.
It urged women not to delay seeking medical attention because of fear of losing a breast, concerns about chemotherapy, beliefs that breast cancer is a spiritual curse or reliance solely on unproven remedies.
