The former Second Lady of Ghana, Hajia Samira Bawumia, has called on Ghanaians to end the stigma associated with breast cancer and to support efforts toward early detection and treatment. She also encouraged men to play active roles in the fight against the disease.
Speaking in Cape Coast during a free breast cancer screening exercise organized by her foundation, the Samira Empowerment and Humanitarian Projects (SEHP), Hajia Bawumia emphasized the importance of regular medical checkups for women, noting that early detection saves lives.
“Breast cancer is not infectious, so we must stop stigmatizing patients,” she said. “When detected early, it can be treated effectively. Every woman should make it a habit to go for regular screening.”
The event, held as part of activities marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, offered free medical screening to over 2,000 women in Cape Coast. Other health checks conducted included diabetes, blood pressure, and general health assessments.
Hajia Bawumia revealed that about 4,000 Ghanaian women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually, with half losing their lives due to late detection and limited access to treatment. She urged both women and men to join the fight against breast cancer through awareness, support, and regular checkups.
“Early detection saves lives. Let us take breast cancer screening seriously and support those going through treatment,” she added.
Dr. Ruben Aninkora of the Cape Coast Teaching Hospital, who led the health education session, demonstrated how women can perform self-examinations and identify early warning signs of breast cancer.
Also in attendance were Hon. Ophelia Mensah Hayford (former MP for Mfantseman) and Hon. Mavis Hawa Koomson (former MP for Awutu Senya East), who both encouraged women to prioritize regular health checkups.
A breast cancer survivor, Adwoa Coat, also shared her personal experience, recounting how early detection and treatment helped her overcome the disease. Her testimony served as an inspiration to others to seek early medical help.
The event concluded with a renewed call for collective effort — from individuals, families, and communities — to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and save lives through early detection and timely treatment of breast cancer.
Reported By Agyei Kwaku Mensah
