The Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC) has launched the 2025 edition of its annual Cancer Awareness Campaign at the Graduate School of Nuclear and Allied Sciences in Accra, with a renewed call for early detection and sustained awareness.
The campaign, spearheaded by the Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute (RAMSRI) of GAEC, is observed every October and November to raise awareness about breast and prostate cancers, respectively.
This year’s launch, chaired by the Director of Science, Technology and Innovation at the Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology (MEST), Kwamina Quaison, was held under the theme “Screen Today, Live Tomorrow.”
Delivering the keynote address, Director General of GAEC, Prof. Samuel Boakye Dampare, described cancers—particularly breast and prostate cancers—as a growing national health burden.
He disclosed that Ghana records about 27,385 new cancer cases annually, resulting in 17,944 deaths.
Breast cancer, he noted, remains the most common cancer among women, while prostate cancer continues to be a major concern for men.
“These statistics underscore the urgent need for greater education, heightened awareness, early detection and effective treatment,” Prof. Dampare said.
Citing global figures, he noted that according to the World Health Organisation, breast cancer was the second most common cancer worldwide in 2024, with about 2.4 million new cases, while prostate cancer ranked fourth with 1.6 million cases.
Prof. Dampare commended RAMSRI, the GAEC Hospital and the GAEC Ladies Association for their “tireless efforts in spearheading this initiative over the past three years.”
He also expressed gratitude to sponsors, including repeat partners, for their continued support of the campaign.
Looking ahead, he revealed that the planning committee would coordinate a comprehensive series of activities to educate the public, expand screening services and provide support to those affected.
“We invite everyone to join us in this collective effort, to not only raise awareness during these designated months but to sustain our commitment throughout the year in the fight against cancer,” he urged.
Acting Director of RAMSRI, Dr. Theodosia Adom, presented highlights from the 2024 campaign, including free screening for more than 1,500 people and extensive community outreach.
She announced that this year’s activities would further expand screening coverage for both breast and prostate cancers.
The launch brought together representatives from the Nuclear Regulatory Authority, Ghana Girl Guides Association, Ghana Health Service, National Health Insurance Scheme of Ga East, G4 Security, Health Essentials, the University of Ghana Medical School, as well as management and staff of GAEC.