More than 2,000 people joined a health walk organised by the Breast Society of Ghana on Saturday to raise awareness about breast cancer and promote early detection and treatment.
The event, themed “Catch It Early, Treat It Right, and Survive It,” started at the El-Wak Sports Stadium in Accra. Participants walked through key parts of the city, including the Mamobi Market, before returning to the stadium. The walk brought together health professionals, security personnel, church groups, breast cancer-focused NGOs, and students from tertiary institutions such as the University of Ghana Medical School.
Dressed in pink and white, participants carried placards bearing messages that encouraged breast cancer awareness and dispelled myths about the disease. The colourful procession caught the attention of passersby as participants danced, sang, and interacted with traders and residents along the route.
At the Mamobi Market, women were shown practical demonstrations on how to perform breast self-examinations. Breast cancer survivors also shared their stories of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, encouraging others to seek medical attention early.
Speaking at the event, President of the Breast Society of Ghana, Dr Josephine Nsaful, said this year’s theme underscores the importance of early detection and timely treatment in reducing deaths from breast cancer.
“Catch it early, treat it right, and survive it all starts with the right treatment. We can overcome breast cancer and correct the myths surrounding it. For instance, the belief that wearing tight brassieres causes breast cancer is simply not true,” Dr Nsaful stated.
She explained that breast cancer develops from abnormal cell changes in the breast which can spread quickly if not detected early. Dr Nsaful added that breastfeeding helps lower the risk of developing breast cancer and urged women to include breast screening in their annual health checks.
“Every woman should have her breasts examined at least once a year, and as you grow older, it is important to get a mammogram done. Remember, you can live with one breast and still live a healthy, fulfilling life after surgery,” she advised.
The walk ended back at the El-Wak Sports Stadium, where participants took part in aerobics, enjoyed refreshments, and received further education on breast cancer prevention and treatment.
The event closed on a lively note, with organisers thanking participants for their commitment to spreading awareness and helping to demystify breast cancer in Ghana.
