The Women’s Caucus of Ghana’s Parliament has renewed its commitment to the fight against breast cancer, calling for greater national awareness, early detection, and improved access to treatment and post-care services, especially for women in rural communities.
Making a statement in Parliament to mark the global observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, also known as ‘The Pink Month,’ the Leader of the Caucus, Hon. Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe, emphasized the need for sustained advocacy and education to curb the disease, which remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Ghana.
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“According to the Breast Society of Ghana (BSoG), breast cancer remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Ghana, and the majority of cases are unfortunately diagnosed at an advanced stage, when treatment becomes more complex and outcomes less favourable,” Hon. Doyoe Cudjoe stated.
She lauded the Breast Society of Ghana, which was inaugurated in 2018, for its instrumental role in promoting coordinated and excellent breast care services, adding that its consistent message, ‘early detection saves lives,’ cannot be overstated.
The Caucus, she said, stands firmly with the Breast Society of Ghana and other advocacy partners to intensify awareness on breast self-examination and clinical screening.
“Our call goes to every woman, mothers, sisters, daughters, wives, colleagues, and indeed, to every man to encourage and support the women in their lives to seek screening and timely care,” she said.
Hon. Doyoe Cudjoe further noted that breast cancer is not only a health concern but also a social and developmental issue with far-reaching impacts on families and communities.
She revealed that Parliament, under the leadership of Speaker Alban Bagbin, has institutionalised annual breast cancer screening for Members of Parliament and staff, an initiative the Caucus fully supports.
“The Women’s Caucus will continue to advocate for improved access to screening, diagnosis, and treatment services across the country, with special attention to rural and underserved areas,” she pledged.
The Caucus also vowed to continue efforts to demystify and destigmatise breast cancer by addressing myths and fears that often prevent women from seeking medical attention early.
Quoting the theme adopted by the Breast Society of Ghana for this year’s campaign, ‘Living Beyond Breast Cancer: Together We Can,’ the Adaklu legislator said the message reflects Ghana’s collective commitment to compassion and resilience.
“Indeed, together we can make a difference by promoting education, by supporting survivors, and by ensuring that no woman faces breast cancer alone or in silence,” she stressed.
Hon. Doyoe Cudjoe saluted health workers, advocates, and survivors for their dedication and courage, and urged policymakers, civil society, and the media to join hands in creating a Ghana free from breast cancer.