Member of Parliament for Ablekuma North, Hon. Ewurabena Aubynn, has called for renewed national commitment to cancer prevention, early detection, and affordable treatment, describing the disease as a major threat to Ghana’s development.
According to her, behind every statistic is a human being, a family, and a community whose lives are profoundly affected by cancer.
Speaking in Parliament to mark World Cancer Day 2026, observed under the global theme “United by Unique,” the MP said cancer continues to devastate families and communities across the country.
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Hon. Aubynn disclosed that Ghana records more than 24,000 new cancer cases every year, with breast, cervical, prostate, liver, and colorectal cancers being the most common.
She noted that late diagnosis remains a major challenge.
“Many of these cases are diagnosed at advanced stages, when treatment options are limited, costly, and less effective,” she said.
According to her, families in Ablekuma North and other constituencies are increasingly struggling with the emotional and financial burden of cancer.
The Ablekuma North MP identified poor access to screening services and high costs as key reasons for late detection.
“Many of our citizens still lack access to regular screening services, and where such services exist, affordability remains a major barrier,” she explained.
She also cited cultural beliefs, fear, misinformation, and stigma as factors discouraging early medical attention.
Progress in cancer care
Despite the challenges, Hon. Aubynn acknowledged improvements in Ghana’s cancer response system.
She praised the expansion of screening programmes by the Ministry of Health and the Ghana Health Service, especially for breast and cervical cancer.
“The establishment of oncology centres at Korle Bu, Komfo Anokye and Tamale Teaching Hospitals has improved specialist care,” she noted.
She added that public education campaigns have helped to increase awareness nationwide.
MahamaCares brings hope
Hon. Aubynn commended President John Dramani Mahama and the government for introducing the Ghana Medical Trust Fund (MahamaCares) to support patients with chronic and life-threatening illnesses.
“MahamaCares offers hope to thousands of vulnerable citizens who would otherwise be denied access to life-saving treatment,” she said.
She urged Parliament to ensure transparency and adequate funding for the initiative.
“As a House, we must fully support this Fund through adequate resourcing, strong oversight, and transparent management,” she added.
The MP stressed that prevention remains one of the most effective tools in reducing cancer cases.
She noted that up to 40 per cent of cancers are preventable through healthy lifestyles and vaccination.
“We must strengthen health education in our schools, workplaces, churches, mosques, and communities,” she said.
Hon. Aubynn called for the expansion of specialised cancer facilities across all regions. According to her, it is unacceptable that patients still have to travel long distances to access radiotherapy and specialised oncology care.
She advocated for more regional cancer centres, trained specialists, and modern diagnostic equipment.
The Ablekuma North MP urged Parliament to treat cancer as a national development concern rather than only a health issue.
A healthy population, she said, is the foundation of productivity, economic growth, and social stability and stressed that investing in cancer care is an investment in Ghana’s future.
Hon. Aubynn called for collective action from all stakeholders, stating, “The fight against cancer requires unity from government, Parliament, civil society, the private sector, health professionals, the media, and citizens alike.
She added that World Cancer Day 2026 must inspire lasting change.