UE/R: SOCO PROJECT FACILITATORS URGED TO WORK HARD FOR THE SUCCESS OF THE PROJECT – DCE NABDAM
BY: MILLICENT L. DAHAMANI
“Curious Minds”, One of GBC URA Radio favorites children’s program, engaged listeners in an educational discussion on breast cancer awareness. Hosted by Ketura Apere Ave and Kaba Delmira, students of Our Lady of Lourdes Girls’ Model Junior High School and a members of the Edmund Rice Action Club. The program aimed to address myths, prevention, and the importance of early detection of breast cancer. The session featured midwife Madame Mary Azika, a health professional in the Bolgatanga municipality.
Madam Azika introduced the discussion by defining cancer as an uncontrolled growth of cells within the body, explaining that breast cancer particularly affects the breast tissue and can occur in both men and women, though it’s more common in women. She outlined several risk factors, including age, family history, obesity, menopause, and certain lifestyle habits like poor diet and the refusal to breastfeed by some mothers after childbirth. “Canned food consumption, hormonal changes, and lack of physical activity also increase the risk of breast cancer,” she warned.
The importance of early detection was highlighted as a vital part of managing breast cancer. “Most breast cancer cases start as painless lumps, and though not every lump is cancerous, any unusual change should be checked by a health professional,” Madame Azika said. She recommended routine breast self-examinations, ideally five days before or after menstruation for clearer results, due to natural breast changes during this period. However, she emphasized, “Professional screenings are the most reliable form of early detection.”
Addressing resources, Madam Azika noted the presence of a surgeon, Dr. Lawrence, at the Bolgatanga Regional Hospital for breast cancer concerns. However, she acknowledged that certain equipment, such as a chemotherapy and mammogram machine, is unavailable in Bolgatanga, causing late-stage patients to be referred to Tamale, Kumasi, or Accra. She called on the government and stakeholders to equip Bolgatanga Regional Hospital with these essential machines for more accessible cancer treatment.
October, known worldwide as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, was a period of intensive advocacy in the Upper East Region. Local health centers held talks to spread awareness and encouraged regular screenings. Madame Azika advised that beyond October, individuals should continue regular check-ups and seek medical advice if they notice any symptoms.
For prevention, she urged the public to maintain hygiene, avoid storing items like phones or money in bras, and refrain from relying on unproven remedies. She reassured listeners that 80% of breast cancer treatment costs are covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), encouraging anyone concerned about costs to seek treatment early.
The session concluded with a call to action: “Breast cancer affects individuals, families, and the nation,” Madame Azika said, urging the public to unite in combating this disease. She also advised students, both boys and girls, to undergo breast exams regularly. The session encouraged patients with breast cancer to remain positive and prioritize treatment, as early intervention significantly improves outcomes.
