Cape coast: The Breast Society of Ghana has raised concerns over a potential increase in breast cancer cases due to the ongoing illegal mining activities, known locally as galamsey, which continue to impact communities across Ghana. The society highlighted that approximately 5,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually, with around 2,500 succumbing to the disease. This situation could worsen if the environmental damage caused by galamsey is not addressed urgently.
According to Ghana News Agency, Prof Martin Morna, an Associate Professor at the University of Cape Coast's School of Medical Sciences and a member of the Breast Society, stressed the carcinogenic risk posed by chemicals such as mercury, lead, and arsenic introduced into the environment by galamsey activities. These substances increase the vulnerability of women to breast cancer. The Breast Society conveyed this warning during a grand durbar in Cape Coast aimed at raising breast cancer awareness, particularly among second cycle students, and advocating against stigmatization of the disease.
The durbar emphasized the severe risks associated with breast cancer and encouraged love and support for those afflicted, rather than ostracization. This gathering was part of the Society's Empowerment Project within its 13th Oguaa Breast Cancer Campaign, themed "Breast cancer: Stop the stigma and be supportive."
Prof Morna elaborated on the disease's potential to spread to vital organs such as the bone, brain, and liver, leading to organ failure. He explained that while breast cancer can affect anyone, certain factors like age, gender, race, family history, smoking, nulliparity, contraception, and delayed childbirth increase the risk. He noted early signs of breast cancer include unusual discharge from the breast and advised women over 40 who discover a lump to consult a doctor promptly. Regular screenings were recommended every two years for those at average risk and annually for those at higher risk.
Prof Akwasi Anyanful, Former Vice President of the Society and Associate Professor at UCC, provided global statistics, noting 2.3 million cases in 2022 with 665,000 fatalities. He pointed out a higher incidence among Caucasians but higher mortality among blacks. He also noted that men can be affected by breast cancer and tend to have a higher mortality rate when diagnosed.
Mrs Georgina Kumah-Dzagah, a breast cancer survivor, shared her personal journey with the disease and the stigma she faced. Diagnosed at 31, she underwent extensive treatment, including surgery and chemotherapy, but found the social stigma more painful than the disease itself. She urged for more compassionate support for patients.
Prof Rofela Combey, who chaired the gathering, recounted her experience caring for a male breast cancer patient who initially faced misdiagnosis. She emphasized the need for a humane approach to those suffering from the disease.
Prof Georgina Yaa Oduro led the launch of a new book titled "Breast Cancer: Diagnosis, Treatment, Facts and Myths," aimed at demystifying the disease with accessible language and illustrations. The book was distributed to various institutions to aid education and awareness efforts.
The Breast Society's awareness activities concluded with a health walk through Cape Coast, involving over 700 participants, culminating in an aerobics session at Victoria Park, further spreading awareness and education about breast cancer.
