By Nii Martey M. Botchway
Accra, Nov. 18, GNA – The Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA), Ladies Club, Headquarters Branch, has organized a breast screening exercise to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
The exercise, held in partnership with Gilead Medical Center, took place at the Kwoffie Gardens in Accra and aimed at educating officers while reducing the incidence of breast cancer.
The initiative was part of efforts to revive the Headquarters Branch of the Ladies Club and address common misconceptions about breast cancer among officers.
Dr. Jacob Tetteh Djagbletey, a medical officer at Gilead Medical Center, who led the screening, stressed the importance of self-examination and regular checkups for early detection and treatment.
He emphasized that while breast cancer was treatable, early detection was crucial for saving lives.
Dr. Tetteh also highlighted several risk factors for breast cancer, including age, hereditary factors, excessive alcohol consumption, smoking, early menstruation (below age 12), and late menopause. He noted that women aged between 20 and 40 years are at a higher risk and advised them to undergo screening at least once every three years.
In her welcome address, Mrs. Rosemary Addo Parker, Assistant Commissioner at the Customs Technical Services Bureau (CTSB), explained that the exercise was not only about revitalizing the club’s activities but also about educating officers on the importance of screening and providing information on treatment options.
“We recognize that a healthy workforce is essential to our productivity and effectiveness,” Mrs. Parker said. “It is therefore important that we take this exercise seriously.”
The event culminated in a screening at the Customs clinic and offered valuable information on treatment options and support services for families dealing with breast cancer.
A total of about 100 officers and civilian staff from the Customs Division participated in the exercise.
GNA