By Edward Acquah
Accra, Oct. 30, GNA – Dr Andy Osei Okrah, Chief Executive Officer of the Tree Crops Development Authority (TCDA), has urged women not to fear breast cancer, but go for regular screening for early detection and treatment.
He said the fear and stigma surrounding breast cancer often discouraged women from seeking timely medical care, worsening their conditions.
“We shouldn’t be afraid of breast cancer. The fear is what causes the delay. There are solutions out there — if detected early, many cases can be treated successfully,” he stated.
Dr Okrah made the call during a breast cancer screening and sensitisation exercise organised by the TCDA in collaboration with the Ghana-Canada Medical Centre as part of activities marking Pink October, the global breast cancer awareness month.
The event, held on the theme “Our CCORMS, Our Future: Fighting Breast Cancer Together,” sought to raise awareness among TCDA staff, particularly women, on the need for regular screening and healthy lifestyles.
Dr Okrah said the Authority considered the health of its workforce as crucial to achieving its vision of developing Ghana’s tree crop sector beyond cocoa.
“Without healthy staff, we cannot be productive. That’s why we have dedicated this day to creating awareness about breast cancer and ensuring our staff are healthy and fit for the work ahead,” he said.
Dr Okrah also urged institutions and individuals to support the Mahama Cares Fund, a health initiative introduced under President John Dramani Mahama’s agenda to strengthen healthcare delivery.
“The TCDA believes in caring for our people. Under the President’s Mahama Cares Programme, we want to extend that care to our staff and beyond. We urge every organisation to contribute to the fund to help improve health outcomes across the country,” he said.
Ms Emefa Elewosi, Patient Care Coordinator at the Ghana-Canada Medical Centre, commended survivors of breast cancer for their resilience and urged the public to show them love and support.
“Breast cancer is not a communicable disease; it can happen to anyone. We must stop the stigmatization and support affected persons emotionally and financially,” she said.
Ms Martha Arko-Korsah, a staff member of TCDA, said the exercise was part of efforts by management to promote health awareness among workers and encourage women to prioritise screening.
“Today we wear pink with purpose, saying that breast cancer is not a deadly disease. Early detection saves lives, and we should make breast screening a regular habit, not only in October,” she said.
The screening exercise formed part of TCDA’s wellness programme aimed at promoting preventive healthcare, early detection, and productivity among its workforce.
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba