By Kodjo Adams
Accra, Oct. 31, GNA – The Industrial and Commercial Workers’ Union (ICU-Ghana), in collaboration with Ibis Styles Hotel, has called for intensified breast cancer awareness campaigns to promote early detection and improve treatment outcomes.
The Union said sustained public education, regular breast self-awareness, appropriate clinical screening and prompt medical attention were essential in reducing the impact of the disease on individuals, families and communities.
Mr Morgan Ayawine, General Secretary of ICU-Ghana, made the call in a statement copied to the Ghana News Agency at a breast cancer awareness programme organised in Accra.
He said the programme was part of efforts by the two institutions to raise awareness about breast cancer, encourage early detection and ultimately save lives among workers and the general population.
He noted that although breast cancer remained a major health concern, early detection and timely medical intervention could significantly improve treatment outcomes and save lives.
“Unfortunately, too many women suffer in silence because of fear, stigma, or a lack of information. Today, we must send a clear message: no more silence! Early detection matters,” he said.
Mr Ayawine urged women to prioritise their health and seek medical advice whenever they noticed unusual changes, stressing that fear and stigma should not prevent them from accessing appropriate healthcare services.
He also encouraged men to support women by motivating them to seek medical advice and participate in appropriate screening programmes.
The ICU-Ghana General Secretary said awareness creation should not focus exclusively on women, as men could also develop breast cancer.
He, therefore, advocated a broad-based awareness campaign to educate both men and women about the disease and the importance of early detection.
Mr Ayawine commended breast cancer survivors for their courage, resilience and determination, describing them as an inspiration to others facing the disease.
He said their experiences demonstrated that hope remained even after a breast cancer diagnosis.
As the Breast Cancer Awareness Month of October drew to a close, he urged stakeholders to sustain public education and awareness initiatives beyond the month.
He said continuous engagement, open discussions, and support for people affected by breast cancer were necessary to break the silence and challenge the stigma associated with the disease.
“We cannot continue to talk about building a nation without prioritising the health of human beings who constitute the greatest assets of a nation,” he said.
GNA
Edited by Kenneth Odeng Adade
Reporter: Kodjo Adams
Email: [email protected]