By Samira Larbie
Accra, Oct. 31, GNA – Women in Accra are being offered mammogram screening at reduced prices of between GH¢300 and GH¢375 at selected health facilities as non-functional mammogram machines at two major public hospitals raise concerns about access to the essential screening service.
As part of activities marking Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the promotional offers provided by selected public and private health facilities under the Pink October campaign, are aimed at encouraging more women to undergo screening for breast cancer and improving the chances of detecting the disease before symptoms develop.
However, the reported breakdown of mammogram machines at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital and the Greater Accra Regional Hospital (Ridge) presents a challenge for women seeking the service at the two major public health facilities in the capital.
Officials at the 37 Military Hospital, confirmed to the Ghana News Agency that women could access mammogram screening for GH¢300, while the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC) had reduced its screening fee by 50 per cent, from GH¢750 to GH¢375, for the final week of Pink October.
Officials say although the UGMC machine was operational, the facility is booking only five people per day for the service, limiting the number of women who can benefit from the discounted offer.
SYNLAB is also offering a special Pink October screening package at GH¢350 throughout October. The package comprises a full breast mammogram and a complimentary breast ultrasound.
The facility is encouraging women to take advantage of the offer as part of efforts to promote early detection and improve awareness of breast cancer.
It said appointments could be made through 030 276 3580 or 025 647 3638, while further information is available at synlab.com.gh.
At the Lister Hospital and Fertility Centre, mammogram screening has been reduced from GH¢500 to GH¢300 under a promotional package running throughout October and until the end of the year.
The service is available on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays between 0800 hours and 1700 hours.
The discounted rates provide women with an opportunity to access screening at lower costs, although the limited daily bookings at UGMC and the reported equipment challenges at Korle-Bu and Ridge highlight potential barriers to accessing the service.
A mammogram is an X-ray examination of breast tissue used to identify abnormal changes that may indicate breast cancer, including changes that could occur before a woman notice symptoms.
During the procedure, the breast is briefly compressed between two plates while X-ray images are taken. A radiologist subsequently examines the images for abnormalities that may require further investigation.
Mammography is an important tool for the early detection of breast cancer, as identifying the disease at an earlier stage can improve treatment outcomes.
Women at average risk are generally advised to begin regular mammogram screening at age 40, although those with a family history of breast cancer or other risk factors may require earlier screening based on medical advice.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed in October, is dedicated to raising awareness of the disease, encouraging early detection and promoting access to screening and treatment.
The campaign also serves as a reminder that breast cancer screening should not be limited to October but should form part of women’s ongoing healthcare.
With the month drawing to a close, the reduced screening fees offer an opportunity for women to take proactive steps towards protecting their health. However, sustained access to functional screening equipment and affordable diagnostic services remains important in ensuring that more women could benefit from early detection.
GNA
Edited by Linda Asante Agyei
Reporter: Samira Larbie