By Prince Nornorme, GNA
Kpando (V/R), Nov. 6, GNA -The Queenmother of Kpando Gadza, Lion Mama Amba-Dzaa III, has expressed profound appreciation to the public, sponsors, health professionals and partner organisations following a successful breast cancer awareness and free screening initiative in Kpando.
She disclosed that a total of 1,087 people were screened, while 30 individuals were referred to the Margaret Marquart Catholic Hospital, Kpando, for further medical assessment. The referrals included one male participant.
The figures, she said, highlight the importance of taking breast health seriously and ensuring that more people have access to screening services and professional medical attention.
The initiative brought breast cancer awareness and screening services closer to residents, driven by the need to promote early detection, educate the public, and encourage both women and men to take responsibility for their health.
Lion Mama Amba-Dzaa III thanked the people of Kpando and surrounding communities for responding positively to the call to participate in the exercise.
She also acknowledged the contributions of health professionals who dedicated their time and expertise, as well as sponsors, volunteers and supporting organisations whose efforts made the exercise possible.
She particularly recognised the collaboration of the Lions Club organisations, the Kpando Municipal Health Directorate, and other partners who contributed to the planning and implementation of the programme.
She emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in addressing community health concerns, noting that initiatives of this nature require the support of traditional authorities, healthcare institutions, organisations and individuals.
According to the Queenmother, 1,087 people underwent screening, with 30 subsequently referred to the Margaret Marquart Catholic Hospital for further assessment.
Among those referred was one male participant, an important reminder that although breast cancer is considerably more common among women, men can also develop the disease and should not ignore unusual changes in their breast tissue.
The referrals are intended to enable the affected individuals to undergo further clinical examinations and receive appropriate medical attention.
It is important to clarify that a referral following screening does not automatically mean that an individual has breast cancer. Further medical investigations are necessary to establish a diagnosis.
Beyond the screening, the Queenmother disclosed that follow-up activities would be undertaken to monitor the progress of those referred.
The organisers also intend to explore ways of supporting individuals who may eventually be confirmed to have breast cancer following the necessary medical investigations.
She said the intention was not to end the initiative at the screening stage, but to consider the welfare of individuals who may require additional medical attention.
Such support could become an important part of the broader community in response to breast cancer, particularly for individuals who may face financial or other challenges in accessing further healthcare.
The initiative went beyond screening services. It also involved public education on breast cancer, its warning signs, possible risk factors, and the importance of seeking medical attention when unusual changes are noticed.
Health professionals engaged residents on the need to understand their bodies, pay attention to changes in their breasts, and seek professional advice rather than waiting for symptoms to worsen. Both women and men were encouraged to take breast health seriously.
The involvement of traditional leadership, particularly the Queenmother, also helped bring the health message directly to the community.
The successful organisation of the exercise demonstrates the value of collaboration between traditional authorities, healthcare professionals, Lions Club organisations, sponsors and community members.
Residents have been encouraged to remain informed, seek professional medical advice when they notice unusual breast changes, and participate in appropriate screening programmes.
As the 30 referred individuals proceed to the Margaret Marquart Catholic Hospital for further assessment, the planned follow-up and potential support arrangements will be important in ensuring that those who may receive a cancer diagnosis are not left without assistance.
GNA
Edited by: Maxwell Awumah /Kenneth Odeng Adade