Gender Minister Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey Leads Call for Early Breast Cancer Screening as 70% of Patients Present Late

Ghana has officially launched Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a stark warning from health officials regarding the high mortality rates associated with the disease. Approximately 5,000 breast cancer cases are recorded annually in the country, resulting in 2,695 deaths. A critical challenge facing the healthcare system is that 70% of patients only seek medical attention when the cancer is already in its advanced stages, significantly complicating treatment and reducing survival rates. During the launch in Ho, Dr. Mary Ann-Dadzie and Prof. Dr. Grace Ayensu-Danquah emphasized that early detection is the most powerful tool in reducing these numbers and improving clinical outcomes.

Dr. Agnes Naa Momo Lartey, the Minister for Gender, Children and Social Protection, used the occasion to reassure the public that a breast cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence. She strongly advised patients against relying solely on traditional or spiritual remedies, which often lead to delays in seeking professional medical care. The Minister, supported by Volta Regional Minister James Gunu, highlighted the urgent need to dismantle the stigma and myths surrounding the disease. They called for a collective effort to support women and men—as the disease can affect both—in seeking prompt clinical intervention rather than suffering in silence due to fear or misinformation.

Beyond the psychological toll, the health crisis carries a heavy socio-economic burden. Patients often face substantial financial strain from the costs of travel to diagnostic centers, loss of income during treatment, and the general expense of long-term care. While screening methods like mammography are essential for early detection, access remains uneven across the country, particularly for those living in rural areas. Public health advocates are calling for a shift away from one-off annual campaigns toward sustained, year-round education to ensure that every citizen knows how to identify warning signs, such as new lumps, changes in breast shape, or skin alterations.

To address these systemic barriers, the government has reiterated its commitment to improving cancer care through initiatives like the Ghana Medical Trust Fund, which aims to increase access to treatment for underprivileged patients. New regional projects are also being implemented to enhance patient referrals and education at the local level. By focusing on prevention, equitable access to diagnostic services, and compassionate care, health authorities aim to create a comprehensive support system that ensures no Ghanaian is left behind in the fight against breast cancer. The World Health Organization (WHO) continues to stress that recognizing early signs and seeking immediate medical attention remains the primary defense against the disease.