Women have been advised to perform self examination on their breasts on the first week after their menstrual period in order to ensure an early detection and remedy against cancer of the breast.
The Midwifery Officer of the Planned Parenthood Association of Ghana (PPAG) -Sunyani branch, Esther BoatengAwuah, said this on Thursday during a two–day free health screening exercise at Goka, in the Bono Region.
She indicated that though the cause of breast cancer was not known, key practices namely the usage and abuse of some pills, genetic factors, smoking and excessive intake of alcohol were contributing factors.
MrsAwuah urged women to immediately visit the nearest health facility for medical check – ups after the detection of lump in their breasts, after doing the self examination.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Abronoma Foundation,Linda Nyarko Yeboah, said her outfit collaborated with Ghana AIDS Commission (GAC), MOE Africa Innovation and PPAG, for the exercise in Goka and Suma – Ahenkro communities.
She noted that there was the need to organise breast cancer awareness, education and screening exercise to strengthen the health of residents especially women and girls.
Mrs Yeboah stated that breast cancer affected not only women but men, where early detection was key to save many lives saying that the health of every country is its priority.
The CEO noted that her foundation would continue to educate and engage women groups in the region to safeguard the wellbeing of the people adding that when there is life, there is hope.
“The team interacted with students and other community members in these communities on their health issues. They were later screened on HIV and breast cancer,” she emphasised.
Mrs Yeboah implored residents of the region especially women to take time of their busy schedules to embark on routine medical check-ups, to ensure good health, for a brighter future.
Grace Asanpana, on behalf of the beneficiaries, expressed appreciation to Abronoma Foundation and partners for the free medical check -ups and education saying that we are proud to be women.
FROM EMMANUEL ADU GYAMFI, GOKA
