The Mineral Development Fund (MDF) has announced plans to extend direct support to individuals diagnosed with cancer, particularly breast cancer patients, as part of its commitment to improving healthcare in mining communities.
The initiative was revealed by the Administrator of the Fund, Dr. Hannah Bissiw, during a free breast cancer screening and awareness programme organised by the MDF in Kumasi to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, observed globally every October.
Speaking after the exercise, Dr. Bissiw underscored the importance of preventive health and urged women to prioritise regular medical check-ups and cancer screening.
“You can’t talk about development without developing the health of the people. Healthy citizens are key to productivity and progress,” she stated.
She noted that the MDF’s intervention aligns with the government’s vision of promoting holistic development in mining communities — one that goes beyond infrastructure to include education, health, and social welfare.
“October being Cancer Awareness Month provides a good opportunity for the Fund to echo the President’s message — that he stands with the people. Those living in mining communities are highly appreciated, and this screening is one of the ways we show that commitment,” Dr. Bissiw added.
The MDF Adminstrator also encouraged both women and men to make routine hospital visits and practice regular self-examination, adding that early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.
“I also urge women to allow their partners to gently examine them from time to time, as this can help identify unusual changes early,” she advised.
Dr. Bissiw further reaffirmed President John Dramani Mahama’s dedication to improving healthcare delivery across the country, especially in underserved areas.
“Under President Mahama, the Mineral Development Fund is taking a holistic approach to community development — not just infrastructure, but also education, health, and social empowerment,” she said.
The free screening exercise formed part of the MDF’s broader social responsibility efforts to promote wellness, raise awareness about cancer prevention, and support affected individuals in Ghana’s mining communities.
Brief about Breast Cancer
Breast cancer remains a major public health concern in Ghana, representing approximately 31.8% of all cancer cases among women and ranking as the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths after liver cancer. A key challenge in managing the disease is late diagnosis, with nearly 70% of patients presenting at advanced stages, which significantly reduces treatment success rates. This situation is largely driven by low awareness, sociocultural barriers, and limited access to regular screening services.
Source: Kwaku Antwi Bosiako
