More than 4,650 women are diagnosed with breast cancer annually in Ghana, according to the chairperson of the Ghana Non- Communicable Diseases Alliance (GhNCDA), Dr Beatrice Wiafe-Addai.
Out of the number, she mentioned that over 2,060 die annually, adding that of the non-communicable diseases, breast cancer is the number one killer in the country.
Dr. Wiafe-Addai, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Peace and Love Hospital and Breast Care International (BCI), a non-governmental organisation, was speaking at the launch of the annual “BCI Ghana Walk For The Cure” ahead of the Breast Cancer Month in October.
“Breast cancer statistics will remain a scar on our conscience if we do not collectively fight the condition as a national disaster and a developmental issue. It is not only a public health issue,” she said.
Under the theme ‘Breast Cancer Won’t Rest, Why Should We,’ the 10th edition of the walk is expected to bring about 10,000 health-conscious participants to Tepa, in the AhafoAno North Municipality of Ashanti, to increase awareness about breast cancer and also celebrate survivorship.
With some participants coming from outside Ghana, the international event would witness the participation of politicians, the clergy, school children/students, teachers, farmers, and traditional and opinion leaders, among others.