Breast Screening and Awareness campaign in commemoration of the 2022 Breast Awareness month.
The Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry Tarkwa Regional Branch in collaboration with Tarkwa Pentecost Hospital organised a free breast screening and awareness campaign on 31st October, 2022.
This is an annual campaign to increase the understanding and education on breast cancer. A medical team from the Pentecost Hospital, made up of a Medical Officer and three (3) Midwives conducted a Breast Cancer education and Screening for members and the general public. The event took place at the St. Matthew Conference Center in Tarkwa.
Breast Cancer is the most common cancer worldwide and the leading cause of cancer mortality in Ghanaian women. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), there were about 2.3 million new cases of breast cancer globally and about 685,000 deaths in the year 2020 alone. The Health Professionals from the Pentecost Hospital also reiterated the need to ensure that people always check their breasts monthly for any unusual lumps in and around the breast.
In a brief speech, Mr. Alexander Bogney Bewong, the Tarkwa Branch Chairman of the GNCCI, stated that, in line with the Chamber’s mandate to promote and protect commercial and industrial interests in the country, it is critical to ensure the well-being of the country’s commercial and industrial actors in order to safeguard the steady growth of our economy. “We at the GNCCI have taken a proactive step to create awareness and encourage regular screening among members, staff and the general public” he said.
The program included a PowerPoint presentation on the common signs and symptoms of Breast cancer, the Risk factors, Prevention and Available treatment options. Participants were allowed to ask questions related to the topic and a lively in-house discussion ensued. The presentation was then followed by a breast screening exercise and instruction on self-breast-examination techniques. Breast cancer can be reduced by ensuring timely diagnosis, adequate treatment and patient management.
Below is the breakdown of the participants screened on the day:
Total Number screened: 89 (2 Males, 87 Females); Age Range: 19 years – 70 years.
The medical officer had a consultation with those who had the below-mentioned abnormal findings, and they were advised to receive treatment or undergo additional investigations.
Breast Lumps – 1 (Female)
Nipple discharge – 11 (1 male, 10 Females)
Breast Pains – 7 (Females)
Chest wall masses – 1 (Female)
Axillary Breast – 1 (Female)
In attendance were the Tarkwa Branch executives of the Chamber Ladies Madam Anna Ansah – Chairperson, Ernestina Brown – Vice Chairperson, Rebecca Mensah- Women, Organiser, Catherine Cobbina – Secretary, Benedicta Maison – National Women Committee representative and Regional Manager- Peter Wilson-Sey.
