GFZA launches breast cancer awareness campaign with free screenings in Accra

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Ghana Free Zones Authority (GFZA) is taking action to address the growing threat of breast cancer in the country. Teaming up with the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission (GAEC), the GFZA has arranged a four-day free screening event from October 8th to 11th.

The screenings will be held at three main locations in Accra—Haatso, Dome Market, and Labadi—where the public can receive important information about early detection, treatment options, and preventive measures for breast cancer.

This event will also be replicated at the GFZA Head office and regional offices in Tema, Kumasi and Takoradi.

The official launch of this year's campaign occurred on October 9th at Haatso Plaza in Accra. Under the theme "Thrive 365," the event was led by GFZA's CEO, Ambassador Mike Oquaye Jr., and brought together key stakeholders from various sectors to emphasize the importance of ongoing breast cancer awareness.

During his speech, Amb. Oquaye Jr. stressed the crucial role of leadership in advocating for health awareness and reducing the impact of breast cancer in Ghana.

He revealed alarming statistics, stating that 1 in 8 women are likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer at some point in their lives.

In Ghana alone, over 4,000 new cases are reported each year, with many of these cases being diagnosed at advanced stages, leading to lower chances of survival.

Amb. Oquaye Jr. reiterated the commitment of the Ghana Free Zones Authority to make screening services accessible to the public, noting that the authority has screened over 5,000 people in various communities over the past two years.

He emphasized the collective effort needed to break the stigma surrounding breast cancer and create more awareness.

The launch was attended by notable figures, including Nii Amaa Sogbla, the Mantse of Haatso; Nii Annan Ofori, the Mantse of Papao; Hon. Deborah Ampofo, the Municipal Chief Executive of Ga East; Rev. Emmanuel Nii Noi Okwei from Haatso Presbyterian Church; Dr. Selorm Kutsoati from Municipal Health Services; Dr Theophilus Nii Akomea Sackey, a representative from GAEC; and Prof. Francis Hansford, Director of the Radiological and Medical Sciences Research Institute.

The event was also supported by staff from the GAEC hospital, local schools such as Haatso Calvary Presbyterian Basic School and Papao Presbyterian Primary School, and personnel from the Ghana Free Zones Authority.

Breast cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women in Ghana.

The initiative by the GFZA and GAEC aims to provide free screenings and health education to save lives through early detection and dispel myths and stigma that prevent women from seeking timely help.

The public is encouraged to take advantage of this free screening opportunity and be part of the broader effort to raise awareness and reduce the burden of breast cancer in Ghana.