Ghana records about 28,000 new cancer cases annually – Expert

Head of the Department of Community Health at the University of Ghana Medical Centre (UGMC), Professor Benedict Calys-Tagoe, has disclosed that Ghana records approximately 28,000 new cancer cases each year.

Speaking in an interview on Joy News on Friday, April 17, 2026, he expressed concern about the rising number of cases, particularly among young people.

“On an annual basis, Ghana records about 28,000 new cancer cases. Out of this, we lose nearly 18,000 people to the disease each year,” he said.

Over one million cancer cases recorded annually in Africa – CanCAF

Professor Calys-Tagoe noted that while such figures may be difficult to grasp, the scale of the crisis can be illustrated more vividly.

“Sometimes it’s hard to picture these numbers. But think about the reaction to a single major road accident involving a large bus. The noise and concern it generates. Now imagine 18,000 deaths—that is equivalent to about 300 fully loaded VIP buses crashing, with every passenger dying. That is almost like one such fatal crash occurring every day of the year,” he explained.

He further warned that the changing age profile of cancer patients in Ghana highlights the urgent need for stronger public health interventions.

“In the past, cancers were largely associated with the elderly. Now we are seeing very young people; individuals as young as 21; being diagnosed with conditions like breast cancer. That makes the situation even more concerning,” he said.

According to him, global health trends show a decline in infectious diseases but a significant rise in non-communicable diseases, including cancer.

“Globally, infectious diseases are expected to decline by about 6% in the coming years, while non-communicable diseases are projected to increase by about 17%. This rise is being driven largely by urbanisation, globalisation, and lifestyle changes, and Ghana is no exception,” he added.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines cancer as a group of diseases that can begin in almost any organ or tissue when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body.

The WHO also identifies cancer as the second leading cause of death worldwide.

JKB/VPO

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