Dr Mary-Ann Dadzie, Radiation Oncologist at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, on Monday urged women who notice unusual changes in their breasts to seek medical attention within two weeks rather than delaying for months or even years to receive care.
She said early detection and prompt treatment were crucial for improving breast cancer outcomes, noting that many women postponed seeking medical care despite noticing warning signs.
“Seek medical help within two weeks, not two years,” she stressed, expressing concern that some women reported to health facilities two or three years after first detecting a lump or other abnormality.
Speaking as part of activities marking Pink October, the annual breast cancer awareness month, Dr Dadzie encouraged women to take charge of their breast health by becoming familiar with how their breasts normally looked and felt.
“Self-awareness is key to recognising unusual changes early and seeking timely medical attention,” she said.
“Many patients tell you they have a lump in their breast, and sometimes I cannot find it until they show me exactly where it is,” she said, underscoring the importance of women understanding their own bodies.
Dr Dadzie advised women to regularly examine their breasts, particularly after their menstrual period, to better identify any unusual changes.
She also encouraged regular clinical breast examinations by qualified health professionals and consultations on appropriate screening options such as mammography or ultrasound, based on age and individual risk factors.
She urged women diagnosed with breast cancer to adhere strictly to treatment plans and complete all prescribed care.
The appeal forms part of this year’s breast cancer awareness campaign on the theme: “Early Action, Better Outcome.”
The campaign aims to increase awareness of breast cancer and encourage individuals and communities to adopt healthy lifestyles, undergo screening and seek prompt medical attention when warning signs appear.
As part of the observance, the Ghana Health Service and its partners are expected to intensify breast cancer education and awareness programmes in schools, churches, mosques, workplaces and communities through screenings, media engagements, health walks and other health promotion activities.
Dr Dadzie called on families, workplaces, churches and other social groups to support breast cancer awareness efforts by encouraging open conversations about breast health and participation in screening programmes.
She emphasised that breast cancer is not only an individual concern but a public health issue that affects families and communities.
“Know your breasts. Know the signs. Seek care early,” she urged.
Dr Dadzie cautioned women against waiting until a breast change becomes painful or significantly disrupts daily activities before seeking medical attention.
Breast cancer occurs when breast cells become abnormal, multiply uncontrollably and form tumours. While it is more common among women over 50, it can also affect younger women and men.
Common symptoms include breast lumps, skin thickening, nipple discharge, dimpling or irritation of the breast skin, redness or flaking around the nipple, changes in breast size or shape, and persistent pain in the breast or nipple area.
Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and drug therapies, with early diagnosis significantly improving the chances of successful treatment.
Source: GNA
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