The National Ambulance Service (NAS), in collaboration with Hollard Insurance, has organized a breast cancer awareness and screening exercise for staff and the general public as part of efforts to promote preventive healthcare and intensify public education on breast cancer.
The event, held at the NAS Headquarters in Accra and supported by MedyLife Healthcare, focused on educating participants on the importance of early detection, regular self-examination, and proactive health-seeking behavior in reducing breast cancer fatalities.
In his remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of NAS, Dr. George Kojo Owusu, expressed appreciation to the partner organizations and underscored the significance of such initiatives in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of women. He encouraged participants to prioritize preventive healthcare and take full advantage of the screening opportunity.
Emergency Nurse Specialist, Mrs. Sophaya Peprah Boakye from the Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, delivered an insightful health talk, stressing that early detection remains the most effective intervention in managing breast cancer. She urged women to adopt regular screening and self-examination as a lifelong habit.
Addressing participants, Mr. Kwaku Gyapong-Fosuhene, Ring Road Branch Manager of Hollard Insurance, encouraged women to cultivate a culture of financial planning as a safety net against unexpected health emergencies, noting the link between financial security and health preparedness.
Breast cancer accounts for an estimated 31.8% of all cancers diagnosed among women in Ghana, with many cases detected at advanced stages due to low awareness and limited access to early screening.
As part of the exercise, prostate cancer screenings were also conducted to create awareness among men and provide early detection opportunities for eligible participants.
